Recent Vestry Notes

Vestry Notes

Vestry Notes (week of 6/22/25)

I must begin with a huge thank you to Phil and Jim who brought this member, and many others, I suspect, to tears as they beautifully and courageously shared their story.  My heart is full of hope and gratitude.  Thank you, a thousand times over for your presence, your wisdom and your grace.

And thank you to everyone who stood with our nation, to Jody, Susan and Barbara and everyone else who joined the millions to honor the beauty of this nation.

The Vestry met on Monday, and we have quite a bit of news to share!  1) We are in conversation with someone to become our next Church Sexton.  This will be wonderful as Curtis no longer lives in the area and has very limited hours due to his new full-time job.  2) The Search Committee, under the leadership of Chuck Johnson and Melissa Allman along with Jody Caldwell, Veronica Serino and Susan Shessler will be meeting later this month to work on bringing us a new Priest.  3) Our treasurer shared good news as our investments are coming back after the market challenges of earlier this year, and our pledge income is ahead of expectations.  Thank you to everyone who supports this remarkable place!  And 4) As part of an effort to keep everyone updated and aware, Paul is going to be sharing a quarterly report from this time forward, so here it is!

Treasurer’s 2^nd Quarter 2025 Report to the Congregation

Current Financial Status

Overall, the finances of the Parish are stable. Investments, after a brief downturn in Feb. and Mar. are rebounding and continuing to show growth. Pledges are greater than projections. And average attendance has been stable between 35-40 combined in-person and online participants. However, facilities maintenance is a drain on resources. We are starting the process of renewing the Parish House rental agreement intending a modest increase in rent. If the current investment trends continue, this year we will make up for our projected $62,000 deficit with investment income.

I see 3 ways we can increase our income: current members increase their pledges, increase membership, thereby increasing pledge income, or increase rental income. It is my strong recommendation we seek to increase membership and rental income. The Vestry is seeking ways to do these and welcomes your input, suggestions, and assistance in these efforts. For example, encourage weddings and other opportunities to appropriately rent our sanctuary.

Presented by Paul Cecala, Treasurer

To everyone at Redeemer, who treasures this most remarkable place, I want to share the wisdom of Bishop Charleston: Bless you, all of you, who are making your witness in this world.  Bless you for trying, bless you for standing to be counted, bless you for showing up and taking your part.  Your presence is an inspiration.  Your support is a gift.  Your vision, irreplaceable.

Colleen Hintz for the Vestry

Vestry Members: Brian Malcolm, Paulette Bellew, Wardens, Melissa Allman, Paul Cecala, Jennifer Corrieri, Agnes Clyne, Leslie Harden, Colleen Hintz, Chuck Johnson, Robert Mundy, and Barbara Shannon.