The regularly scheduled meeting of CSM’s Governing Council was called to order by the president, Curry Miller at 6:40pm. Other members present: James Bonds, John Pecoul, Richard Timpton, Bythelda Davis, William Jeffrion, Marie Weatherspoon, and Andrea Gibson. Absent members: Arlean Fermanis [out of town], Ellen Bentz [illness], Karen Wulff, and Rachel Ricks. Also present was Ed Urrutia- Treasurer.
Opening Prayer
Open Mike
- A motion was made by Andrea Gibson that CSM sponsor a Blood Drive that would be held here on Carrollton with invitations going out to surrounding churches and neighborhoods. There has been interest by both The Blood Center and Ochsner to provide the services. Seconded by Bonds; motion carried. Signup sheets and other info will be provided once a provider and date is determined.
- Question by Davis—Was there someone using the sanctuary prior to choir practice on last Wednesday? The chairs were scattered and music was in an ‘uproar’. It seemed strange so Miller stated that he would look into it and report back.
- Souper Bowl of Caring will be held on February 1st and Gibson inquired if the church would participate? Motion carried [Gibson/Timpton moved/seconded] to allow youth to take on that project of helping to knock out hunger. More info to follow.
Minutes of Previous Meeting
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and moved/seconded by Gibson/Weatherspoon for acceptance in the absence of the secretary. Motion carried.
Financial Report – presented by Urrutia.
The operating loss so far is $80K as opposed to the budgeted deficit of $87K. Question – Will pledge cards be issued? No. Pecoul moved to pass out pledge cards to the membership along with an explanation. Communicate that no one will come ‘knocking on your door’ or ‘send you to bankruptcy court’ if finances change and a member is not able to complete the pledge. The cards should be thought of a prayerful estimate of the member’s monetary intention for the year. Motion carried unanimously.
Bonds/Pecoul moved/seconded that a Stewardship Committee be formalized for next year – 2015 –anticipating it to be further developed by and in conjunction with the new minister, Rev. Brockett.
Jeffrion/Timpton moved/seconded acceptance of the Financial Report. Motion carried.
Pastor’s Report – see attached report presented by Miller; Pastor was in New Members meeting.
Board of Trustees [BOT] – Report attached; presented by Jeffrion.
Corrections as related to The Good Gang – at no time did The Good Gang offer to pay for use of space; as dictated by the Boy Scouts of America guidelines, sponsoring organizations are to provide meeting space and leaders for the unit.
There are two replacements needed for the BOT; Nominating Cmte is aware.
Jeffrion/Bonds moved/seconded acceptance of the report. Motion carried.
Diaconate – presented by Gibson.
No written report; however, the Diaconate is striving to clarify its duties and the expectations of the congregation. There was also discussion on the budget request by the Diaconate. Gibson/Timpton moved/seconded acceptance of the oral report. Motion carried.
Christian Education – no written report.
Miller stated that the Christmas Vacation Bible School will be held December 29 – 30, 2014 9am – 2pm. here at Carrollton.
FYI:
- Gibson questioned if Christmas gifts would be presented to the staff; told that $50 per staff member would be given. Weatherspoon will create a letter for the pastor’s gift.
- 2015 Budget review/approval will be held Thursday January 8, 2015 at 6:30pm after the BOT meets at 6pm. Congregation should be able to peruse the Budget at least three weeks prior to voting on it.
- Board/Committee reports should be in the office by January 6th.
- Annual Meeting is to be held Sunday January 25, 2015 after worship service.
Closing Prayer offered by Pecoul.
Adjournment – 8:15pm.
Next regularly scheduled meeting is Tuesday January 27, 2015.
Respectfully Submitted,
Andrea L. Gibson for Arlean Fermanis