Zion Lutheran Church 2015 Annual Meeting January 25, 2015€¦ · Zion Lutheran Church 2015 Annual...

Zion Lutheran Church 2015 Annual Meeting January 25, 2015 Immediately following 10:00 Combined Worship and Potluck Dinner

Zion Lutheran Church 2022 East Second Street

Superior, Wisconsin 54880 Phone- 715-398-3663

http://zionsuperior.org

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2014 Annual Report of Zion Lutheran Church Table of Contents

Table of Contents Page 3 Agenda for the 2015 Annual Meeting of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church Page 4 & 5 Minutes from the January 25, 2014 Annual Meeting, Leadership Tree Page 6 Church Council, 2014 Annual Report from Interim Pastor Page 7 2014 Annual Report from the Interim Pastor (Continued) Page 8 2014 Annual Report from the Bishop Page 9 2014 Pastoral Acts and Membership Changes Page 10 Report of the Congregation Council Page 11 Operations Committee Page 12 LOGOS Page 13 Vacation Bible School Page 14 Sunday School Page 15 Spiritual Growth and Mission Page 16 Sew ‘N Sews Page 17 Prayer Chain Page 18 WELCA Page 19 Alter Guild/Naomi Circle Page 20 Total Income Reported on Counting Sheets – 2014 Page 21 Music Ministry Page 22 2014 Balance Sheet Page 23 2015 Proposed Plan of Spending Page 24-27 2015 Proposed Spending Plan

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2015 Annual Meeting Agenda

Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church I. Call to Order

II. Opening Devotions III. Approval of Minutes of the 2014 Annual Meeting held January 26, 2014 IV. Reports:

A. Report from the Bishop B. Report from the Congregational Council C. Reports from the Committees D. Personnel Committee

1. Personnel Committee 2. Worship & Music Committee 3. Prayer Chain Report 4. Discipleship Committee

a. Sunday School b. LOGOS c. Tuesday Missions

5. Stewardship Committee 6. Endowment Committee 7. Women of the ELCA (WELCA) 8. Altar Guild 9. Operations Committee

a. Treasurer’s Report b. 2014 Financial Summary c. 2014 Balance Sheet d. 2014 Statement of Income and Expense e. 2014 Financial Secretary Report f. Proposed 2015 Mission Plan (Spending Plan)

V. Presentation and Adoption of the 2015 Mission Plan (Budget) VI. Elections

A. Report from the Nominating Committee B. Elections C. Establishment of Committees – Call for action

Service Stewardship Discipleship Worship & Music Personnel VII. Installation of Servants

VIII. Unfinished Business IX. New Business

A. Recognition and Appreciation X. Closing Praye

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ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH Annual Congregational Meeting

January 26, 2014 (subject to approval at 2015 annual meeting)

Present: 38

Meeting called to order at 10:10 am with prayer by President Paul Moldenhauer.

Devotions from Ephesians 4 by Pastor Dennis Paulson. Minutes from 2013 annual meeting submitted by Beth Arnson . Motion by Mark Betterman and 2nd by Vicki Garro to approve. MC

Reports: 1. Report from Bishop Rick Hoyme 2. Council Report: Ruthanne Amundson made a motion and Ainie Merrill 2nd to approve as corrected,

adding Patsy Weaver to term ending in 2014, Heidi Hillstrom and Emily Larson’s terms ending in 2015, and Linda Brow and Paul Modenhauer’s terms ending in 2016.

3. Operations Report from committee 4. LOGOS Report submitted by Greg Kvam 5. Vacation Bible School Report 6. Sunday School Report submitted by Sunday School Team 7. Spiritual Growth and Missions Report submitted by Sunnie Lamppa 8. Fund Raisers for Missions Report submitted by Irene Haugen-Hillstrom 9. Prayer Chain Report submitted by Patsy Weaver 10. Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America Report submitted by Ruby Thomas 11. Altar Guild Report submitted by Jeanette Betterman 12. Garden Committee Report submitted by JoAnn Mattson

Motion by Linda Brow and 2nd by Karen Thimm to accept committee reports. MC

Treasurer’s Report from Heidi Hillstrom: Revenues for 2013 were $178,391.66 and Expenses were $177,179.73. We are current with bills and owe dedicated funds $8,000. Beth Arnson made a motion and Beverly Scully 2nd to approve report. MC

2015 Spending Plan: Revenues of $152,415 and Expenes of $174,737.55 for a deficit spending plan of $22,322.55. Congregation will need to step up to the plate to cover this deficit. Mark Betterman made a motion and Judy Jonasen 2nd to approve this Mission Plan Budget for 2015. MC

Nominating Committee: Eve Bagan, Vicki Garro, and Laura Kilner were nominated to represent Zion on the 2014 church council. Nominees were asked from the floor. Hearing none, Greg Kvam made a motion and Tony Amys 2nd to approve nominees. MC Vicki Garro nominated Patsy Weaver, Beverly Scully and Marian Maki to be on nominating committee for 2015 council positions. Ken Thimm 2nd. MC

Synod Assembly: Roger Saari made a motion and Jack Waite 2nd to send Jan Arena to Synod Assembly. Beverly Scully made a motion and Roger Saari 2nd to allow Jack Waite time to consider being the male representative. Conference Assembly: Duane Betterman made a motion and Vicki Garro 2nd to send Ainie Merrill and Mark Betterman to Conference Assembly. MC

New Business: 1. Ruby Thomas reported organ repairs of $367 have been paid by WELCA.

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2. Esther Nolan asked about funding for Ruby’s Pantry. Roger Saari reported that monies come back to Zion for repairs, use of the fork lift, to pay 1/30th of each month’s Superior Water, Light and Power bill, dumpster, and will have carpet cleaned in the spring. Monies earned from Ruby’s Pantry go to Benevolence. Zion serves about 250-300 people each month. There are plans to expand to other churches.

3. Roger Saari said we need more young people to participate in the annual meeting. 4. Dick Nolan asked why Pastor Ziems was forced to leave Zion. Pastor Paulson said we are in a

transition period, a time of coming together, rebuilding and a Transition Task Force will be formed soon.

5. Pasty Bake is set for March 27th thru 29th. A co-chairman to serve with Lynn Rochon is needed. 6. Appreciation was expressed to Beverly Scully, Patsy Weaver and Jack Waite who have completed

their terms on the council.

Jeanette Betterman made a motion to adjourn. Adjourned at 11:10 a.m. with Lord’s Prayer.

Linda Brow, Council Secretary

Members Present: 38 Confirmed members were in attendance.

Term Ends Jan 2014 Term Ends Jan 2015 Term Ends Jan 2016

__ Pastor Dennis Paulson __ __ Judy Jonasen __ Bev Scully __ Heidi Hillstrom __ Paul Moldenhauer __ __ Becky Hubbard __ Linda Brow __ Patsy Weaver __ Emily Larson __ Mark Betterman __ Jack Waite __ Lucille Sullivan __ Kelly Thimm

Council President: Paul Moldenhauer Council Secretary: Linda Brow Council Vice President: Patsy Weaver Council Treasurer: Heidi Hillstrom

2015 Leadership Tree of

Zion Lutheran Church

Staff

Interim Pastor Dennis Paulson 715-398-3663 [email protected] 218-260-9860 Church Secretary Pearl Swanstrom 715-398-3663 [email protected] Organists Beverly Scully 715-392-5874 Libby Ledin 218-576-9053 Music Director Samuel Gray [email protected] Custodian Jerry Johnson 715-398-3663 Financial Secretary Aine Merrill 715-364-8539 Recording Secretary Linda Brow 715-398-6075 Church Accountant Greg Kvam 715-398-5842

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Church Council

Term Ends Jan 2015 Term Ends Jan 2016 Term Ends Jan 2017

__ Lucille Sullivan __ Judy Jonasen ___Eve Bagan

__ Heidi Hillstrom __ Kelly Thimm ___Vicki Garro

__ Becky Hubbard __ Linda Brow ___Laura Kilner

__ Mark Betterman

__Pastor Dennis Paulson

INTERIM PASTOR’S REPORT

“WHAT DO WE HAVE IN THE HOUSE?”

“Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things...and the God of peace will be with you.” —Philippians 4:8-9

“As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another, and, if anyone has a complaint against one another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony.” —Colossians 3:12-14.

These two brief passages from Paul’s letters to the Philippians and the Colossians are words of wise counsel for our lives in our families, communities, and congregations. They have helped to guide me in my work among you as Interim Pastor during this past year. They have been especially meaningful to the work of Zion’s Transition Task Force, which has been the center of much of my time and attention during the past year. The work of the Task Force is now complete, the Call Committee has been chosen, and has begun its work. Within a few months, Zion will be calling a new pastor, and my work among you will conclude. The Final Report of the Transition Task Force has been completed and printed under separate cover. It will be used in the call process. I encourage you to read it, as you have opportunity.

“What do we have in the house?” This question comes from a little-known story about the prophet Elisha, found in 2nd Kings 4, about a time when the prophet Elisha helped a widow escape from poverty and debt by using the only thing she had in her house—a jar of oil. The story and question were suggested in a book entitled The Mission Table, by Stephen Bouman, the ELCA’s church-wide Director for Congregational and Synodical Mission. This book was read and discussed by the Church Council this past year, as a way to help us focus on Zion’s mission. The story and the images it provoked have helped to guide and energize both the Council and the Transition Task Force in their work during the year past. In the story, Elisha (the prophetic successor of Elijah) was approached by a widow who cried out to him that her husband was dead and one of her creditors was trying to take her children from her as slaves, in payment of the debt. So Elisha asked her:

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“What shall I do for you? What do you have in the house?” She answered, “Your servant has nothing in the house, except a jar of oil.” He said, “Go outside, borrow vessels from all your neighbors, empty vessels and not just a few. Then go in…and start pouring into all these vessels; when each is full, set it aside.” So she left him and shut the door behind her and her children; they kept bringing vessels to her, and she kept pouring. When [all] the vessels were full…the oil stopped flowing. She came and told [Elisha], and he said, “Go sell the oil and pay your debts, and you and your children can live on the rest.” (2nd Kings 4:2-7) Steve Bouman said this about the story: “Indeed, what do we have in the house? The widow acts like she has nothing.

Life’s cupboard is bare. That is how we sometimes act in our churches—afraid of the future, as if we have nothing, as if God is holding out on us.” (p. 89) Then he asks some important questions which have helped the Council and the Transition Task Force inquire into “what we have in the house” of Zion Lutheran Church. Bouman asks:

So, what do we have in the house? What’s in your house? Listening in the church begins with this question. What does your jar of oil look like? Is there some wine in the house? Bread? Water? Faithful leaders? Rock-solid values and convictions? Songs of grandparents? The Book? A table? Stories of when the church was there for you when you needed it? Moments of grace and forgiveness? Prayers when you need them and a casserole at the door when you come home from the hospital? A cross? What, indeed, do we have in the house? (The Mission Table, p. 90)

Sometimes it’s easy to think that “we have nothing in the house,” that “the cupboard is bare,” and that our resources

for mission are limited. But as Elisha showed the widow, there’s always “something in the house” that the Holy Spirit can use to accomplish God’s life-giving, life-renewing purpose in Christ. In the past year, the Council and the Transition Task Force have been asking the question, “What do we have in the house?” We have been seeking to discover the sometimes-hidden and unrecognized gifts and resources God has provided to Zion Lutheran Church to live out its mission, as stated in its mission statement: “To be God’s people gathering together, growing in faith, and going into the world in Jesus’ name.”

Thank you! I want to take this opportunity to thank all the members of Zion Lutheran Church for your encouragement, support, and friendship during this past year. I have enjoyed our partnership and companionship together on this interim journey. I have especially appreciated working with our Zion staff: Pearl Swanstrom, our capable office manager; Jerry Johnson, our custodian; Sam Gray and Tim Ingersoll, who have served as music directors this past year; Bev Scully and Libby Ledin, our organists; and all the other musicians who contribute so much to the vitality of worship at Zion. Thanks as well to the leaders of the congregation: Vicki Garro, Congregation/Council President; the officers and members of the Zion Church Council; and the leaders, coordinators, and members of the numerous committees, ministry teams, and action groups of the congregation, whose names and reports are included elsewhere in this Annual Report. Finally, a big thank you to the many volunteers, too numerous to name here, without whose faithful ministry the worship, life, and mission of Zion Lutheran Church would not be possible. To all of you, I can say with the Apostle Paul: “I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now.” (Philippians 1:3-5)

A prayer for the Interim Journey: A prayer that has accompanied our interim journey is this prayer for journeys, from the liturgy for Evening Prayer:

O God, you have called your servants to ventures of which we cannot see the ending, by paths as yet untrodden, through perils unknown. Give us faith to go out with good courage, not knowing where we go, but only that your hand is leading us and your love supporting us; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Peace for the journey, Pastor Dennis Paulson Interim Pastor

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Annual Report from Bishop

BISHOP RICK HOYME’S 2014 ANNUAL REPORT FOR CONGREGATIONS

To the saints of the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin, "If you don't like change, you'll really dislike being irrelevant." - Nick Stickler This is a quote I recently discovered from the CEO of a boat building company (Harris Flotebotes) in Indiana. His company is known for its innovation and the extraordinary quality of its products. Innovative and extraordinary quality. Can these two attributes be used to describe your church? Or would unchanging and irrelevant be more accurate adjectives? I'm aware that this sounds harsh, but the church is living in a harsh time. And in a time like this, irrelevance is not a luxury any of our ministries can afford—or tolerate! "Nave" is the word used to describe the central part of the church building where we gather to worship, intended to accommodate most of the congregation. It is called the nave because it is said to resemble the center part of a ship where the people would be carried. Hence, nave, as in navy. I like the irony of the above quote coming from a boat (ship) builder! So, when/what was the last innovative change your church made to its nave/sanctuary that made your ministry more relevant? What was the last truly innovative change you have made in your congregation? Can you name five households that are now a part of your ministry because of this change? These are tough questions, but, these are tough times! Most of us think annual meetings and annual reports are about budgets, or elections or numbers. They are in a way, but they must also be about relevance and change. The best annual meetings are when great, productive conversations happen around how we can change and how we can become more relevant in a rapidly changing world! When the question being asked is not what do we want, but, what does God want! I can't speak for any of you, but I know that I don't ever want my life or my ministry to be thought of as irrelevant. In 2015, I encourage you to ask the tough questions and to embrace the tough answers. But most importantly ask, “How does God want us to change?” and “How can we create a church that is indeed, relevant?” And then, look out! Because the answers you discover may be ones you actually like! Bishop Rick Hoyme Walking together + for the sake of mission + in God’s world.

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2014 Pastoral Acts and Membership Changes

Members Received by Transfer or Other Rogan Lambert, David Bennett, Alyson Lofgren, Annaliese Lofgren, Logan Pfannebecker Transfers Out Verlyn H. Moore, Leonard Gehl, Lois Gehl Baptisms Rogan Lambert, David Bennett, Alyson Lofgren, Annaliese Lofgren, Logan Pfannebecker Marriages Michelle Lee Owens to Bradley Alan Wermter, Christina Faith Dimon to James Richard Holm Burials Leo (Skip/Lucky) Schier, Ruby O. Thomas, Doris A. Mishke, Edward F. Katzmark, Karin S. Johnson, Marlis J. Lindquist Confirmands Kearra Thimm, Mystic Raddatz, Holly Anderson, Brittney Mandelin

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Report of Congregation Council

2014 was a year of transitions for Zion Lutheran Church. Under the leadership of Pastor Dennis, our transition task force was guided through the process of discerning who we are and where we want to be as a church. Their report will be the document that the call committee will use in searching for a new Pastor for us.

It really was no surprise that most of us put our priorities on mission. Time after time we step up to the plate to help those in need. With Buck a Chick we were able to help 96 families by providing flocks of chicks, we gathered countless pounds of food to be distributed locally, members work at Ruby’s pantry, collect clothing, sew quilts, mittens, diapers, pack shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child and more. We are willing to serve a community meal at the drop of a phone call, minister to friends in need through prayer, and a gift basket that says WE CARE. There were many, many, more instances that just reinforces the fact that we are about mission.

A second priority for us is education. Our children are nurtured from preschool through 5th grade by dedicated Sunday School staff that lead by example. They learn the Bible stories through creative rotational teaching which includes, crafts, story time, song, and other activities. They are introduced to mission, through food collections, sharing their crafts, and singing at worship. It takes a special gift to be a Sunday School leader and we are blessed with the best! Our teens are mentored by knowledgeable, caring adults, not afraid to tackle the tough questions about faith that so many have. Our LOGOs program is really so much more than just a confirmation program as intergenerational friendships are formed. As adults, we often don’t take the time to nurture our own Christian education through Bible Study. We need to learn to make that also a priority for us as group study and discussion often brings insights into God’s word that we would not have found on our own.

We have made some tough decisions this year in getting ready for our new pastor. We sold the parsonage. Many pulled together to maintain and get the house ready to sell. We have a core who are gifted with building maintenance talents and step forward to take care of the little (and not so little tasks) that every building has. We are blessed to have such willing members.

A sign of growth came about as we hired Sam Gray as our music director. Our New Day band has picked up some new members as has the Zion Praise Choir. Both worship services have been enhanced by these talents. We have also reached out through Sam to UWS music department in offering use of our facility for rehearsals. Libby Ledin came on board as the second Organist, as well as accompanying the New Day band and Choir.

As we look to the future of Zion Lutheran Church we have a better understanding of who we are, we are able to come together to do God’s work, with our hands.

Vicki Garro

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Operations and Finance Annual report

I would like to thank those of you who have worked hard this year to tackle property issues. As with any building, there are always things that come up.

Before our parsonage was sold, we still had to mow the grass, check the house for vandalism, frozen pipes, etc. Thank you to those who were able to faithfully do that and make repairs when needed.

Our church also needed some attention. Thank you to those who took it upon yourselves that when you saw something that needed to be done, you did it: tiles in the fellowship hall, lights in the sanctuary and other parts of the building, cleaning beyond what we can pay Jerry for, and many other tasks that you have done this year.

There have also been times when we needed to call in professionals. We will be getting a new front entry light, this spring we will need to address a roof problem on the fellowship hall. Some of the wood under the shingles has rotted as well as some of the fascia and will need to be replaced. This will not be an easy fix and will require several thousand dollars. Our front office windows should be replaced as the wood on them is also rotten, the carpeting is going on 33 years and starting to show its age. We still have some basement repairs to be made from the flood of 2012. There are some siding problems with the sanctuary. Areas within the church could be repainted and freshened up.

These tasks are large but not insurmountable. We will need to work together with fundraising and tackle them one at a time. Most of the tasks will require professionals who will need to be paid.

Pearl keeps us on task by keeping our “to do” list current. Please let her know when you complete a task so it can be taken off the list.

The finance report: For quite some time our expenses have exceeded our income. If you look at the proposed budget, the proposed expenses were based on this year’s actual and not likely to change except to go up. These are the costs of support ministries, costs that ensure events and programs such as Sunday School, LOGOS, worship, Bible Study, and others can happen. These costs also give us a ministry home to ensure the people of Zion (you) can continue to do God’s work. A church depends on your weekly gifts as that is the primary source of income.

Please prayerfully consider how you can increase your financial support of the support ministries of Zion. Thank you.

Submitted by,

Vicki Garro

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LOGOS

Zion Lutheran’s LOGOS program continues to be an active, thriving part of our Christian Education program. Young people gather weekly to grow in their understanding of what Christ wants of them in His world today. Through the dedication of our mentors and staff, young people at Zion are not only learning about our faith, but building relationships with adults who set an example of God’s people serving God’s world.

LOGOS has begun the 2014/2015 school year in the New Testament. As the year continues they will walk with the Patriarchs and learn lessons to apply to today’s world. We have seen a lot of new faces this year and that is exciting.

Along with the studies and challenges we have been thrilled to see the LOGOS youth participate in collecting food for a Food Drive, Hanging greens for Christmas, Ringing bells for Salvation Army, Caroling for those unable to get out due to weather, and helping in ways we are only able to applaud. This does not even include the Pasty Bake, Vacation Bible School, Lent and Easter services, and help given in other activities of the church.

Part of the LOGOS ministry is also hosting the Easter Breakfast fundraiser for the LOGOS’ program; this meal that we share with the entire congregation is a time of learning and fellowship with the entire congregation, we look forward to seeing you there.

LOGOS also has time to enjoy recreation such as: a weekly fun activity, World of Wheels Skating Party, Family fun night, and other fun things.

We are thankful for our LOGOS group and those who mentor and serve in leadership positions, but we are always looking for volunteers especially those that like to wash dishes and help serve a weekly meal.

Thank you,

Greg Kvam

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!acation "ible #chool $nnual %eport

If you were at Zion the first week of August this year you would have noticed something a little different...hay bales, a buggy, a saddle, various horse paraphernalia? And that was just the church sanctuary! You witnessed Avalanche Ranch, where we took a “Wild Ride through God’s Word” at Vacation Bible School!

VBS at Zion this summer was August 4-8. Thirty-two children attended this summer with nearly as many helpers. At Avalanche Ranch we went on Wild Bible Adventures, made delightful creations in Cowpoke Crafts, enjoyed tasty treats at the Chuck Wagon Chow Hall, kicked back to watch the Wild West Theater, and had lots of fun with Horseplay Games! As a Bible-based program, there were daily Bible points: God is real; God is with us; God is strong; God is awesome; and God is in charge.

Special thanks to the Garros for all their hard work providing most of the western décor, and to Nickola Avery for sewing our craft quilt squares into a beautiful finished quilt.

Thank you also to Beth Arnson, Allison Avery, Linda Brow, Michele Conlan, Summer Flahaven, Josie Goad, Marah Kittleson, Braden LaPorte, Clara Lundholm, McKenzie McKinnon, Aine Merrill, Pam Monaghan, Isla Muellner, Natalie Noble, Pastor Dennis Paulson, Jenna Roberts, Lynn Rochon, Emma Roden, Hannah Saari, Roger Saari, Karen Thimm, Kearra Thimm, Sidney Thimm, Patsy Weaver, and Audrey Welch. VBS wouldn’t happen at Zion if it weren’t for you!

Many, many hands and hours are needed each year to make VBS a successful learning adventure for our children. Thank you for everyone’s time and talent with decorating, registration, food, opening and closing, help with games, stories, crafts, and clean-up. A special thanks to all who donated food and supplies. Your time and efforts are appreciated!

All children age 3 to the 5th grade welcome at Vacation Bible School! You do not need to be a member of Zion to attend. If you would like to volunteer for VBS 2015 please contact the church office.

Respectfully submitted,

Laura Kilner Zion VBS

The daily Bible points, stories and Scripture verses are:

1. God’s Word is true; God frees Peter from prison (Acts 12: 1-‐19); Psalm 119: 151

2. God’s Word is comforting; God comforts Paul in a storm (Acts 27); Psalm 119:50

3. God’s Word is surprising; Paul survives a snakebite (Acts 28: 1-‐10); Psalm 119:18

4. God’s Word is life-‐changing; Peter and John teach about Jesus (Acts 3:1-‐4:12); Psalm 119: 37

5. God’s Word is for everyone; The community of believers (Acts 2: 42-‐47); Psalm 119:90

As in year’s past, “Chadder” returns in various video clips. There are plenty of craft ideas, food ideas (check out the “Surf and Snakes”) and games that will engage and help the children build memories.

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Sunday School Annual Report

All Children ages 3 years through the 5th Grade are welcome at Zion Sunday School. A family does not have to be a member of Zion for their children to attend. We currently have 31 children registered for our Sunday School program, with about 22 in attendance each week.

Our curriculum is Cross Explorations, a rotation model from Concordia Publishing House. Cross Explorations combines the best of large group/small group instruction and site rotation. It gets the kids moving, engages their senses, challenges their thinking, and touches their hearts. And above all, Cross Explorations puts CHRIST at the center of each and every lesson.

This year we continued to enjoy a wonderful group of staff and helpers, including Michelle Conlan, Brian and Tammy Dittbrender, Stephanie Johnson, Laura Kilner, Debbie Mencel, Pam Monaghan, Marie Roberts and Linda Williams. The end of the 2013-14 school year saw the “moving on” of two long-time staff members, Judy Jonasen and Aine Merrill. Judy now helps with the LOGOS program. Aine, after 35 years of lovingly leading our Sunday School, continues to help with special events.

The beginning of the 2014-15 school year brought new faces to Sunday school, including Kathy Aird, Heidi Blunt, and Libby Ledin. We were especially excited to welcome LOGOS students Marah Kittelson, Isla Muellner, and Rene Williams as helpers!!

Parents and Grandparents are also a huge help to the continued success of Sunday School, providing help during class time, bringing and serving snacks, chaperoning events, and many other vital things. Thank you to everyone who helps with this important program.

At Sunday School we feel that all children should have their very own Bible, so we provide our kids with a new Bible both in Kindergarten and again in the 3rd grade. Nine children received a Bible this year.

2014 was a busy year with the 4th annual Spud Luncheon fundraiser, our annual Skating/Pizza party at World of Wheels, a fall food drive and a Fall Festival/Halloween party! Sunday School also hosted two Family Movie Nights at the church, created squares for two special quilts, and sang during church worship on six Sundays. Our Christmas program this year was A Traditional Christmas, a classic retelling of the birth of Jesus, complete with shepherds, angels and everyone’s favorite traditional Christmas carols.

There is no cost for a child to attend Sunday School, and at no time should families feel that they must monetarily contribute in order for their children to participate. God calls us to be good stewards of the gifts He gives us, and a voluntary weekly offering is a way to support the Sunday School program that Zion Lutheran offers. Including February’s potato fundraiser, Sunday School received a total of $906.43, and had expenses (curriculum, Bibles, supplies, etc.) of $800.80. Thank you to those who financially support our Sunday School.

The Sunday School staff appreciates the opportunity to share God’s Word with your sons and daughters at Zion, and we thank you for your prayers and your continued support of this ministry. We are always looking for more people to join our team and help with Sunday School, no experience necessary!

Respectfully,

2014-15 Zion Sunday School Team Michele Conlan Laura Kilner Pam Monaghan

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Spiritual Growth and Mission Tuesday Evening Missions and Fellowship Program

Annual Report

“It is Time to Do Something” song by Matthew West must have been heard by the mission group through the whispers of the soul which is the Holy Spirit within. How many times have we turned our eyes toward heaven asking God how can there be such awful tragedy in this world? How many times have we been angry at God and ask why he has not done anything? According to the song by Matthew West he did do something… He created You and we need to be the hands and feet of Jesus. Matthew’s words speak loudly and according to scripture one command given to us is to love one another.

Right now-not later! Wow! Listen to the words of this song: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b_RjndG0IX8

We as a mission group confess we believe in God and Jesus Christ as our savior. We know our life is nothing without him. We believe the time is now, not later to do something and that is what we intend to do!

Outreach Service 2014

• Mittens: over 700 pair were delivered to Union Gospel, Solid Rock, Northwestern Community Service, Cancer patients at the Superior Clinic, Boys and Girls Club, Cooper School, National Bank Mitten Tree, Solid Rock, Veterans Clinic, Breast Cancer Organization, Silver Bay Nursery, Bong Center, Harbor House, Summer School programs, CASDA, Superior Middle School, Care Baskets, and mitten trees.

• Hats have been knitted and crocheted and placed on our Giving Tree • Diapers have been sewn from flannel sheets and old t-shirts and delivered to Northwest Community

Service • Food Outreach: Sponsored “Join Forces for a Reason” concert. All money and food collected went to the

local food shelf in Superior (Faith United Methodist Church). • Served and or provided funds and food for three Community Dinners. • Sponsored National Night Out in August with games, rootbeer floats, and music by the Superior Singers. • Served desserts at the Hymnal Concert in November and Superior Singers Concert in December 2014. • Provided 22 Care Baskets from September 2014 to January 2015 to families who had house fires, illness,

needed an uplifting note, and or experienced death in their family. Prior to September numerous baskets were delivered but not recorded on the chart we now have in our closet.

• Provided gas, food, and gift cards to families in need • Collected coats and delivered to various community service organization. • Sewed Pocket Crosses for Sunday school children to distribute to their familes during their Christmas

concert. • Visited patients at the Villa Marina during Holy week and delivered books and Pocket Crosses

Financial Statement: ending balance $677.61 as of January 13, 2015

In closing, please join us with being the hands and feet of Jesus and not waiting until tomorrow but saying today “I want to do something”. Act on these words and smile!

Sunnie Lamppa

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Sew ‘N Sews

My heartfelt thanks to all the ladies who have taken part in our Sew ‘N Sews quilting. Women from Zion and women who are not members who love to sew have come together to cut, pin, iron, sew, put together and tie are a blessing to God’s work. One of my sewers faithfully sews the quilt tops in her home. Then when the quilts are layered together, the border pinned and the top tied, she does the final sewing of the borders. Dorothy Norman began the “quilts for Graduates” over 25 years ago. Last year three quilts were made for Zion’s graduates

We have completed over 60 quilts in 2014, distributed some to fire victims, to homeless people and some have been given to CASDA, Solid Rock and to Crisis Shelters locally. Shelters include family rooms, and rooms that have multiple beds. Each person is allowed to stay 30 days, then take their warm and made-in-love quilts with them.

Our final gift of the day is coffee, sharing problems, disappointments, and happy events. Please drop in, observe our work in progress and join us. We love to teach and share our accomplishments. God bless our work and our workers.

If you have questions, call Jan Arena at 715-817-8567

Jan Arena

17

Prayer Chain

2014 Prayer Chain Report

Zion's Prayer chain is now six years old. We've lost members and we've gained new members. Our mission remains to pray for our church, our members, and anybody else who requests prayers of healing, comfort, etc. Each week 2 families' names are randomly chosen. Blessings are asked for them and in addition, we usually have a few other requests for prayers.

PRAYER CHAIN MEMBERS: Delories Anderson Lois Smith Thomas and Mary Nykanen Bev Scully Linda Moe Cheryl Kucharski John and Jean Madsen Patsy Weaver Esther Nolan Sharon Miller Jeanette Betterman Jan Arena Eve Bagan Linda Brow Marian Maki Aine Merrill Submitted by Patsy Weaver, Chairman

218-391-3366

715-394-6596

18

WELCA

The Zion Women of Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (WELCA) meet once a month at 10 AM during the coffee hour. This year has been a slow year after the loss of longtime treasurer Ruby Thomas, and Dorothy Norman not able to be with us. During 2014 we sponsored events such as, Superbowl Sub Sandwich Sale, Bakeless Bake Sake, Cookie & Craft Sale and serving at funerals. Our Sew and Sew ladies have made many quilts they have been distributing to those in need in the Superior area. Shipping them overseas has become too expensive. We have given $100 to the church general fund and $100 to the to mortgage fund every month until June when our funds became too low to continue. We had no income except coffee funds, which were small, and have a small working balance. Please join us this year. We had a good December and a good start to the new year. We are looking to have election of new officers with this new beginning. OFFICERS: Sharon Miller, President; Dorothy Norman, Vice President; Linda Brow, Secretary; and Lucille Sullivan, Treasurer.

2014 Zion WELCA Annual Financial Report BALANCE ON HAND January 1, 2014 $1634.92 RECEIPTS 1429.85 TOTAL $3164.77 EXPENSES 2129.75 BALANCE ON HAND December 31, 2014 $ 935.02

We wish to thank everyone who helped out with our events this year: Sub Sandwiches…..$193.33 Cookie/Craft Sale…$1268.60. These funds didn’t get recorded in 2014 as I hadn’t the final check until the new year. Funerals…$550.00 Submitted by: Lucille Sullivan, WELCA treasurer

Altar Guild/Naomi Circle Report

19

Zion Lutheran Church –2014

The ladies of Zion Lutheran Church that serve on the Altar Guild otherwise known as the Naomi’s have been very busy this year keeping the Altar clean and ready for all services held at Zion. We are responsible for all services including 9:00 and 11:00 a.m. Sunday Services, baptisms, weddings, funerals and all special services during Advent, Lent and any other time of the church year. We thank the members of Zion for supporting us with flowers at Christmas and Easter and any other occasion throughout the year.

Our members, Shirley Boris, Sunnie Lamppa, Linda Moe, Beth Arnson, Lois Smith, Marian Maki, Kate Maki, Lynn Rochon and Jeanette Betterman have been very faithful in this ministry.

We look forward to another year of service and again we ask that you pray and consider joining the Naomi Circle (Altar Guild) in keeping the altar ready for worship at Zion. This is a perfect opportunity to serve God and Zion Lutheran Church.

May God bless you and grant you peace.

Jeanette Betterman, Chairperson

ACCT. Description Grand Total 1 General Mission Fund $99,525.76

To

tal Incom

e Rep

orted

on C

ounting S

heets – 20

14

Sub

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ine Merrill

20

2 Loose Offering 1,710.82 4 Initial Offering 246.00 5 Ash Wednesday 162.00 6 Lent 318.00 8 Maundy Thursday 90.00 9 Good Friday 64.50

10 Easter 2,331.50 11 Thanksgiving 400.00 13 Christmas 3,020.00 15 Rent/Rebates 1,266.50

General Income Total $109,135.08 17 Alter Guild 0.00 20 Organ 449.41 21 Worship Ministries 893.00 23 Vacation Bible School 212.00 24 LOGOS (Youth) Income 809.14 28 Tuesday Mission Group 270.00 50 ELCA/Synod Benevolence 505.00 76 Repair & Maintenance 2,235.00 77 Growing in Faith 11,006.00

Designated Gifts Total $16,429.55 101 Undesignated Memorials 385.00 102 Flowers 587.34 120 Sunday School Dedicated Funds 906.43 151 World Hunger 394.09 153 Food Shelf 1,771.50 154 WELCA – Zion Women’s Group 1,576.60 157 Operation Christmas Child 75.00 158 Coffee Money Fund 658.90 163 Other Congregation Outreach

163a -Community Dinner 412.79 163b -Mission Bucket 95.00 163c Buck-a-Chick 821.00 163d -Malaria Prevention 60.00 163e -Super One 245.00 163f -CASDA 30.00 189 Misc. In/Out 13,693.73 190 Pasty Sale 8,980.00 196 Books/Bibles 205.00 198 Refunds 113.12

Unbudgeted Gifts Total $31,010.50 $156,575.13

Annual Report – Zion Lutheran Church – Music Ministry

21

In the year 2014, a lot has changed in the Music area for Zion Lutheran. The hiring of a new Music Director, planning our first ever, community hymn festival, and growing and developing our worship services have provided a stable foundation for Zion to build off of as we celebrate and go into the next year.

-‐As of August 1st, 2014, Samuel Gray was hired as our new Music Director.

-‐On November 15th and 16th, the first ever Community Hymn Festival was held, sponsored and put together by Zion’s musicians.

-‐Our Zion Choir has grown and developed into a music ensemble that helps lead our traditional worship in learning a new liturgy for worship.

-‐We have fully incorporated ELW Setting 10 as our new Traditional worship format, something that all other ELCA congregations have done in the Superior Area.

-‐The NewDay Band has added new members, such as Laura Kilner, Alex Veraguth and Lauren Cooper.

2014 showed a lot of progress in growing and making our music ministry a pinnacle in our community here at Zion. 2015 will definitely be setting an example as well for we will be producing a Contemporary Concert this upcoming May, to help raise money for our Music Ministry. We will also be looking to branch out and incorporate Logos and the Sunday school children in our Music Ministry.

Through the transition that Zion has been going through, our community needs an example to look towards on how to become close-‐knit, yet open to our larger community in Superior. Zion’s Music Ministry has set an incredible example of that in 2014, and we’re hoping to do so in 2015!

Blessings,

Samuel Gray

Director of Music-‐ Zion Lutheran Church

23

January 25, 2015

BALLOT

CHURCH COUNCIL – THREE YEAR TERM (4 needed)

1. Polly Lohman 2. Marilyn Starstead 3. Greg Kvam 4. Becky Hubbard 5.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE – 2 YEAR TERM - non-consecutive (1 needed)

1. Lucy Sullivan 2. 3.

SYNOD ASSEMBLY REPRESENTATIVES (June 6 & 7, 2015 in Eau Claire, WI)

(1 YEAR TERM – 1 male and 1 female needed)

1. . 2. .

CONFERENCE ASSEMBLY DELEGATES (October 2015)

(1 YEAR TERM – 1 male and 1 female recommended)

1. Jan Arena 2. Marian Maki

Zion Lutheran Church Proposed 2015 Plan of Spending

Worship Ministries These ministry expenses go towards the purchase of items used within and for the worship services of the congregation. These include, but are not limited to: bulletins, candles, communion supplies, choir music, music stands, or-gan repair and tuning, instrument cords and minor repairs, copyright licenses, and music for the organ-ists and worship ensembles.

Total Proposed Plan of

Spending for 2014 No increase was budgeted for based on 2013 giving. The total plan of spending does not include any unbudgeted expenses.

Staff Support These ministry expenses go to-wards the wages for the staff. This includes the wages for Pastor, Of-fice Manager, two organists, Choir Director, and Custodian. Other compensation for staff include: pastoral health insur-ance/pension, FICA, Medicare, Worker’s Comp In-surance, conferences, and continuing education.

Congregation Outreach These ministry expenses represent a portion of what God has given to us to reach out to the ministry of the larger church and to those in need here in the Twin Ports and around the World. The specific ministries that we support are: Northwest Synod of Wisconsin/ Evangelical Lu-theran Church in America, Lutheran Campus Minis-try, Lutheran Social Services, World Hunger, Mis-sionary Support, and to support local ministries who reach out to the needy.

Educational Ministries These ministry expenses go towards the purchase of items used in the educational ministries of Zion to equip people for daily life. Items that are purchased for this area include all educational materials for Sunday School, LOGOS, Alpha, and other Adult Education classes. Items include: work-books, class supplies, DVDs,

Support Ministries These ministry expenses go to-wards maintaining and improving the facilities and towards day to day operating expenses of the con-gregation such as: utilities, insur-ance, postage, paper, office equip-ment, mortgage payment, tele-phone, and the maintenance of the church and parsonage.

2015 Zion Proposed Spending Plan 1/23/15

Macintosh HD:Users:Paul:Downloads:spending plan 2015.xlsx

2013 Plan 2013 Totals 2014 Plan 2014 Totals 2015 Plan

INCOME

1 Undesignated Gifts

1 General Mission Fund 122,000.00 114,332.10 122,000.00 99,850.76 101,519.00

2 Loose Offering 2,600.00 2,470.06 2,600.00 1,710.82 1,753.00

4 Initial Offering 200.00 311.00 200.00 246.00 206.00

5 Ash Wednesday Offering 200.00 239.00 240.00 162.00 162.00

6 Lenten Offering 600.00 607.00 600.00 318.00 318.00

7 Lenten Folder

8 Maundy Thursday Offering 150.00 83.00 100.00 90.00 90.00

9 Good Friday Offering 250.00 143.00 175.00 64.50 65.00

10 Easter Offering 1,700.00 1,267.00 1,500.00 2,331.50 2,332.00

11 Thanksgiving Offering 300.00 342.00 400.00 385.00

12 Advent Folder

13 Christmas Offering 2,200.00 3,995.00 3,000.00 3,020.00 3,060.00

14 Interest From CD 25.00 0.00 0.00

15 Rent (Building) 1,800.00 1,265.00 1,000.00 1,241.50 1,300.00

20 Annual Appeal

132,025.00 125,054.16 131,415.00 109,435.08 111,190.00

1 Designated Gifts

1 Altar Guild 75.00 30.00

2 Organ 499.41 467.00

3 Worship Ministries 100.00 893.00 893.00

21 Sunday School Ministry

22 Vacation Bible School 350.00 285.00 300.00 212.00 212.00

23 LOGOS (Youth) Income 2,000.00 580.33 1,700.00 809.14 1,092.00

27 Bible Camp Scholarships 540.25

28 Adult Education 150.00 293.20

29 Tuesday Missions 339.87 270.00 260.00

50 ELCA/Synod Benevolence 530.00 600.00

53 ELCA Missionary Support

55 Zion Highway Fund

76 Repair & Maintenance 6,500.00 4,025.00 4,000.00 2,235.00 2,393.00

77 Growing in Faith 28,000.00 17,207.00 15,000.00 11,056.00 10,341.00

37,075.00 23,400.65 21,000.00 16,504.55 16,258.00

3 Unbudgeted Gifts

1 Memorials 1,080.00 385.00

2 Flowers 608.79 587.34

20 Dedicated Sunday School Offering 1,117.07 906.43

25 Scholarships

35 Event and Trip Fund

36 Youth Gathering 118.00

36 Zion Youth Travel Fund

51 World Hunger 349.53 394.09

53 Food Shelf 858.00 1,732.50

54 Zion WELCA 411.12 1,576.60

57 Samaritan's Purse 80.00

58 Coffee Money Fund 719.08 658.90

63 Other Congregational Outreach 324.00 1,117.00

73 Office Equipment/Expenses 287.00




89 Miscellaneous 3,531.39 58,079.01

90 Pasty Sales 9,873.90 8,980.00 8,980.00

93 Landscaping Project

94 Elevator Fund

97 Refunds 29.96

98 Roofing and Heating Project

0.00 19,357.88 0.00 74,446.83 8,980.00

Total Revenue before Adjustment 169,100.00 167,812.69 152,415.00 200,386.46 136,428.00

4 Transfers

1 Interest 8.31 7.53

2 Transfer To/From Dedicated 10,570.66 -7,209.56

3 Returned Checks

0.00 10,578.97 0.00 -7,202.03 0.00

Adjusted Total Revenue 169,100.00 178,391.66 152,415.00 193,184.43 136,428.00

EXPENSES

1 Worship Ministries

1 Worship Ministry Expenses 1,500.00 1,776.39 1,700.00 1,823.52 1,664.00

4 Altar 500.00 4.99 100.00 267.95 276.00

2,000.00 1,781.38 1,800.00 2,091.47 1,940.00

2 Education Ministries

1 Sunday School Ministries 1,000.00 1,067.83 1,000.00 700.80 701.00

2 Vacation Bible School 300.00 300.00 206.70 207.00

4 LOGOS 2,300.00 3,208.19 2,300.00 2,826.28 2,797.00

5 Adult Education 150.00 299.00

6 Camp Scholarships 200.00 790.00 200.00

7 Tuesday Missions 403.87 309.00 299.00

3,950.00 5,768.89 3,800.00 4,042.78 4,004.00

3 Congregational Outreach

1 ELCA/NW Synod 1,300.00 1,300.00 1,101.60 1,200.00

1 Synod Offering 0.00

1 Synod Resource Center 50.00 50.00 50.00

4 Zion Highway Fund 0.00 72.00 127.95

5 Lutheran Campus Ministry 0.00

7 World Hunger 0.00 480.99 472.00

9 Food Shelf 0.00 1,613.41 1,783.59

13 CASDA 0.00

13 Other Cong Outreach 350.00 1,204.62 2,384.92 2,385.00

13 Samaritan's Purse 0.00

13 Witness and Service 0.00

1,700.00 3,371.02 1,350.00 5,870.06 3,635.00

4 Support Ministries

2 Offering Envelopes 600.00 533.53 500.00 532.12 532.00

3 Office Supplies 1,700.00 1,321.92 1,500.00 830.01 900.00

4 Postage 1,000.00 748.56 1,000.00 658.66 644.00

5 Other Parish Admin Expenses (Dues) 100.00 460.59 300.00 0.40 25.00

6 Office Equipment/Repair 3,000.00 1,444.74 1,200.00 1,272.37 1,261.00

7 Internet/Webpage 1,200.00 1,138.23 1,200.00 1,189.12 1,192.00




8 Synod Assembly Expense 550.00 550.00 672.56

21 Church- Utilities 13,000.00 12,215.72 13,000.00 15,108.97 16,192.00

22 Church Maintenance 8,000.00 8,368.14 6,000.00 2,044.92 2,496.00

23 Growing in Faith - Mortgage Payment 28,000.00 32,586.00 28,000.00 28,797.00 27,875.00

25 Snowplowing/Lawncare 1,200.00 2,298.19 1,800.00 1,895.00 1,876.00

26 Prop/Liability Insurance 5,400.00 5,536.00 4,200.00 4,813.00 3,955.00

27 Church Telephone 750.00 1,094.20 1,100.00 1,190.44 1,182.00

28 Parsonage Utilities 3,700.00 3,234.33 3,700.00 1,830.63

29 Parsonage Repair 4,000.00 905.32 2,500.00 605.65 0.00

31 Parsonage Telephone 420.00 315.00

32 Fund Raising Events 3,500.00

76,120.00 72,200.47 66,550.00 61,440.85 58,130.00

5 Staff Support

1 Pastor's Salary 39,943.00 36,364.34 38,855.04 38,855.04 41,405.00

2 Medical Reimbursement-Pastor 0.00

4 ELCA Pension/Medical-Pastor 17,000.00 15,977.20 17,000.00 5,451.72 19,400.00

5 Housing in Leau of Equity 3,750.00 6,859.22 3,750.00 5,437.56 12,421.50

6 Pastoral Auto Allowance 2,000.00 1,467.16 2,000.00 2,000.00

7 Continuing Education- Pastor 450.00 30.66 450.00 900.00

9 Office Manager Wages 13,000.00 8,234.13 13,000.00 9,324.25 13,000.00

10 Custodian Wages 6,000.00 5,492.84 6,200.00 6,000.81 6,200.00

11 Organist Wages 5,000.00 4,845.00 5,000.00 4,940.01 5,000.00

13 Music Director Wages 4,200.00 4,000.00 4,200.00 3,600.00 4,200.00

16 Employer - FICA 1,760.00 1,718.35 3,859.81 4,148.21 4,017.91

17 Employer - Medicare 399.00 257.05 902.70 274.40 939.67

19 Worker's Comp Insurance 1,000.00 1,025.00 1,000.00 1,010.00 1,000.00

20 Other Staff Related Expenses 100.00 100.00 100.00

22 Admin/ Pulpit Temps 300.00 972.21 520.00 470.34 520.00

23 Conferences 200.00 571.90 200.00 200.00

24 Required Meetings 500.00 274.00 500.00 500.00

25 Professional Expenses / Publications 200.00 182.87 200.00 200.00

95,802.00 88,271.93 97,737.55 79,512.34 112,004.08

6 Non-Budgeted Expenses

1 WELCA 0.00 392.93 0.00 1,843.60

2 Zion Coffee Fund 0.00 492.39 0.00 513.03

3 Building Improvements 0.00 0.00

4 Scholarship (College) 0.00 0.00

5 Honorariums/Fees/Reimbursements 0.00 0.00 75.00

6 Pasty Expense 0.00 2,713.51 3,500.00 3,141.14 3,141.00

7 Landscaping 0.00 0.00

9 Event and Travel Expenses 0.00 0.00

9 Event and Trip Fund 0.00 0.00

12 ELCA Youth Gathering 0.00 0.00

15 Flowers 0.00 580.69 0.00 605.14

18 Books/Sales/Trips 0.00 0.00

89 Miscellaneous In/Out 0.00 1,606.52 0.00 9,941.67

0.00 5,786.04 3,500.00 16,119.58 3,141.00




Total Expenses 179,572.00 177,179.73 174,737.55 169,077.08 182,854.08

Net Income / (Loss) -10,472.00 1,211.93 -22,322.55 24,107.35 -46,426.08

Zion Lutheran Church 2015 Annual Meeting January 25, 2015€¦ · Zion Lutheran Church 2015 Annual...

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