The Diocese of Nebraska

144th ANNUAL COUNCIL

HELD AT THE SANDHILLS CONVENTION CENTER NORTH PLATTE, NEBRASKA NOVEMBER 3-5, 2011

Exhibitors for the 144th Annual Council

Organization Representative

All Saints Omaha Sudan Mission Jim Yeates

Bishop Clarkson Legacy Society Tim Anderson

Committee on Scouting & Diocese Safety Office Wes Agar

CORE Outreach Center, Inc. Janice Seldon

Cursillo Christine Grosch

Daughters of the King Suzanne Titus

Diocesan Youth - Happening Janet Squires

Environmental Stewardship Betsy Bennett

Godly Play Ruth Jaynes

Recovery Commission, Diocese of Nebraska Sandra Raney

Saint Francis Community Services Mark Claussen

Snow Mission Ellen and Robert Snow

St. Elizabeth's Episcopal Church Linda Winter

St. Mark's Press, A Ministry of Good Shepherd Episcopal Church in Wichita Ted Blakley and Bob Blinn

St. Monica's Behavioral Health Services for Women Rebecca Roberts

The Order of St Luke Verneda Kelly

Tri-Faith Initiative Nancy Kirk

Episcopal Tri-Faith Foundation Tim Anderson

Women's Ministries - Bishop's Quilt Raffle Sandra Squires

Annual Council 2011 Sandhills Convention Center, North Platte, Nebraska November 3 - 5, 2011

Faithful in little things

"whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much” Luke 16:10

Pre-Council Workshop:

Anti-Racism Training Workshop– Nancy Huston and Ernesto Medina - Snake River Room  Wednesday - November 2nd - 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 – 9:00 p.m.  Thursday - November 3rd - 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.– 3:00 p.m.

Thursday – November 3, 2011

All Day Prayer Room – Caboose Room

2:00-6:00 p.m. Registration at Sandhills Convention Center – Outside Niobrara River Room

2:00-3:30 p.m. Pre-Council Workshops at the Sandhills Convention Center  Canons and Constitution - Woody Bradford - Dismal River Room  Understanding Faith Asking - Beth Byrne - Calamus River Room  Websites: What works and what doesn’t - Kate Baxley - Snake River Room

2:00-4:00 p.m. Commission on Ministry Meeting - Church of Our Savior

3:00-5:30 p.m. Standing Committee Mtg. - East Bound Room

4:00-5:00 p.m. Executive Commission Mtg. - Middle/South Loup River Room

5:00-6:30 p.m. Executive Commission Social/Dinner - North Loup River Room

5:30-6:30 p.m. Standing Committee Dinner - East Bound Room

7:00 -8:00 p.m. Worship Service - Church of Our Savior

8:00 p.m. Dessert Reception and Fellowship - Church of Our Savior

Friday – November 4, 2011

All Day Prayer Room – Caboose Room

All Day Exhibit Room – Niobrara River Room & North/East Hallway

7:00 a.m. Women Ministries Breakfast – EastBound Room

8:00 a.m. Registration & Coffee

8:30 a.m. Morning Prayer - Small Group Sessions- South Platte/Snake/Calamus River Rooms

9:30 a.m. Bishop’s Address - South Platte/Snake/Calamus River Rooms

10:00 a.m. Morning Break – Coffee and Danish

10:15 a.m. Keynote Speaker, Jason Byassee - South Platte/Snake/Calamus River Rooms

11:00 a.m. First Business Session - South Platte/Snake/Calamus River Rooms

12:00 noon Noonday Prayers - South Platte/Snake/Calamus River Rooms

12:10 – 1:15 p.m. Council Lunch Workshops:

 The Gifts of the Small Church, by Jason Byassee - North Platte River Room  Centering Prayer: The Basics – North Loup River Room  The Unbinding the Gospel Series, presented by Keith Winton and Fr. Jason Emerson – Middle/South Loup River Rooms

1:30 p.m. Small Group Sessions – South Platte/Snake/Calamus River Rooms

2:00 p.m. Second Business Session - South Platte/Snake/Calamus River Rooms

3:00 p.m. Visit Exhibits - Niobrara River Room & North/East Hallway

5:00 p.m. Council Eucharist - Church of Our Savior

6:30 p.m. Social hour (hors d’oeuvres, cash bar) - Sandhills Convention Center Ballroom

7:00 p.m. Council Dinner - Sandhills Convention Center Ballroom

8:00 – 9:00 p.m. Entertainment - Sandhills Convention Center Ballroom

Saturday – November 5, 2011

8:00 a.m. - Noon Prayer Room – Caboose Room

8:00 a.m. - Noon Exhibit Room – Niobrara River Room & North/East Hallway

7:30 a.m. Deacon’s Breakfast – East/West Bound Room

7:30 a.m. Church Pension Group – North/Middle Loup River Room

8:30 a.m. Morning Prayer - Small Group Sessions - South Platte/Snake/Calamus River Rooms

9:30 a.m. Third Business Session - South Platte/Snake/Calamus River Rooms

12:00 noon Adjourn

12:00 noon Standing Committee Brief Meeting (Following Council Adjournment) South Loup Room

PROCEEDINGS OF THE ONE HUNDRED FORTY FOURTH ANNUAL COUNCIL OF THE DIOCESE OF NEBRASKA HELD AT NORTH PLATTE, NEBRASKA NOVEMBER 3-5, 2011

The 144th Annual Council of the Episcopal Diocese of Nebraska was held at the Sandhills Convention Center in North Platte, Nebraska, November 3-5, 2011, The Rt. Rev. J. Scott Barker, Eleventh Bishop of Nebraska, presiding. The meeting was opened with gathering music and Morning Prayer offered by Kate Hahn, an Intern from Resurrection House. Morning Prayer included a small group exercise introduced by The Rev. Canon Judi Yeates.

The Rev. Jeffrey Nelson of Church of Our Savior, North Platte, welcomed the Council with a story from a letter written by Bishop Clarkson from June 24, 1867 to a friend in New York about his travels out west to North Platte for a Bishop visit.

The Mayor of North Platte, Mark Kaschke, welcomed the council to North Platte. Mayor Kaschke read a proclamation that declared that today was 144th Council Day in North Platte and presented a key of the city to Bishop Barker.

The Rev. Jeffrey Nelson welcomed Buffalo Bill to make a presentation. Buffalo Bill presented Bishop Barker with a Stetson hat.

Bishop Barker welcomed honored guests Jason Byassee as the keynote speaker, Toni-Marie Sutliff from the Church Pension Group, and Rebecca Roberts from St. Monica’s home in Lincoln.

Canon Tim Anderson brought greetings from the Province VI members. The synod for 2012 will be prior to General Convention and will be an important meeting. Canon Anderson’s term on Executive Council will be expiring in 2012 and he encourages ordained members to consider this position.

COUNCIL COMMITTEE APPOINTMENTS

Bishop Barker read the following list of appointments to Council Committees:

Appointed before Council, to serve at Council

COMMITTEE ON ELECTIONS

Janice Seldon – Chair Bob Henrichsen Karen Watson John Titus Cloyd Clark Beth Huber Karen Gray

DISPATCH OF BUSINESS

James Visger – Chair

COMMITTEE ON ARRANGEMENTS

Kate Baxley - Chair Brian Gardner Marcia Mapes Naomi Getty

COMMITTEE ON RESOLUTIONS

Ernesto Medina – Chair Ruth Tomlinson Betsy Bennett

CREDENTIALS Hank Austin

COURTESY RESOLUTIONS Craig Gavin

PARLIMENTARIAN Woody Bradford

Report on Credentials Bishop Barker called upon The Rev. Hank Austin for a report of the Committee on Credentials. Austin reported that a quorum was present; with 45 presbyters, 29 deacons, 96 lay delegates, 3 ex officio members, and 14 alternates representing 47 parishes of the Diocese.

Election of Secretary and Treasurer for the Diocese A motion was made and seconded from the floor to elect The Rev. Canon Judi A. Yeates as Secretary of the Council. Motion carried.

A motion was made and seconded from the floor to elect Todd Engle as Treasurer of the Diocese. Motion carried.

Clergy Changes Bishop Barker introduced and welcomed The Rev. Kimberly Fretz to be recognized by Council as the only new Deacon in the Diocese since the last Council. Bishop Barker read her biography to Council and shared the passions of her ministry at All Saints and the Tri-Faith. Council welcomed her with applause.

Also recognized later in the Council were The Rev’s Sahra Harding, Joyce Scheyer and Mary Jane Gockley who were ordained to the priesthood since last Council.

Bishop Barker recognized two Deacons who have died since the last council, The Rev. Katherine (Betty) Gaston (Retired) and The Rev. John (Jack) Robson (Retired). Bishop Barker led the Council in Prayer. Bishop Barker directed the Council to see other clergy changes in the Council book.

Recognition of Seminarian Present Bishop Barker welcomed Lara Shine as the Diocesan seminarian present at Council. Lara thanked the Council for their support as she continues her third and final year at Virginia Theological Seminary. Shine is not from Nebraska, but it has become her home. She asked to be kept in their prayers as she begins her General Ordination Exams. Shine also shared greetings from John Adams and Chris Slane who are also seminarians supported by the Diocese of Nebraska at VTS. Council greeted Shine with applause.

Bishop’s Address The Bishop addressed the Council. Full text of address and will be printed in the 2011 Journal.

Council recessed for a break.

Bishop Barker introduced Jason Byassee for the Keynote Address.

BUSINESS SESSION I

Report on Committee on Elections Janice Seldon, Chair of the Elections Committee, presented to the members of Council the vacancies needing to be filled on the Standing Committee and the Executive Commission. The Standing Committee will need to elect one clergy member and two lay members and the Executive Commission will need to elect two clergy members and two lay members.

Balloting took place.

Gift Cards Kate Baxley and Beth Byrne gave out gift cards to Council members.

Resurrection House Interns Fr. Jason Emerson introduced the Resurrection House Interns for the 2011 – 2012 year. Steven Duvoisin will serve at St. Andrews’s in Omaha; Trevor Harvey will serve at All Saints in Omaha; and Kate Hahn will serve at Church of the Holy Spirit in Bellevue. Fr. Jason reminded the Council of the important work done by the interns during their work and the important time of discernment they experience in the Diocese of Nebraska. He continues to ask for prayers and support for these interns over the year.

Missionaries Bob and Ellen Snow Deacon Bob and Ellen Snow thanked the Council and the people of the Diocese of Nebraska for their support over the many years as missionaries in the Dominican Republic. They informed the Council of the many friends they have made over the years, but they know it is time to say farewell and return to Nebraska. Deacon Bob is working with Bishop Holguin and others to make the transition of his departure in the spring of 2012 as seamless for the people of the DR as possible. They both look forward to serving in Nebraska under Bishop Barker and look forward to being close to family and friends.

Bishop Barker Designation of Sower’s Fund Bishop Barker Designated the Sower’s Fund proceeds from 2012 to be given to St. Monica’s Behavior Treatment Center for Women located in Lincoln.

Noonday Prayers were offered by Steven Duvoisin, an Intern from Resurrection House.

Council recessed to attend their choice of Luncheon Workshops on The Gifts of the Small Church, Centering Prayer, or Unbinding the Gospel.

Following the Luncheon Workshops, Council reconvened and began a small group exercise with 13

other members of Council at their table.

BUSINESS SESSION II

Elections Report Election Committee Chair, Janice Seldon, thanked the members of the Election Committee for their hard work. Seldon announced that she will be rotating off as Election Chair-person and Beth Huber will be taking this position in 2012.

Janice Seldon reported the following people were elected to Standing Committee and Executive Commission:

Standing Committee: The Rev. Karen Anderson, Clergy Debbie Hogue and Karen Park, Lay

Executive Commission: The Rev. Jason Emerson and The Rev. Robert Schlismann, Clergy Noelle Ptomey and Janice Seldon, Lay

Bishop Barker thanked Janice Seldon and the Elections Committee for the report and for her service to this Council.

Gift Cards Kate Baxley and Beth Byrne gave out additional cards to Council members.

Treasurer’s Report Todd Engle thanked Beth Byrne for her hard work first as a consultant and then as a full-time employee. Engle stated that Byrne was instrumental in the 2010 audit and that it would be published on the website in the coming months. If anyone wanted to see this audit sooner, please contact Engle or Byrne with that request.

Engle presented the new Faith Asking formula for 2012 and explained the concept behind the new simpler formula. The Diocesan Operating Budget, which funds the Office of the Bishop, is funded by the Faith Asking. The Faith Asking budget has not been updated since 2006. Engle reviewed the Faith Asking trends and the desire to have a simple formula that would allow every parish to accept 100% of their Faith Asking and have 100% parish participation. This change in the Faith Asking will require a canon change. Engle explained that Ministry Programs are not included in the Operating Budget and the current and future Operating Budget is very trimmed down.

Engle reviewed the financial reports provided Council members in the Council book: Operating Budget and Growth and Development Budget reports. Engle reviewed the budget overages on the Operating Budget and explained how funds were allocated on the Growth and Development Budget.

A motion was made and seconded to approve the Financial Report and the Operating Budget and Growth and Development Budget for 2012. Motion carried.

Shared Ministry Task Force Canon Yeates presented the Shared Ministry Task Force Report. Canon Yeates identified the many members in the room who already participate in some type of shared ministry. Canon 14

Yeates explained the Baptism Covenant and the call for all of the baptized to serve. The Shared Ministry Task Force has completed their role in identifying the roles needed and has now launched the Shared Ministry Program in the Diocese of Nebraska. There are already parishes embracing this program. The formation classes are available for online registration and there is a handout in the Council packet with the schedule listed. Please contact the Diocesan office for any additional information or assistance. Get ready, Shared Ministry is coming to a parish near you!

The following reports were accepted by Title:

Reports by Title: Archives Report – Jo Behrens Bishop and Trustees – Tim Anderson Clarkson College – Louis Burgher Clergy Compensation – Pam Hernandez Commission on Ministry – George Benson Cursillo – Wayne Culp Daughters of the King – Suzanne Titus Deacon’s Report – Jim Visger Global Mission Report – Don Peeler Jubilee Report – Colleen Lewis Nebraska Episcopalian – Don Rabbe Order of St. Luke’s – Verneda Kelly Recovery Commission – Charles Peek Resurrection House – Janice Seldon Scouting in Nebraska – Wes Agar Shared Ministry Task Force – Phil Chapman St. Mark’s on the Campus – Jerry Thompson St. Monica’s – Mary Barry-Magsamen Standing Committee – Richard Swenson and Debbie Hogue Tri-Faith Foundation – Tim Anderson Tri-Faith Initiative – Nancy Kirk Women’s Ministries – Sandra Squires Youth Report – Janet Squires, Tony Anderson and Andrea Jay Vital Statistics of the Diocese of Nebraska Necrology

Bishop Barker Designation of Annual Council Eucharist Bishop Barker Designated the Council Eucharist Offering for 2011 to The Rt. Rev. Ezekiel Diing’s Discretionary Fund – Bishop of Twic East.

Annual Council recessed for Friday, November 4, 2011 to visit exhibits followed by Eucharist and Council Dinner.

Annual Council reconvened Saturday morning, November 5, 2011 with gathering music and Morning Prayer offered by Trevor Harvey, an Intern from Resurrection House. Morning Prayer included a small group exercise.

BUSINESS SESSION III

Canon Yeates reported that the extra box lunches from Friday were donated to a local homeless shelter. Council applauded. She also gave notice that the Bishop’s quilt drawing would be happening soon and this was the last opportunity to buy tickets.

Kate Baxley announced that in the room were three last hidden gift cards under the chairs. Members of Council overturned chairs to determine if they had won a gift card. Baxley thanked the Bishop for his generosity with his discretionary fund to try the gift card idea and that based on the feedback she would do this again next year. Council applauded.

LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE

Report of the Legislative Committee

Woody Bradford, Chancellor and Chair of the Legislative Committee presented the Council with two pieces of legislation before the Council today. The first, found in the Council book, is a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the Diocese. Bradford explained that this refers to the Hare ballot and asks if anyone would like to come forward and clarify.

Bradford recognized The Rev. Ernesto Medina and The Rev. Chris Plantz. Medina spoke against this legislation after attending the Canons and Constitution class with the Chancellor prior to the Council. Medina suggested the problem is actually with the Hare System, not the Constitutional change as the Hare System is not canonical. Plantz agreed with Medina and offered to withdraw the resolution if the Hare System could be eliminated.

Bradford stated that the question about the Hare System is not one of the Constitutions and does not need to be decided by this body in this format. It could be studied and decided at a later date. The question before the Council today is do they want to change the Constitution as is recommended by the resolution.

Hogue made a motion that it is the will of the Council to study the voting options and requests the resolution be tabled. Motion carried.

Charles Plantz amended the motion to have the Resolution tabled until the next Annual Council. Motion carried.

The second, found in the Council Book, is a proposed resolution to amend Canon 1.6.1 on the Commission on Ministry. This proposed canon changes the number of members on the Commission on Ministry to reflect the merging of the Total Ministry and Individual Formation groups.

Bradford made a motion on amending Canon 1.6.1. Motion carried.

CANONICAL APPOINTMENTS The Bishop presented the following appointments for Council approval:

1. LEGISLATION 16

Woody Bradford III - Chair David Gardels Nancy Huston Tom Jones

2. COORDINATED FINANCE COMMITTEE Bishop J. Scott Barker (Bishop) Woody Bradford (Chancellor) Todd Engle (Treasurer) Sammy Reagan (Rep. Bishop & Trustees) Janice Seldon (Rep. Executive Commission) John Schaefer – (Rep. Standing Committee) 2 – At large members to be appointed

3. COMMITTEE ON REVIEW OF THE MINUTES Rich Kelly - Chair Judi Yeates Kate Baxley

BISHOP AND TRUSTEES Under Provisions of Article XV of the Constitution of the Diocese, I nominate the following Trustees to serve for 3 year terms expiring in 2014.

Don Huber Sammy Reagan Susanna DesMarais Nan Smutko

Clerk – Judi Yeates Deputy Clerk – Rick Swenson

COMMISSION ON MINISTRY Under Provisions of Canon 6 of the Constitution/Canons of the Diocese, I nominate the following to serve on the Commission on Ministry in staggered terms as indicated.

The following persons are nominated for terms expiring in 2012: Mary Hendricks (C) Helen Goltl (C) Barbara Coffey (L) Jim Yeates (L)

The following persons are nominated for terms expiring in 2013: Elizabeth Easton (C) Randy Goeke ( C) Carl Simmons (L) Beth Agar (L)

The following persons are appointed for terms expiring in 2014: Jim Visger, Chair (C) Karen Watson ( C) Margaret Schaefer (L) Roberts Behrens (L)

EXECUTIVE COMMISSION Under Provisions of Canon 5 (3) of the Constitutions and Canons of the Diocese, I nominate the following to serve for 3 year appointed terms on the Executive Commission expiring in 2013.

Chris Plantz Marcia Mapes

Under Provisions of Title I, Canon 3, Section 5(b), I appoint Chancellor – Dana “Woody” Bradford, III Chancellor Emeritus – Thomas Davies Church Attorney – Joe Jones Archdeacon – Jim Visger

DISCIPLINARY BOARD (FORMERLY KNOWN AS THE ECCLESIASTICAL COURT)

Under provisions of our new Canon 16.05 on Ecclesiastical Discipline, I nominate for your election at this Annual Council the following to serve staggered terms as indicated.

Steve Lahey, 3 year term, expires in 2014 Don Huber, 3 year term, expires in 2014 Charles Plantz, 3 year term expires in 2014

Carol Ann Bullard, 2 year term, expires in 2013 Dorsey Seldon, 2 year term, expires in 2013

Nancy Huston, 1 year term, expires in 2012 Shirley White, 1 year term, expires in 2012

Church Attorney - Joe Jones

DIOCESAN APPOINTMENTS CLERGY COMPENSATION – John Schaefer/Pam Hernandez COM – Jim Visger COMMITTEE ON ELECTIONS – Beth Huber COLLEGE MINISTRY – Betsy Bennett ECUMENICAL RELATIONS –Sidnie White Crawford CHRISTIAN FORMATION/ RESOURCE CENTER – In Transition DEANERIES – In Transition DIOCESAN JUBILEE OFFICER - Colleen Lewis GLOBAL MISSION – Karen Watson-DR/Jim Yeates-Twic East, South Sudan NEBRASKA EPISCOPALIAN– In Transition FINANCE COMMITTEE – Todd Engle SHARED MINISTRY – Nancy Nichols, Administrator STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE – Charles Plantz LEGISLATION - Dana “Woody” Bradford, III EDUCATION FOR MINISTRY- Don Rabbe YOUTH COMMISSION – Abbie Culp EPISCOPAL RELIEF AND DEVELOPMENT - Christine Plantz HISTORIOGRAPHER - Jo Behrens

RECOVERY MINISTRIES – Chuck Peek WOMEN'S MINISTRIES – Sandra Squires COMMISSION ON SCOUTING - Wes Agar WELLNESS COMMISSION – Stephanie Ulrich

Presentation To Don Rabbe Bishop Barker acknowledged the dedicated work of Don Rabbe the editor of The Nebraska Episcopalian. Bishop Barker presented Rabbe with a special appreciation plaque. Council applauded.

Sower’s Fund Award Parishioners from St. Matthew’s in Alliance, the 2010 Sower’s Fund winners, awarded the 2011 Sower’s Fund to St. James in Fremont.

Women’s Ministries Quilt Raffle The winner of the Bishop Quilt was Sigrid Eigenberg from St. Mark’s Pro-Cathedral on Hastings. The proceeds of the quilt raffle went to support the Women’s Ministries Scholarship Fund.

144TH ANNUAL COUNCIL COURTESY RESOLUTIONS

Right Reverend Sir, Members of the Council, special guests and visitors, I am honored to present the following Courtesy Resolutions on behalf of the 144th Annual Council of the Diocese:

Be it resolved that this 144th Council of the Diocese of Nebraska, meeting in the City of North Platte on November 3rd through the 5th, 2011, does acknowledge, affirm and express our gratitude for the following:

We give thanks to God, the Holy Spirit, for bringing to us a new and dynamic Bishop, The Right Reverend J. Scott Baker, with our pledge of constant support and prayers as he provides us vision and hope amid the challenges of being the Church that Christ calls us to be. And for Annie, whose companionship and love will sustain him, and for her devotion to her special calling of being the pastor to our chief pastor. We are truly blessed by you both for your love and administrations to this Diocese and the greater Church beyond our borders.

We fondly offer greetings to The Right Reverend Joe Burnett and his wife, Marty, as they continue their service in Christ's one holy catholic and apostolic church. May God continue to bless and prosper their work. And may the people of the Diocese of Maryland enjoy the many gifts and benefits of Bishop Burnett's Episcopacy, even as we continue to hold him and Marty in our prayers.

We also extend warm greetings to The Right Reverend James Krotz and Phyllis, our retired Bishop and his wife, and we offer prayers of grateful affection as they continue to enjoy God's gifts of improving health and the rewards of a fruitful retirement. Also remembering fondly Marcy Warner, wife of The Right Reverend James D. Warner, deceased Bishop of Nebraska, with warm thoughts and continued best wishes.

To The Reverend Jeffrey Nelson (Rector) and all of the members of the Church of Our Savior, who served as our hosts during this meeting of the Annual Council, we give you our heartfelt thanks for your gracious hospitality, and your many acts of simple kindness

and generosity.

To the members of the Diocesan Staff: Kate Baxley, Beth Byrne, and Canon Judi Yeates, and with the special assistance of Nicole Baxley, we thank you for your many efforts and continued commitment to making this Council Meeting such a great success.

To our Keynote Speaker, Jason Byassee, we give you thanks for offering your wonderful passion and profound insight into the special gifts represented in small churches and the many gifts that those communities of faith offer to the greater church. And we pray you Godspeed as you make your way home to North Carolina for a time of refreshment and renewal.

We remember with thanksgiving the life and witness of all of the faithfully departed, but most especially for Deacons Betty Gaston and Jack Robson, whose love of our Lord and the people they served has enriched our common life together and serves as a legacy and testament to their earthly ministry. And we bid peace and solace to their families trusting that they may continue to find comfort in the loving embrace of our Savior and Redeemer.

We give special thanks for the presence and ministry of Deacon Bob & Ellen Snow as they continue their transition from active missionary duties in the Dominican Republic and seek to discern a path forward to a more leisure-filled and yet productive ministry at home here in Nebraska. May God's grace continue to sustain you both as you seek to find a balance of fulfillment and some well-earned rest from your labors.

We also welcome our newly ordained Deacon; Kimberly Fretz - Omaha, and three priests ordained since last Annual Council; Mary Jane Gockley – Broken Bow, Joyce Scheyer – Lincoln, and Sahra Harding – Cleveland, Ohio, with best wishes for their individual ministries and our continued prayers as they faithfully serve the God's people.

We send best wishes to Father George Benson, retired Rector of St. David's – Lincoln, and Deacons Robin McNutt and Frank Smith, who also retired in the past year– well done good and faithful servants.

We give heart-felt thanks for the dedicated service of Don Rabbe as he retires as the editor of The Nebraska Episcopalian after16 years of good and faithful service.

Faithfully submitted,

The Reverend Craig Gavin

INVITATION TO 145th ANNUAL COUNCIL IN KEARNEY, NEBRASKA 2012 Members of St. Luke’s in Kearney issued an invitation to Annual Council November 1-3, 2012, at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Kearney.

There being no further business to come before the 144th Annual Council of the Diocese of Nebraska, it was adjourned.

Diocese of Nebraska Annual Council Address – November 6, 2011 The Right Reverend J. Scott Barker

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

It is a privilege beyond words to stand before you here this morning. I have been looking forward to this time together for many months. Partly I have been excited about this weekend because I remember with such fondness attending this Diocesan Council when I served years ago as a Nebraska priest. I always loved gathering as a family and seeing the many and diverse members of the body all at one time and in one place. You are just as amazing and beautiful here today as I remember you.

And partly I have been excited about this weekend because I knew it would offer me a meaningful opportunity to get to know you all and our diocese just a little bit better. I imagine many of you share in that hope. While part of the gift of this time every year is reconnecting with old friends, surely an equally important piece is the chance to meet new people, to hear about new ministries, and to see what new and life-giving things the Holy Spirit is up to in the Diocese of Nebraska. To help on that score, we have intentionally designed this time together to include small group sessions with folks you probably do not yet know. This is precisely to keep things fresh and new, to help us nurture personal connections, and to strengthen the fabric of the larger body of Christ. I encourage you all to participate fully in those small group gatherings, which will happen twice more during our time together this weekend.

I want to talk about three things here this morning. I want to tell you a bit about my journey as your bishop thus far, and that has to include offering my thanks to a number of folks who serve Christ so wonderfully in this diocese. I want to talk about our diocesan finances. And I want to say just a little about our future…especially the year to come.

The journey so far.

I imagine that for every new bishop (and certainly for me) there is a sort-of in-between time of “becoming” this new thing. It begins with a pull on the heartstrings months and even years prior to an Episcopal election. Could my experience be forming me to be a bishop some day? Could that small voice I hear be the voice of God calling me to a new ministry?

This process of “becoming” continues through the intentional and organized part of the search process. You sort of get to try on being a bishop as you walk about a diocese, begin listening to people, praying with them, and feeling what it’s like to stand in front of the community in a whole new way. And while the process of “becoming” reaches a crescendo at the big party that is the ordination and consecration of a bishop, it’s been my experience in the last month that it does not stop then. I certainly felt a weight and a change when all those bishops laid their hands on my head and our Presiding Bishop said, “Make Scott a Bishop in your church,” but it remains an almost equally powerful sign of “becoming” just to put on a different colored shirt every morning and look in the mirror. What are you doing wearing purple? Can that be right?

I believe it is right. And I am counting on all of you to shape me, and show me the way, as I continue to live into this new calling and ministry.

I want to share with you the story of one part of becoming your bishop that happened in the middle of my discernment process and remains one of the most powerful and formative moments 21

of the journey so far. This happened last March. The semi–finalist candidates had gathered in Omaha for 48 hours with your Search Committee. (This is a good place, by the way, to say “thank you” to that body for their extraordinary efforts – and to our Standing Committee too for caring for the diocese in the period of time you were without a sitting bishop. The work of those two bodies on your behalf was exceptional!)

Anyway, that March semi-finalist visit to Nebraska was a jam-packed couple of days, challenging, prayerful, meaningful on many levels. But my feeling in my heart coming out of those couple of days, was one of being unsettled and somewhat confused. Though I had endeavored to really “be myself” with the committee, and though I had a strong sense that my history and gifts suggested I could do this job well, still something felt wrong. I was thinking and praying about this feeling in the dark of an early morning plane ride back to New York. What’s wrong, I prayed and wondered. What am I missing here?

And as I asked that question, I heard a response I knew and know was straight from God. “You can’t do this,” a voice simply said. And I knew that to be so deeply true that the only thing to do was to withdraw from your search process and go back to being a priest in Warwick…

“You can’t do this,” the voice said. But in the very next moment, “I can.”

I can count on one hand, the times when God has spoken so clearly and powerfully in my life. I had been so focused on my experience, my talents, my calling, my hopes, that I had forgotten that it’s not about me. I promise you that I will always put Jesus Christ first in this ministry, I will seek after His will, follow His example and proclaim Him as my risen Lord and Savior whenever and wherever I can. There is no other way to do this job to which you have called me. About that, I am clear as can be.

Let me tell you a bit about what I have seen on my visits around the diocese so far. What I want to say is simply that you amaze me in many ways, and that though there are challenges in every setting in the Diocese of Nebraska, you are nonetheless a great inspiration! I have seen deep faith. At Saint David’s in Lincoln, when a casual little conversation after a church pot-luck turned into a time of deepest sharing about moments in which God had miraculously answered people’s different prayers, and brought healing when the doctors said that, “nothing can be done.”

I have seen great hope, at Holy Apostle’s in Mitchell for instance, when Mother Carol Ann and her folk toured Annie and I through the enormous detached parish hall on that church’s campus, and everyone wondered aloud with so much excitement and hope, “couldn’t we fill this space once again, if we had the right vision and God’s help?”

And best and most of all, I have seen abundant, self-giving, and Christ-like love. At Christ Church in Central City, where a small congregation makes welcome each Sunday their neighbors who live at a home next door for adults with developmental disabilities. At Saint Matthew’s in Alliance and Saint Francis in Scottsbluff, where twin outreach programs provide backpacks full of food for school-aged children who otherwise would not have enough to eat. At All Saints in Omaha, where a local mission team has raised over $20,000 to travel in a few weeks time, on behalf of us all, to our companion diocese of Twic East in the Sudan. (Where, by the way, they will present to Bishop Ezekiel the gift of your offering at this year’s Council Eucharist, for his use in a diocese where the needs of our brothers and sisters in Christ are greater than most of us can even imagine.)

I could go on and on, and I know there is still so much to see and so much to learn. But you 22

need to know that at every visit I make to one of our church communities, there is some real sign of God’s presence and power. It does not matter where I travel: large or small, urban or rural, north, south, east, or west. It is such a joy to be with you. You make me proud. You are an inspiration.

Our diocesan finances:

Let me start with a “thank you”. There are two volunteer positions at the diocesan level that need to be staffed by folks of particular faith, vision, and commitment. Woody Bradford now has served four bishops as the Chancellor of this diocese, and in countless other ways at every level in our Episcopal Church. Thank you, Woody, for your tireless work on behalf of the Diocese of Nebraska and the larger body of Christ. We are so blessed by your presence and talents! Similarly, Todd Engle has now served for seven years as the Treasurer of the diocese, and he renews his commitment to serve another term at this council. I know Todd offers this service to honor God and that it gives him joy, but his is, nonetheless, a big job. Bless you, my friend.

(By the way, we will soon be having auditions for the part of “Assistant Treasurer” of the Diocese of Nebraska. If you are a CPA or business person who has a passion for both numbers and Jesus, catch up with Todd this weekend and he can tell you more about that ministry.)

This is a season in which our diocesan finances are in less than spectacular shape. Three factors in particular have brought us to a moment when we will have to make shared sacrifices in order to balance our diocesan budget and move ahead. The three things that have caused us trouble are the relatively poor performance of our church investments in a tough economic climate, a lack of consensus around long-term strategic planning for our diocese, and the high costs associated with an unexpected bishop’s search and transition. There is no point in looking backward and particularly in an effort to point fingers or assign blame. I have no doubt that during the past few challenging years, everyone did their level best to make smart financial decisions by holding expenditures down and working to increase diocesan income. Despite those sincere efforts, we’ve still got work to do.

In 2012, ours will be a “bare bones” budget. I will tell you here a little bit about the proposed budget that your Treasurer will present to you later on in this Council. (This is a good place to thank the various people and groups who labored over creating this draft budget, including our diocesan staff, our Finance Committee, and the 24 members of your Executive Commission. Thanks to all.)

The draft budget includes significant cuts in diocesan expenses. We have made staff cuts at the diocesan level, including eliminating paid positions in the diocesan office and in diocesan financed ministries outside of the Bishop Clarkson Center. We have eliminated and reduced diocesan expense lines for things like travel, meeting expense, and dues to participate in church related ministries outside of our own diocese. And critically – if sadly – as part of this year’s proposed budget we will be bringing to an end the ministry of the Alleluia Fund.

When it was working, the Alleluia Fund proved to be an effective tool to help finance some major church growth initiatives. The Alleluia Fund provided support to Saint Martha’s, Church of the Resurrection, and St. Martin’s in the Omaha area; it funded a curate at St. Paul’s in Arapahoe and St. Elizabeth’s in Holdrege; and provided educational support for Ogallala and Bridgeport in the west. It also helped fund programs with our youth across the diocese, and Hispanic Ministry in Dawson County, just to name a few.

Based on its early success at raising money, promises about both ongoing and future grants from the Alleluia fund were made to various churches and ministries around the diocese. But expectations about income to the fund were not met, and over the past year we have had to contact those various ministries to whom funding was promised, and let them know that the grants they were counting on would not be forthcoming. I am very sorry for this turn of events. Every church and ministry that was promised a grant was let down by this news.

I fully expect that in the years to come we will find a new means by which to help resource church growth and development projects from the diocesan level. But today, we have neither the capital in our budget to do this, nor an effective means for distributing and overseeing such gifts.

One of my great pals heads up an old Nebraska business, and he has coached me on many occasions over the years when I’ve bellyached to him about church budget woes, “You cannot save your way into profitability,” he always says to me. That is the Gospel truth! We can trim, cut, slash, and delete diocesan budget line items until our world looks like it. At the end of the day, it is increased income that will make it possible to realize the great hopes our Lord undoubtedly has for the ministries of the diocese. So, on the income side, the proposed budget includes three changes. First, the budget proposes a change in the formula by which parishes are assessed for their contribution to our diocesan budget. The new formula is much simpler, it lowers the percentage by which our churches are assessed, and it will lower the actual amount assessed in many, though not all, of our parishes. I hope this simpler and fairer formula will be an encouragement for every church in the diocese to pay their diocesan assessment. There is no church in Nebraska in such crises that some portion of parish income could not be helpfully shared with the diocese. If you really think your church cannot help support the diocesan budget at all, then we need to have a talk about the abundance of God’s creation, and about what it means to be an Episcopal parish!

Here I need to offer my profound thanks to those many churches that do find a way to pay the assessment that is asked of them every year. I am particularly mindful that some of our largest churches model extraordinary grace on this score. Did you know that All Saints is responsible for financing nearly 20% of our diocesan budget? To all those churches that do what they can to help fund the ministries of our diocese, thank you. Thank you. Thank you.

Here’s the second way our proposed budget anticipates raising income to do the ministries of the Church: we are going to throw a big, fat, party! Our idea is for the people of the Diocese of Nebraska to get out on one designated evening for fun gatherings all over our state. You will throw the parties that fill you with joy and invite the folks who need to come: church pals, community friends who appreciate the ministries of your church, or maybe just the folks in your rolodex who you know are all about having a good time. You will raise a little money in a way that is fun and easy for you and your group. Annie and I cooked Nebraska steaks for a similar deal when we lived in New York and bought nice wine to accompany the meal. We asked for a donation to have a place at the table, and we made a bundle for the church every year we did it!

You do what’s right for you, your church family, and your friendship circle. Whatever kind of party you decide to throw, I know that we will have a blast together and I am sure we will raise some serious cash to do ministry together as a diocese. We have already picked the day for this big event. It will be Sunday, February 19, 2012. That is the last Sunday before Ash Wednesday and Lent. We’re going to call it “Fat Sunday” (like Fat Tuesday) and if you wish to throw a party with a Mardi Gras theme, so much the better. There will be lots more to come about this special day in the weeks ahead.

Our final move towards raising income for our budget, and being much more strategic about 24

diocesan financial planning and management, is the establishment of a Diocesan Coordinated Finance Committee. That is, one committee with membership from all three of the diocesan bodies that help manage our finances, charged with fostering financial transparency, improving communication, and coordinating budgeting for all our diocesan operations and mission. It is no small thing that establishing such a committee will actually be a return towards a structure of oversight, more like that envisioned by our church cannons, than has been the norm in our diocese for some time. We will begin constructing that committee out of the elections and appointments taking place at this annual council.

So much for diocesan finances, may God grant that next year there will be far less to explain and much more to celebrate! Amen?

Last and briefly, but far from least, let me share a few words about the year and years to come. I will continue to visit you where you live, work, and pray, and will take as much time as I can at those visits. I promised to visit every one of our churches in my first year on the job for you, and I am absolutely determined to deliver on that promise. And don’t think for a second that it is a chore. It is rather my great joy.

You should know that in the future your diocesan staff stays. You cannot imagine how blessed you are to have an accountant as capable and committed as Beth Byrne to be entrusted now with watching over our diocesan finances. She has made great strides in a few short months to help fix what was broken.

Because of the public face of her role, you may have some idea of the extraordinary enthusiasm and organizational genius that Kate Baxley offers each day as your Diocesan Administrator. Let me affirm for you here and now that Kate is the real deal.

And I think you are fully aware, but let me say here, that in Mother Judi Yeates, we have the gift of a Canon to the Ordinary who has a passion for her ministry, and a faith in her God, that puts her in a class all her own. I am blessed every day of my life to work with these people. And you are blessed every day of your life, though you may not even know it, that these people have chosen to work for you.

Change is near constant in an organization as large as a diocese of the church, and we know there will be change in the year to come. One meaningful change that lies on the near horizon for us is the retirement of our Cathedral Dean. After 17 years of service, Dean Hurley will retire from that position at the end of February. Tom loves to laugh and takes real delight in being the devil’s advocate in boring church meetings, but he is a man of deep faith and I know of no pastor who has meant more to the people he has served. I am so thankful for the Dean’s long service and on a personal level, for the meaningful part he played in my formation and that of my family. Thanks, Dean Hurley, for all you’ve done for Trinity Cathedral and for the Diocese of Nebraska. And I bid this council: keep your Cathedral in your prayers this year as they do the hard work of saying goodbye to the Dean and of beginning the work of a search for their next pastor.

And what else about the future?

There are a few things to which we are already so deeply committed as a diocese that they are part of our mission and part of our identity. Here are some of those things that you are sure to hear about in the year to come. You’ll hear a lot more about clergy formation and clergy support. We all know that finding, forming, and supporting great priests and deacons is vital to the life of our churches and the health of our diocese, and that we are challenged by our demographics and geography both on this score. I am grateful for the work our Shared Ministry 25

Task Force has just completed, and for the establishment of the Shared Ministry Program – and Shared Ministry Academy classes that are the fruit of that task force’s labors. These will be one of the vehicles by which we shape and support our clergy in 2012 and beyond.

Similarly, it is a sure thing you’ll be hearing more about Resurrection House, the Iona School, a renewed commitment to diaconal formation, and God willing, a really well organized and state-wide curacy program to help form our recent seminary grads for long-term ministry in our diocese.

We are also deeply committed as a diocese to nurturing the Tri-Faith Initiative. While no explanation is required for why it is in the best interest of all humanity for the Church to engage in life-giving ways with the Muslim and Jewish communities, it may not be so clear how we can do that as a whole diocese. That is: how we can make the beautiful idea of a tri-faith campus in one part of the state, relevant to the lives of folks who dwell in very different parts of the state? We’re hard at work on that, and I am thankful for the ministry of Canon Tim Anderson, who has invested so much of himself to begin bringing the vision of the Tri-Faith Initiative into being. I know he’d say that the ministry is a joy, but he works his tail off. Thank you, Canon Anderson.

And one final thought about our future.

A big part of visiting all of you this year is for me to come to know more about you and the churches you love. I want to be extra careful about prematurely committing to what the future of our diocese might look like, and how I can best and most faithfully serve you down the road. It seems to me that one has to dwell with a people and in a place for some time before any kind of meaningful vision for the future can be discerned.

So, let’s take our time. Let’s pray together, worship together, and serve together. Let’s live within the means that God has provided for this day and celebrate the truth that ours is a God of grace and abundance, who will provide for us all that we need and more to accomplish God’s desires of us in the years ahead. And let us ever and always put Jesus Christ first in our lives and in the ministries to which we are called in this great diocese. For if we seek after His will, if we follow His example, if we proclaim Him as our risen Lord and Savior whenever and wherever we can, we cannot fail, and our future will be blessed by God!

Faithfully Yours in Christ,

+ The Right Reverend J. Scott Barker

DIOCESAN FINANCIAL REPORTS

Proposed New Faith Asking Formula for 2012

The Proposed New Faith Asking Formula for the 2012 Budget is based on the 2010 “Normal Operating Income” as reported on Page 3 of the parochial report. All churches will pay  12% on the first $100,000 of operating income  14% on the second $100,000 of operating income  17% on operating income over $200,000

Changes from the previous formula and why changes were made are as follows:  One year (2010) instead of a three year average (2008, 2009 & 2010). The 2010 numbers seemed more reflective of the current conditions.  Net operating income was not reduced by the amount of the parish’s 2010’s asking payments to the Diocese – It is our goal that all churches pay 100% of Faith Asking so ultimately this should have no effect on the calculation.  All churches pay at the same graduated rate. No flat rate on all dollars once you obtain a certain income level.  The bracket amount of each level was doubled and the number of brackets went from four to three. Previous bracket levels were $50,000, $100,000, $150,000, and over $150,000. Current brackets are $100,000, $200,000 and over $200,000.  % of each bracket was reduced by 1%.

DIOCESAN REPORTS

Diocesan Archives Annual Report, 2011

The Diocese of Nebraska Archives is the repository of all historical documents and artifacts relating to the Episcopal Church in Nebraska. The church arrived in Nebraska Territory in mid- 1856, and some of the earliest records are letters that appeared in Spirit of Missions, of which I have obtained copies. Bishop Joseph Cruichshank Talbot came in 1860 after the new Missionary District of the Northwest was created by the 1859 General Convention. Although some records remain from this very early period, most of our documents date to the mid-1860s – after statehood for Nebraska and establishment of the Diocese of Nebraska. Sorting and organizing materials began about four years ago, and while much has been accomplished, much remains to be done.

In our archive to date, we have an inventory of over 1500 filed documents or document collections, ranging from nineteenth century land deeds to records of women’s organizations – such as the Women’s Auxiliary. We have church registers from parishes that no longer exist – although many are missing, and multiple forms of diocesan media, such as The Crozier and Forward in Nebraska. There are financial records and special event brochures. Much correspondence remains, especially from and to the bishop’s office, but also between vestry members and parishioners. Several bishops left extensive and historically valuable correspondence collections which have been organized. And there are, of course, many wonderful parish histories, as well as photographs – both identified and unknown – to document our past.

To facilitate my own research, but also provide an historical timeline for our history, I have created (and continue to update) annual charts of the birth – and demise – of our parishes and missions since 1856. The lists are complete to 1896, when there were roughly 115 parishes and missions. I have also created an alphabetical list of the priests who have served in our diocese since 1856. That list, as yet incomplete, is forty-three pages long!

During the past year, the Cathedral Chapter graciously offered an unused classroom in Trinity Parish House for use as an archive space. It is already full, and thus in the foreseeable future, our materials will continue to spill over into the adjacent hallway where the many boxes of records had been kept for the last decade. Additionally, before he left Omaha, Bishop Joe Burnett offered a lone-time contribution to the diocesan budget of $1,000 from which archive materials can be purchased.

Episcopal laity historically knit tight parish communities through which they raised funds to provide objects and services to their parishes. Well into the twentieth century, the parish community’s unity extended far beyond the walls of the church buildings, thereby fostering the growth of the larger civic community in which the parish existed. We have a shared responsibility to preserve our collective history – from tangible artifacts and documents, to the intangible memories of people and events – in order to honor those who helped to establish and enrich our present parish communities. To tell the stories of Nebraska’s parishes, we will create our own annual history journal. Hopefully the first copy of this journal will be available at the 2012 Annual Council. Proceeds from its sale will establish our own revenue stream through which we can replenish the archive’s budget line. Please consider sharing the stories from your own parishes by undertaking the necessary research effort to write them for printing in our annual historical publication.

You can contact me under “Visitors – Contact Diocesan Staff – Archives.” Please do so to ask

any historical questions or to offer information. Like you, I am a volunteer, and I believe that working together to preserve the past will strengthen our parish communities in the present.

Respectfully submitted, Jo Behrens, Archivist and Historian

Bishop and Trustees 2011 Annual Report

December 14, 2010

A meeting of the Diocese of Nebraska Bishop and Trustees was held Tuesday, December 14, 2010 at 10:00 a.m. in the Conference Room, Bishop Clarkson Center, 109 North 18th Street, Omaha Nebraska. Bishop Burnett introduced the members elected and appointed for 2011: The Rev. Tom O’Dell, Dean Hokanson, Cheryl Lamme, and Rev. John Schaefer. Bishop Burnett discussed his pending move to Maryland and gave his activities report. Further reports and discussion were: Canon Yeates on Asset Mapping; Canon Anderson on The Episcopal Tri-Faith property progress; D. Hokanson on a potential sale of our ground on 178th & Pacific; a report on St. Barnabas litigation; a request from St. John’s, Cody to close their church; Search Committee report; and a report from the St. Martha’s Task Force.

March 1, 2011

A meeting of the Diocese of Nebraska Bishop & Trustees was held Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at 10:00 a.m in the Bishop Clarkson Center. Representatives of First National Bank Trust Department reviewed the portfolio of investments held in trust by the Bishop & Trustees. Bishop Burnett gave a listing of all the parishes visited since 2009 throughout the diocese. Speaking of his move to Maryland, he wishes everyone well and is saying farewell and not goodbye. Reports were presented by: T. Engle concerning the replacement of the Financial Administrator the work of our Financial Consultant; W. Bradford on Pooled Funds resolution developed to simplify the current fund design; D. Hokanson on the sale of property at 178th & Pacific; Canon Yeates on the sale of St. John’s Cody; Canon Anderson on the progress of the Episcopal Tri-Faith Ministries and acquisition of the property on 132nd and Pacific; G. Gray reported on the progress of St. Martha’s, Papillion; President of the Standing Committee reported on the Bishop search process.

June 7, 2011

A meeting of the Diocese of Nebraska Bishop and Trustees was held Tuesday, June 7, 2011, at 10:00 a.m. at the Bishop Clarkson Center with The Very Rev. Tom Hurley presiding. There were reports and discussion concerning: progress on the Bishop Search process; the Treasurer gave a report on the work of our financial consultant; Canon Yeates reported on property at Cody and 178th and Pacific, as well as news of an insurance payment received on Grace Church Tecumseh; Canon Anderson reported on the newly formed Episcopal Tri-Faith Foundation; W. Bradford gave an update on the litigation with St. Barnabas; a report on the continuing progress at St. Martha’s in Papillion; T. Engle reported on St. Andrew’s, Omaha and the board approved their request to encumber their property with a loan to cover their new addition and remodel.

October 11, 2011

A meeting of the Diocese of Nebraska Bishop and Trustees was held Tuesday, October 11, 2011 at 10:00 a.m. at the Bishop Clarkson Center with The Rt. Rev. J. Scott Barker opening with prayer and extending his thanks to God for this opportunity to serve as Bishop in the Diocese of Nebraska. Bishop Barker thanked everyone for the good work that has been done in the last year in the absence of Bishop Burnett. The leadership of R. Swenson and J. Yeates was noted and commended. Reports and discussion were offered by: B. Byrne and T. Engle concerning equity

agreements and the audit report; R. Swenson final report on search process and consecration; a report from St. Martha’s; Canon Anderson reported on progress of the Tri-Faith Initiative and the Episcopal Tri-Faith Foundation; Canon Yeates on the pending sale of the property at 178th and Pacific, and the rectory in Lexington.

Respectfully submitted, Tim Anderson, Clerk

EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF NEBRASKA CLARKSON COLLEGE ANNUAL REPORT 2011 Louis W. Burgher, M.D., Ph.D., President

The College continues to be successful in “in preparing students to professionally provide high quality, ethical and compassionate health care services”. Our graduates are prepared to be the best and are employed. Each program met its goal this year for enrollment, board scores, accreditation and financial success. We have received approval for a new degree, Bachelor of Science in Health Care Services by the Higher Learning Commission, as well as the Post Bachelors Certificate in Health Information Administration. We continue to graduate Nebraska’s largest Nursing class for a single campus, the largest Radiology Technology class and the largest Physical Therapy Assistant class. Board scores by all of our graduates continue to exceed local and national averages. Some specifics:

FINANCES

Our year end positive variance of $1.4 million in our operating budget appears to be a new record. Private contributions have added nearly $200,000 in much needed new scholarship support. For the 4th consecutive year our tuition and fees increase will be below 1%, the lowest of Nebraska’s 15 private colleges and universities.

ENROLLMENT

Last year we reported a record year over year credit hour increase of 8.6%. This year’s increase is 9.6%! During the last 4 years our ratio of credit hours to FTE has increased from 162 to 176, a reflection of increased productivity and online learning. We now offer distance education in 30 states.

FACILITIES

We celebrated the new Clarkson Service League Library on our second floor and are nearing the completion of renovations on our lower level. New faculty offices and classroom space are the result. We have refinanced our residence hall bonds. Not only will this help our budget, but we also plan to utilize some of the space for faculty offices. New restroom facilities have been completed on 3 floors. We hope to renovate the remaining floors this next year. And finally we all appreciate a new parking lot!

COLLOBORATION

This Fall our Academic Travel Abroad students will be joined by students and faculty from BryanLGH College of Health Sciences in Lincoln and Nebraska Methodist College for a journey to Ireland. This is a new venture in addition to our existing travel program (Spain next May!). 45

EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

The College continues to experience low turnover with the rate of 11.66% for the calendar year ending December 2010 and an annualized rate of 8% as of May 2011. The Employee Opinion Survey scores for 2011 were outstanding with a 90% positive overall score.

Our faculty and staff are resilient, productive and devoted. I could not ask for more.

Respectfully submitted,

Louis W. Burgher, M.D., Ph.D. President

Association of Independent Colleges & Universities of Nebraska Tuition & Fees Academic Year 2011/12 AY 10/11 % College Tuition/Yr Fees/Yr Total Total Incr Room/yr Board/Yr BryanLGH* 12,780 690 13,470 12,300 9.51% -- -- Bellevue* 7,800 300 8,100 7,600 6.58% -- -- Doane 22,970 620 23,590 22,170 6.41% 6,650 incl Grace 16,016 600 16,616 15,728 5.65% 5,712 incl Wesleyan 24,256 400 24,656 23,474 5.04% 6,672 incl Hastings 22,784 950 23,734 22,620 4.92% 6,780 incl Midland 24,410 400 24,810 23,664 4.84% 6,105 incl Col St Mary 23,870 480 24,350 23,230 4.82% 6,700 incl Creighton 30,484 1,410 31,894 30,532 4.46% 9,476 incl Concordia 22,860 200 23,060 22,115 4.27% 6,110 incl Methodist* 14,400 730 15,130 14,550 3.99% 6,050 -- Union 18,120 660 18,780 18,150 3.47% 6,020 incl York 13,460 1,840 15,300 14,998 2.01% 5,850 incl Clarkson* 12,840 930 13,770 13,650 0.88% 4,190 --

2011/12 Tuition & Fees at Nebraska Independent Colleges Clarkson* York Union Methodist* Concordia

Creighton Col St Mary

Midland School Hastings Wesleyan Grace Doane Bellevue* BryanLGH*

$0 $4,000 $8,000 $12,000 $16,000 $20,000 $24,000 $28,000 $32,000 $36,000 Amount

Tuition/Yr Fees/Yr * Based on 30 crhr/year

Clergy Compensation Committee Annual Report 2011

The Bishop’s Advisory Committee for Clergy Compensation conducts an annual review of the financial compensation of the full time clergy of the Diocese of Nebraska and prepares guidelines to assist congregations with their negotiations with clergy for compensation.

In order to successfully call and retain clergy to serve Nebraska congregations, we must compensate clergy at a level that is competitive on a regional and national level.

The 2012 recommended compensation schedule posted below is competitive with the mid-point of the wider Church. The Compensation Committee will continue to make recommendations to help us stay at least at this level of compensation for the full time clergy in our diocese.

Other Recommendations:

* It is a best practice for the Vestry and Rector to arrange for an Annual Mutual Ministry Review. * It is a best practice that conversation about compensation be held at a time separate from the Mutual Ministry Review. Compensation conversations are a good time to discuss any “merit” or “time in service” increases. * Annual planning retreats for Vestry and Clergy provide good opportunities to discuss the goals and work plans of Clergy and Lay Leadership for the next year. * There is no cost of living adjustment recommendation made for 2012. * Travel expense reimbursement is to be paid at the current IRS rate. * Full time clergy should be covered under the Diocesan Medical Insurance Plan, or have insurance that is fully comparable to that of the diocesan plan. Discussions will be ongoing in 2012 concerning medical insurance and details may change for 2013. * It is highly recommend that all full time clergy and their congregations participate in The Diocese of Nebraska Sabbatical Plan.

Supply Priest Compensation

One service, one location $100 plus travel reimbursement Two services, on location $135 plus travel reimbursement Each additional service on location $35.00 per service extra For example, if a church has four services over a weekend, the compensation would be $205 plus travel reimbursement.

Respectfully submitted, Ms. Pam Hernandez, Chair The Rev. John Schaefer

2012-Base for Clergy Compensation

FTE (2) Yrs of Base Date Ordained Svc APSI (3) Stipend Housing (4) Total

(1)

2011 0 0% 37,922 10,500 48,422 2010 1 4% 39,439 10,500 49,939 2009 2 3% 40,622 10,500 51,122 2008 3 3% 41,841 10,500 52,341 2007 4 2% 42,678 10,500 53,178 2006 5 2% 43,531 10,500 54,031 2005 6 2% 44,402 10,500 54,902 2004 7 1% 44,846 10,500 55,346 2003 8 1% 45,294 10,500 55,794 2002 9 1% 45,747 10,500 56,247 2001 10 1% 46,205 10,500 56,705

Notes 1 Date of Ordination-full time clergy employment since ordained 2 Full Time Equivalent. Use this when considering mixed employment 3 Annual Professional Service Increment-If over 10 yrs of service, then $300 per year for every year over 10, with max of $3,000 4 Housing and Utilities-In all cases, adjust this to parish's local market conditions

COMMISSION ON MINISTRY ANNUAL REPORT 2011

Since our last Annual Council that COM-Individual Formation and the COM-Total Ministry, each having nine members, have been successfully combined into one group of twelve members under one Commission on Ministry. This has occurred by attrition and by allowed terms to expire without adding new members. The new combined COM group has met three times since our last Annual Council. There are currently six people in various stages of process for ordination to the permanent diaconate and ten people in various stages of process for ordination to the priesthood.

The Commission on Ministry is currently involved in working with the Shared Ministry Program; they are also working to assist in the implementation of the IONA School Program in Nebraska; and discussing continuing education for clergy and lay. Since Annual Council 2010, the COM has approved the following:

Recommended for Postulancy: Dan Coffman –Holy Trinity, Lincoln – Permanent Diaconate Heather May – St. Augustine’s, Elkhorn – Permanent Diaconate Dorothy Royal – St. Mary’s, Nebraska City – Permanent Diaconate David Holmquist – St. Augustine’s, Elkhorn – Permanent Diaconate Jan With – Trinity, Norfolk – Priesthood John Adams – Church of the Resurrection, Omaha – Priesthood Kim Roberts – St. Martin’s, Omaha – Priesthood Christopher Slane – St. Mark’s on the Campus, Lincoln – Priesthood Verneda Kelly – St. Andrew’s, Seward – Priesthood Pam Williams – St. Andrew’s, Seward – Priesthood

Recommended for Candidacy: Nancy Nockels – Trinity, Norfolk – Permanent Diaconate Lara Shine – All Saints, Omaha – Priesthood

Recommended for Ordination: Kimberly Fretz – All Saints, Omaha – Permanent Diaconate

Submitted on behalf of: The Rev. George Benson, Chair

Nebraska Episcopal Cursillo 2011 Annual Report

Secretariat Members Wayne Culp Lay Director 2011 Mo. Ruth Tomlinson Spiritual Director 2012 Greg Burke Central Deanery 2013 Rich Webb Central Deanery 2013 Mo. Karen Anderson Spiritual Director 2013 Cindy Yamamoto West Deanery 2012 Cheryl Hejl Southeast Deanery 2012 Lucy Webster Southeast Deanery 2013 Lyndle Lewis Treasurer Nancy Brown Past Lay Director

2011 Summary The year started with the cancellation of the June 2011 weekend due to the resignation of the lay rector and the inability to find a replacement. Two groups within the Secretariat worked on a “shorter weekend” committee under the direction of past Lay Director Nancy Benton-Brown and an ad hoc group of Wayne Culp, Ernesto Medina, and Ruth Tomlinson organized the “Tools for Lay Leadership in a Complex World Workshop” held at St. Martha’s in August. Additionally Wayne Culp, Paul Van Dyne, and Keith Gourley, participated with the Lutheran team for their September Via De Cristo before their weekend was canceled due to too few candidates.

Shorter Weekend Committee The committee’s task has been postponed until the team leadership is determined when a future weekend is scheduled. At the first meeting committee meeting in January, the “Tools for Faith Leadership in a Complex World” workshop was formulated.

2011 Tools for Faith Leadership in a Complex World workshop The one day workshop was locally designed to include the laity of the diocese utilizing radical hospitality and inclusiveness. Forty people attended. The workshop was promoted as an adult formation event targeted to non-Cursillo participants with none of the traditional Cursillo language. The hymns were a cappella. The three short worship services highlighted Pam Williams story telling the lessons. There were lay presentations on personal ethics, abundance, obstacles, and celebration. Personal reflection started with videos created at St. Martha’s: checkout: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_e-F0A1S-sU&feature=related. Small group discussion followed the Mutual Invitation discipline.

Several people are putting together plans to roll out the workshop in Western Nebraska. Look for it in early 2012.

Lutheran Via De Cristo and Episcopal Cursillo Joint Partnership 2011 was a tough year for both communities. The June Cursillo weekend was canceled due to lack of leadership, and the September Via De Cristo weekend was canceled due to lack of candidates. The communities continue to meet together in periodic renewal activities.

View our website at: http://www.nebraskaepiscopalcursillo.org/

Respectfully submitted, Wayne Culp, Lay Director Nebraska Episcopal Cursillo Secretariat

The Order of the Daughters of the King Annual Report 2010-2011

Daughters of the King (DOK) is an Order for women of the Episcopal Church and churches in communion with the Episcopal Church. DOK was organized in 1885. Every Daughter pledges herself to a lifelong program of prayer, service and personal evangelism, dedicated to the extension of Christ’s kingdom and to the strengthening of the spiritual life of her parish. Daughters around the world all wear the same cross.

We have a total of 16 chapters in Nebraska: St. Barnabas’, Omaha Church of the Holy Spirit, Bellevue St. Alban’s, McCook Church of the Holy Trinity, Lincoln Church of Our Savior, North Platte St. Augustine’s of Canterbury, Elkhorn St. Elizabeth’s, Holdrege St. Mary’s, Nebraska City St. Mary’s, Blair* St. David’s, Lincoln* St. Alban’s, McCook – Juniors Grace Church, Columbus * St Martha’s, Papillion Trinity Church, Norfolk St. Christopher’s, Cozad St. Andrews, Omaha

The Chapter in St. Andrews is a new chapter having been instituted in September. Several established chapters have added new daughters throughout the year. In addition a study group has started to form a new chapter at St. Alban’s in Scottsbluff.

Most Daughters are active in parish chapters although we also have several "Daughters-at-large" who have moved to parishes without a DOK chapter or those with fewer than 3 Daughters in a parish. Daughters in each parish work with their rector in prayer, service, and evangelism. Current service includes prayer chains, quiet days, scripture study, prayer gardens, and other activities to enhance and provide prayer support to parishes. Starred chapters ( * ) are reported to be inactive by the National office. If this is incorrect and known to any reader, please contact Suzanne Titus [email protected].

The activities during the 2010-2011 year are as follows.

The Daughters of the King sponsored a prayer room during the 2010 Annual Council in Kearney. We prayed intercessions as requested by delegates and visitors. We will again host the prayer room in November at Annual Council in North Platte.

Our annual Daughters Day was hosted by Liberty Chapter, St. Stephen’s Church, Cozad, in June. Anne Burkholder led us in discussion of “How women’s ministry can use our gifts to nourish faith and love in our communities”. Lyn Zolman, Province VI DOK president, attended and provided insight into how we fit into the picture of both the Provincial and National Daughters. After the meeting we held our annual business meeting which included reports from local chapters and elections. By-laws changes were approved, including a provision for an election of officers the year prior to our Triennial, an international gathering of Daughters. New officers are Suzanne Titus, president; Leslie Stramel, vice-president; Toby Wingert, treasurer (second term); and Tammy Lassen, secretary (second term). We closed with Eucharist with Mother Aurilla Walker as celebrant and Mother Elizabeth Montez as preacher. Throughout the year we held our board meetings by telephone and made frequent contact with members through e-mails, including requests for prayer.

The Naomi and Ruth Chapter at St. Augustine’s hosted two Joslyn Art Museum outings. At one outing we had two tours led by DOK members: Jan Sinram, Church of the Holy Spirit, led a tour on Saints and Sinners, and Sandra Squires, St. Augustine’s Church, led a tour of the sculpture garden. On a different occasion, Sandra Squires led a small group on a tour of Ukrainian Icons from the 13th to the 19th century.

Ellen Snow, missionary in the Dominican Republic, requested altar linens.There was an enthusiastic response from the people of Nebraska. Suzanne Titus led a collaborative effort between Daughters and Women’s Ministries to make sets of fair linens for churches in the DR. We compiled forty sets of linens which including large altar cloths, corporals, lavabo towels, and purificators. Crosses were embroidered on every linen by Nancy Burseh of St. Albans, McCook and Mary Wells of St. Augustine’s, Omaha. In September, Daughters Sandra Squires, Deacon Pat Sheldon, and missionary Ellen Snow traveled to five locations in the Dominican Republic and taught 120 women and men, including teenagers, about the ministry of altar care. At the conclusion of each training session participants were presented a set of linens for their church. While there Ellen, Sandra, and Pat attended the annual gathering of Daughters in the DR.

Our assembly president is involved in quarterly phone meetings with the provincial officers and other presidents from Province VI. In Feburary. Carolyn Smith from Norfolk, Mother Ruth Jaynes, and then president Sandra Squires and Cricket Foley from Omaha attended a Provence VI Leadership Conference for Daughters of the King at Loretta Heights Retreat Center in Denver.

DOK goals for 2011-2014 pray, including for our clergy, educate ourselves about diversity, increase our spirituality through study, educate members and congregations about Millennium Development Goals (MDG), and communicate with our members.

For information, please contact any of the officers:

Diocesan President, Suzanne Titus, [email protected] Vice President, Leslie Stramel, [email protected] Secretary, Tammie Lassen, [email protected] Treasurer, Toby Wingert, [email protected] Chaplain, The Reverend Ruth Jaynes, [email protected]

Respectfully submitted by Suzanne Titus President Nebraska Assembly Daughters of the King

Deacons Report 2011

As of this date we report the following:

28 deacons are active in parishes of the Diocese.

3 Individuals are in the Postulant phase of the process toward ordination to the Diaconate.

Kimberly Fretz was ordained to the Diaconate in January 2011 (our first 30 something in a long time).

Deacon Robin McNutt retired from the Diaconate and moved too California to be near family.

Deacon Frank Smith, Christ Church Beatrice, retired at age 89 in May. Frank was accustomed to things taking a while to get done, as a young Infantry soldier he was one of thousands who landed at the beach somewhere on the toe of Italy and walked fighting all the way to Berlin. Franks journey to ordination was in a way very similar to that long journey to Berlin, on the way to ordination two or three setbacks that included multiple changes of priests and a new bishop added months and eve a year or more delaying his ordination in August of 1999 at the age of 77. His ministry at the Gage County Jail was a one of a kind, thank you Frank for your commitment to that community.

We remember the life and ministry of The Rev. Katherine (Betty) Gaston April 1918 – April 2011. Betty was one of six Deacons in the class of 1988.

Finally fourteen of the deacons of this diocese will be requesting a yearly continuance of their diaconal ministry by letter to the Bishop on or before their next birthday having reached at least 72 years of age.

Respectfully Submitted,

James R. Visger Archdeacon

GLOBAL MISSION COMMITTEE REPORT

On November 6, 2010, the Diocesan Global Mission Committee met at St. Augustine’s. Thirteen representatives from the DR and across the state gathered in Elkhorn to plan our developing a Tri-diocese companion relationship with the Twic East Diocese of the South Sudan and the Diocese of the Dominican Republic. Bishop Ezekiel Diing and Dean Peter Adum Deng were also present.

Bishop Ezekiel provided a report on the situation in Twic East, and the new developing country of South Sudan. John Schaefer and Karen Watson provided a report on St. Andrew’s October 2010 mission trip to the Dominican Republic. Bob Snow reported on the status of scholarships received for students in the DR. Planned 2011 Mission trips from NE were discussed.

The Global Mission Committee made a presentation to Annual Council on Friday November 12, 2010. Following this presentation, a motion was made to adopt the Tri-Diocesan Companion Partnership Agreement. This motion was enthusiastically approved. Bishops Burnett, Holguin, and Diing signed documents formalizing this partnership.

On November 15, 2010, Canon Judi Yeates, Fr. Tom Jones and Don Peeler met with Dn. Bob and Ellen Snow, Bishop Holguin, Bishop Ezekiel, Dean Peter and Daniel Kuot to talk further about priorities and to define our next steps.

The Global Mission Committee prepared a Cycle of Prayer to be offered from Christmas 2010 through January 9, 2011 for a peaceful referendum in South Sudan. A special prayer service was offered in the hours leading up to this referendum by Fr. Tom Jones.

The Global Mission Committee made improvements to its web-page linked to the Diocesan webpage, including the ability to make on-line donations to support global mission. Grants were also written in an effort to financially support our global mission partner initiatives.

Don Peeler was named Global Mission Liaison for the Diocese of Nebraska for 2011. Each diocese was to appoint a Liaison for communication between the three dioceses.

In January 2011, Canon Judi Yeates and Jim Yeates attended the Annual Council of the Diocese of the Dominican Republic. They represented the Diocese of Nebraska, and were present for the ratification of the Covenant of Tri-Diocesan Companion Partnership Agreement by the Diocese of the DR.

Tom Jones, Jim Yeates, Claudianna Todd and Don Peeler met with Canon Judi on March 21, 2011 to discuss the focusing of the work we will do in Twic East and the DR.

On March 26, 2011, the Diocesan Global Mission Committee met via Adobe ConnectNow. Eight representatives from across the state gathered on-line. Plans for 2011 missions to the DR and Twic East were discussed. Jim Yeates provided a report on the status of South Sudan. Sandra Squires reported on the DOK Altar Cloth Project, and provided a valuable list of resources in preparing for mission. Fr. Tom Jones reported on the Diocesan Youth Mission to Jarabacoa, DR.

June 2011 provided many opportunities for our youth. A group of Diocesan Youth traveled to the Diocesan camp near Jarabacoa to work clearing and draining land to plant 200 citrus trees. Two youth groups from All Saints traveled to Santiago to paint a children’s shelter. The Diocese of NE also sponsored DR youth and a chaperone to participate in EYE in Minneapolis.

Agricultural funding was also provided to Twic East during June/July 2011 to help plant a life- sustaining crop there. Funding for this project was solicited and received Diocese-wide. In June 2011, Carolyn Smith, Jim Yeates, Claudianna Todd and Don Peeler attended the AFRECS (American Friends of the Episcopal Church in the Sudan) meeting in Glen Allen, VA.

On June 25, 2011, the Diocesan Global Mission Committee met at St. Andrews Church in Omaha. Eleven representatives from across the state gathered. Padre Salvador Almonte, Vicar of La Annunciacion and San Lucas Missions in Santiago was also present. Plans for 2011 missions to the DR and Twic East were discussed. Reports on June missions to the DR were heard. Jim Yeates provided a report on the status of South Sudan and the Agricultural project.

Sandra Squires and Dn. Pat Sheldon traveled to the DR in September 2011 to conduct Altar Care Training and deliver altar cloths throughout the Diocese of the DR. Forty sets of altar cloths were taken for presentation. Sandra and Pat also attended a DOK Conference while in the DR. Don and Melissa Peeler also traveled to the DR in September to work with Padre Tony Garcia and Padre Rafael de la Cruz in Santiago and surrounding communities.

Respectfully submitted, Don Peeler Global Mission Commission Chair

DIOCESAN JUBILEE OFFICER ANNUAL REPORT OCTOBER 2010 THROUGH SEPTEMBER 2011

This past year I was involved in a couple of significant events. In January, 2011, I was informed that the Vestry of St. Luke’s Church in Kearney voted to disassociate the parish from the Kearney Jubilee Center. Upon learning of this decision, I investigated the reasons for this action. I also contacted the Rev. Christopher Johnson, Social and Economic Justice Officer at the Episcopal Church Center in New York, to learn what options were available for having the Kearney Jubilee Center continue – or not continue – as a recognized Jubilee Ministry Center.

I reported my findings to Bishop Burnett, who, upon reviewing my report and carefully considering the details of the matter, decided that the course of action taken by St. Luke’s Vestry was the wisest course. The withdrawal of Episcopal Church sponsorship means that the Kearney Jubilee Center is no longer an affirmed Jubilee Ministry Center under the criteria set by the Episcopal Church.

In July, I traveled to the Cathedral Domain Camp and Conference Center, in the Diocese of Lexington, Kentucky, to attend a Diocesan Jubilee Officers’ training conference. During the first full day of the conference the DJOs were divided into four work groups to assist local residents with home improvements. One group was assigned to paint sections of a house, both inside and outside. A second group was assigned to clean out and install gutters on a house. The third group worked on a landscaping project around the perimeter of the community center building. My group was assigned to assist in putting up exterior and interior siding on a house that is under construction.

The rest of the conference was spent learning about the history, people, and culture of Appalachia; engaging in workshops and networking; and sharing information about new resources and technologies being used by DJOs and Jubilee Ministry Centers in carrying out Jubilee Ministry programs and projects.

Respectfully submitted, Deacon Colleen M. Lewis Diocesan Jubilee Officer

The Nebraska Episcopalian Report to Annual Council November 2011

I began my 17th year and final year as Editor of The Nebraska Episcopalian in July 2011. Significant changes have occurred since the 2010 Annual Council.

Because of diocesan financial considerations, the publication budget for 2010 was reduced by 50 percent. This allowed for six bi-monthly issues to be printed and mailed in conjunction with the national church newsletter Episcopal News Monthly. The last printed issue of The Nebraska Episcopalian was October 2010, ending a tradition of printed diocesan newsletters dating back to the 1880’s.

Beginning in November 2010, The Nebraska Episcopalian became a monthly electronic publication distributed via e-mail. Provided as a PDF, each issue was available to be read online or printed out as the individual recipient desired. There also was a “Quick Link” on the diocesan Ministry Memo that directed recipients to the publication.

Funding for The Nebraska Episcopalian has been terminated effective Dec. 31, 2011. The final electronic edition will be available in December. The possibility of providing quarterly printed editions exists if a funding source can be arranged.

My thanks to Bishop Burnett, Canon Judi Yeates, Kate Baxley, Nicole Baxley, the Rev. Dr. John Schaefer, the Rev. Ernesto Medina, Nancy Kirk, Bill Roberts, Sue Renninger and Jan Wadleigh for their assistance throughout the year.

I encourage individuals from across the diocese to provide the diocesan office their primary e- mail address in order to receive the weekly Ministry Memo. As your e-mail address changes, please provide the updated information to ensure continued communication with your diocese.

Respectfully Submitted, Donald L. Rabbe, Editor

The Order of St. Luke the Physician

In 2010, The Lincoln Chapter of the Order of St. Luke the Physician (OSL) started fund raising to fund a healing mission in the Dominican Republic. Fr. Matt Linn, S.J, from St. Paul MN agreed to go down for a week to work with the seminarians, priests, deacons and lay persons in the churches there to teach them about the love of God that heals. As plans were being made, Fr. Linn became so excited, he actually went down for over three weeks, beginning in March of 2011 and staying through the first week in April. He stayed at the seminary at Santo Domingo, and traveled to churches in the diocese to teach everyone about laying on of hands and healing, enabling people to pray with each other for healing. Deacon Rich Kelly and his wife, Verneda, went down for the last week and a half to travel with Fr. Linn. They stayed at the Kellogg Retreat Center in San Pedro for three days, visiting the clinic and schools there, and attended mass at the Buen Pasture Episcopal church, ran by Episcopal nuns there. Other cities visited were Santiago, where they visited two churches, and Boca Chica, where they also toured a nursing home affiliated with the church, a new concept for the Dominican Republic. Most elderly are taken care of by their families, but if they have no family who are able to do this, they usually become homeless.

This was the first time this type of mission was brought to the diocese in the Dominican Republic. Many lay people, priests and deacons took this information back to their villages, churches and taught their friends and families about God’s love and healing power. Fr. Linn’s message impacted hundreds of people.

This trip was made possible, not only by the fundraising of Rich and Verneda Kelly, but by generous financial contributions from members from St. Matthews’ church in Lincoln, St. Andrew’s church in Seward, St. Matthew’s Outreach in Alliance, the Omaha OSL Chapter, plus several OSL chapters within the region, including the one in Ankeny IA, where the Fr. Bob Kem leads the chapter. Fr. Bob had led an OSL chapter at St. Andrew’s church in Omaha while he was rector there. This trip would not have been possible if not for the prayers and financial contributions of people and parishes in this diocese who wanted to see God’s healing ministry take root in the Dominican Republic. We are most grateful for these people.

Respectfully submitted, Verneda Kelly Director, Region XI Order of St Luke

The Recovery Commission of the Diocese of Nebraska

The Recovery Commission of the Diocese of Nebraska had its first meeting at the last Annual Council. At that time, we set our first priority as establishing a website that would give people access to materials and make contact with people who care about recovery. We accomplished that goal by summer of this year and invite you to visit the site < http://www.ne- episcopalrecovery.org >. The site is also accessible through a link on the Diocesan webpage under the Ministries tab. Among other things, the site features articles on recovery, lists of agencies around the state devoted to recovery, and abundant materials for observing a Recovery Sunday in your parish.

We highly encourage all Nebraska congregations to offer a Recovery Sunday and can help any parish wanting to do so. Subsequent to our first meeting, we have met through Adobe Connect or by phone. Any members of the commission present at the coming Annual Council will gather briefly for coffee or a meal together. We will have a booth at the coming Council and invite you to alert your congregation's delegates to visit it and to look for the table-topper on their council table.

Future projects may include a retreat for those in or in need of recovery. Commission members are currently Nancy Benton Brown, Ben Cannon, Mary Hendricks, Jerry Ness, Charles Peek, Sandra Raney, Catherine Scott, Mark Selvey, and Jill Young. Our members come from every corner of the Diocese. You do not have to have suffered an addiction to serve on the commission. Contact information is available on the website and you are invited to contact the commission if you want to discuss recovery from addiction among your parish, family, or acquaintances.

Submitted by Charles Peek, Chair of the Recovery Commission.

Resurrection House Web site: www.cor-episcopal.org/internprogram Blog: rxnhouse.blogspot.com

The Resurrection Intern Program is beginning its 12th year of programming. There have been a number of extraordinary young adults that have participated in the discernment process at Resurrection House. For 2010/2011, we again had three young adults.

Gillian Chisom is from Dallas, TX and is a graduate of Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois with a Masters degree in History. Her parish placement was with All Saints and her community volunteer work was with Miller Park Elementary School Community Learning Center. Prior to end of the program year, Gilliam was accepted at Berkley University where she will pursue a doctorate degree.

Kieran Conroy is from Highland Mills, NY and is a graduate of Harvard Divinity School in Cambridge, Massachusetts with a Masters degree in Divinity. His parish placement was with St. Andrews and his community volunteer work was with Canku Luta Inc., a transitional living facility and community center serving the local Native American community, especially those in recovery.

Kieran continued his internship for 10 weeks this past summer in Bassett, NE with Fr. Randy Goeke. This opportunity gave him a view into the life of a priest in a small parish located in a small town. He thoroughly enjoyed himself and it provided Fr. Goeke and St. Mary’s Church a volunteer for special projects. Kieran returned to Omaha where he is working in a Chaplaincy program at Immanuel Medical Center.

Christa Nixon is from Longmont, CO and is a graduate of Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington with a Bachelors degree in Theology. Her parish placement was with Church of the Holy Spirit and her community volunteer work was with Miller Park Elementary School Community Learning Center.

This program continues to fulfill its mission of providing a place where recent college graduates could come and live for nine months and discern their call to ministry as a lay person or an ordained person.

Respectfully Submitted, Janice M. Seldon, Executive Director CORE Outreach Center, Inc.

EPISCOPAL DIOCESAN COMMITTEE ON SCOUTING IN NEBRASKA

The Episcopal Diocesan Committee on Scouting in Nebraska is still in search of more members, especially from the Girl Scouts, Camp Fire, and 4-H programs.

Our mission is to promote the God and Country program to all youth and adults across the Diocese. Your members of Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of America, Camp Fire, 4-H members, Sunday School classes, Vacation bible School, Confirmation classes, and other church groups can earn these.

We have had ten God & Country Award recipients for this year beginning January 2011 in the diocese that we know about.

3 God & Me Awards, 3 God & Church Awards, 4 God & Life Awards and 2 Four star award recipients which means they earned all four levels of the PRAY programs.

1 youth from Grace Episcopal Church in Chadron and 9 youth from Church of the Holy Spirit in Bellevue.

We strongly suggest that each parish use this program in their religious education programs. Programs of Religious Activities with Youth 1-800-933-7729. Mailing address: P.R.A.Y.,11123 S. Towne Square Suite B, St. Louis, MO, 63123. Fax 314-845-0038. Or PRAY can be contacted at www.praypub.org Student, Mentor, and Counselor manuals are $3.50 each. And questions please PRAY at the number above or Deacon Wes Agar at 402-291- 6768 or email [email protected]

We also want to have each parish look at it’s adult members and help us recognize the adults in Boy Scouts of America, Girl Scouts of America, and Camp Fire programs who have been active in those programs, their church, and deserve recognition. The Episcopal St. George Award can be presented to those adults who have provided outstanding service to youth.

We hope and pray that more youth throughout our Diocese will take on the challenge to earn these awards and be recognized.

Respectfully submitted, The Reverend Deacon Ralph W. Agar, Jr. Chairman, Episcopal Diocesan Committee on Scouting in Nebraska

Annual Report For Shared Ministry Task Force Reporter: The Rev. Phil Chapman, Chair Date: October 17, 2011

The Task Force met three times during the past year (January 15, April 2 and August 20), to continue building a Shared Ministry program for the Diocese of Nebraska. While in some ways, this model will look like the Total Ministry model preciously used, there will be at least one significant difference. The Shared Ministry program is designed primarily to identify lay ministry support teams within each parish/partnership. All individuals discerning a call to the diaconate or priesthood will be directed to the Commission on Ministry for formation guidance.

Preliminary work on program design has been completed. The Rev Catherine Scott and the Rev John Schaefer began Shared Ministry Facilitator (SMF) training in August. The SMFs are now in various initial stages of the discernment process in each of the following model parishes:

St. Andrew’s, Omaha (Large, suburban model) St. Martin of Tours, South Omaha (Small, urban model) St. Andrew’s, Seward (Small, rural model) St. Matthew’s, Alliance (Midsize, rural model) St. Paul’s, Ogallala; St. George’s, Oshkosh; St. Hilda’s, Kimball and Good Shepherd, Harrisburg (Partnership model)

Canon Judi Yeates collected information from our meetings, as well as input from task force members, and developed a very comprehensive Shared Ministry Handbook. Updated copies will be available of all parishes after the implementation within the model parishes is complete.

The Shared Ministry Academy was developed to provide classes to meet the general education requirements of the ministry support team members, as well as other education required by the Diocese and National Canons. A list of classes and online registration are available on the diocesan website at www.episcopal-ne.org. Special note: These classes are open to anyone interested in life-long learning.

Task Force Members: Rev. Catherine Scott, Mr. Charles Plantz, Rev. Chris Plantz, Rev. Helen Goltl, Rev. Jay Gabb, Archdeacon Jim Visger, Rev. John Schaefer, Canon Judi Yeates, Rev. Karen Anderson, Mrs. Nancy Nichols, Rev. Randy Goeke, Rev. Ruth Tomlinson

ST. MARK’S ON THE CAMPUS 2011 Annual Report to Council

Our campus ministry – especially with college students – continues to grow and change. The decrease in available funding from the Diocese this year has meant that the parish has assumed responsibility for some of the Campus Ministry expenses, as we’ve identified that Campus Ministry is a vital part of our service to our surrounding community. The funds we received from the diocesan family this year have been devoted entirely to campus ministry, making possible activities which otherwise the parish could not support. These range from relatively simple but important items such as a UNL email account to occasional events designed to promote awareness within the community.

Last year, we began a contemplative, multi-sensory, multi-media Eucharist that is offered weekly on Wednesday nights as a unique, alternative worship experience designed for students. Although it is designed for students, it has turned out to be attractive to all age groups. Our study lounge continues during office hours and after the Wednesday night Eucharist, with a welcoming location, free wi-fi and free snacks and drinks for students.

Aside from worship, we are focusing this year on one-time events rather than weekly dinners and gatherings. We also offered a 9/11 Remembrance service that was extremely well attended by students and older adults alike. Musical performances are often part of the parish calendar, also attracting students to our venue. And on one Friday night per month, we offer a “Fourth Friday” activity with evening prayer, refreshments, and speakers on different topics relevant to the lives of those in our community.

Another exciting development for this year is the production of a new website. This updated technology is designed to be more attractive to today’s technologically focused students, as well as being more user-friendly for others visiting the website. Discussion around design focused on giving the user more information on the Episcopal Church, our beliefs, and what to expect when they visit an Episcopal Eucharist. It will also provide more information on calendar events, and be linked to a page on Facebook, the leading source of social media for many students.

The Rev. Robert Schlismann, who had been our curate during much of 2010, moved on to serve as Rector at a new parish. We have added younger members to the Vestry to help us address more of the concerns of the younger members of the parish, and also to the leadership of the Campus Ministry Committee for a younger perspective of what is needed by this age group.

Respectfully submitted, Jerry Thompson

October 31, 2011

Bishop J. Scott Barker Episcopal Bishop of Nebraska 109 N 18th Street Omaha, NE 68102-4903

Dear Bishop Barker,

St. Monica’s warmly welcomes you back to Nebraska and looks forward to working with you on our shared mission of serving women and their families in our state.

Current economic conditions continue to be a challenge for St. Monica’s programs for women in recovery from substance abuse. We continue to seek innovative ways of funding our inpatient and outpatient treatment services, focusing on programs that involve the entire family in recovery.

A woman’s addiction affects her entire family; by giving families the tools they need to keep communication open and supportive, we are equipping generations to break the cycle of chemical dependency. Recovery is more successful when we can help our clients reunite with their families and rebuild support systems.

This fall saw the closure of our Project Strong Families, funded by a three-year grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). We have carried the successful family-treatment components of Project Strong Families, such as family therapy, into our other services.

Additionally, this year saw the launch of a new service provided by St. Monica’s. Next Step is an independent transitional housing facility for women leaving our residential programs. These women continue with St. Monica’s on an outpatient basis and need low- income housing as they transition back into work and family life.

We are excited about the connections we continue to make with the diocese and parishes across the state. We will continue to update the Episcopal Diocese on what your vision nearly 50 years ago has become and to show our appreciation for your continued support and prayers.

Sincerely,

Mary Barry-Magsamen Executive Director

Standing Committee Annual Report 2010 - 2011

At the 143rd Annual Council held at Kearney, Nebraska on November 11-13, 2010, the returning members of the Standing Committee were: The Reverend Rick Swenson, President, the Reverend Karen Anderson, The Reverend Jerry Ness, The Reverend John Schaefer, Debbie Hogue, Lucy Geib, Michael Skulavik and Joan Reist. Council elected The Reverend Katherine Scott. Member for 2009-2010 whose term ended at the 143rd Annual Council was The Reverend Jerry Ness. The Standing Committee recognized and extended its heartfelt thanks to Father Ness for all of his efforts and help in organizing the bishop search and transition effort over the summer and fall months of 2010.

Election of Officers: The Reverend Rick Swenson was elected President and Debbie Hogue was elected Secretary.

Meetings: During this reporting period, the Standing Committee, in addition to its meeting at the 143rd Annual Council on November 11-13, 2010, was convened for regular meetings on January 21-22 at Camp Joy Holling, Ashland, Nebraska in joint meeting with the Commission on Ministry, and on June 3, 2011 at Hastings, Nebraska at the Special Electing Council held at St. Mark’s Pro-Cathedral, Hastings for the purpose of electing the XI Bishop of the Diocese of Nebraska. In addition, the Standing Committee met electronically as warranted to conduct business betweeen regularly scheduled meetings.

Formal actions of the Standing Committee during this reporting period include:

Episcopal Elections

Approved the election and gave consent for the ordination and consecration of the following:

The Reverend Daniel Martins as Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of Springfield The Reverend R. William Franklin as Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of Western New York The Reverend Martin Scott Field as Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of West Missouri The Reverend Rayford Jeffrey Ray as Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of North Michigan The Reverend George D. Young, III as Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of East Tennessee The Reverend Mariann Budde as Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of Washington The Reverend J. Scott Barker as Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of Nebraska

Diocesan Requests to Elect Suffragan Bishop or Bishop Coadjutor

Approved the following:

Approved the request of the Diocese of New Hampshire to elect a Bishop Coadjutor Approved the request of the Diocese of New York to elect a Bishop Coadjutor Approved the request of the Diocese of Virginia to elect a Bishop Suffragan Approved the request of the Diocese of Haiti to elect a Bishop Suffragan

Diocese of Nebraska Ordination Process

Recommended - Lara Shine for Candidacy to the Priesthood Recommended - Nancy Nockels for Candidacy to the Permanent Diaconate

Approved - Joyce Scheyer for Ordination to the Priesthood Approved - Sahra Harding for Ordination to the Priesthood Approved - Mary Jan Gockley for Ordination to the Priesthood Approved - Kimberly Fretz for Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate

Property, Sales, Purchases and Other Issues

St. Andrew’s, Omaha - approved request of Vestry to refinance loan mortgage obligations

St. John’s, Cody - approved sale and de-consecration of church and real estate.

Bishop Search and Election and Transition

Official Actions:

$ As called by the 143rd Annual Council, convened a Special Council on June 3, 2011 at St. Mark’s Pro-Cathedral, Hastings, Nebraska for the purpose of electing a Diocesan Bishop to serve the Diocese of Nebraska.

$ Approved and submitted to the Special Council the nominations of:

The Reverend J. Scott Barker The Reverend Margaret Holt-Sammons The Reverend Canon Sarah Shofstall

as nominees for election as Diocesan Bishop for the Diocese of Nebraska

$ Certified to The Most Reverend Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, the results of the election by the Special Council of the Diocese of Nebraska on June 3, 2011 of the Reverend J. Scott Barker as the 11th Bishop of the Diocese of Nebraska.

$ Certified to the Most Reverend Katharine Jefferts Schori, Presiding Bishop of the Episcopal Church, the receipt from the various Standing Committees of the dioceses of the Episcopal Church the requisite number of consents to the election of the Reverend J. Scott Barker as Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of Nebraska.

The Standing Committee wishes to express its heartfelt thanks and appreciation for the work of everyone in the Diocese of Nebraska who helped in making the process of selecting nominees and conducting the Special Council at St. Mark’s Pro-Cathedral for the election of our new Bishop such a wonderful and graceful process. The result of your efforts speaks for itself. Special appreciation is warranted for the many hours of work put in by the Search and Transition Committees and their co-chairs, Richard Kauders, The Reverend Ruth Tomlinson, Janice Seldon, and The Venerable Jim Visger in conducting the search process, planning and conducting the “walkabout” visits of the nominees throughout the Diocese, arranging and carrying out the Special Electing Council, and arranging and coordinating a wonderful celebration and worship service as we consecrated our new Bishop on October 8, 2011. A listing of the rosters of both committees is submitted at the end of this report. Special thanks is also extended to Marty Wheeler-Burnett who was instrumental in arranging for and conducted the performance of the wonderful music at the Consecration of Bishop Barker, and to The Reverend Susanna DesMarais, Holy Trinity, Lincoln, and The Reverend Jeffery Nelson, Our Savior, North Platte 69

for their tireless efforts as Masters of Ceremonies for the Consecration service. It was only because of the commitment and efforts of these individuals and everyone on both committees that we in the Diocese of Nebraska were able to accomplish the task of electing and consecrating a new Bishop in a little over 18 months, and accomplish all of this by expending only two-thirds of the anticipated and approved budget for this entire process.

During the period from April 1, 2011 through October 8, 2011 the Standing Committee served as required by Episcopal Church and Diocesan canons as the Ecclesiastical Authority of the Diocese of Nebraska. This task and these responsibilities were made particularly “event free” by the work of the Diocesan Staff, in particular The Reverend Canon Judi Yeates; Kate Baxley, Diocesan Administrator; and Beth Byrne, Diocesan Financial Officer. Thank you.

Search Committee

The Rev. Betsy Bennett St. Stephen’s, Grand Island The Rev. Kelsey Hogue St. Francis, Scottsbluff Beth Huber St. Maththew’s, Alliance The Rev. Thomas Jones Holy Spirit, Omaha Michael Kinsel Trinity Cathedral, Omaha Dr. Raymond Lowther St. Mark’s, Linclon The Rev. Ernesto Medina St. Martha’s, Papillion The Rev. Thomas O’Dell All Saints, Omaha Karen Park St. Luke’s, Kearney Richard Spencer Holy Trinity, Lincoln Leslie Stramel St. Alban’s, McCook Paul Van Dyne St. Augustine’s Elkhorn The Rev. Pat Sheldon, Chaplain St. Augustine’s, Elkhorn Richard Kauders, Co-Chair St. Luke’s, Kearney The Rev. Ruth Tomlinson, Co-Chair St. David’s, Lincoln

Transition Committee

The Rev. Hank Austin St. Andrew’s, Omaha The Rev. Liz Easton All Saints, Omaha The Rev. Randy Goeke 70

St. Mary’s, Bassett Dr. David Halsted St. Mark’s, Hastings The Rev. Rich Kelly St. Matthew’s, Lincoln Nancy Kirk St. Andrew’s, Omaha Sammy Reagan St. Augustine’s Elkhorn The Rev. Ellen Ross Trinity Cathedral, Omaha Janet Squires St. Matthew’s, Lincoln The Rev. Ellie Thober Our Savior, North Platte Janice Seldon, Co-Chair Church of Resurrection, Omaha The Venerable Jim Visger, Co-Chair Holy Trinity, Lincoln

Dana C. “Woody” Bradford, Chancellor and Todd Engle, Treasurer of the Diocese Ex-Officio Members of both the Search and Transition Committees, whose service and advice has been invaluable.

Respectfully submitted, The Reverend Richard C. Swenson, President Ms. Debbie Hogue, Secretary

The Shape of the Episcopal Church Presence On the Tri-Faith Campus

We request your prayers, welcome your questions or thoughts, and we invite you to join us on this amazing journey which we believe God has called the people of the Diocese of Nebraska. The vision of the Tri-Faith Initiative of Omaha, Nebraska is to build bridges of respect, acceptance, and trust among people of the Abrahamic faiths; to challenge and move beyond the prevailing stereotypes that characterize many contemporary social, political, and religious conversations; to learn from and about each other; to celebrate our common histories and respect our differing approaches to encountering, knowing, and worshipping God; and to share God's most basic humanitarian principle—treating others as we would have them treat us.

To realize this vision the Tri-Faith Initiative seeks to develop a shared campus on which a Jewish temple, an Episcopal church and a Muslim mosque will locate their respective places of worship. The proposed site is on beautiful acreage which has for decades been the home of a golf and country club. Each faith group has committed itself to two shared goals: (1) creating a single purpose religious building dedicated solely to serving its own members, ministry, and mission; and (2) creating a multi-purpose shared facility which will serve as a center for interfaith education, outreach and reconciliation, as well as serve the larger purpose of fostering a more enlightened engagement with the important socio-religious issues of our time.

Toward this end this "Fourth Building" will be a Tri-Faith Center utilizing and developing resources and programs that educate the members and the wider public about Abrahamic history, traditions, beliefs, commonalities and differences. This Tri-Faith Center will be a spiritual and sacred space, inside and out, offering facilities for gatherings, study, research, meditation, prayer and exhibition. It will be a place of welcome to people of all faiths, as well as persons of no faith. It will be a place of pilgrimage, learning, and witness, and as such it will available to serve the goals of each faith group as well as the shared goals of the Tri-Faith Initiative.

The Episcopal Church and the Diocese of Nebraska

The presence on the Tri-Faith campus of an Episcopal church will signify and further the original commitment of the Diocese of Nebraska to this interfaith vision and project. Such a congregation will be engaged in bearing witness to and living out the mission of the church as it is articulated in “The Outline of Faith” in The Book of Common Prayer (1979), p. 855:

The mission of the Church is to restore all people to unity with God and each other in Christ. The Church pursues its mission as it prays and worships, proclaims the Gospel, and promotes justice, peace and love.

As with all congregations of the Diocese of Nebraska, the mission of this congregation will be grounded in this theological self-understanding. This congregation hopes to be a constituent member of the diocese, with all the rights and responsibilities that accompany such membership, and in accordance with the doctrine, discipline, and worship of The Episcopal Church.

Beyond this essential foundation the unique vocation of this faith community will be to establish, maintain, and operate within the Tri-Faith campus an Episcopal congregation that is particularly called to share in the Church’s comprehensive ministry of reconciliation. The members of this congregation will commit themselves, both corporately and individually, to an extended collaborative effort to work for a just society and enhance the common good by seeking to strengthen moral leadership and ethical behavior in local, national and global conversation and action with respect to interfaith relationships, especially in the context of the three major Abrahamic faiths. Members will be expected to accept and uphold the principles of interfaith relationships as outlined in the Tri-Faith Initiative’s Memorandum of Understanding.

In its worship, mission, ministry, and relationships, the following values will be primary:

 A sense of being “a house of prayer for all people,” wherein not only do members find an Episcopal customary and standard of worship, but also where persons of differing denominations and faiths can find appropriate opportunities to unite in prayer and worship in ways that unite them with the people of God in all ages;  A sense of humility and obedience to the call of the one God as all seek together a deeper understanding of our common humanity;  A readiness to engage in conversations and joint actions with other faith groups and/or secular organizations in ways that honor the beliefs of others even as we affirm our own traditions;  A practice of radical hospitality.  A conviction that people with varying perspectives working together can make significant contributions for the betterment of human life and all of God’s creation;  An acknowledgment that conversations, program initiatives and other expressions of the congregation’s mission be rooted in Christian imperatives for justice, reconciliation and peace.

To this end, the Episcopal Tri-Faith Foundation has been established as a means of moving this ministry forward. The present Board of Directors include: President, The Rt. Rev. J. Scott Barker; Treasurer, Todd Engle; Secretary, Sammy Reagan; board members Kathleen Owen and David Houghton. The Rev. Canon Tim Anderson serves as the COO of the newly formed foundation.

The faith community known presently as “Episcopal Tri-Faith Ministries” has been gathering for worship and study since the first Sunday of Lent 2011. The congregation is presently meeting at St. Augustine’s, Elkhorn on Sunday evenings at 5:00 p.m. Our worship is followed by a light meal and education. Often the educational opportunities include presentations by Jewish, Muslim, or Christian guest speakers. We give thanks to God for all those who have committed themselves to this new ministry, acknowledging that many of these participants are still firmly engaged in the ministries of their current parish.

Land for a proposed Episcopal presence on the Tri-Faith campus is currently under contract and should close in mid November. This property will be purchased and the title held by the Bishop Clarkson Episcopal Foundation until such time as the Episcopal Tri-Faith Foundation has raised sufficient funds to purchase the land and construct a facility on the southwest corner of 132nd and Pacific in west Omaha.

In September of 2011 we engaged Goldman Architects of San Francisco as our architectural firm. We hope to begin the “planning and conceptual” phase of the project very soon and are striving to develop ways in which every member of the diocese might have the ability to participate in this process.

Respectfully Submitted The Rev. Canon Tim Anderson

November, 2011

We are on the brink of breaking ground on an interfaith project that was beyond the imagination of many but not beyond the imagination of God. In November, the three Tri-Faith partners

 Temple Israel  The Episcopal Diocese of Nebraska  The American Institute of Islamic Studies and Culture and and the Tri-Faith Initiative will each buy a parcel of land, adjacent to each other, at the new Sterling Ridge development at 132 and Pacific Streets, the former Ironwood Country Club (and originally Highland Country Club, the first Jewish golf club in Omaha).

Each group will own its own land and build and maintain its own building. The three houses of worship will offer worship services, education and social programs to serve its own congregation, while programs at The Tri-Faith Center will be open to people of all faiths and none, building bridges among the Abrahamic faiths and serving the wider community.

Each of our faith groups, Judaism, Christianity and Islam, ask all of the faithful to “love our neighbor.” By worshipping side by side, and working together to offer community programs, the Tri-Faith Initiative helps us discover the significant traditions we share, as well as the significant distinctions between our faith traditions.

While interreligious tolerance, acceptance and respect are important, the Tri-Faith program is about much more than these. The Tri-Faith Initiative is about celebrating the diversity of our religious traditions.

Interfaith activities enrich people of all ages:

Kindergarten through Grade 5 children participate in the monthly Interplay Program designed by Episcopal Deacon Kimberley Fretz. The children and their parents learn about each other’s traditions and holidays, and their shared belief in God.

Youth of high school age participate in three Tri-Faith Youth Encounters each year – one hosted by each of the faith groups.

Families enjoyed an authentic Jewish Seder, hosted at St. Martha’s Episcopal Church. Of the 15 readers who participate in a Seder, at this one, five were Jewish, five Christian and five Muslim.

In October, we worked with UNO and Creighton University to sponsor Spotlight on Islam week, 74

with a variety of speakers and programs, culminating in a Tri-Faith panel discussion. The AIISC hosted the annual Tri-Faith picnic with halal beef on the barbecue at St. Augustine of Canterbury Episcopal Church.

We got to know the neighbors as people of the Episcopal Diocese and Temple Israel served dates, the traditional food for breaking the fast at the Eid prayer celebration sponsored by the AIISC, and members of the AIISC and the Episcopal Church served the traditional apples and honey after the Rosh Hashanah service at Temple Israel. Members of Temple and the Institute will in turn bring food to celebrate a Christian holiday with members of the Tri-Faith Episcopal community.

Tri-Faith offered a number of lectures and panel discussions during the year, and gave presentations for a number of civic groups and agencies including Leadership Omaha. We co- sponsored programs with other interfaith groups including a 9/11 Memorial program, and a Spotlight on Islam week with Creighton and UNO

We selected John Goldman of San Francisco as the planning architect for the Tri-Faith Center. Goldman is the architect who planned the St. Gregory of Nyssa Church in San Francisco. Furthermore, he will also be the architect for the Episcopal Church on the site.

The Tri-Faith Initiative completed a $1 million capital campaign in October for the purchase of the land and the related architectural planning. Once the building plans are complete, we will proceed with Phase II of the capital plan for construction costs and an endowment.

Please go to the website at www.trifaith.org and sign-up for our newsletter to get regular updates and invitations to special events.

Respectfully submitted, Nancy Kirk

WOMEN’S MINISTRIES A COMMISSION OF THE EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF NEBRASKA 2011 ANNUAL REPORT

Women’s Ministries in the Diocese of Nebraska encompasses a variety of opportunities for the women to carry on Christ’s work of reconciliation in the world and take their places as leaders in the life, governance and worship of their individual parishes. This commission brings together traditionally women’s ministries of Episcopal Church Women, Daughters of the King, United Thank Offering, Church Periodical Club and Altar Guild under one umbrella organization. Commission meetings are held quarterly, often by phone, bringing together women from across the Diocese to carry out these ministries.

Commission Membership Our current commission members are Sandra Squires, convener; Shirley White, immediate past convener; Patricia Sheldon, chaplain; Sharon Debacker, Bishop’s Trunk; Nancy Nockels, altar guild; Marilyn Brandt, Church Periodical Club (CPC); Suzanne Titus, Daughters of the King (DOK); Katie Cameron, retreat coordinator; and Sue Touzin, United Thank Offering. Thanks go those going off the commission: Katharina Schwidtal Bishop’s Trunk, Jane Stangl, editor of the e-newsletter, and Linda Baugher, United Thank Offering. We are seeking replacements for two positions—co-convener and e-newsletter editor.

Retreats The annual spring retreat was held at St. Benedict Center at Schuyler. Thirty-five women were in attendance. Our retreat leader was Deacon Pat Sheldon from St. Augustine’s Church in Elkhorn. The theme was “Touched by the Holy Spirit”. Connie Moon of Kearney was our musician. Our fall gathering and annual meeting was held at St. Mark’s Pro-Cathedral in Hastings. There were 22 women in attendance, and the theme was “The Courage of Deborah” led by Mary Dixon of Hastings.

Over 21 Episcopal Women’s Gathering Following the consecration on October 8, Women’s Ministries hosted it’s first event specifically for younger women. It was held at St. Augustine’s Church in Elkhorn and eight women attended. It was meant primarily as a social event where we made duct tape bags, had a lot of fun, and closed with Compline. The group is planning another get together in December in Lincoln. For information, or to be friended on Facebook for these announcements, contact Sandra Squires.

Scholarship/Bishop’s Quilt No scholarship was awarded this past year, but we have been given a quilt, called the Bishop’s Quilt, as a way to raise money for the scholarship fund. The quilt was made by Mother Ruth Jaynes of St. Martha’s Church in Papillion, with assistance from Linda Winter, St. Elizabeth’s, Holdrege. Raffle tickets are being sold for the Bishop’s Quilt with hopes that the drawing will be held at Annual Council 2011. The quilt has signatures from the following bishops: Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts-Schori, former Nebraska bishops Joe Burnett and Jim Krotz, and newly consecrated bishop Scott Barker will be added. The winner of the raffle will get to have coffee or lunch with Bishop Barker and will be present for the signing of his square.

United Thank Offering (UTO) We had a new UTO chair during this past year, Linda Baugher of Bassatt. She received contributions from 14 churches for a total of $3918. then submitted a check to UTO for $3900. 76

The diocese submitted two grants, but unfortunately neither was approved. One of the grants was for a tractor for use in Twic East Diocese in South Sudan. Due to job demands, Linda has resigned and has been replaced by Sue Touzin, St. Martha’s, Papillion. Sue’s contact information is [email protected]. UTO checks can be mailed to her at 910 Second Avenue, Plattsmouth, NE 68048-1734.

Church Periodical Club (CPC) Twelve parishes contributed during this past year to the Church Periodical Club, and to date the balance for 2011 is $1399.29. Parishes contributing were: All Saints, Omaha, St. Alban's, McCook, Christ Church, Beatrice, St. John's, Broken Bow, St. Mary’s-Holly, Rushville, St. Augustine, Elkhorn, St. George's, Oshkosh, Holy Apostles, Mitchell, St. Mary's, Nebraska City, Holy Trinity, Lincoln, St. Peter's, Lexington, and St. Joseph's, Mullen. Funds are collected until the end of each year, then most are disbursed to the national CPC office, split among three accounts: National Book Fund (for adult educational materials), Mile of Pennies Fund (for children’s materials), and the administration fund to defray overhead costs for grants. The remainder is split among those from our diocese who are studying for Holy Orders. Each person is given a check to help defray the costs of books. The amount collected this year is down from last year, but the number of participating churches has increased. Our CPC Coordinator, Marilyn Brandt, is not aware of any grants submitted during this past year, but CPC allows grant submissions directly without going through the diocesan coordinator.

Mission Initiatives Since ECW’s Triennial meeting of 2009, and after hearing Presiding Bishop Jefferts- Schori say we are all about “mission, mission, mission”, the Commission on Women’s Ministries established a mission theme starting in 2009. Our theme is “Feed the Hungry” with hopes that churches will share their ideas of how they are helping meet this initiative. A number of local parishes are involved in food pantries, community gardens, backpack programs, soup kitchens, holiday dinner programs, and other ways to get food to people who need it. Also in the mission area, we responded to a request from one of our missionaries in the Dominican Republic, Ellen Snow. For the past two years we have been working on a project that resulted in 40 sets of altar linens sewn by many women and one man from throughout the diocese. Deacon Pat Sheldon, Ellen Snow, and Sandra Squires then completed a rigorous training schedule in altar care throughout the DR during September 2011. Suzanne Titus spearheaded the altar linen project. Titus, now president of Daughters of the King, was assisted in collecting materials by Nancy Noekels. It was a collaboration between Women’s Ministries Commission and Daughters of the King, and was truly a diocesan-wide effort. Sewing requirements were distributed through packets at Annual Council 2010, the diocesan web page, and at meetings with women’s groups and individuals. In addition the Commission has been involved in collecting and helping to provide liturgical items, vestments, whatever we can compile that is needed from the Bishop’s Trunk for the South Sudan, Twic East Diocese. Last year at Annual Council we met with Bishop Ezekiel and Dean Peter to ask what they needed. They responded, “Everything!” We have been working with members of the Global Mission Commission to send what we can send when people travel to the Sudan. Our primary contact there is Jim Yeates, and we are using a list compiled by Father Daniel Kuot.

Province VI Synod, Episcopal Church Women Shirley White and Sandra Squires attended the provincial meeting of the Episcopal Church Women in Colorado Springs, Colorado, where Squires was elected president of the provincial ECW, and White serves as treasurer. During that meeting a group of women from our province met with the National ECW Board. We hope to be a part of enhanced communication 77

at the provincial level.

Communication We have a web page on the diocesan web page. Our address is http://womensministry.episcopal-ne.org/. This is a fairly new development and we are using it to communicate information and register for retreats. In addition, we have by-laws and other resources that can be found for Daughters of the King. We use the Weekly Ministry Memo to announce a number of our events and share information. We also have started an e-newsletter, but our newsletter editor recently moved to Italy. We are seeking a replacement who enjoys doing a little bit of web-based newsletter preparation.

Ways to Become Involved If you are interested in becoming involved in diocesan level ministries in any of the areas described above, please contact Sandra Squires at [email protected]

Respectfully Submitted, Sandra Squires October 2011

2011 Diocesan Youth Report

2011 was a particularly busy year for youth ministry. In addition to our staples of Camp, Regional Mission Trip, and Happening we participated in the triennial Episcopal Youth Event and made a Dominican Republic Mission Trip. The coordination of these events was split among the three regional youth coordinators: Andrea Jay, Janet Squires, Tony Anderson, and Fr. Tom Jones. In addition, many other clergy, lay persons, and youth contribute to the success of these programs. We are very thankful for their service to the youth in this diocese. We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all who helped in some way with each of the events.

Camp Comeca Camp Comeca 2011’s theme was “Wear Love.” Both junior and senior high camp was held July 25 through 29. We were blessed to have over 75 youth attend camp this summer. Their activities ranged from swimming, canoeing, zip-line, field games, crafts, spiritual time and a talent show. Senior campers focused on the movie “To Save A Life” during teambuilding. It is a movie about the way society places certain perceptions on people or groups. It helped the campers to gain a better understanding of how others may feel all alone even when surrounded by many people. One highlight of camp was the talent show. We had everything from comedy, vocals, instrumental, dance, and much more. Every year the kids continue to amaze us with their abilities.

Andrea and Tony were camp directors, who had an incredible group of counselors to work with this year. We couldn’t have done it without the talent and support of all of them. We were fortunate this year to have an extended spiritual team. Fr. Chuck, Mother Mary, Mother Karen, Fr. John and Mother Susanna all working together did an exceptional job of providing lessons to help present biblical background that explained our camp theme.

There was a lot of positive feedback about Comeca 2011, from both campers and parents alike, so we send congratulations to the team for making camp great fun and a spiritual success for all involved.

Episcopal Youth Event The 11th tri-annual national Episcopal Youth Event (EYE) was held this summer from June 22nd through 26th on the campus of Bethel University, just outside of St. Paul, MN. In attendance were over 750 youth in grades 9-12 and over 200 adults (both lay and clergy) representing the majority of the diocese in the nine provinces of the Episcopal Church. The Diocese of Nebraska sent five youth; Bryce Blair and Hope Cudly from St. Augustine’s Elkhorn, Abby Kutlas and Joe Prickett from St. Stephen’s Grand Island, Rebekah Schaefer from St. Andrew’s Omaha. Emily Williams from St. Stephen’s and myself (Tony Anderson) were the adult chaperones. We quite simply could not have asked for a better group of youth to represent our diocese. I know that each one of them had a wonderful time, and they all certainly contributed to my enjoyment of the event as well.

The theme for this year’s event was: “Come Together – Intimately Linked in This Harvest Work”. This theme comes from Matthew 10: 40-42 (The Message translation) and was really about a call to mission within our church and the world. One of the opportunities that we had for mission while on campus was participating in the building of a “net zero energy” Habitat for Humanity house, the first of its kind in Minnesota. After the four day event on the campus was over, many of the youth stayed in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area and did further mission work. While our group did not participate in the second three days of mission work, we did have fun taking our turn in working on the Habitat build. 79

In addition to the mission work there were plenty of opportunities to take part in workshops, singing (lots of singing!) and corporate worship. The Presiding Bishop was on-hand to celebrate Eucharist with us on the first full day of the event, and there were nine bishops from throughout the Church on hand for our closing service. The presence of so many bishops and other clergy from around the country sent a strong message to our youth that they are important to our church (a message that was not lost on our kids). Each day we were treated with a keynote speaker, and I’m sure that anyone that was there would tell you that Dr. Roger Nishioka stole the show. Dr. Nishioka is a professor at Columbia Theological Seminary in Atlanta, GA, and he specializes in the area of youth and young adults in the church. By the time his 45 minutes were up the entire auditorium was on fire with excitement about the work that youth are being called to do to sustain and reenergize the life of the church!

EYE 2011 was in my estimation a huge success. Janet Squires was instrumental in organizing our registration and transportation for the event, and deserves our extreme gratitude for all the work she put in. To say I loved every minute of my time spent there would be putting it mildly. My only regret was that we were not able to get more of our youth to attend this event. I do not, however, see this being a problem in 2014. Four of the five youth from our diocese who attended the event will be eligible to attend it again, and they have assured me that they are going to make it their mission to get the word out. If so, I think we’ll need to rent a bus instead of a van next time!

Happening #33 Happening, in its 33rd successive year in our diocese, was truly a youth led movement under the leadership of Rebekah Schaefer. As our youth Rector, she pulled together a team of 10 youth that having learned from the youth before them reflected on their experiences and worked hard to create an environment that welcomed the next youth. The youth team chose current media, acted out biblical skits and shared their personal stories about their relationships with God, the Church, and Jesus Christ.

Mother Karen Anderson and Deacon Wes Agar acted as Spiritual Directors. They encouraged the team in their writing, guided their prayer life, celebrated the services we shared and were generally available to all the youth. Tony Anderson was our musician, expertly enhancing the moods of the weekend. He also operated all our media equipment. Kyle Martindale was our “Dad.” He served to take care of the youths’ general well-being; and as a past Happener returning as an adult, he was very helpful in problem solving some tricky schedule changes. Ten other past Happeners returned over the course of the event weekend to prepare and serve meals. In particular, Jason Barney served as our parish coordinator, enabling a great experience in St. Luke’s facilities. As Happening coordinator, I (Janet Squires) make sure everyone has the materials they need to understand their role and do their job well, and that we are in alignment with the National Happening Standards and the goals of the Episcopal Diocese of Nebraska.

Most important in all of this are the 20 youth who accepted the invitation to come to the Labor Day Weekend event, became part of the Happening community, and are eager to be a part of next year’s process. The transformation of individuals, to sharing caring peers, to leaders in our church is an incredible life force to be around and an experience I am honored to be a part of.

Tri-Faith 2011 Fall Event On October 2nd, 2011 Temple Israel in Omaha, NE hosted a Tri-Faith youth event for youth in grades 9-12 representing the three faith groups involved in the Tri-Faith Initiative. 28 youth were on-hand for the event, and seven of those youth represented the Episcopal Diocese of Nebraska. Over the course of three hours we played several “ice-breaker” games, cooked a meal 80

together and discussed what it meant to each of us to be a member of our particular faith group.

The event was entirely put on by the youth of Temple Israel, and it was impressive to see how well organized they were and how confidently they stepped into leadership roles. All of the food that was prepared was done so by the youth, who worked in teams to prepare various dishes prominent in Jewish holiday traditions. While waiting for the food to finish cooking and all throughout the meal the youth talked about their respective faith traditions and what they did to live out that faith in their daily lives. I’m very happy to write that all of the Episcopal youth present did a wonderful job of articulating their beliefs and sharing them with the group, and that they all truly owned their faith, while at the same time being sure to respect the beliefs of the other two groups. Our adults may be in charge of building the Tri-Faith campus, but the real work of reconciliation is going to flourish with our youth. All we have to do is give them the tools and the opportunities to do it!

The Next Tri-Faith youth event will be in January 2012 and it will be up to the youth of our diocese to host the event. We have not yet started planning the event, but already we have several youth who have expressed an interest in taking a leadership role. It is my goal to have a date and a location picked for the event by the first of December. Once we have a time and place set I will meet with those youth who would like to participate in planning the details and we will see what we can come up with. It is my deepest wish that we can count on the support of the diocese to continue this important ministry, and make the next event even more successful than the last.

Youth Outreach This year the youth of our diocese took on a real outreach challenge. In addition to their annual trip to Valentine, NE to work on the Rosebud Indian Reservation, a team headed to a small barrio near Jarabacoa in the Dominican Republic. Both teams worked hard to be God’s hands in the world.

On the Rosebud Reservation, our team was joined by a team from North Carolina who had read about our program on the Internet and who wanted to learn more about the model we used. Together we provided meals for the reservation children, crafts and bible stories as part of Vacation Bible School, and games to burn off the energy. We also undertook two major projects for the community of the Church of Jesus (the oldest Episcopal Church on the Reservation). We tore down the old ramp to the church porch and installed one that was not only more secure but one that was fully handicap accessible. We also did a major cleaning of the vacant rectory to prepare it for the next missioner to the Sicango Lakota. After Fr. John Spurhan’s retirement in January, the house had been vacant and the grounds had become overgrown. Our trip was not all work; we attended a powwow, visited the Lakota museum in the city of Mission, SD, and enjoyed a day of tubing down the Niobrara. Next year’s service project has not yet been determined, but we are looking to return to Valentine and the Rosebud Reservation June 17-22, 2012.

The team that went to the Dominican Republic worked out of the Diocesan Camp next to the Monte De La Transfiguracion Episcopal Church and School located in the north central part of the DR about 3 miles from the city of Jarabacoa. While there our team undertook several projects. The first was to dig drainage ditches and install two large 16-inch drainpipes under the road to provide drainage to an area regularly floods adjacent to the school the church would like to use for a community vegetable garden. It was hard work, but with the help of several of the local people, and the watchful eyes of scores of neighborhood kids, we got the job done. Next we cleared away ground clutter that encroached on the plankton orchard (plants that provided a portion of our daily meals) and we cleared sod from a large hillside and an area between the 81

dormitory and dining hall. This was to prepare for our next project, the planting of 200 citrus trees (each about three feet tall). Our third project was to dig and pour footings that would support two new cinder block walls for a nearby barrio home. We not only dug the ditches, but we hauled and mixed sand and concrete mix from the neighborhood stockpile and cinder block from the church. It was a week of hard work, but great fun. We got to know several of the local youth who took our team swimming in a nearby river and a waterfall that we hiked 45 minutes to get to. Our goal is to return in 2013 to renew relationships begun and to continue the work God is calling us to do.

Our youth (as well as the adults who accompanied them) came away from both trips with a new perspective on life and a renewed appreciation for the blessings we have. Above all, we were reminded that we do not go to take Christ to the people we encounter, but we go to meet through them a Christ who is already there. If you would like to read more about these trips and see hundreds of pictures, please visit our youth blogs at http://neyouth2011dr.blogspot.com/ and http://neyouthrosebud2011.blogspot.com/.

Respectfully submitted, Janet Squires, Andrea Jay and Tony Anderson

Necrology August 1, 2010 through July 31, 2011

ALLIANCE, St. Matthew’s COZAD, St. Christopher’s None reported None reported

ARAPAHOE, St. Paul’s CREIGHTON, St. Mark’s None reported None reported

BASSETT, St. Mary’s CRETE, Trinity Memorial Betty Beckley None reported Thomas Kent Kelley DE WITT, St. Augustine’s BEATRICE, Christ Church None reported Irene Brubaker Pamela Glass ELKHORN, St. Augustine Richard H. Randall BELLEVUE, Holy Spirit Lewis Munday Kenneth H. Conley Naomi McVey FAIRBURY, St. Charles James H. Gilsdorf None reported Dorothy A. Burcaw Lelo Dablestien FALLS CITY, St. Thomas None reported BLAIR, St. Mary’s Sue Austin FREMONT, St. James’ Norman Tilden Joseph Bales Ruth Tilden Joseph Collins Bette Triplett Alice Collins Barbara Zastera GORDON, St. Mark’s BROKEN BOW, St. John’s None reported Rex Eugene Duryea Lorraine Engle Still GRAND ISLAND, St. Stephen’s Robert Allen Lawrence Janet Davis Grace Elizabeth “Betty” Brown Dona Mae Landgraf Rudy Pokorney CENTRAL CITY, Christ Church Roseann Morey None reported Dee Powell David Lee Cushing CHADRON, Grace Church Betty Burch Shirley Wineteer Shirley Davis James Krotz Jerry Dean Smith Evelyn Rasmussen Tim Beilke Will-Lina Shelton Clack Royse CODY, St. John’s Stephen Glade None reported Ruth Skeen Perkins

COLUMBUS, Grace Church HARRISBURG, Good Shepherd None reported None reported

HARVARD, St. John’s Dorothy Frame None reported Dorothy Biedich Eleanor Brown HASTINGS, St. Mark’s Pro Jane Elder Patty R. Kenney-Hamilton Barbara McCulloch Charlotte M. Smith Molly Cunningham Doris Laird Ellen Baldwin Edsel Glass Charles Dahlstrom Dorothy Beideck David Rouzee Phyliss Haberman Pauline Hoffman Charlotte Flyr Janne Christman

HOLDREGE, St. Elizabeth’s MCCOOK, St. Alban’s JoAnne Murray Michael John Roe August Jack Skiles Nitche Carolyn Jane Christie Theodore “Ted” K. Britt HYANNIS, Calvary Church Dick L. Baumfalk None reported Caroline Rose Krizek

KEARNEY, St. Luke’s Church MITCHELL, Holy Apostles’ Portia Fortik Florence Reinmuth Marjorie Haney Tad Yumamoto Margaret McClure Lowell Fiegel Nettie Elane Wilcox MULLEN, St. Joseph’s KIMBALL, St. Hilda’s None reported Robert Kerrsenbock NEBRASKA CITY, St. Mary’s LEXINGTON, St. Peter’s None reported None reported NORFOLK, Trinity Church LINCOLN, Holy Trinity Douglas C. Brown Susan R. (James) Dickerscheid Karen E. Oviedo Robert Joseph Stutzman Lois E. Anderson Roy Edward Churchill Waymond C. Rohrer Jane E. Davidson Lorraine Elsie Wilbur NORTH PLATTE, Our Savior Mary (Eagleton) Lundak Georgeann “Jan” Young Robert William Sim Mary Nelson Sieman Sue Ann Haythorn LINCOLN, St. David’s Julia Virginia Lee Miles Jack Shadley Helen D. Neiman Joy Langston Gloria Egger Allen Walter Scott LINCOLN, St. Mark’s on Campus Bill D. Mapes None reported Robert E. James

LINCOLN, St. Matthew’s OGALLALA, St. Paul’s Mary Ellen Davis None reported

John H. Brush OMAHA, All Saints’ William Joseph Plith Aurel Reynolds Couch Margaret Hurtz Watson Charles Kenneth Shearer Florence Ross OSHKOSH, St. George’s Fred Davis Marvin Romig Nina Scott Gardner Donald Eugene Knauss PAPILLION, St. Martha’s Lloyd Powell Lurvey Barb Kluch Nancy L. Slabaugh Jo Anne Petersen PLATTSMOUTH, St. Luke’s Norma W. Mayer None reported Samuel H. Perry Donald Burr Keyser RUSHVILLE, St. Mary’s Dale E. Karloff Rosemary Kuskie Ellen Badgley Black Phyllis “Phyd” Devereux SCOTTSBLUFF, St. Francis Mabel Katherine Callan Syas Dorthy Prohs Ardis Hughbanks OMAHA, Church of Resurrection Robert Barnwell Ethel Mary Davis Dean Yvonne Johnston The Rev. Katherine (Betty) E. Gaston Joseph “Peppi” Gutierrez

OMAHA, St. Andrew’s SEWARD, St. Andrew’s Peter Goy Rollin William Jones Dorothy Burdic Eloise Muir Boyes Roger Jernstrom Ray Rickard SIDNEY, Christ Church None reported OMAHA, St. Barnabas None reported TECUMSEH, Grace Church None reported OMAHA, St. Martin of Tours None reported VALENTINE, St. John’s None reported OMAHA, Trinity Cathedral Ellsworth G. Devereaux WYMORE, St. Luke’s Harvey Thornby Patricia Roberts Frederick Longacre Georgette Barlow