Splinters from the Board

At Tuesday night’s Executive Board Meeting (05/12/2020), the following business took place:

  • Shared devotional and prayer based on Romans 8:28 “All things work together for good.”
  • Affirmed our FCC Vision Statement and Mission Statement.
  • Shared silent prayer focused on moving forward in ways that protect our safety while doing God’s work.
  • Heard prayer concerns from the congregation.
  • Approved Reports from the Interim and Youth Ministers that reflected a busy work schedule of reaching out to members and youth before AND during the pandemic.
  • Learned from the Treasurer Report that while funds have suffered due to lower giving and poor market performance, these situations are expected to improve in time.
  • Heard the Christian Education Committee’s report that sadly but not surprisingly, VBS will be cancelled for 2020. Thank you cards are being sent to Sunday School teachers in lieu of the usual breakfast, and gifts for graduates this year are being delivered or mailed.
  • Learned that the Community Outreach Committee will wait until schools resume to distribute books.
  • Received the list of four scholarship recipients from the Memorials Committee. A fifth scholarship is yet available to any student who has not already applied this year, who is a member of FCC, a graduating senior or current undergraduate or graduate student at a recognized institution of higher learning, and a Paris resident. Application information is available from the office or the website. Deadline for application and letters of recommendation must be postmarked no later than May 11th. Plans are underway for the annual Memorial Service on May 24th.
  • Heard the report from Staff Relations Committee on the resuming of office hours, computer repairs/modifications, sanitization procedures for the church building, and the distribution of The Messenger. We also learned that a four-member subcommittee has been appointed to begin the process of searching for an organist, as Kathy Peel will be retiring from the position in June 2021. In addition, the committee reported their disappointment that after much work and planning, the reception and events planned to show appreciation to the Parkinsons had to be cancelled. The committee is currently working to find an alternative way to express our thanks, though it may require a celebration at a later date.
  • Heard of the efforts of the Worship Committee’s hard work in making sure FCC could find ways to worship together during the shelter at home order.
  • Learned that the Elders are looking into ideas for small groups to meet together for studies and fellowship.
  • Learned that the Trustees have received possession of the former Bellerud residence on Ten Broeck Street which will serve as the home of the Kent family; also, that the paperwork on the purchase of the former Savioa’s building is in place pending the clearing of a lean by the Moreschi family.
  • Were reminded by CWF that some of the Blessing Box Calendar money still needs to be sent in, and that one Easter Basket had been delivered to Rev. Mark & Kendala.

In the business portion of our meeting, the board

  • Approved a motion to allow the Kent family to live in the former Bellerud house rent-free until May of 2022, at which time the purchase of the property will commence. The Kents will be responsible for utilities and any improvements to/remodeling of the home.
  • Approved a motion that the church office will resume the print version of The Messenger beginning in two weeks. Volunteers will be needed to assist in folding/mailing.
  • Approved a motion that worship in the sanctuary will resume as soon as local government allows for groups gatherings of up to fifty. A third service may be added if necessary. Those attended are encouraged to “BYOM” (Bring Your Own Mask)! The Worship Committee would like input and suggestions from the congregation, since the gathering limitations are expected to continue for some time.

Prior to closing, the board recognized everyone who has been involved in finding ways for our church to worship together during the shelter order. The board also expressed thanks to Rev. Mark & Kendala Parkinson for the love, encouragement, leadership, and reassurance they have shown during their time at FCC.

The meeting adjourned with silent prayer for Rev. Mark & Kendala followed by prayer from Reverend Parkinson.