Holy Trinity Church, Thornhill 140 Brooke Street Thornhill, Ontario L4J 1Y9 Tel: 905 889 5931 Fax: 905 889 5632 E-mail: [email protected]
www.holytrinity-thornhill.ca
“Something good is happening here!!”
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MEETING OF THE ADVISORY BOARD
Tuesday, May 17, 2016 – 7:30pm
AGENDA
Issue/Action 1. Opening (a) Opening Devotions (Jane Winstanley) (b) Identify devotion leader for next meeting (c) Approval of Agenda 2. Minutes Review of Minutes (April 19, 2016) (a) Confirmation (b) Matters Arising 3. Finances Update (January – April 2016) 3. Deputations &
Correspondence 4. Items for (a) ACW Report – “Calls to Action” Discussion (b) The Thornhill Festival (c) What do we fear most about the future at Holy Trinity? (The Area Bishop’s Question) 5. Reports & (a) Churchwardens & Incumbent Discussion (b) Committees & Ministry Areas The ACW Other 6. Other Business (a) (b) 7. Closing Adjournment & Closing Prayer
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HOLY TRINITY CHURCH THORNHILL MINUTES of ADVISORY BOARD MEETING April 19, 2016
Attendees: Andrea Bent; Ingrid Carter; Bobbie Creber; Nancy Cutler; Ian Downer; Iverson Grimes; Vivienne Hansford; Susan Hogeboom; Alex Kuriyan; Marilyn Olivares; Robin Parravano; Dianne Rimmer; Danielle Terbenche; Anne Thomson; Stephen Fields; Dirk Drieberg; Rebecca Jones; Wendy Locke
Regrets: Jewell Coy
Opening – Devotional – Bishop Wesley Frensdorff: The Dream Devotional – May Meeting – Jane W. Opening Prayer: Stephen
Chair: Ingrid Agenda: approved Items to be added: Dropbox
Minutes of previous meeting Correction: Susan Hogeboom was not present; Ingrid was elected the Chair of the Advisory Board. Moved by Vivienne, Seconded by Robin to approve the Minutes as amended. Matters arising from the Minutes: none Correspondence: Bishop’s letter attached to the Meeting Package; the letter is closely related to the topic of the May 28th,8:30 a.m. Breakfast in the auditorium. Stephen encouraged everyone to attend.
Wardens Report: attached
• Iverson reported that an agreement has been reached with the Thornhill Golf & Country Club; an archaeologist will be on site overseeing any further digging adjacent to the cemetery • Climate control: Advisory Board’s report goes to the parish in June. • Sound system: we have the components, and will assemble this in May • Organist Search Committee: nothing new to report; interviews of the 3 candidates are proceeding; Robin emphasized that if they don’t feel there is the appropriate fit they will not proceed and will continue to recruit • The back door of the church at the north end is very old and will be replaced; Diane R. has researched stair treds to cover the stairs, which the Property Committee will install
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• Thornhill Festival: 40th Anniversary this year; asking ACW to do the Tea Room, with music in the church; ACW will let us know in May; we need a committee – if you are interested please contact Diane.
Incumbent’s Report: attached
• May 1st, Imam Michael Abdur Rashid Taylor, will be here for Prison Sunday Ministry • May 15th: Bishop is coming for confirmation
ACW Report: Vivienne
• Rummage Sale this Saturday • “Call to Action” 7, 41, 23 and 48 – with respect to Review has gone back to the ACW groups for discussion • They need a co-President for the ACW
Closing of the Church on Sunday’s
• Warden’s are asked to announce at the services that volunteers are needed for this so that it is not onerous for any one person; Rebecca will ask Swan to put it in the Trinity News and Bulletin for the next month. Other business:
• Danielle asked, on behalf of the Altar Guild, why the small alter is being moved to the middle of the church onto the top step, so that no one has to go up the steps; it is more personable, and the altar is light and movable.
Adjournment and Close with the Grace.
2016 Meeting Schedule: 7:30 p.m. February 16 March 15 April 19 May 17 June 21 September 20 October 18 November 22 December 20
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HOLY TRINITY ANGLICAN CHURCH Balance Sheet 0510212016 01:48 PM Consolidated - April 2016 Page: 1
Current Year Previous Year
ASSETS 1 000
CURRENT ASSETS 1 100 Bank CIBC Main 1110 $98,121.50 $106,702.83 INVESTMENTS 1200 Petty Cash 1205 550.00 550.00 Dioc. Invest Operation 1211 170,966.68 120,710.27 Receivable-GST Refund 1217 4,108.95 6,015.97 Eva Rea Millennium Fund 1220 347,690.11 365,892.44 Trust Funds - Diocese 1230 114,018.63 115,062.64 Dioc. lnvest Cemetery 1235 16,885.01 16,006.02
Subtotal lnvestments 1200 654,219.38 624,237.34
Rectory Fund 1240 1,008,079.70 1,015,750.03
Subtotal Current Assets 1 100 1,760,420.58 1,746,690.20
OTHER ASSETS 1400 Prepaid Expense 1420 8,472.87 7,981.15
FIXED ASSETS 1 600 Property & Equipment 1610 555,191.48 534,628.19 Accum. Amortization 1620 -131,915.17 -111,640.49
Subtotal Fixed Assets 1 600 423,276.31 422,987.70
TOTAL ASSETS $2,192,169.76 $2,177,659.05
LIABILITIES 2000 CURRENT LIABILITIES 2100 Accounts Payable 2110 $2,135.64 $6,863.83 Diocese Grant 2130 24,314.11 24,314.11 FaithWorks 2135 745.00 940.00
Subtotal Current Liabilities 2100 27,194.75 32,117.94
LIAB. INTERNAL RESTRICTED 2300 ACW 2310 9,166.32 8,486.57 Altar Guild 2320 8,451.8'1 6,760.21 Major Repair Donations 2330 205,00 120.00 Capital Reserve 2340 56,449.81 56,449.81 Celebration Garden 2350 3,577.91 0.00 Cemetery Maintenance 2360 21,112.71 26,387.86 Choir 2370 1,624.17 0.00 Elevator Fund 2380 937.01 0.00 Eva Rea Millennium Fund 2390 347,690.11 365,892.44 EvaReaMF-lncome 2400 12,300.90 3,628.45 Memorials 2410 15,698.33 16,603.33 HOLY TRINIry ANGLICAN CHURCH Balance Sheet 0510212016 01:48 PM Consolidated - April 2016 Page: 2
Current Year Previous Year
Ministry 2420 11,326.98 11,326.98 OF/OH Dividends 2430 44,093.00 7,357.00 Organ Repair Fund 2440 2,088.05 0.00 Footlights 2450 2,789.84 4,248.00 Dioc Unrealized lncome 2470 2,851.69 2,716.29 Misc. Fund don't use 2490 -100.00 4,956.83
Subtotal Liab. lnternal Restricted 2300 540,263.64 514,933.77
LIABILITIES RESTRICTED 2600 Cemetery Perpetual 2610 94,939.35 96,171 .55 Glebe & Thorn Trust 2620 19,079.28 19,471.09 Rectory Fund 2630 1,008,079.70 1,015,750.03
Subtotal Liabil ities Restricted 2600 1,122,098.33 1,131,352.67
TOTAL LIABILITIES 1,689,556.72 1,678,444.38
NET ASSETS 3000 Property and Equipment 301 5 $461,882.43 $441,319.14 Excess I ncome/Expenses 3020 40,730.61 57,895.53
TOTAL EQUITY 502,613.04 499,214.67
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY $2,192,169.76 $2,177,659.05 HOLY TRINITY ANGLICAN CHURCH lncome and Expense Statement 0511712016 01 21 PM Consolidated - January 2016 - April 2016 Page: '1
Current Period Year to Date Year to Date YTD Prior Year Budget
INCOME ACW & Footlights $0.00 $o.oo $o.oo $3,000.00 Envelope Receipts 96,360.80 96,360.80 102,000.00 97,178.15 Ministry&Mission lncome 5,210.79 5,210.79 0.00 2,920.00 Other income Don't Use 0.00 0.00 0.00 1,315.75 lnterest 1,877.45 1,877.45 2,500.00 1,197.05 Open Receipts 2,689.25 2,689.25 4,000.00 3,435.36 Property 25,757.00 25,757.00 26,400.00 20,679.00 Housing lncome 10,224.31 10,224.31 10,000.00 10,072.93 TOTAL INCOME 142,119.60 142,119.60 144,900.00 139,798.24
EXPENSES ADMINISTRATION Bank Charges $0.00 $0.00 $400.00 $0.00 GST lncurred -3,388.38 -3,388.38 0.00 -4,011.52 GST Recovered 3,388.38 3,388.38 0.00 4,011.52 lnsurance 3,967.07 3,967.47 4,000.00 4,279.88 Office 5,365.66 5,365.66 3,600.00 4,088.97 Subtotal Administration 9,332.73 9,332.73 8,000.00 8,368.85
BUILDING Gas 3,935.05 3,935.05 4,700.00 4,657.13 Hydro 3,329.10 3,329.10 4,000.00 2,203.41 Maintenance 6,623.71 6,623.71 9,920.00 14,680.00 Major Repairs 1,318.71 1,318.71 0.00 0.00 Telephone 1,030.57 1,030.57 1,320.00 914.36 Subtotal Building 16,237.14 16,237.14 19,940.00 22,454.90
PROGRAMS Christian Education 529.47 529.47 0.00 175.00 Communications 520.92 520.92 680.00 578.88 Minstry&Mission Expense 1 13.53 1 13.53 0.00 0.00 Diocese 20,284.32 20,284.32 20,320.00 21,934.16 Health Ministry 209.61 209.61 540.00 757.32 General Ministry 2,131.12 2,131.12 720.00 1,142.24 Music 1,750.60 1,750.60 760.00 1,379.48 Senior's Luncheon 335.30 335.30 320.00 322.29 Sunday Service 2,016.28 2,016.28 540.00 381.52 Youth Ministry 241.92 241.52 0.00 166.32 Youth Ministry-Sunday 323.78 323.78 800.00 0.00 Subtotal Programs 28,456.85 28,456.85 24,680.00 26,837.21
STAFF Housing - lncumbent 11,212.39 11,212.39 8,800.00 9,879.92 Salaries & Benefits 75,689.52 75,689.52 80,000.00 76,013.81 Salaries - Other 400.64 400.64 400.00 892.39 Travel 789.78 789.78 800.00 1,021.84 Subtotal Staff 88,092.33 88,092.33 90,000.00 87,807.96
AMORTIZATION Amortization 6,664.00 6,664.00 6,400.00 6,805.32 TOTAL EXPENSES 148,783.05 148,783.05 149,020.00 152,274.24
EXCESS I NCOME\EXPENSES -$6,663.45 -$6,663.45 -$4,120.00 -$12,476.00
Report of the Meeting of The Corporation held on May 3rd, 2016
SECRETARY OF CORPORATION Nicola Palframan and Pat Johnson offered to serve as secretary for the corporation. They will work out their schedule. There is a still a need for a secretary for the Advisory Board.
FINANCES
Update Update for 2016: Darryl Thompson presented the financial update for the period, January through April statement. Envelope income for the year to date was $96,360.80. Last year’s figure for the same period was $97,178.15. Darryl requested that all groups provide the following information when cheques are given to payees: The payee, address of payee, purpose and/or ministry. Darryl updated the wardens on a conversation he had with Elaine Pudwell about the idea of a pergola to commemorate Elaine’s service at Holy Trinity, which she liked. He stated that the Garden committee would give about $1,500 toward the building of the structure. The cost is approximately $3,200.
We discussed and the idea and supported the suggestion. A motion was passed advising Ron Tolhurst to obtain quotes for the project.
Finance Committee We have met once with new members. We would like a couple more members since 3 members have chosen not to continue this year. Dominic Parravano was elected to chair the committee again. We are looking to work on a 3 year plan program and to provide financial statements every 3 months, making September 2016 the next time to report.
Eva Rea Committee The committee has met and Dianne Maines was elected as Chair. A review of the by-laws will be undertaken to reflect the changing reality of the parish and needs of adults who are pursuing further education. Bursary applications will be accepted early June.
PROPERTY
Cemetery Land Title Issue – no change in status. TGCC Issue – The Site Disposition Agreement (SDA) which was signed by HTC and TGCC is now NULL and VOID, as remains disinterred on April 21 are non-human. SDA will be replaced by a general AGREEMENT, with all references to disinterment and reinternment removed. It would seem as though work on the pool will not be started until next year. The work on the tennis courts is going ahead.
Ladies’ Washroom The Ladies’ washroom renovations were started on May 9 and will be completed in June, 2016.
Audio Visual Project Church Auditorium There is a hum in the church’s sound system. It is being investigated. In the Auditorium there is a new speaker control, new DVD player with iPad connection and two new hand-held wireless microphones to be use in addition to the regular cord mics. The audio cabinet from the church was moved to the auditorium. A set of operating instructions have been to be posted on the cabinet. It needs to be determined who can operate the system in the Auditorium, turn it off and on and put it away when done.
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Visual/Video component - analysis/plan remains to be done.
Climate Control We have been advised that we have been approved for the GREEN AUDIT which is scheduled for June 23.
Grounds Landscaping: a contract was signed with Neighbourly Lane (NLL). It was brought to our attention that the church has been paying for the leaf cleanup of the area used by TNSK and that this cost was never billed back to them. TNSK was provided with a copy of the contract that the church has with TNSK as well as copies of the HTC/NLL contract. We will be reviewed and determine the next steps. Snow Removal and Salting: We are awaiting the final invoice. Costs to date are in line with last year’s. Snow removal is a fixed cost with salting billed as applied.
TNSK Property issues regarding nursery school: o The back door with exposed hinges and gap in the door when locked will be replaced during the summer o Last winter, the 13 stairs at the north entrance at front of church to nursery school received a great deal of damage from salt during the winter months o Last year, a special order plastic covering was installed and the cost was paid by HTC. The nursery school found the covering was too slippery and after one week it was removed. New covering has been identified for which TNSK is prepared to pay as long as it was reasonable. Ron Tolhurst and Jesus will install the stair coverings once the cost is approved by TNSK.
Upper Canada Chorus This matter was reported in its entirety in last months’ report. To summarize: Room A is not available to UCC. UCC will continue with their Monday evening rehearsals as they have done for the past 10 years and the rental of the auditorium three or four time per year depending on availability.
Commercial Shoot The advertising company, “Some Place Nice”, rented our auditorium in February for an auto insurance commercial at a rental rate of $7,500. Going forward, we will continue to promote future rentals to Some Place Nice and other agencies.
Insurance & Risk Management We received correspondence from our brokers confirming that our coverage is bound for the next renewal term as well as the including our Certificate of Insurance The insurance company has been advised of the renovations being done to the ladies washroom. Risk/Liability (e.g Slip and fall) forms must be completed by all committees and persons on the premises and groups using the facilities. Even though the Nursery School has its insurance, we will still provide them with these forms. Due to recent difficulty on part of EMERGENCY personnel to get heavy equipment up front stairs to church and the fact that some members do not use a wheel chair but do have “canes” and would benefit from a lift as opposed to the elevator, we discuss ways to address these concerns. We agreed to explore the possibility of reinstalling a ramp into the church and a chair lift on the centre stairs. A motion was passed requesting the property committee to seek quotes on these two projects. We are seeking to develop a privacy policy. The synod office will be contacted for information and a committee will be needed to develop the policy. It was suggested that this committee by supported by some other members of the parish, e.g. the past wardens’ council, Finance Committee, ACW, Envelope Secretary.
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PERSONNEL
Organ Search Committee We are pleased to report that, on the recommendation of the Search Committee, we will offer Rachel Yoon a one year contract starting on July 1, 2016, with a probation period of 3 months. The contract was drawn up with the assistance of the Human Resources department. Following a review, and subject to our satisfaction, the contract will be reviewed and extended. We offer our thanks to all on the committee who assisted in this process, Robin Parravano, Vic Stecyk, Bobbie Creber and Hazel Ogilvie, and Elaine Pudwell who was an invaluable resource.
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
The Office We met with Swan to examine the filing system and to ascertain how and where files and documents are stored and located. We determined that there is a need a numbered filing system for the files. It was also determined an administrative procedural book is to be available in a printed form. There is need to determine what is stored in a paperless form on the shared drive and what should be kept in physical form. We will work with Swan to get this work completed. Swan was requested to update wardens’ board. Another Board for the Warden’s names is needed and will be purchased.
Shared Drive There was a meeting with the IT support to discuss the creation of a shared drive on the church’s network to store information to be accessed by wardens, and with possibility for expansion.
Mid-Year Report We will report to the congregation on Sunday, June 19.
OUTREACH We continue to wait as the process unfolds with the sponsorship of our Syrian Family. They are currently in a Refugee Camp in Lebanon. The family members are: ASLAN, Elia Garabat (78). DOSHA, Khana Bahi (wife, 74) ASLAN, Hikamt Elia (48), AL KHALIL, Rim Jalal (wife, 39), ASLAN, Elia Hikmat (son, 3)) To date, the family has completed their medical exams and is waiting for their interview with the consulate. We have no date for that but have some hope it may be expedited, since the government has recently re-staffed the consulate in order to process the many private sponsorships that are backlogged. The policy on transportation also changed once the government had processed their 25,000 refugees. There are no more military flights and now families will be booked onto commercial carriers and be given a loan from the government to cover costs. The committee is looking at the budget and at private donations to see if we can help as we don’t want to see the family saddled with a huge debt upon arrival. Financial commitments have been made by each of the participating congregations as follows. The total is based on guidelines from AURA and Immigration and Citizenship Canada. Contributing Churches to the budget of $40,000 are: All Saints Anglican, King City, Holy Trinity Anglican, Thornhill, All Saints’ Anglican, Collingwood, King City United, York Pines United and Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church. We were concerned about what happens after the year of support. We agreed that we would consider providing ongoing support for the family for another two or three years.
OTHER MATTERS
Youth/Young Families/Community Focus
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We have begun to explore how we will “reboot” the ministry which was suspended after the resignation of the Youth Minister in 2014.
ACW April 23rd was a very successful rummage sale with a net profit of $5,900. It was suggested that ACW members review the “Calls to Action” and recommend which of them the parish could implement. Members are interested in #48 and in further helping with the Pikangikum water project. This was the charity Riscylla Walsh Shaw had asked the ACW to support. Members took information back to groups and will report their next meeting and then input provided to the Wardens and Advisory Board for their consideration.
Community Linkages Thornhill Festival – This matter is on the ACW Executive Agenda their May meeting. There is the suggestion that we reintroduce the Tea Room.
Stephanie Birrell (1-2 pm) and Rachel Yoon (2-3 pm), the new organist, will be presenting two recitals during the festival in the church.
The organizers of the Festival have said there is $200 that can be made available to cover the cost of staff so that our washroom can be accesses by patrons of the Festival.
Last year the Thornhill Ministerial sponsored a booth. The Thornhill United Church led this initiative. Jean Glionna will be asked to enquire about their involvement in the upcoming Festival
Closing of Church (Sundays) With Peter Patterson, we have received offers to volunteer from Ian Downer, Rebecca and her husband Peter Jones). We will soon be establishing a schedule.
Advisory Board Meeting The “main item” identified for the May meeting will be discussion of the report from ACW on the “Calls to Action” and “The Thornhill Festival”.
THE INCUMBENT’S REPORT
Canon Stephen presented his report (see attached), highlighting, among other things, the following: Upcoming dates during the month of May He shared the learning covenant that will be employed during the curacy of The Rev. Jeff Potter Canon Stephen suggested that the selection of the recipient of the Order of The Diocese of Toronto should be discussed at the June meeting. There are 5 nominations. Priorities: 2017-2020. He is hoping to establish our priorities for the next three years. To do this, groups, committees, staff, and other key stake holders will be asked, to begin to think about their own ministries and areas of focus for the next three years. : In light of this plan, the Finance Committee has been asked to consider the preparation a 3 year budget that will reflect these priorities. The Upcoming Episcopal elections in September. St. Stephen’s, Maple. Deacon Jeff Potter, expressed his appreciation for the welcome extended. He said that there will be a service of Evensong on Friday, May 13th at 7 pm at St. Stephen’s, its first service in 8 years.
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Incumbent’s Report
PRISON MINISTRY SUNDAY As we share in our annual Day of Observance of The Prison Ministry, we are pleased to welcome Imam Michael AbdurRashid Taylor, Regional Chaplain for Ontario with the Correctional Service Canada (CSC) as our guest speaker. The focus of this day is on the ministry to prisoners, chaplains, staff, and all who are engaged in this work
NEW ASSISTANT CURATE We are pleased to welcome The Rev. Jeff Potter to our community as our Assistant Curate. He, with nine other ordinands, was ordained deacon Sunday in the cathedral. We congratulate him and assure him of our prayers and support. A special welcome to his wife Becky. In addition to being our Assistant Curate, Jeff is the Lead Pastor and Church Planter at the former parish of St. Stephen’s, Maple. He has worked as a lay pastoral associate at the Church of the Transfiguration for the past three years, and recently received his Master of Divinity from Wycliffe College. Currently he serves as Co-Chair and Creative Director of the Spirit of Invitation working group, and is a member of the Vital Church Planting organizing committee. Until the beginning of 2013, Jeff practiced law at a large Bay Street firm. Becky, is a tax lawyer and recently served as the Children’s Ministry Coordinator at the Church of the Transfiguration. His learning covenant is attached for your information.
SECRETARY TO CORPORATION Nicola Palframan and Pat Johnson have volunteered to assist in this work.
ORDER OF THE DIOCESE OF TORONTO The deadline for nominations was April 30. As of April 29, three nominations were submitted: Malcolm Shiner, Ron Tolhurst and Jean Glionna. (Nomination material attached)
PRIORITIES – 2017/2020 As the parish looks to the future, I am hoping to establish our priorities for the next three years. To do this, I will be asking groups, committees, staff, and other key stake holders to begin to think about their own ministries and areas of focus for the next three years. It is my hope in the fall that we can establish some priorities. I will present a “report card” on “The Incumbent’s Priorities: 2013-2016. Budgeting: In light of this plan, I have asked the Finance Committee to consider the preparation a 3 year budget that will reflect these priorities.
ALTAR IN SUMMER With the choir not being in the chancel during the summer, it is proposed that we use the portable chapel altar on some Sundays. This arrangement was used at the recently held seniors’ Eucharist and will be for all future senior services. The Holy Communion will be administered at the first pew in the nave. There will be administration at the chapel for persons who prefer to kneel at an altar rail. I have invited persons objecting to this proposal to share their reasons for objection with the wardens or me.
A.C.T.I.O.N. SERVICE Our second A.C.T.I.O.N. Service was held on Sunday April 24. Once again, it seems to have been well received.
JERUSALEM SUNDAY We are reminded that in 2013 General Synod passed a resolution to “observe the Seventh Sunday of Easter, commonly known as the Sunday after Ascension Day, as Jerusalem Sunday.” Jerusalem Sunday
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is an opportunity for Anglicans in Canada to learn more about and support God’s mission in the Diocese of Jerusalem. This year, we will observe Jerusalem Sunday on May 8.
BISHOP’S PASTORAL VISIT Bishop Peter Fenty, our Area Bishop, will make his Pastoral Visitation to our parish on Sunday, May 15th, The Feast of Pentecost. He will also administer the Sacraments of Holy Baptism and Confirmation. There will be only ONE service on that day. The service begins at 9:00 a.m.
FEAST OF TITLE The Feast of The Holy Trinity will be observed on May 22. Sixty-five years ago, on May 22, 1951, our church was rededicated at its new location on Brooke Street. This is cause for a special celebration.
ANGLICAN COMMUNION SUNDAY The provinces of the Anglican Communion have been invited to set aside the Sunday closest to the feast of Saint Augustine of Canterbury (26 May) as Anglican Communion Sunday, with a special focus of prayer for the Communion. The invitation came in a resolution passed by assent at the recent Anglican Consultative Council meeting in Lusaka (ACC-16).
The Sunday closest to the feast of Saint Augustine of Canterbury has been chosen as the suggested date for Anglican Communion Sunday; because it was Saint Augustine who was sent by Pope Gregory to undertake the conversion of England. The conversion of England had already begun, but it was Augustine who is recognized as the first Archbishop of Canterbury and who established his seat at what is now Canterbury Cathedral – the mother church of the Anglican Communion.
MEN’s BREAKFAST We are going to hear of the most current issue that we are all facing: Physician Assisted Death. Guest speaker: Bob Parke, MHSc, Clinical Ethicist of Humber River Hospital. Saturday May 28 at 8:30 am .
PULPIT EXCHANGE Canon Stephen and Canon Chris King will share in a pulpit exchange on Sunday, June 5. This is the first of what Canon Stephen hopes to be a more frequent experience of parishes in our deanery. Canon Chris is the Incumbent of Emmanuel Church, Richmond Hill.
CLERGY CONFERENCE Deacon Jeff and I will join the rest of the clergy at the biennial diocesan clergy conference at Brock University from May 25-27. The theme for the conference is “Preaching Luke, Hope For Our Times”. The keynote speaker is Canon Dr. Paula Gooder, writer and lecturer in Biblical Studies. Our episcopal area is responsible for planning this year’s conference. Swan, was coopted to the committee to provide logistical support to the planning team. She will be away from the office during this time.
EPISCOPAL ELECTION There will be an electoral synod in our diocese in September to two bishops following the recent changes and announced retirements. I have been approached by several persons to allow my name to be placed in nomination. I am engaged in a process of discernment and will advise the wardens and parish should I decide to allow my name to stand. May 3, 2016
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STATEMENT READ TO PARISH ON Sunday, May 15, 2016 ANNOUNCEMENT RE: ELECTORAL SYNOD
As you probably know our diocese will elect at least two bishops in September to fill the vacancies created by the recent retirement of Bishops Patrick Yu & Philip Poole and by the move of Bishop Linda Nichols to become Bishop-Coadjutor of the Diocese of Huron.
I have been approached by several persons to have my name placed in nomination to be elected as a Bishop if it be the will of God and the synod.
Indeed, this is a most humbling experience for me.
I was ordained in 1981 to the office of Deacon and two years later I was made a priest. In all these 35 years I have endeavoured to serve God and God's church, in the ways I've been led, to build the church in the Dioceses of Long Island, New York, Barbados and now here in Toronto.
In all this time all I ever desired to be was a good priest. I love Parish life, I love this Parish. Lucy and I have made good friends here ----- but in every life there comes a time for decisions and for me, this was a difficult one.
I have never given much thought to offering myself for the office of Bishop until this year. I have been asked on other occasions but never considered it seriously.
This time colleagues, friends, and my mentors, some from our parish have convinced me that I can make a meaningful contribution to the work of the church both locally and in wider context as a Bishop, so I am allowing my name to stand for election.
This does not mean I will be elected – very few are chosen the first time they put their name forward.
As for timing, Synod will be held on September 17 and the new Bishops would be expected to assume their new duties on January 1st, 2017. I have already told the Wardens of my decision and will keep them informed throughout the process.
I would ask at this time is that you pray me and all others who may be considering the same as well as for Susan Hogeboom and Nancy Cutler who will be your lay representatives at this Synod
In the meantime, if you have any questions, comments or concerns, please let me or the Wardens know.
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REPORT FROM THE PARISH NURSE
This year has been quite busy. In February I held blood pressure screening. Seventeen people took advantage of this opportunity. Our March Lunch and Learn was a great success. Cathy Pearson gave us an up-to-date session on our digestion and how to improve it. There were samples of probiotics we could taste and lots of resources. Twenty nine people came and I had requests for the handouts from three or four more. At the regular spring luncheon the Healing and Wellness Committee were asked to provide a 15 min. talk after the service. Linda Robertson spoke on health issues around our medications and another eight Health Record booklets were given out to help people keep track of their medications, tests and surgeries.
A draft copy of my pamphlet has been done. The Healing and Wellness Committee has made some recommendations and I hope to have it ready for the June luncheon. I’ll use the 15 min slot after the service to explain what I do and have pamphlets with my card staples to it, to hand out.
Delores Thomas has joined the Healing and Wellness Committee ad this past meeting Ollie Neil expressed an interest and has just confirmed today that she would like to become a member as well. We are pleased to have new ideas and energy.
Increasing my number of home or other visits has been my goal. Since January most of the visits I tried to make were cancelled by the person last minute or were put off for health reasons and still haven’t been made. I did drop a prayer shawl off for a parishioner and last week made a bereavement visit. This continues to be a priority over the summer months when there are fewer meetings, luncheons etc. I have a visit planned for later this week.
After a health episode during a recent service, the Healing and Wellness Committee has decided to put a list at the back of the church with the whereabouts of the blood pressure cuff, AED, wheelchairs, emergency blanket, first aid kit etc. A stethoscope was also requested to be kept with the blood pressure cuff and will be added. From a previous meeting, we decided to have small notices by the phones with our address, location and the presence of the AED on site. Also, there will be a sign in the elevator on how to get help.
Care for caregivers is a priority of mine. Mostly it’s been one-on-one by phone and visits. I’m considering trying two ‘Tea for Caregivers’ sessions; one in the fall during a morning and a spring one during an evening, to get caregivers that still work.
In order to keep my parish nursing knowledge up-dated, I attended a session on ‘Mental Health in the Parish’ in November sponsored by Interchurch health Ministries. There are also, peer support meetings that I attend most months.
Respectfully submitted Susan Rodgers
Financial Report: Iverson Treasurer Darryl Thompson will step down at the end of 2016; Winston Holder is willing to assist and then take over the appointment; he was on the Diocesans Treasury Board for 10 yrs.
Wardens Report: attached Organist Search Committee: had met that afternoon, identifying dates, questions and the process is organized; much of this will occur during the next month. Those who proceed to the short list of 2 candidates will play for a Sunday; the hope is that a new incumbent will be secured for July, but this is dependant on the right person taking the role. Thornhill Golf & Country Club and the Cemetery: Wardens are to meet with the Golf Club next week Climate Control: expecting to receive proposals in late April Sound System: is installed in a new cabinet, and things are working well; the hope is that everything will be working by April 8th Items resulting from Vestry Meeting: ACW asked to review the Diocesan’s “Call to Action”, and to recommend to the Wardens and Advisory Board which of the “calls to action” our parish should seek to implement
Incumbent’s Report: attached Issue for Board’s awareness: Peter Paterson and the Wardens have kindly been opening and closing the church for services. This is not the Warden’s role. We need to resolve this, even if it means employing someone as a sexton to do this. Traditionally the sexton cleaned the church and was responsible for opening and closing the church. Ian is willing to help Peter with closing.
Adjournment and Close with the Grace.
2016 Meeting Schedule: 7:30 p.m. February 16 March 15 April 19 May 17 June 21 September 20 October 18 November 22 December 20
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A Pastoral Letter to the Clergy and People of the Diocese of Toronto
Third Week of Easter, 2016
To the Clergy and People of the Diocese of Toronto:
We are in the midst of the Easter season, when the death and resurrection of Jesus and the new life we are offered in him are at the forefront of our personal prayers, our public liturgies and our teaching. The issues of life and death are also in the forefront of public discourse, with the violence of war and terrorist attacks killing innocents in so many places, the ecological disasters that lead to sudden death from catastrophe or the slow death of starvation, or the tragic epidemic of youth suicides that devastates too many indigenous communities. It is in these contexts that I write, with the support of the Area Bishops, about the upcoming changes in Canadian law regarding Medically Assisted Death. (The terminology keeps changing.)
The Anglican Church of Canada has addressed this issue for a number of years. As a Church, we have extensive pastoral experience, to add to our biblical, theological and moral traditions, to call upon. I commend to you an excellent resource, “Care in Dying,” first published in 1998, to assist our Church in reflecting on the debate. It distinguishes between termination of life support, ending treatment and euthanasia (voluntary, involuntary and non-voluntary.) As importantly, it puts the discussion of the debate in the framework of the call to care. Caring at the end of life is not only about medical practice, technology and legal doctrine. It raises the moral, ethical and pastoral obligations placed on all of us to respond to individuals, families, professionals and communities in a variety of circumstances.
The Supreme Court of Canada’s decision in February 2015 declared unconstitutional existing laws prohibiting physician-assisted dying. It ruled that “a competent adult person who (1) clearly consents to the termination of life and (2) has a grievous and irremediable medical condition (including an illness, disease or disability) that causes enduring suffering that is intolerable to the individual in the circumstances of his or her condition” has this right.
A recent joint parliamentary committee has recommended extending that even further. The scope of assisted dying moves significantly beyond those who are in the last stages of a painful natural death. This may include options to pre-determine a time of death, extending the option to the mentally ill or to minors.
As Christian pastors and leaders, we find some of these very disturbing.
The Anglican Church made a substantial submission to that committee on Feb. 3, 2016, raising a number of questions that need to be considered in developing legislation and regulations that Parliament is expected to adopt in the next few months.
As Archbishop, I have spoken and written publicly about my serious concerns. Among these are the reduction of the definition of “provision of care” to a medical/technical “treatment,” the almost exclusive focus on the individual in isolation from their community, and the nearly unquestioned equation of human dignity with the capacity to author independently one’s own life (and hence death).
End-of-life matters are complex, with many nuances that are not easily resolved with simplistic solutions. Anglicans hold diverse perspectives on this, but we share a core commitment, echoed in our baptismal vows, “to uphold the dignity of every human being.” We are created in the image of God and redeemed by God’s gracious love in His Son, Jesus Christ. As Christians, we find the meaning of our life and our death in relation to Jesus’ birth, life, suffering, death and resurrection.
A new document, “Living and Dying, We are the Lord’s: Resources to Assist Pastoral and Theological Approaches to Physician Assisted Dying,” has just been written (to be released shortly) by the Faith, Worship and Ministry Task Force on Physician Assisted Dying. It is worth reading. Along with “Care in Dying,” it provides us with a very helpful pastoral resource.
Whatever the outcomes of the ongoing discussions, we must recognize the urgent and ongoing need for pastoral care to the person who is dying (or who is in significant and unrelenting physical or psychological pain), to the caregivers and family, to medical personnel and to the wider community. The Church is one of the chief resources for this care, and we must be prepared to offer it to the very best of our ability.
Two of the glaring gaps in the public discussion are the inadequate provision of palliative care, along with the training of medical personnel in appropriate and effective pain management. If these are not widely available and easily accessible, the impetus for assisted death is much stronger. We urge you to advocate locally, provincially and nationally for comprehensive palliative care that, both short-term and long, will directly affect far more people than medically assisted death. In both advocacy and provision of care, we can call on our extensive practical experience in ministry with the elderly, the dying, and with those who suffer from mental illness.
These are deeply emotional issues. We urge you to deepen your understanding of this matter, to read, think and pray for wisdom, to discuss this with your families and neighbours, particularly with the medical professionals in your parishes. We encourage you also to write and speak with your local Members of Parliament to express your views as they make crucial decisions about the policies, laws and investments that will govern us all for a long time to come.
“Whether we live, we live unto the Lord; or whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore or die, we are the Lord’s. For to this end Christ died, and lived again, that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living.” Romans 14:8-9
Yours faithfully,
The Most Rev’d Colin R. Johnson, Archbishop of Toronto and of Moosonee along with the Bishops Suffragan of Toronto: The Right Rev’d M. Philip Poole, Area Bishop of York-Credit Valley The Right Rev’d Patrick Yu, Area Bishop of York-Scarborough The Right Rev’d Linda Nicholls, Area Bishop of Trent Durham The Right Rev’d Peter Fenty, Area Bishop of York-Simcoe
Report of the Meeting of The Corporation held on April 5thth, 2016
FINANCES Update for 2016: Envelope income for the year to date was $72,801 when compared to the budget of $73,250 and last year’s receipts of $72,915. Open receipts were $ 1,819 compared to the budget of $1,800 and last year’s receipts of $1,829. All the other incomes & expenses (at this point) should be pretty well in order with the 2016 budget
WARDENS’ PORTFOLIO REPORTS
PROPERTY
Cemetery TGCC Issue – A Statement on this matter, which was read to the congregation on April 10 is attached. The Site Disposition Agreement was signed by Holy Trinity and Thornhill Golf and Country Club. Land Title Issue – There has been no change in status. The work continues.
Grounds Landscaping: We have received the list of prices from Neighbourly Lane. Updating list of tasks required as some tasks deleted last year reappeared on this year’s list. This is being reviewed. There is an arrangement between Neighbourly Lane and the Garden Committee. Snow Removal and Salting: We are monitoring over salting and reporting back to Greenblock. Additionally, we are monitoring the monthly invoices with Swan. Costs to date are in line with last year’s
Audio Visual Project Church/Auditorium Auditorium: An analysis was done on the system in the auditorium. Bob Priestman has bought the following – a new NEUTRIK connector to replace the broken one which connects to the front speaker; a replacement. The current amplifier did not have enough rear modules. The replacement has two more channels (now giving us a total of 8); a Speaker switcher; a DVD/CD player, as the current one is dated. The only downside is that it can only reproduce video up to 720p and does not support HDMI. We do not view this as a big issue; and a pair of Digital handheld microphones – Bob, Ron and Malcolm saw the need for these to complement what we currently have.
All components were installed in a new cabinet (the one recycled from the church audio system); tested and made ready for the April 8th concert
Two replacement overhead bulbs were acquired for the auditorium. Visual/Video component – An analysis and plan will be determined now that the audio system has been fixed
Ladies’ Washroom The Ladies’ washroom renovations to be completed in June, 2016.
Climate Control A memo was sent to Stephen Collette who responded that due to staff reassignments at the National Church Office, the project has been put on hold.
The priest of Emmanuel Church expressed an interest in this project.
TNSK We have asked our suppliers for alternative toilet paper dispenser that will dispense sheets instead of rolls. Jackie is receptive to this option and will be shown the equipment before installation.
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During March Break, Jesús carried out “deep cleaning” in TNSK area, including hand-scrubbing to remove marks/stubborn dirt on the floor tiles that were left by the contractors. Jackie has been asked to inform us if there are areas that were missed. Jesús has informed that the mat in the nursery is a very old mat and he couldn’t recall purchasing any for this area. It was decided that that we will retire this mat and find a suitable replacement to stop dirt/salt/snow for the fall winter 2016-17. There are concerns about the back door with exposed hinges and that an intruder could work unnoticed to remove the pins and that there is a gap in the door when locked. Ron Tolhurst has advised that the door will be replaced; in the summer.
License Agreements: (updates for the work plan and wardens’ meeting from Dave Bezant) TNSK: Diocesan and Trust Committees have approved a 5 year renewal. Upper Canada Chorus: We have received the 5 year renewal order and are working on documentation. We were unable to offer the auditorium on Saturday mornings (new enquiry).
Interest has been expressed in renting the auditorium and Rooms A and B on Saturday mornings. The auditorium can only be rented to UCC on an as needed basis if available as HTC requires the auditorium for church activities. It was reported that dates are to be agreed two months in advance. Room A is not available but we may be able to offer the Reception Room on the same basis as the auditorium. UCC will continue with their Monday evening rehearsals as they have done for the past 10 years and the rental of the auditorium three or four time per year depending on availability.
Commercial Shoot Promotion of future rentals to Some Place Nice and other agencies is ongoing.
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
Wardens’ Workplan (see attached and/or handout) The CRA Charity Return is due in June The Report to the congregation will be presented on Sunday, June 19
Minute Book for Advisory Minute book should be kept (hard copy.). Swan has these minutes and will be asked to compile the book.
Shared Drive It was agreed that we will create a shared drive on the church’s network to store information to be accessed by wardens, and with possibility for expansion. We will meet with our IT support to discuss.
Insurance The last Valuation Document is dated 2010. It’s due for an updated. (the recommendation is that it be done every 5 years. There is available to us a spread sheet with all the values.
Wardens’ Orientation Wardens will meet with Swan to become familiar with the location of hard copies of files. There will also be a meeting with the property committee to ascertain what the wardens need to know about the building. For example, the alarm was going off recently and no one knew the code to silence it
OTHER MATTERS
Organist Search Interviews have started. From an original list of seven, we withdrew the invitation to two, one withdrew, and the fourth accepted an appointment elsewhere 2 | P a g e
The search committee held an exit interview with Elaine Pudwell prior to the start of the interviews
Community Linkages Thornhill Festival – This matter is on the ACW Executive Agenda for Tuesday, April 5, 2015 and if the ACW is willing to reintroduce the Tea Room and, if we can arrange to have music in the auditorium, we will then speak with City of Vaughan and the Festival organizing committee.
Advisory Board Meeting There was no “main item” identified for the April meeting. The Parish Nurse will submit her first quarterly report to the Board.
Closing of Church (Sundays) The closing of the church remains to be addressed and should be brought to the attention of the congregation.
THE INCUMBENT’S REPORT
Canon Stephen presented his report (see below), highlighting the following dates April 24 - A.C.T.I.O.N. Service Saturday April 30, 2016 – Leadership Workshop May 3 – Prison Ministry Sunday May 15 – Bishop’s Pastoral Visit
Incumbent’s Report
LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP “I am looking forward to our scheduled Churchwardens & Parish Leaders Administration Workshop on Saturday April 30, 2016 to be held at St. Paul, Innisfil. The workshop is a full day from 9:00 am to 3:30 pm and the cost is $12.00 per person. I expect all Churchwardens, new and returning, to attend with their Incumbents. The workshop is also open to deputy Churchwardens as well as treasurers and other significant church leaders who may be future office holders. It is very important that we are all familiar with and know of the practices and policies by which we are governed as a Diocese. We can considerably minimise headaches and unnecessary legal and other fees by adhering to the Diocesan Canons and guidelines on how we order our lives.” (Bishop Fenty.)
ORGANIST/MUSIC DIRECTOR INTERVIEWS I will be engaged with the interview process during the month of April.
A.C.T.I.O.N. SERVICE Our second A.C.T.I.O.N. Service will be held on Sunday April 24.
PRISON MINISTRY SUNDAY (May 3) Imam Michael AbdurRashid Taylor to be our guest speaker on May 1 at 10:00 a.m. for our annual observance of Prison Ministry Sunday. He was appointed Regional Chaplain for Ontario with the Correctional Service Canada (CSC) in December 2013. His remit is to ensure the delivery of Chaplaincy services in the Ontario Region of CSC and to ensure that offenders of all faiths receive services.
PASTORAL VISIT (May 15) Bishop Fenty will make his Pastoral Visitation to our parish on Sunday, May 15th at 9:00 a.m. (Joint Service). He will also administer the Sacrament of Holy Conformation to Abraham Millington.
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Site Disposition Agreement Announcement - April 10, 2016 Last June we became aware of the Thornhill Golf and Country Club’s plans to construct a swimming pool adjacent to the southern boundary of Holy Trinity Cemetery. At the time, the matter was in front of the Vaughan Committee of Adjustment, and we made them aware of our concerns regarding: The potential for noise associated with operation and use of the pool impacting on our ability to maintain dignity, quiet and good order in the cemetery Potential environmental impact on the row of mature trees on the property line Potential environmental impacts of salt water drainage on cemetery lands The need for an archaeological assessment within 10 metres of the church boundary
These concerns were also communicated to the Golf Club, and they in turn proposed a number of steps to mitigate our concerns. It was subsequently determined by the City of Vaughan following a meeting with the Club that a variance was not required. The Club proceeded to start construction and undertake the archaeological assessment. Human Remains were discovered on the proposed pool site in October and all construction was halted. The matter ended up in the jurisdiction of the Registrar of Burial Sites.
On March 7, 2016 the new Registrar declared the burial site to be a “Burial Ground” and instructed the Golf Club and Holy Trinity Church to negotiate a site disposition agreement to determine what to do with the remains, the allocation of costs for carrying out the agreement, and other matters that the parties might agree on.
If the parties do not reach agreement or make substantial progress to agreement within 30 days, the Registrar may refer the matter to arbitration.
We have engaged a lawyer and negotiated an agreement with Thornhill Golf and Country Club on the disposition of the remains and our concerns on the location and operation of the swimming pool. The significant provisions of the agreement are as follows: The remains will be disinterred from the golf Club property and re-buried in Holy Trinity Cemetery. The cost of disinterring the remains and all the burial costs, including purchase of a plot, casket and grave marker will be paid by the Club. Holy Trinity Cemetery will be responsible for maintaining the grave site. Due to the high potential for Aboriginal or Euro-Canadian archaeological findings, the pool excavation and related construction will be carried out under the supervision of a licensed archaeologist. The trees on the cemetery boundary will be protected in accordance with the Arborist’s Report commissioned by the Club and the excavation near the trees will be conducted under the supervision of a licensed arborist. The Club will install an acoustic sound barrier on the existing fence and will plant and maintain shrubs, bushes and other plants on both sides of the fence to help reduce noise transmission. Overland water flow will be contained on Club lands. The Club acknowledges the Church’s requirement to ensure quiet and good order in the cemetery, and will make best efforts, with 24 hours notification, to suspend any swimming pool activities for the duration of a planned funeral service.
The Wardens believe that this agreement satisfactorily addresses our concerns. Going to arbitration is an expensive and risky endeavour, and we do not believe it would produce any different or better results. The Wardens have the authority to enter into the agreement on behalf of Holy Trinity Church and the Diocese of Toronto. 4 | P a g e