Diocesan Council News

Minutes May 2016

2016-07-28T13:08:00.001-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
May 25, 2016
Minutes

Opening Devotion: opened at 6:05pm.

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Mr. Robert Batchelor, The Rev. Bettine Besier, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Ms. Susan Ursillo, Mr. Henry Dziadosz, Mr. Dennis Burton, The Rev. Pam Rannenberg, The Rev. Susan Carpenter, The Rev. Noel Bailey, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck,

Others in attendance: Canon Betsy Fornal, Ben Sibielski, Liz Crawley, The Rev. Joyce Penfield, Ms. Nancy Kaull Ms. Karen Weavil

The meeting opened at: 6:39pm

Approval of Agenda: the agenda was approved as distributed.

Approval of Minutes from: April 27, 2016

Guests
1. Episcopal Charities – development of Council Task Force to work together strategically [guest Nancy Kaull] Nancy Kaull spoke to the fact that Charities is in transition. Listening sessions and Learn & Lead offered opportunity to hear from the diocese. Bettine clarified what role the Council might play in conjunction with the Charities board, working together to strategize and get a clear direction and take steps to get there. Highlighted the new strategy to have agencies and Episcopal churches working together. Susan Ursillo made a motion to form a 6-person Task Force [3 from Council, 3 from Charities] to evaluate a direction for a plan for Council and Charities to work together, which would include a situation analysis and SWAT analysis, to be brought back to Council to form a strategic plan. The motion was approved. Executive Committee will work to find those from Council.
2. Amazing Grace Ministry – next steps [guest The Rev. Joyce Penfield]. Current status: Joyce talked statistics, releases, average length of imprisonment, etc. Trying to keep two slots alive: women’s medium and maximum facility; and men’s minimum, major building that men are released from. Once a week to each; Joyce teaches two courses for potential volunteers; Goal to teach someone to replace William Ogburn; recruiting went well, 12 signed up had 3 training sessions; challenging to get things going, up against getting volunteers to show up consistently; Stephanie Shoemaker been visiting men’s; takes 2 months to be approved access to prison as visitor, very bureaucratic; need commitment for at least 2/month. Once a month not enough. A deacon ministry, assigned or volunteered; Course: House of Healing.

Reports
• Finance: Robert Batchelor gave the Treasurer’s Report. Audit was favorable. Budget on target. The Treasurer’s report was approved as presented. Ted referred to the Safety Code Grant Request. We are even at this point [financially] but may need to find a way to help parishes that still need to upgrade to meet their fire safety codes. Mudrak funds still available.
• Staff Reports: Canon Grenz referred to the Fiduciary Responsibility Checklist handout – went out to all parishes to review, complete and return to the diocese. Canon Fornal reminded us of our policy to keep all clergy updated on Safe Church and all can easily access what modules need to be taken [LEM’s, etc.].

Action Items:
• A motion was made to Approve the Diocesan Contribution for Use of Church Buildings, offering reimbursement of expenses by having a standard rate. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to Approve the Diocesan Conflict of Interest Policy, a requirement for all non-profits. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to adopt the Whistleblower Policy as a formal policy of Council. The motion was approved.

Other Business
• Nomination process – next steps – continuing to gather more names through a discernment process, given to the Elections Committee of Diocesan Convention, who might we be discerning, who to ask to serve.
• Schedule 1 summer Council meeting: Wednesday, August 10, 2016, 6pm in the 2nd floor conference room of the diocesan office.

Bishop’s time
• DIT – new process of vetting [every 6 years] RFP on other options.
• St. George’s investigation to become public sometime in June.
• Formal proposal from Rob Hirschfeld – hot button issues – pilgrimage down the Connecticut river in CT, climate change, gun control at the weapons factory, etc. summer of 2017.

Information and Announcements:

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday, June 22, 2016, 6pm – ECC.

UPCOMING EVENTS:
• ECC Event: Saturday June 4th 6-10pm @ ECC
• Diaconal Ordinations: Saturday, June 11, 2016, 10am, St. Paul’s, Pawtucket

Adjourned: 8:24pm

Respectfully Submitted

Liz Crawley

Minutes April 2016

2016-07-28T13:07:00.003-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
April 27, 2016
Minutes

Opening Devotion

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, Mr. Robert Batchelor, The Rev. Noel Bailey, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Pam Rannenberg, Canon Linda Grenz, Ms. Lora MacFall, Mr. Robert Larder, The Rev. Bettine Besier, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Ms. Susan Ursillo, The Rev. Susan Carpenter, the Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Ms. Doris De Los Santos

Others in attendance: Canon Betsy Formal, Ms. Liz Crawley, Ms. Karen Weavill

The meeting opened at: 6:05pm with a devotion led by Bishop Knisely

Approval of Agenda: The agenda was approved, with additions, as distributed.

Approval of Minutes: The minutes from March 30, 2016 were approved as distributed

Reports
• Introduce Karen Weavill, Diocesan Development Director
• Episcopal Charities was reported by The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, with an update on how the board is moving forward with the current campaign, 2 cycles: fundraising that begins in Lent; and giving of the grants after accepting applications, vetting the agencies by visiting, bringing results back to the board. Comments: is it costing too much in admin costs vs. amount raised? Working on having CDC and Charities work together with granting money; news releases, let others know to assist in giving outside the Episcopal church;
• Nominations Discernment Process led by Canon Grenz; Council spent about 30 minutes on this process. Do with SC and CDC. Speaks to sustainability of leadership.
• Finance Report was given by Mr. Robert Batchelor; Bob reviewed the Financial statements of March 31, 2016; he reviewed the plant assets; and the Reconciliation of 2015 Reported Monthly report. The Finance Reports were accepted as presented.
• Staff Reports: Betsy: L&L: 135 attendees, Communications, high praise. Canon Grenz: 3 candidates for St. George’s; Amazing Grace Ministry report submitted by The Rev. Joyce Penfield;

Action Items
• A motion was made to approve the Diocesan Gifts Policy. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to accept the appointment of The Rev. Nathan Humphrey as the Vice President of Council. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to accept the appointment of The Rev. Bettine Besier to the unexpired term as member of the Executive Committee. The motion was approved.

Other Business
• Ted called attention the The Living Church article on St. John the Evangelist and their choristers.
Bishop’s time
• Bishop announced Michael Cunningham’s resignation from Council due to personal workload; Bishop visited with the Governor today; Dennis Burton reported that his surgery was successful; Dennis working successfully on a forecasting process for the diocese; Clergy Safe Church day was last week and well attended; SMHFC has a video worth watching see the bishop’s Facebook page for the link; Susan Ursillo attending a conference on violence, will bring it back – have Susan see Joyce Penfield. National Association of Episcopal Schools…how schools and diocese will work together, vetting chaplains, best practices interaction.

Information and Announcements:
• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday, May 25, 2016, 6pm, Diocesan Office, 2nd floor conference room

UPCOMING EVENTS:
• Budget Listening Session #1: Wednesday, May 4, 2016, 7-9pm, Sts. Matthew & Mark, Barrington
• Ordination of Linda Griggs: Saturday, May 7, 2016, 10am, St. Martin’s Providence
• Budget Listening Session #2: Tuesday, May 10, 2016, 7-9pm, St. Luke’s, East Greenwich
• Eastertide Confirmations: Saturday, May 14, 2016, 10am, St. Barnabas, Warwick
• Diaconal Ordinations: Saturday, June 11, 2016, 10am, St. Paul’s, Pawtucket

Respectfully Submitted,

Liz Crawley

Minutes March 2016

2016-07-28T13:03:00.004-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
March 30, 2016
Minutes

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Bettine Besier, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, The Rev. David Dobbins, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Ms. Sue Hurn, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, Ms. Lora MacFall, Mr. Henry Dziadosz, The Rev. Pam Rannenberg, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Mr. Bob Batchelor, Ms. Susan Ursillo, Mr. Robert Larder, The Rev. Susan Carpenter

Others in attendance: Mr. Dennis Burton, Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Fornal, Ben Sibielski, The Rev. Peter Tierney

The meeting opened at: 6:00pm with the Opening Devotion read by Bishop Knisely.

Approval of Agenda: The motion passed to approve the agenda as distributed.

Approval of Minutes from February 24, 2016 were approved as distributed.

Reports
• The Rev. Peter Tierney, Program & Budget – reviewed the handout which outlined the focus areas of P&B. Suggested that in the fall P&B visit Deanery meetings either in person or via short film of the spring budget listening sessions.
• Financial reports: Treasurer’s Report was given by Robert Batchelor, refer to Feb 29, 2016 TR handout; The TR was accepted as presented. Commission on Finance report was given by The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, with reference to the COF minutes of March 2016; See the application for accessibility/safety code grants, updated.
• Accessibility and Safety Code Grants; should churches with endowment money use that rather than this grant money? 2 churches need immediate fire safety fixes, fear of being shut down. We want to prioritize remaining $ for churches fearing closure due to fire safety problems. Prioritize fire code over accessibility. Bettine will respond back to the missions and encourage those that have a high need for fire code issues to apply asap. Run a separate report on the Resource Fund each month for Council.
• Staff Reports: CFO: Line of Credit for diocese: handout: see motion below. ECC Strategic plan in process with a team hoping to have in place for diocesan convention; Development Officer position – 32 applications – finalists identified, goal to have someone in place before the end of May; Canon Betsy Fornal– successful leadership institute, over 80 people present; Chaplaincy – Task Force formed looking at what is and looking ahead to what may be [slowly]; goal to have clergy and lay in every secondary education institute in RI; Canon Linda Grenz – Ascension Cranston called Santiago Rodriguez; Candidates for St. Jorge’s have backed out due to health issues, starting over at St. Jorge’s in search; St. Andrew’s and St. Barnabas have discernment teams in place and starting work; Trinity NS very beginning stages; St. Paul’s Wickford assistant position being eliminated; St. Mary’s Portsmouth hoping for a finalist as an assistant this week; Marsue Harris PIC at Holy Cross Middletown.

Action Items
• A motion was made to approve the pledging of invested assets in the DIT to establish a Line of Credit with USTrust having a credit limit of $10,000,000. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to approve a one-year membership with the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce, with recommendation that the diocesan Development Officer determined renewal in one year’s time. The motion was approved.

Other Business

Bishop’s time
• Peggy; Filling Peggy’s role with Episcopal Charities; HOB meeting; Director of Hallworth House replacement – new candidate agreement in place; A Word to the Church.

Information and Announcements:
• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday, April 27, 2016, 6pm at the Diocesan office, 2nd floor conference room.

UPCOMING EVENTS:
• Deacon’s Retreat: April 15-17, 2016, ECC
• Clergy Day, [Safe Church Training]: Thursday April 21, 2016, 9am-4pm, St. Martin’s Providence
• Learn & Lead: Saturday, April 23, 2016, 9am – 3pm, St. Mary’s, Portsmouth
• Retired Clergy Luncheon: Wednesday, April 27, 2016, 11:30am, Epiphany, Rumford
• Ordination of Linda Griggs: Saturday, May 7, 2016, 10am, St. Martin’s Providence
• Eastertide Confirmations: Saturday, May 14, 2016, 10am, St. Barnabas, Warwick

Adjourned: 8:30pm

Respectfully Submitted

Liz Crawley

Minutes February 2016

2016-07-28T13:02:00.001-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
February 24, 2016
Diocesan Office, 2nd Floor Conference Room
Minutes

Opening Prayer was offered by the Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely.

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Ms. Susan Ursillo, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, The Rev. Susan Carpenter, Ms. Sue Hurn, The Rev. Bettine Besier, The Rev. Noel Bailey, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey

Others in attendance: Bob Bergstrand, Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Fornal, Ben Sibielski

The meeting opened at: 6:08pm

Approval of Agenda: approved as distributed.

Approval of Minutes from: The minutes from January 23, 2016 were approved as distributed.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer. In the absence of Treasurer Robert Batchelor, the Rev. Ted Hallenbeck gave the report. Final 2015 numbers not in yet.

Committee/Ministry Reports
• MDG’s – Bob Bergstrand: handout of old goals and now new [162] goals set by the United Nations which came about at the Paris Climate Change Conference – now called Sustainable Development Goals [17]; Bob’s recommendation is to continue with the original 8 MDG’s rather than the newer, broader goals. Going forward do we decide at Diocesan Convention or keep it at the Diocesan Council level? Vote on the money for 2015 and how the existing MDG committee connects to Council looking ahead. Bob reviewed the 3 chosen granted agencies for 2015; A motion was made to approve the distribution of the 2015 MDG grants to the following agencies: 1,000 Jobs Haiti; Plan International USA; Precious Children’s Orphan Home. The motion was approved. Be sure to publicize this. Bettine will continue to be the liaison to the MDG Committee for council.
• Financial Reports [Treasurer’s, Commission on Finance] The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck reported on the COF; Line of Credit and Gifts Policy will be upcoming items to be reported on as they continue to be in process; The Rev. Bettine Besier reported on her visit to the COF and their application for a grant [Accessibility Grant] that was denied; Nathan Humphrey made a motion that the remaining balance of the dedicated $100K for matching grants up to $10,000 be available to churches for accessibility projects or to address safety and code violations. The motion passed.
• Report on Council Workday – Nathan Humphrey, Sue Hurn; Nathan reported. Share with Episcopal Charities, parishes. Announce results at Chrism Mass, Learn & Lead, Leadership Institute, on web site.
• Diocesan Resource Fund: Canon Linda Grenz reported on the DRF. See handout.

Action Items
• A motion was made to appointment to the Diocesan Audit Committee: The Rev. Robert Brooks, Mr. Gregory de Groot and The Rev. Mary Canavan. The motion was passed.
• Membership considerations. A motion was made to support the co-sponsorship with the Interfaith Blessing of the Sea. The motion passed. Defer the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce.
• A motion was made to approve the distribution of the 2015 MDG grants to the following agencies: 1,000 Jobs Haiti; Plan International USA; Precious Children’s Orphan Home. The motion was approved.
• Nathan Humphrey made a motion that the remaining balance of the dedicated $100K for matching grants up to $10,000 be available to churches for accessibility projects or to address safety and code violations. The motion passed.

Bishop’s time
• Primates meeting – still figuring out what happened, not clear; HOB meeting next month; St. George’s School; Safe Church and Title IV training for all clergy on April 21, 2016; Companion relationship – Navajoland a possibility; Presbyter Retreat; Development Officer – applications coming in with a couple of viable candidates.

Staff Reports
• Canons reports. Hispanic churches – new assignments for priests almost ready to announce; discernment process for three other churches – St. Barnabas, St. Andrews and Trinity North Scituate; Dan Barker back at St. Ann’s, Block Island;

Information and Announcements:
• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday March 30, 2016 at the Diocesan Office 2nd floor
Upcoming Events
• New Employee Orientation: Friday, February 26, 2016 10am – 1pm, diocesan office
• Trinity Institute: Saturday, February 27, 2016, 9am -12pm, St. Paul’s Pawtucket
• Leadership Institute: Saturday March 5, 2016, 9am – 3pm, St. John’s Barrington
• Chrism Mass: Tuesday, March 22, 2016, 10am -1pm, Church of the Ascension, Wakefield
• Learn & Lead: Saturday, April 23, 2016, 9am – 3pm, St. Mary’s, Portsmouth

The Rev. Peter Tierney will be our guest at our March meeting to report on Program and Budget.

Adjourned: 8:25pm

Respectfully Submitted
Liz Crawley

Minutes January 2016

2016-03-16T12:28:00.003-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
January 16, 2016
Diocesan Office, 2nd Floor Conference Room
Minutes

Opening Welcome

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, Mr. Michael Cunningham, Ms. Susan Ursillo, The Rev. Bettine Besier, The Rev. David Dobbins, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Ms. Sue Hurn, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Ms. Doris de los Santos, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Mr. Henry Dziadosz, Mr. Robert Batchelor, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Noel Bailey

Others in attendance: Liz Crawley, Dennis Burton, Ben Sibielski

The meeting opened at:2:30pm

Approval of Agenda: approved as modified to add Goals rewritten from council work day.

Approval of Minutes from: December 16, 2015 with the edit to 2 typos.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer was given by Mr. Robert Batchelor. December numbers are in with no more changes anticipated; ending in the black. Only $18,700 in unpaid apportionment from churches from December. The report was accepted as presented.

Committee/Ministry Reports
• Finance Commission report was given by The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck. He noted that the COF has moved their monthly meeting time and place to 5pm at St. Luke’s, EG. Refer to COF minutes of January 12, 2016. Financial forecasting program in the setting up phase.
• CFR – possibly invite James DeWolf Perry to join Council for a visit by phone call. Remove CFR from monthly reporting.

Action Items
• A motion was made to appoint The Rev. Peter Tierney as Chair of the Program & Budget Committee with his term ending in 2018; to appoint Ms. Susan Ursillo to the Compensation & Benefits Committee with her term ending in 2018. The appointments were approved.
• A motion was made to issue apportionment rebates to those churches who paid in. The motion was seconded by Doris De Los Santos. Discussion. 2 in opposition. The motion was passed. A second motion was made to pay out the rebate in June 2016. The motion was seconded by Ted Hallenbeck. The motion was passed.
• A motion was made to give $900 to RSCM for their spring Evensong. The motion was passed.
• A motion was made to approve Council meetings dates for 2016, meeting on the 4th Wednesday of the month [with exceptions], with a start time of 6:00pm and with the location through June 2016 at the diocesan office 2nd floor conference room. The motion was passed by all present.

Other Business
• Trinity Institute – 4 locations around the diocese will offer viewing.
• Goals rewritten from Council Work day – Liz, Nathan and Sue Hurn to cull these.
• MDG’s – Bettine reported, spoke to Bob Bergstrand and Bob is interested in re-doing the process and will try to join us at February or March meeting as a task force update.
• Doris – how do families and parishes follow up with youth after spending time at camp? Invite Meaghan to come to a Council meeting to talk about building this structure.

Staff Reports
• Veronica Tierney Priest-In-Charge at Christ Church, Lincoln
• Liz Habecker – Interim Rector St. Michael’s, Bristol
• CFO – ECC developing strategic plan; Development Officer – job description ready to go and will launch on January 20th.

Bishop’s time
• Peggy Amatore update on her health.
• Anglican Communion’s reaction to Episcopal Church
• Hallworth House – Administrator retiring, in search for a new one
• St. George’s School update

Information and Announcements:

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday February 27, 2016 at the Diocesan Office 2nd floor

• Upcoming Events
• Installation of The Rev. Craig Swan at St. Peter’s, Narragansett, January 21, 2016 @ 7pm
• Trinity Institute: January 22-23, 2016
• New employee Orientation: Friday, February 5, 2016 10am – 1pm, diocesan office
• Parochial Report Workshop: Saturday February 13, 2016, 9am – 1pm diocesan office
• Presbyter Retreat, February 22-24, 2016 @ Alton Jones Campus
• Leadership Institute, Saturday March 5, 2016, 9am – 3pm, St. John’s Barrington

Adjourned:3:40pm

Respectfully Submitted

Liz Crawley

Minutes December 2015

2016-03-16T12:27:00.003-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
December 16, 2015
St. John the Evangelist
Minutes

Opening Welcome from vicar, the Rev. Nathan Humphrey with hymns and a Collect.

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Mr. Michael Cunningham, Mr. Robert Larder, Ms. Susan Ursillo, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, Mr. Robert Batchelor, The Rev. Bettine Besier, The Rev. David Dobbins, The Rev. Susan Carpenter, The Rev. Pm Rannenberg, Mr. Bill Plumb, Mr. Dennis Burton, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Ms. Sue Hurn

Others in attendance: Ms. Ruth Batchelor, Canon Betsy Fornal, Mr. Ben Sibielski, Ms. Liz Crawley, Mr. Zack Allen.

The meeting opened at: 6:44pm

Approval of Agenda: approved

Approval of Minutes from: November 18, 2015, approved.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer by Mr. Robert Batchelor reviewed the reports as distributed. The minutes were accepted as distributed.

Committee/Ministry Reports
• Finance Commission report was given by the Rev. Ted Hallenbeck. Refer to the COF minutes as distributed.
• CFR –reported by The Rev. David Dobbins, board and steering committee are working on 2016 agenda; history of slavery and slave trade in RI, connection in the history and evidence today in race relations; education focused on their history, hopefully seeking advocacy for cultural change. Collaborate, catalyst and convener.

Action Items

• A motion was made to approve the distribution of the 2015 MDG Funds as follows: $5,000 to the Precious Children’s Orphan Home; $4,500 to the Society of St. Margaret; and $5,000 to Plan International USA. A motion was made to table to time certain with a request for more information from an MDG committee member before voting. An amended motion was made to reserve the $14,500 MDG 2015 budget amount into 2016. The amended motion was approved. A motion was made to appoint the Rev. Bettine Besier as liaison to the MDG Committee. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to approve the allocation of the MacSparran/Lee fund estimated 2016 income in the amount of $15,000 to be distributed to support Diaconate Training. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to designate the following amounts of cash compensation to be clergy housing allowance for 2016 in accordance with the Internal Revenue Code [Section 107]: the Re. Gillian Barr, $20,000; the Rev. Meaghan Brower, $3,000; The Rev. Canon Linda L. Grenz, $90,000; The Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, $5,000; and The Rev. Sean Manchester, $8,990. The motion was approved.
• Upon the recommendation of the Task Force assigned, a motion was made to approve 1 one-year membership to the Episcopal Network for Economic Justice [ ENEJ]. The motion was approved.
• Royal School of Church Music Diocesan Evensong funding request. Report from Michael Cunningham, no disbursements at this time. The fund no longer has a requirement to disperse funds. A specific dollar amount will need to be requested to go forward. Michael Cunningham will follow through on this.
• Affirmation of the Executive Committee’s decision on December 10, 2015 to disburse a one-time grant in the amount of $12,000 from the Susan Hudson Fund of Episcopal Charities to HCA/Oasis. The motion was affirmed by Council.
• A motion was made for the approval to authorize up to 20K of the Susan Hudson Fund for 2016 without prior Council approval. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to approve the adoption of the Policies on Safe Church, Sexual Misconduct, and Protection of Youth. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to approve The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz and Ms. Joan DeCelles, Assistant Treasurer, as signatories for 2016 on the Church Beyond the Walls bank account; The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Ms. Joan DeCelles, Assistant Treasurer, and Ms. Elizabeth Crawley as signatories for 2016 on the A.A. Gammell Fund bank accounts; and The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Ms. Joan DeCelles, Assistant Treasurer, Mr. Robert L. G. Batchelor, Treasuere and Mr. Dennis Burton, CFO, as signatories on all other diocesan bank and DIT accounts. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to approve the actions of the Susan Hudson fund Advisory Committee and the Episcopal Charities Advisory Board to disburse $5,000 from the Susan Hudson Fund Grant to the Epiphany Soup Kitchen. The action was approved.

Information Items & Other Business
• Rules of Order – refer to handout.
• January 16, 2016 Council workday

Other Business

Staff Reports
• Report of the CFO – Dennis Burton reported on the hiring of a Development Director for the diocese. Almost ready to launch the recruitment of this position; Revolving Loan fund, revisions will be upcoming that will be beneficial to us in three areas in how we fund the loans. Will increase income o the diocese by $40,000/yr if the revisions happen.
• Report of the Canons: Trinity Institute – listen for a change around social justice. Live broadcast [dates] 9am -4pm – 3 sites possibly 4 around the diocese.
• Ben reported on Thrivent’s success with thr diocese ot date and mentioned an upcoming Marketing Agreement that the COF will review before placing before Council for vote of approval.

Bishop’s time
• A motion was made for Council to consent to the following bishop’s appointments: Mr. Michael Audette, Chair of the Advisory Board of the Episcopal Conference Center [ECC]; Ms. Nancy Kaull as Chair of the Episcopal Charities Advisory Board; and The Rev. David Ames as Chair of the College Chaplaincy Task Force. The motion was approved.
• Deacon’s School [Dio of MA]
• Update on Candidates, Postulants

Announcements:
• Diocesan Leadership Christmas Party, December 19, 2015 at 4pm, 145 Grotto Ave, Providence [home of Canon Grenz and Del Glover]
• Council workday Saturday January 16, 2016 @ diocesan office, 9am-4pm [includes our January council mtg].
• Installation of The Rev. Craig Swan at St. Peter’s, January 21, 2016 @ 7pm
• Presbyter Retreat, February 22-24, 2016 @ Alton Jones Campus
• Leadership Institute, Saturday March 5, 2016

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: will be included as part of the Council Workday, Saturday January 16, 2016, 9am - 4pm in the 2nd floor conference room of the diocesan office.

Adjourned: 8:35pm

Respectfully Submitted

Liz Crawley

Minutes November 2015

2016-03-16T12:26:00.004-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
November 18, 2015
Ascension, Cranston
Minutes

Opening Welcome: Michael Cunningham

In attendance: The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Mr. Dennis Burton, The Rev. Susan Carpenter, Mr. Henry Dziadosz, Mr. Michael Cunningham, The Rev. David Dobbins, Mr. Bob Batchelor, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, The Rev. Noel Bailey, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Ms. Doris De Los Santos,

Others in attendance: Canon Betsy Fornal, Charles Cowen, Ben Sibielski, Nancy Kaull

The meeting opened at: 6:30pm

Approval of Agenda: approved as distributed

Approval of Minutes from: with edits to the October 21, 2015 under action items clergy compensation, remove the word large and insert the word metrics. The minutes were approved.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer was reported by Robert Batchelor and was accepted as presented.

Millennium Development Goals: Bob Bergstrand, chair and will report on 2015 funds distribution before year end.

Committee/Ministry Reports
• Finance Commission was reported by the Rev. Ted Hallenbeck. He called our attention to the November Commission on Finance minutes for review.
• Episcopal Charities: The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck introduced Nancy Kaull and he gave a brief history of Charities and how they work. Nancy Kaull, Chair of the Advisory Board, described the vetting process. Diocesan Council thanked Nancy Kaull for her time.
• Center for Reconciliation: The CFR elected James DeWolf Perry as Executive Director. Presented of Traces of the Trade last evening at St. Paul’s, Wickford, film well received and stimulating conversation followed. Received $10K from Thrivent; a 2nd $10K from donor with another $10K to follow after the first of the year; 501c3 application ready to be filed. Diocese is the financial agent, with all transactions passing through the diocesan books. Will the Episcopal church have a voice in the media regarding reconciliation, diversity, etc?

Action Items
RESOLVED that Diocesan Council approve the action of the Episcopal Charities Advisory Board for 2015 Grant Distributions in the amount of $403,700 from the Annual Fund. The motion was approved.

RESOLVED that Diocesan Council approve the action of the Episcopal Charities Advisory Board for a grants totaling $15,500 from the Susan Hudson Memorial Fund, to be distributed as follows: $500 to the Poverty Conference Sponsorship in collaboration with the Rhode Island State Council of Churches; $15,000 to Jonathan Daniels House to fund one Episcopal Service Corps Member to be placed in local social service and Advocacy organizations in the Providence area and for leadership training, spiritual formation and vocational discernment. The motion was approved.

• A motion was made to elect The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, Mr. Bill Plumb and Ms. Doris De Los Santos for a one-year term to the Executive Committee. The motion was approved; A motion was made to elect Ms. Liz Crawley to serve a one-year term as Secretary of the Executive Committee. The motion was approved.
• The following Bishop’s appointments to the noted committees were confirmed by Diocesan Council: Peter Tierney as Chair of Program & Budget; Susan Wrathall as member of Episcopal Charities; Sarosh Fenn as member of Commission on Finance; Michael Cunningham as Vice President of Diocesan Council.
• [Will discuss on Clergy day and Presbyters retreat with clergy] A motion was made to approve the 2016 clergy salary and benefits minimum requirements as presented. One no vote. The motion to approved carried.
• Approval of 2 Congregational Development Commission grants as distributes [see handout]. The motion was approved.
• Approval of Policies on Safe Church, Sexual Misconduct, Protection of Youth. Move to December.

Other Business
• Request for membership form the ENEJ. The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, the Rev. Noel Bailey and Mr. Michael Cunningham will vet the agency. Liz will scan the documents and send to them.
• Development Director search – creating a recruitment team, job description ready, this is a critical position; need to have this to find other revenue sources; will work with emphasis on ECC and CFR; restore the Cathedral;

Report of the Canons
• Hispanic Ministries – tentative plan on moving through the next year as two clergy retire; Hispanic Ministries Committee has been self-generating, bishops would like that committee to be a Episcopal/Lutheran function and the current HMC has agreed to that, it will now become a committee of Council; Liz Habecker moving to St. Michael’s; Peggy Amatore out on a long-term medical leave.

Bishop’s time
• The bishop was not present at the meeting.

Information
• Report of St. Dunstan’s, outside interested parties: received a request from organization outside of the diocese, met with the bishop, left them with lots to consider. What does Council want to do with this? Now that’s it’s a 501c3 less restrictive on disbursement. Who deals with the requests? How to vet the organizations that request funds?
• January 23, 2016 Council workday – discuss facilitator option. Agreed that we would ask Sue Ogle to facilitate. Goals for council for the year; review and digest the 2015 Task Force goals; reconciliation and evangelism – how do we dovetail into the PB’s mission with these. Strategic planning 3-5 years out; what is the Episcopal church’s position on and perspective in the media on refugees, racism and reconciliation; Episcopal Charities criteria for funding agencies. The Rev. Mary Ann Mello will help Canon Linda Grenz build the agenda.

Announcements and Events:
• Installation of The Rev. Rob Travis at Ascension, Wakefield, Nov 22nd 4pm
• Advent Clergy Quiet Day: December 3rd, St. Mary’s Portsmouth, 9am
• Installation of the Rev. Rob Travis at St. John the Divine, Saunderstown Dec 13th 4pm
• Diocesan Leadership Christmas Party, December 19, 2015 at 4pm, 145 Grotto Ave, Providence [home of Canon Grenz and Del Glover]
• Installation of The Rev. Craig Swan at St. Peter’s, January 21, 2016 @ 7pm
• Council workday Saturday January 23, 2015 @ diocesan office, 9am-4pm [includes our January council mtg].
• Presbyter Retreat, February 22-24, 2016 @ Alton Jones Campus
• Leadership Institute, Saturday March 5, 2016
Ted sent us off in prayer.

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday, December 16, 2015 @ St. John the Evangelist, Newport

Adjourned: 8:46pm

Respectfully Submitted

Liz Crawley

Minutes October 2015

2016-03-16T12:25:00.003-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
October 21, 2015
St. James Church, North Providence
Minutes

Opening Welcome at 6:30pm from The Rev. Judy Mitchell and Joan Collins

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely. The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, The Rev. David Dobbins, Ms. Doris de los Santos, Ms. Sue Hurn, M. Susan Ursillo, Ms. Ellen Vadney, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Dennis Burton, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Mr. Robert Bergstrand, The Rev. Noel Bailey, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, Mr. Robert Batchelor, Mr. Michael Cunningham

Others in attendance: Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Fornal, Mr. Ben Sibielski, The Rev. Judy Mitchell, Ms. Joan Collins

The meeting opened at: 6:41pm

Approval of Agenda: so moved and approved.

Approval of Minutes from September 16, 2015, so moved and approved.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer was presented by Robert Batchelor and was accepted as presented.

Committee/Ministry Reports
• Finance Commission: Bob Bergstrand reported on the current Commission on Finance minutes. Looking at a new tool [Plan Guru] for forecasting budget starting in 2016.
• Center For Reconciliation update: The Rev. David Dobbins gave us an update. Showings of Traces of the Trade around the diocese. Well attended. Negotiations in process for the black clergy of greater Providence to get involved with a showing of Traces of the Trade and in other ways. Volunteer interns in place. Stop the Violence prayer vigils happening to have police and business leaders interact, building relationships.

Action Items
• After much discussion primarily surrounding the Hispanic Ministries budget for 2016, a motion was made and passed to vote on an amended budget. A motion was made to take $70,708 of the surplus of the Congregational Development Commission Mission Fund and increase the revenue side of the 2016 budget by that same amount and restore the equivalent amount to the Hispanic Ministry side of the budget. A motion to move on the amended budget was made and passed.
• Task Force on College Chaplaincies in RI – to look a t the strategy on how we fund chaplaincies around the date. A small task force will be formed moving forward.
• Approval of Clergy Compensation and Benefits recommendations [handout]. Due to possible changes in compensation metrics a request was made to move this item to November Council agenda. A motion was made to approve the 2016 rates for healthcare and dental rates. [no second necessary] The motion was approved.
• Diocesan Council approved the recommendation presented by CDC for a restart grant from the mission fund for St. James in Woonsocket it the total amount of $70,000 over the next three years.
• Bishop Knisely nominates Mrs. Mary W. Daly, Mr. J. Geddes Parsons and The Rt. Rev. David B. Joslin to membership on the Commission on Investments for presentation to the 2015 Diocesan Convention. The motion was approved.

Other Business

Report of the Canons
• Interim for St. Michael’s is underway; Mercedes and Jose have both announced their retirements.
Bishop’s time
• Bishop, Karen and Kenney are going to the election of the PB on November 1st
• United Way – vehicle for giving/pledging to your parish
• The bishop thanked the outgoing members of council whose term ended today

Information and Announcements:
• Diocesan Council meeting dates November 2015 through January 2016 in place – will decide 2016 dates with new Council membership in January
• Policies on Safe Church Training, Sexual Misconduct and Protecting Youth
• Request for Sponsorship: RI Interfaith Power & Light

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday, November 18, 2015, Church of the Ascension, Cranston

• Upcoming Events
• ECC Fall Fundraiser: October 23rd, 6-10pm, Aldrich Mansion, Warwick
• Seating of Presiding Bishop: November 1st
• Diocesan Convention: November 6-7
• Installation of The Rev. Rob Travis at Ascension, Wakefield, Nov 22nd 4pm
• Advent Clergy Quiet Day: December 3rd, St. Mary’s Portsmouth
• Installation of the Rev. Rob Travis at St. John the Divine, Saunderstown Dec 13th 4pm
• Diocesan Leadership Christmas Party, December 19, 2015 at 4pm, 145 Grotto Ave, Providence [home of Canon Grenz and Del Glover]

Adjourned:
9:19pm
Respectfully Submitted,

Liz Crawley
Secretary

Minutes September 2015

2016-03-16T12:24:00.001-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
September 16, 2015
Minutes
St. James, Woonsocket

Opening Welcome was given by The Rev. Peter Tierney, Vicar of St. James.
The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely offered prayer.

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Mr. Robert Batchelor, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Dennis Burton, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, Ms. Doris de los Santos, Ms. Ellen Vadney, Mr. Robert Larder, The Rev. Canon David Lucey, Ms. Susan Ursillo, The Rev. David Dobbins, Mr. Michael Cunningham, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Ms. Sue Hurn, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Mr. Robert Bergstrand.

Others in attendance: The Rev. Peter Tierney, Ms. Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Fornal, Mr. Ben Sibielski

The meeting opened at: 6:30pm

Approval of Agenda: was approved with three edits: two additions to Other Business of council meeting dates and RIIPL membership; and the moving of two items to Task Force Reports from Action Items.

Approval of Minutes: The minutes from August 5, 2015 were approved.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer was given by Robert Batchelor, referencing the current August 31, 2015 Financial Reports. Overall positive outlook. The Treasurer’s Report was approved as presented.

Task Force reports/updates:
• Robert Batchelor reported that the status of St. Dunstan’s has been approved by the IRS to be a 501[c]3.
• RSCM update from small group was reported by Michael Cunningham. Priscilla Rigg’s request for donation to RSCM program, referred to subcommittee and upon review of the request, the sub committee learned of other requests for this money from other agencies/groups. Need more time to review the other requests and the agencies they represent. Michael has communicated this to Priscilla Rigg.

Committee/Ministry Reports
• Finance Commission was given by Ted Hallenbeck. Ted called attention to the Warwick Neck property discussion that the Finance Commission had with leadership from St. Barnabas. He also called attention to St. Mary’s EP. Both parishes left feeling heard and helped. Bob Bergstrand added some comments regarding the churches in the diocese being in compliance with Fire Safety codes.
• Program & Budget report of the 2016 proposed budget. David Lucey gave a brief overview, asking for Council’s approval to move forward with this proposed draft for presentation to the Pre-convention meetings in October. A motion was made to approved this budget to be presented at the Pre-convention meetings on October 15 & 20, 2015. The motion was approved.
• Episcopal Camp and Conference Center. Canon Grenz presented The Rev. Meaghan Brower’s report as distributed.
• Center For Reconciliation [CFR] The Rev. David Dobbins reported that an environmental scan was performed, affirming our identity. Traces of the Trade is one focus, with several showings around the diocese upcoming; flurry of media attention, NY Times, NPR bishop’s interview; planning a dramatic presentation in celebration of the diocesan 225th anniversary; media has spawned offers of help from around the nation financially and in other ways.

Action Items
• Approval of Diocesan Policies & Procedures;
o Accounting Policy was received and filed with these minutes.
o A motion was made to table the Sexual Misconduct Policy to the October 21, 2015 meeting. The motion was passed.
o Protection of Children & Youth – table for another meeting; Doris de los Santos will work with diocesan staff canons to improve this policy. Refer to chancellor regarding implications to missions and churches; A motion was made to table this to next meeting on October 21, 2015. The motion passed.
o A motion was made to table the Safe Church Training for Clergy. The motion passed.
• 2016 assessment reduction and what to do with it [$27,000]. A motion was made to distribute the $27,028.00 equally to all congregations including specialized missions and unorganized missions. The motion was passed.
• A motion was made to approve the authorization of Dennis Burton as signee on checking accounts and contracts, moved, seconded. The motion was passed.
• Bob Batchelor reported on the completed sale of Charlestown property.

Other Business
• Council meeting dates – refer to Executive Committee, passed.
• RIIPL membership – A motion was made to refer this request to sub committee to vet this organization, to make a recommendation to Executive Committee for vote. The motion passed with one nay. Michael Cunningham will populate the rest of the committee of he and Bettine Besier.

Report of the Canons
• Canon Grenz updated the parish clergy assignments; The Jonathan Daniels House [JDH] residents arrived, at their jobs and happy; Episcopal Charities campaign going well; report on several church properties, maintenance work that has been done;
• Canon Fornal: reminder of deadlines for nominations for convention;

Bishop’s time
• Time off in August, kayaking; Mutual ministry review with Standing Committee; traveling in September. The bishop thanked the Rev. Canon David Lucey for all his efforts of the past few years with his work on P&B and wished him well as he departs for a new calling in VA.

Information and Announcements:

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday, October 21, 2015, location TBD.

• Upcoming Events
• Small Church Summit: Saturday September 19, 2015, Christ Church, Lincoln, 9am-3pm
• Installation of the Rev. Patrick Greene at Sts. Matthew & Mark, Barrington, October 4, 2015, 4pm
• Clergy Day: Tuesday October 6, 2015, 9am – 1pm, Christ Church, Westerly
• Diaconate Ordination of Linda Griggs: Wednesday October 7, 2015 7pm, St. Martin’s Church, Providence
• Pre-convention meeting: Thursday October 15th, 7pm @ Holy Cross, Middletown
• Installation of the Re. Jennifer Zogg at Epiphany, Rumford, Oct 18th, 4pm
• Pre-convention meeting: Tuesday, October 20th, 7pm, Sts. Matthew & Mark, Barrington
• ECC Fall fundraiser, October 23rd, 6-10pm, Aldrich Mansion, Warwick
• Diocesan Convention: November 6-7, St. Luke’s EG
• Installation of The Rev. Rob Travis at Ascension, Wakefield, Nov 22nd 4pm
• Installation of the Rev. Rob Travis at St. John the Divine, Saunderstown Dec 13th 4pm

Adjourned: 8:48pm

Respectfully Submitted

Liz Crawley

Minutes August 2015

2015-09-30T11:15:00.002-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
August 5, 2015
Minutes

Opening Welcome

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, The Rev. Noel Bailey, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Robert Batchelor, Mr. Michael Cunningham, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Ms. Sue Hurn, Mr. Robert Larder

Others in attendance: Ms. Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Fornal, Mr. Ben Sibielski, Mr. Dante Tavolaro, Ms. Jane Jellison, The Rev. Mercedes Julian, Ms. Margaret Noel, Mr. Dennis Stark, Ms. Missy Bennett

The meeting opened at: 6:28pm

Approval of Agenda: motion was made and the agenda was approved as presented.

Approval of Minutes: a motion was made to approve the minutes of June 17, 2015. The motion was passed.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer was given by Mr. Robert Batchelor; diocesan audit was performed and all was clean, in conformity and accepted; no financial or treasurer report due to no summer meeting of the Commission on Finance; Charlestown property closed on June 30, 2015, property now owned by Washington County Community Development Corporation to build units of residence.

Committee/Ministry Reports
• General Convention Report was given by several members of the Depuation.
• Center for Reconciliation [CFR] – Bishop Knisely reported in David Dobbins’ absence. An environmental scan is being completed; retreat for strategic planning on August 20th; screening of the Traces of the Trade will be hosted by our three historical churches in our diocese this fall; CFR would like to present the 225 year history of the Diocese of RI at our diocesan convention this year.

Action Items
• Council needs to discuss the assessment reduction in 2016 (c. $27,000): what to do with the money - grants, refunds, by parish or by deaneries? September 16, 2015 meeting will vote on this.
• Council to consider the Royal School of Church Music request for support. A motion was made to move this to a small committee made up of Mr. Michael Cunningham, Ms. Sue Hurn, and Mr. Robert Batchelor for report back to council within two months. The motion was passed.

Other Business
• Move the September 2015 Diocesan Council meeting to September 16th, location will be St. James Church, Woonsocket.
• Report on St. Dunstan’s –the change in incorporation to make the Diocese primary was presented by Mr. Robert Batchelor.
• Update on the JDH interns and any budget changes for this program in 2015. Linda reported on our four new interns, how people are needed around the diocese to assist in a variety of ways such as skill training, gift sharing, hospitality, etc.
• Update on 225th Diocesan Anniversary – Waterfire. Two musical groups including New Fire, interactives, volunteer groups from around the diocese will take part plus more on September 12th.
• Discuss and schedule ministry groups to invite to 2015 Diocesan Council meetings. September will be Program & Budget for 2016 budget planning; The Rev. Gillian Barr & JDH interns in October; November will be Episcopal Charities;
• Diocesan policies and procedures review including Safe Church revisions. This is a handout for review, edit and comment and vote at a later date [Sep?].

Report of the Canons
• A Small Church Summit is planned for Saturday Sep 19th at Christ Church, Lincoln; Christ Church Westerly hiring assistant priest The Rev. Amy Spagna; we are in dialogue with Lutherans around Hispanic ministry.

Bishop’s time
• Storm damage to St. Marks’, St. Michael’s and St. Luke’s EG; announcement of Dennis Burton joining diocesan staff as CFO; A resolution was made to pay Dennis Burton $1[by check] per year; the resolution was passed; Clergy day with Episcopalians and Baptists on October 13th at Canonicus, details coming;

Information and Announcements:
• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday September 16, 2015 @ St. James church, Woonsocket.
• Upcoming Events
• General Convention Report Back Meeting: Tuesday September 8, 2015 Church of the Redeemer, Providence
• Waterfire, diocese’s 225th anniversary: Saturday, September 12, 2015 beginning at sundown
• Small Church Summit: Saturday September 19, 2015, Christ Church, Lincoln
• Installation of the Rev. Patrick Greene at Sts. Matthew & Mark, Barrington, October 4, 2015, 4pm
• Clergy Day: Tuesday October 6, 2015, 9am – 1pm, Christ Church, Westerly
• Diaconate Ordination of Linda Griggs: Wednesday October 7, 2015 7pm, St. Martin’s Church, Providence
• Pre-convention meeting: Thursday October 15th, 7pm @ Holy Cross, Middletown
Pre-convention meeting: Tuesday, October 20th, 7pm, Sts. Matthew & Mark, Barrington

Adjourned: 8:53pm

Respectfully Submitted
Liz Crawley

Minutes June 2015

2015-09-30T11:14:00.002-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
June 17, 2015
Minutes

Opening Welcome

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas, Canon Linda Grenz, Mr. William Plumb, Ms. Susan Ursillo, Mr. Robert Larder, The Rev. David Dobbins, Mr. Robert Batchelor, Mr. Robert Bergstrand, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Michael Cunningham, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck,

Others in attendance: Mr. James Burgess, Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Formal, Ben Sibielski

The meeting opened at: 6:35pm

Approval of Agenda: The agenda was approved as presented.

Approval of Minutes from May 27, 2015 were approved as distributed.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer: Presented by Mr. Robert Batchelor, Treasurer. The Treasurer’s Report was approved as presented.

Task Force reports/updates

• Committee for Compensation and Benefits was presented by Michael Cunningham; some numbers have been expanded to reflect better what we are allocating in salaries; looking to see if we are still competitive with neighboring dioceses; mandatory health insurance will be tackled next year; professional development will be looked at; is average Sunday attendance a better way to look at church size rather than pledging units?

Committee/Ministry Reports

• Finance Commission: presented by Mr. Robert Bergstrand; fiscal condition of diocese remains solid; Apportionment Aging Report is improving; Investment draw over 5% of market value is being watched closely; are parishes prepared to have a fire inspection and do they have the ability to upgrade what is necessary?
• Congregational Development Commission: Mr. James Burgess was our guest from CDC and gave an overview on their function as a commission. Have moved to a more structured way on allocating grants; Major focus on grants and Learn & Lead; how to bring the generations together for worship/church.
• Center for Reconciliation — PowerPoint Presentation and report on June 6 & 7 meetings presented by the Rev. David Dobbins.
• Program & Budget report on June 3 & 4 meetings: covered under canons report.
• Waterfire: Ben reported that $10,000 has been raised to have a Waterfire event. Celebrate 225 years as a diocese. Date of event TBD.
• Nathan Humphrey reported that it is still undecided if Sam Waterston will be our guest speaker at our diocesan convention this year.

Action Items

A motion was made for the Diocesan Council to adjourn and sit as the Corporation of the Center for Reconciliation.

Acting as this corporation, a motion was made to elect the slate of board members as presented. The motion was passed with 3 abstentions.

A motion was made to adjourn as the Corporation of the Center for Reconciliation and reconvene as the Diocesan Council.

• A motion was made for Diocesan Council, upon recommendation of the Commission on Congregational Development, to approve a three-year parish grant for a total amount of $33,000 to Church of the Ascension, Wakefield/St. John the Divine, Saunderstown. The motion was passed unanimously
• A motion was made for Diocesan Council, upon recommendation of the Commission on Congregational Development, to approve a one-year mission grant extension in the amount of $10,000 to Church Beyond the Walls. The motion was passed unanimously.

Other Business
• Resolved, that the bishop’s appointment of The Rev. Veronica Tierney to the Committee on Canons for a two-year term was confirmed by Diocesan Council; and Resolved, that the bishop’s appointment of The Rev Gillian Barr until convention 2015, The Rev. Dennis Bucco for a one-year term, The Rev. Greta Getlein for a two-year term and Mr. Joel Gardner for a two-year term to the Committee on Resolutions was confirmed by Diocesan Council. Both resolutions passed unanimously.

Report of the Canons
• Canon Grenz reported on the June 3 & 4 Program & Budget presentations, Planning for the Future; we learned many people didn’t know the programs of the diocese; good turnout of 35 at each group; brief overview on how the budget will be done over the next 3 years. Update on churches and priests in transitions; Church of the Advent coming along [physical plant]; Church of the Beloved had confirmations, receptions and baptisms in big numbers; library room in cathedral has had roof fall in.

Bishop’s time
• General Convention in Salt Lake City – departing on June 22 and returning July 4; a budget request in at GC to reduce the apportionment ask down to 15%; a march on common sense reform to lower gun violence in SLC; August trip to Day 1 [radio show segment]; Watch Hill Chapel, Prudence Island and York, Maine preaching over the summer.

Information and Announcements:

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday August 5, 2015 @ the diocesan office 2nd floor conference room, 6:30pm.

Upcoming Events

• June 22 – July 4, 2015: General Convention [includes travel time]
• June 27, 2015: Gathering of Christian Formation & Youth Leaders, St. Peter’s, Narragansett, 10am -12pm.

A motion to adjourn was made and passed.

Adjourned at 8:47pm.

Respectfully Submitted,

Liz Crawley

Minutes May 2015

2015-09-30T11:13:00.003-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
May 27, 2015
Minutes

Opening Welcome

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Noel Bailey, Mr. Robert Batchelor, Mr. Robert Bergstrand, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Michael Cunningham, Canon Linda Grenz, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Ms. Sue Hurn, Mr. Robert Larder, The Rev. David Lucey, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Mr. Bill Plumb, Ms. Susan Ursillo, Ms. Ellen Vadney,

Others in attendance: Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Fornal, Ben Sibielski, The Rev. Erik Larsen, The Rev. Mercedes Julian, Ms. Lil Hargrove, Mr. Steve MacAusland, The Rev. Anita Schell, Joan Soares

The meeting opened at: 6:32pm

Approval of Agenda: moved to accept as presented. Passed unanimously.

Approval of Minutes from April 22, 2015: Amended to include that Michael Cunningham served as secretary; moved to accept as amended. Passed unanimously.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer was given by Treasurer, Robert Batchelor. The status of the audit in process report should be ready in a couple of weeks for review by the diocesan audit committee. The Treasurer’s Report was accepted as presented.

Review of previous Action Items (ARs): none

Task Force reports/updates: none

General Convention Report: The Rev. Mercedes, The Rev. Erik Larsen and Bp. Knisely spoke of high points of the General Convention. Bishop Knisely is submitting 2 resolutions to the General Convention.

Committee/Ministry Reports
• Finance Commission: Report given by The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck. Apportionment payments coming in well; only two parishes significantly behind, working with them; working on a major gifts policy that can be shared with parishes to utilize; reactivating a committee to look at percentage policy usage; Mudrack Fund decisions were made.
• Cathedral Report: Canon Grenz gave the report: ready to move to another level, organizational structure in place, June 6th community members meeting, June 7 All Saints’ Cathedral Family Reunion at service; interviewing potential staff; environmental scan will be done over the summer; The Rev. David Lucey added that September will bring some focus to Traces of the Trade;
• Program & Budget – new budget process, context of June 3 & 4 meetings “Planning for the Future”. The Rev. David Lucey reported: Looking to a budget that looks forward, not static; table conversations; specifically targeted to people attending Diocesan Convention;
• Nominating Committee Update: Sue Hurn reported. Leon Sibielski, Chair of the Nominating, has made presentations at Diocesan Council, Dean’s luncheon and at 2 deanery meetings. Working on developing the nominations form. Bishop Knisely added that Jim Rezendes also made a presentation at a deanery meeting on this subject. Encourage former wardens to serve on committees/commissions. Suggestion to have a workshop at Leadership Day in 2016 to educate the laity on committee/commission roles in the diocese; create a form to apply to be appointed;

Action Items
• A motion was made for Diocesan Council to confirm that the Executive Committee will function as the Board of Directors of the St. Dunstan’s Music Fund. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.
• A motion was made to elect the existing board of directors of Hallworth House, as presented, for the year 2015. The motion was seconded, and passed unanimously.
• Approval of the By-laws and Board of Directors of the Center for Reconciliation. A motion was made to table this to next month’s meeting.
Other Business

Report of the Canons
• Canon Grenz: Update on new clergy appointments around the diocese. St. Peter’s ready to make a call; Christ Church, Westerly and St. Mary’s Portsmouth are looking for full time assistants.
• Canon Fornal: reminder of gathering of Christian Formation Leaders on June 27th at St. Peter’s, Narragansett.

Bishop’s time
• Thanked the staff for hard work the past few months; record number of Confirmands at St. George’s School; Church of the Beloved 20+ Confirmands coming up June 14; stream [internet] the budget hearings.

Information and Announcements:
• Ben Sibielski gave a report on Waterfire: had a meeting today with development director. For $5000 we could participate in a way to capture an audience that we may otherwise not, $10,000 option would allow us to have choir groups from diocese to participate; 4 possible dates in September /October to be forthcoming.
• The Rev. Nathan Humphrey reported that Sam Waterston will let us know in a few weeks if he is a possible speaker at Diocesan Convention this year.

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday, June 17, 2015 @ Church of the Transfiguration, Cranston; summer meeting August 5, 2015 at diocesan office.

Upcoming Events
• May 30, 2015: Deacon’s 30th Anniversary Celebration, St. Martin’s Church, 2pm
• June 3 [St. Matthew’s, Jamestown] & June 4, [Church of the Good Shepherd, Pawtucket] 2015: Budget Meetings, 7pm
• June 6, 2015: Community Leaders Cathedral Meeting, S Stephen’s, Providence, 9am-12pm.
• June 6, 2015: Alzheimer’s Training for Laity, St. James, N Providence, 9am -4pm.
• June 6, 2015: ECC Fundraiser, at ECC, 6pm
• June 13, 2015: Clergy Picnic, at ECC, 12-3pm
• June 22 – July 4, 2015: General Convention [includes travel time]
• June 27, 2015: Gathering of Christian Formation & Youth Leaders, St. Peter’s, Narragansett, 10am -12pm.

Closing Prayer given by The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck

Adjourned: 8:32pm

Respectfully Submitted

Liz Crawley

Minutes April 2015

2015-09-30T11:12:00.002-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
April 22, 2015
Minutes

Present: Canon Fornal, Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Ben Sibielski, William Plumb, Rev. Bettine Bessier, Rev. David Dobbins, Bob Batchelor, Bishop Knisely, Michael Cunningham, Sue Hurn, Mary Ann Mello, Rev. Noel Bailey, Ted Hallenbeck, Robert Larder, Canon Grenz.

Guests: Mary Hafey, Rev. Meaghan Kelly

Opening Collect
6:32 PM by Bishop Knisely

Welcome by host, Mary Hafey, Sr. Warden, St. Thomas Episcopal Church, Alton

Approval of Agenda
Moved to accept as presented: Dave Dobbins
Seconded:Ted Hallenbeck
Passed unanimously

Approval of Minutes from March 25, 2015
Moved to accept as presented: Dave Dobbins
Seconded:Ted Hallenbeck
Passed unanimously

Finance: Report of the Treasurer
Bob Batchelor reviewed the budget report, monthly expense vs income report and the balance sheet. As of this date, neither the Treasurer nor Joan Decelles see any red flags and believe the accounts are in good order. We are under in our expenses, but that is primarily a timing issue and not an indicator of unusual savings.

St. Dunstan’s Fund
The diocese’s efforts to work with the IRS to convert the St. Dunstan’s private foundation continues to be slow-going. Converting will allow us to determine different ways to use the corpus going forward. The switch over from a private foundation was stalled at the IRS when they could not find the paperwork. Last week, in a call with the IRS, two more documents need to be submitted to make the change. However, the documents complicate the matter. Work will continue.

Task Force reports/updates:
Deaneries
Bishop Knisely reported on his luncheon meeting with the deans. A long conversation on nominations and how they will work was held. Leon Sibielski will assist them. Nathan Humphrey, Sue Hurn, and Noel Bailey were also present. A suggestion was made by the Bishop to encourage former senior and junior wardens to run for diocesan positions. Canon Lucey is now the dean of the East Bay and will serve as Council Liaison. A downloadable list of volunteer ‘jobs’ in the diocese will be added to the website.

Discussed the need to assemble policies, procedures, and important documents for new Council members, new clergy, committee members, etc. Bishop Knisely suggested branded thumb drives that could be distributed easily.

Committee/Ministry Reports
• Finance Commission
Ted Hallenbeck reviewed the minutes of the April COF meeting. All but one parish is on time with apportionment payments through the first quarter. COF is interested in encouraging parishes to investigate mobile giving/payment options. These options are very popular with younger demographics and the tech-savvy. A recent bake sale at a parish got an additional $325 through credit card sales using a Square. Trinity church has a QR code in the bulletin. Data security is an important consideration. A task force is being formed, staffed by Canon Fornal.

The $25 monthly charge is holding some churches back from utilizing Vanco. The diocese will look into possibly pooling by deanery or other way. Tech support will likely be needed to visit parishes who have less in-house tech .

• Cathedral
Rev. David Dobbins shared the new Center for Reconciliation brochure developed by Ben Sibielski and presented at the Providence Preservation Society event (68 people) where the cathedral was taken off the list of endangered buildings. The Center for Reconciliation was incorporated on April 21, 2015. A candidate for a Project Manager is being interviewed. Council members can help by spreading the word. The Bishop reminded the Council that the Center for Reconciliation is one part of the multi-faceted Cathedral Project and helping people understand that can be very useful.

• Survey Questions
Ted Hallenbeck reviewed a series of questions developed by the 2015 Task Force to survey select diocesan bodies on the future of the diocese. Ted asked the council to complete one this evening and give them to him or Canon Grenz.

• 225th Anniversary of the Diocese
Rev. Humphries reported that Bishop Frank Griswold is unavailable to celebrate the anniversary at convention evensong. Another suggestion is the President of the Episcopal Actors Guild of America, Sam Watterson. The council supported extending an invitation. Ben has head back from Waterfire. There is a meeting on the 24th now that the schedule is set, we can select a date with minimal conflicts and less expense.

• Episcopal Camp and Conference
The Rev. Meaghan Kelly joined the council and presented her quad report. ECC is going along well. There has been an increase in programming in all areas. Increasing gifts to support the programs is a new priority, but the past records are poor. She is working on developing those relationships. Summer registrations have been increasing by 30 to 50 campers per year. She gave updates on City Camp, Family Camp, and Bridge Camp. She would like to see more diocesan events in the off season- spiritual renewals, silent retreats, etc. Two fundraisers are being planned, the new one is more casual and geared to former campers. As attendance increases, the amount of the subsidy in the budget increases, though there has been a partially offsetting increase in giving. Bishop Knisely supports the cost as a week of camp is a powerful Christian formation event as strong as a year of Sunday school- for the students and the counselors.

Action Items
• Diocesan Partnerships, Memberships & Sponsorships
Michael Cunningham reviewed the ad hoc sub-committee proposal for a policy and process to review and approve requests from third parties to partner with the diocese, become a member of an outside organization, to sponsor an organization or event. One typo was noted by Rev. Nathan Humphries and was corrected.

Moved to approve: Bill Plumb
Seconded: Ted Hallenbeck
Passed unanimously. Will be sent to 2015 for incorporation.

Other Business

Hispanic Committee Quad Chart was presented and reviewed.

Bingo at Ascension & Transfiguration led to a conversation about the gambling policy of the diocese. A proposed policy on this will be brought to the Council later in the year for update.

Report of the Canons

Canon Fornal reported that the older adult ministry is completing the Alzheimer’s training on June 6 when laypeople meet. There will be one more additional clergy training with Western Mass in the fall. 150,000 Baby Boomers are retiring every day. They represent an untapped resource of skill and ability that parishes could be tapping into.

There will also be a Christian Formation event at St. Peter’s by the sea on the last Saturday in June. The goal is to see how we can help and support each other in our parish formation work.

Canon Grenz reported on transitions in the diocese

• Rev. Rob Travis begins at St Johns, Saunderstown/ Ascension, Wakefield. Joint service begins April 24. A very part-time priest will come sometime in the fall
• Rev. Jennifer Zogg begins May 31st at Epiphany, Rumford.
• Rev. Peter Tierney has left St. Andrews, Tiverton to begin at St James Woonsocket on June 1st.
• Rev. Veronica Tierney has left Holy Cross to move to Woonsocket with her husband, Peter.
• St. Peters by the Sea got their names and have already whittled down to final four and is starting to interview. Rev. Bill Locke is moving from there to St. Andrew’s, Tiverton. Rev. Andrew Mead will fill in at St. Peter’s by-the-Sea.

Also, Church of the Advent has a new tenant: a home school association. 350 children are, potentially, using the church on Tuesdays, Thursdays and the occasional Saturday. This, along with the rental of the rectory, means CofA is close to break even. The Coventry community is becoming aware of Church of the Advent.

Bishop’s time
• Provincial Synod meeting report
Went with Canon Fornal and Dennis Stark. No one was elected to provincial positions.

• General Convention News
The Presiding Bishop calling for a revision to the prayer book. Presiding Bishop nominations will be announced on May 1.

• St. George’s School is had 21 students confirmed and 1 baptism on April 23 and the Bishop presided.

• First contract for deacon’s school signed. We have hired a part timer to create learning outcome. Interviewing faculty currently. Dioceses of RI, WMA, CT, NH are on board. ME and VT are likely to join in the next five years. MA has their own program. About $25K (roughly half of the total cost) from McSparren-Lee fund which is for clergy education.

• Wardens Day was a great success. 2/3rds of parishes were there. Discussions were wide-ranging. Fiduciary responsibility was stressed. Child safety and alcohol policy issues rose and legal exposure was emphasized.

• New diocesan property committee is holding a property committee workshop on May 2. 17 parishes are signed up currently. Encourage your parish to attend.

• Conversation about winter damage to parish properties. Minor damage except at the rectory at St. John’s Newport. Earthquake insurance now available. Diocesan properties are covered for about $700. Highly encouraged for parishes with brick and stone buildings. Diocese umbrella coverage kicks in after parish liability limits are reached, but only if you have the basic coverage for earthquakes.

Closed in prayer at 8:18 PM
Adjourned

Information and Announcements:
• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: May 27, 2015, Emmanuel, Newport

• Upcoming Events:
• April 30, 2015: Clergy Day at St. John’s, Barrington 9am – 2pm.
• May 2, 2015: Property Committee Workshop, Diocesan Office, 9am – 2pm
• May 9, 2015: Eastertide Confirmations, St. Barnabas, Warwick, 10am
• May 16, 2015: Faith & Family Day at Pawsox, 3pm
• May 30, 2015: Deacon’s 30th Anniversary Celebration, St. Martin’s Church, 2pm
• June 3 [St. Matthew’s, Jamestown] & June 4, [TBD] 2015: Budget Meetings, 7pm
• June 6, 2015: ECC Fundraiser, at ECC, 6pm
• June 13, 2015: Clergy Picnic, at ECC, 12-3pm
• June 22 – July 4, 2015: General Convention [includes travel time]

Minutes March 2015

2015-09-30T11:11:00.002-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
March 25, 2015
Minutes

Opening Welcome:
From Trinity Interim Rector The Rev. Mitch Lindeman, The Hon. Scott Avedisian, Senior Warden and Mr. Fred Holtz, Junior Warden.

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Noel Bailey, Mr. Robert Batchelor, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Michael Cunningham, Ms. Doris de los Santos,
The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, The Rev. Edwin Hallenbeck, Ms. Sue Hurn, Mr. Robert Larder, The Rev. Canon David Lucey, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Ms. Susan Ursillo, Ms. Ellen Vadney.

Others in attendance: The Hon. Scott Avedisian, Ms. Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Fornal, Mr. Fred Holtz, The Rev. Mitch Lindeman, Mr. Benjamin Sibielski, Mr. Leon Sibielski.

The meeting opened at: 6:28pm

Approval of Agenda: the agenda was approved as presented.

Approval of Minutes from: February 25, 2015 minutes were approved as presented.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer: Treasurer Robert Batchelor reported. ACS system is allowing them to be more proactive, working well. The treasurer’s report was approved as presented.

Committee/Ministry Reports
• Leon Sibielski on Nominating Committee: 3 handouts were shared; high praise for using the voting machines from the state of RI at 2014 diocesan convention, do it again, minimal expense and very expedient; deaneries will hopefully be a source of help in filling vacancies on committees and commissions, needs to be a community effort from many to fill them; diversity in filling vacancies, how do we recruit in this way; Leon intends to address this issue at deaneries; job descriptions are in the works and hope to have them all by 2016; invite the committees to bring job descriptions when they are Diocesan Council guests.
• Finance Commission: The Rev. Edwin Hallenbeck gave the report in place of vacationing Robert Bergstrand; we receive no report on Commission on Investments, so Finance Commission is investigating on getting a quarterly report on this to share with Diocesan Council; let rates be known when they are set to parishes taking a draw from the DIT; forecasting information [$$] through 2017-2018 helpful for Program & Budget to plan from our own entities [ECC, etc], moving from a static model to a more fluid model.
• Cathedral Report: Canon Linda Grenz reported that a $10,000 grant from RI Foundation for consultants expenses was received; all components [by-laws, corporation, etc], chain of custody very important; a number of grant applications are being submitted: Providence Preservation Society celebrating their 20th anniversary of the most endangered list, removing Cathedral of St. John from that list this year and they will be hosting an event in the library next month; ESC folks have fellowships that we are looking at; implementing the position of Project Manager to establish a development office; full time development director is being sought.
• Quad document report – Ellen reviewed the latest update version of a Committee Report; Episcopal Charities is using one for reporting on different agency visitations made by the board members; Mary Ann Mello has used it at work with good results;
• Celebrating the 225th anniversary of the diocese with a Waterfire – in process of gathering more details

Action Items
• A motion was made to have the Diocese of Rhode Island serve as the fiscal agent for the Province I Diaconal school being created. The motion was passed.

Other Business

Report of the Canons
• Canon Betsy Fornal reported the success of the Learn & Lead program; Canon Linda Grenz reported the success and well attended Treasurer’s Workshop; Property Day coming up and Warden’s Day; transitions in the diocese – gathering names for St. Peter’s Narragansett; St. John the Divine and Ascension called Robert Travis; St. James Woonsocket has called Peter Tierney; Bill Locke will be interim at St. Andrew’s; Holy Cross will have an open position;

Bishop’s time
• HOB meeting recently held in Kanuga; Deputation for General Convention meeting last night; new Presiding Bishop will be elected this year, May 1st should reveal the short list of candidates; Task Force to Reimagine the Episcopal Church [TREC]; Marriage Canon – looking to be changed, controversial; Leadership Day;

Information and Announcements:
• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: April 22, 2015 – St. Thomas, Alton; gather at 6pm, meeting starts at 6:30pm.
• Upcoming Events:
• March 31, 2015: Clergy Renewal of Vows, St. Thomas’, Greenville, 10am
• April 5th - Easter
• April 11, 2015 – Warden’s Day, St. Martin’s, Providence, 9am – 2pm.
• April 17 & 18, 2015: 2015 Synod & General Convention Orientation
• May 2, 2015: Property Committee Workshop, Diocesan Office, 9am – 2pm
• May 9, 2015: Eastertide Confirmations, St. Barnabas, Warwick, 10am

Adjourned: 7:54pm

Respectfully Submitted
Liz Crawley

Minutes February 2015

2015-09-30T11:10:00.003-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting

February 25, 2015

Minutes

Opening Welcome:

From Epiphany Interim Rector The Rev. Maryalice Sullivan and Mr. Christopher Utter, Senior Warden.

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Noel Bailey, Mr. Robert Bergstrand, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Michael Cunningham, The Rev. David Dobbins, The Rev. Edwin Hallenbeck, The Rev. Virginia Heistand, Mr. Sue Hurn, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Mr. William Plumb, Ms. Susan Ursillo, Ms. Ellen Vadney, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz,

Others in attendance: Ms. Liz Crawley, Mr. Benjamin Sibielski, The Rev. Maryalice Sullivan, Mr. Christopher Utter

The meeting opened at: 6:35pm

Approval of Agenda: the agenda was approved as presented.

Approval of Minutes from: January 17, 2015 minutes were approved as presented.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer: In Treasurer Robert Batchelor’s absence, the report was given by The Rev. Edwin Hallenbeck. Ass’t Treasurer Joan DeCelles will work on a budget report that will show the flow of funds in a more evenly distributed breakdown for the year. New account structure working in a positive way for usefulness. We are moving according to budget. The treasurer’s report was approved as presented.

Task Force reports/updates:

Report from 2015 Task Force on the re-visioning of questions asked at Diocesan Convention [sticky note q’s]. The Rev. Edwin Hallenbeck reported that the original questions were condensed into about 3 questions to be used within the committees/commissions of the diocese. Materials out of convention was too broad but useful as a jumping off point.

Committee/Ministry Reports

Finance Commission: The Rev. Edwin Hallenbeck reported. A new report for churches behind in apportionment payments; budget planning – attempt at General Convention to get those dioceses paying below the required ask in apportionment to the TEC up to speed; current pay is at 19%; 3-year budget presented expected to drop in 2016 to18%; in 2017 to 16.5%; and in 2018 to15%; how will that be passed on to our churches? Dioceses to move to the 15% mandatory to TEC.

Action Items

A motion was made to confirm the bishop’s appointments as chairs of Diocesan Committees, Commissions and Task Forces as presented on the distributed list, with the one correction to remove The Rev. Jo-Ann Drake from the Commission on Supplementary Benefits. The motion was passed.
A motion was made to gather a group of three people to discuss how we might restart a Diocesan Recovery Commission. The motion was passed. [we will ask Jan Grinnell, Craig Stenning, Joyce Penfield]

· National Center for Reconciliation [NCFR] Report: The Rev. David Dobbins distributed a handout and referred to it in his report. No action taken.

Other Business

· The Rev. Mary Ann Mello announced that St. Luke’s Pawtucket is hosting a fundraiser for SMHFC - Tom Bair – the Gospel of St. Mark on March 14^th.

Report of the Canons

· Learn & Lead reminder handout; lots of transitions – Eletha Buote-Grieg is retiring from St. James Woonsocket as of 3/1/15; Epiphany Rumford has called a new rector; St. John’s Saunderstown/Ascension Wakefield – making a decision tonight on a call; Canon Grenz reviewed the Work Day Notes from January 2015; title search begun on the diocesan block on all properties [Hallworth House, Edwards Hpmes, etc]; liaison of Council members to committees/commissions process has begun; Executive Committee will bring a schedule next month for reports from committees – we’ll use Quad chart for reporting; invite Leon to March meeting on Nominating Committee; bishop to meet with deans to figure out a plan regarding nominations – invite to Higgins room for lunch; Diocesan Council members need to know the vacancies on committees to recommend people to fill them.

Bishop’s time

· Presbyter’s conference report, included a presentation from Thrivent Financial; 2016 conference has been scheduled; Pete Haynesworth – letters; General Convention time is ramping up with Synod meeting happening in April; 6 Presiding Bishop candidates, will narrow down to 3 to bring to GC;

Information and Announcements:

225^th anniversary of diocese – Waterfire [Ben Sibielski, Doris de los Santos] suggested that we partner with another organization for affordability; maybe a corporate sponsor that may be interested; Diocesan Convention special speaker [Bp. Griswold?]
Quad document report – Ellen Vadney: Ellen gave a Powerpoint presentation on Quad charts, assists in helping to eliminate paper and brings an idea onto a one page presentation.

Next Diocesan Council Meeting: March 25, 2015 – Trinity, Cranston; gather at 6pm, meeting starts at 6:30pm.

Upcoming Events:

March 7, 2015: Learn & Lead, St. Luke’s East Greenwich: Engaging Spiritual Growth – 9am – 3:30pm
March 14, 2015: Treasurer’s Day, St. Luke’s Pawtucket, 9am – 2pm
March 21, 2015 – Worship Leader Training – Emmanuel, Newport, 9am – 12pm
March 31, 2015 – Clergy Renewal of Vows, 10am – St. Thomas, Greenville
April 11, 2015 – Warden’s Day, St. Martin’s, Providence, 9am – 2pm.

Adjourned: 8:15pm

Respectfully Submitted

Liz Crawley

Minutes December 2014

2015-03-09T12:52:00.002-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
December 17, 2014
Minutes

Opening Welcome

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, The Rev. Noel Bailey, Mr. Robert L.G. Batchelor, Mr. Robert Bergstrand, The Rev. Bettine Besier, The Rev. David Dobbins, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Virginia Heistand, Mr. Robert Larder, The Rev. David Lucey, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Mr. Bill Plumb, Ms. Susan Ursillo, Ms. Ellen Vadney,

Others in attendance: Ms. Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Fornal, Mr. Ben Sibielski

The meeting opened at: 6:30pm

Approval of Agenda: with the amendment of adding 2015 Task Force to the agenda, the motion to accept the agenda was passed.

Approval of Minutes: the motion to approve the minutes from November 19, 2014 was passed.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer was given by Mr. Robert Batchelor and the motion to approve the Treasurer’s Report as presented was accepted.

Task Force reports/updates:
• Diocesan Memberships – researching practices of Congregational Development Commission and Episcopal Charities to set standards. More news in January.
• Hallworth House by-laws: the Rev. David Dobbins and Mr. Robert Larder met with Colby Cameron and Cynthia Warren who are revising the by-laws and a draft is being reviewed by Bishop Knisely and Canon Grenz and will have draft ready for Diocesan Council once the review is complete. Very agreeable meeting. Agreed that council elects the board of trustees.
• St. Dunstan’s Fund: still in IRS hands. May need to take some action [distribution of funds] prior to year’s end if no word from them.
• 2015 Task Force: The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck reported. Agreed that one chore for 2015 review is the whole vision of the diocese, interviewing diocesan leadership groups. Requested a ½ hour to 45 minutes [or more?] for diocesan priorities and vision at the January meeting. Determine the spectrum of priorities within the diocese. Not trying to establish, but to define what is out there. Revisioning the way we do our work.

Committee/Ministry Reports
• Finance Commission: Robert Bergstrand reported. Diocese in a solid position. Bob referred to the Cash Balance discussion had at the recent Finance Commission how much cash on hand is necessary vs. investing the funds. They continue to work on this. Investment Draw - parishes are taking more than 5%, an amount that is drawing down their investment. A concern that is being monitored.

Action Items
• MacSparran-Lee Fund – A motion for the allocation of the MacSparran-Lee Fund estimated income in the amount of $26,050 for 2015 to be distributed to support Clergy Day and Presbyter Retreat, Clergy Continuing Education Grants and Clergy Sabbatical Grants was approved.
• Housing Allowance A motion to designate the cash compensation as presented to be clergy housing allowance for 2015 in accordance with the IRS Code [Section 107] was approved.
• 225th Anniversary of the Diocese of RI in 2015 – A motion was made to move this item to our January 17, 2105 Diocesan Council Working day for discussion. The motion was approved.

Other Business

Report of the Canons
• Linda Grenz reported on Cathedral Project – AP and more than 1,000 media platforms reported, LA Times; National Center for Reconciliation [NCR]. Media picked up on the slave museum; Cathedral Corp responsible for the building – a separate 501c3 eventually will be formed for the NCR; Brown University has become a partner through their Center for the Study of Slavery and Justice; world café conversations; Steering Committee of 6 people has been formed; Visioning team is growing; Executive Service Corps of New England [retired execs who volunteer for a modest income] will supply us with assistance; Moving forward with grant writing; how to make it affordable to create and sustain; will this project define us as a diocese? Need a FAQ on website regarding the Cathedral Project questions/interest.
• Betsy Fornal reported that Learn & Lead will be March 7th at St. Luke’s EG; Subject: Spiritual Formation; Episcopal Lutheran School for Ministry beginning the end of January; JDH looking to have 4 fellows for next year and are starting to recruit for next August 2015 start.
Bishop’s time
• TREC Report: Task Force to Reimagine the Church; some pieces not bad, not much theological reflection on changes; need a theological reflection on what they are doing; may be an omnibus up or down vote; changes in committee structures; too many changes at once; Diocese of CT TREC Task Force was formed on their own, similar to our own 2015 Task Force; Province I Retreat – provincial deacons school; bishop to attend to our deanery meetings in 2015.

Information and Announcements:
• Program & Budget: budget planning for 2015 – when do we begin hearings in the spring?
• Bishop’s appointments to Committees of Convention need to be formed by January 2015 Diocesan Council meeting [resolutions, nominations, canons]
• Deaneries to be contacted regarding nominations for committees and commissions
• Sticky notes from Diocesan Convention – will review at January 17th Diocesan Council Working day.
• Facilitation of direct communication [liaison, staff] between Diocesan Council and Diocesan committees/commissions.
• January 17th Work Day – build an agenda [notes: the function of Diocesan Council; what do we want to accomplish?; what does the bishop want?]

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Saturday January 17, 2015 work day & meeting @ diocesan office 2nd floor conference room, 9am – 4pm

• Upcoming Events:
• December 20, 2014: Saturday, 4-7pm Diocesan Leadership Christmas Party @ the home of Linda Grenz and Del Glover, 145 Grotto Ave Providence
• January 6, 2015: Installation of The Rev. Greta Getlein, 7pm @ St. Paul’s Pawtucket
• January 17, 2015: Diocesan Council Work day, 9am -4pm, Diocesan office
• January 22, 2015: Ordination of Jackie Kirby, 5:45pm @ St. George’s School, Middletown.
• February 7, 2015: Celebration of New Ministry of Sunil Chandy, 11:00am @ Christ Church, Westerly
• February 14, 2015: Parochial Report Workshop, 9am – 3pm, Diocesan Office

Adjourned:8:32pm

Respectfully Submitted,

Liz Crawley, Secretary

Minutes January 2015

2015-03-09T12:51:00.003-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
January 17, 2015
Minutes

Opening Welcome

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Michael Cunningham, Ms. Doris de los Santos, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Ms. Sue Hurn, The Rev. David Lucey, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Ms. Susan Ursillo, Ms. Ellen Vadney

Others in attendance: Ms. Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Formal, Mr. Ben Sibielski

The meeting opened at: 2:48pm

Approval of Agenda: the agenda was approved as distributed.

Approval of Minutes: the minutes from December 17, 2014 were approved as distributed.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer: The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck gave the Treasurer’s Report in the absence of the treasurer. $1MIL from recently matured CD’s were transferred into the DIT; Income/Expense statement of 12/31/14 is not final figures, small surplus expected, we are at 98% level on both sides. The Treasurer’s Report was accepted as presented.

Task Force reports/updates:

Committee/Ministry Reports:
• Finance Commission: their gifts policy has not been concluded; some endowment draws in excess of 5% for 2013, conversations starting to encourage parishes not to do this; approved a resolution of thanks to Ron Turnbull, which Ted read.

Action Items
• A motion was made to consent to the appointment of The Rev. Sunil Chandy to the Program & budget Committee. The motion was passed.
• A motion was made to approve a term of ten years for a Revolving Loan of $34,000 at 1.50% to St. George’s Church in Central Falls. The motion was passed.
• A motion was made to explore the “ring of fire” sponsorship opportunity through Waterfire and to make the celebration of the diocese’s 225th anniversary a free public event possibly at the Roger Williams National Park. The motion was passed. {Results of conversation with Barnaby Evans by Doris de los Santos and Ben Sibielski will be shared at the February Council meeting.]
•
Other Business

Report of the Canons
No report

Bishop’s time

Information and Announcements:

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday February 25, 2015 @ Epiphany, Rumford. 6:00pm gather; 6:30pm start of meeting
• Next Executive Committee Meeting: Thursday February 5, 2015 [change] @ 9:30am in the Higgins Room
• UPCOMING EVENTS:
• January 22, 2015: Ordination of Jackie Kirby, 5:45pm @ St. George’s School, Middletown.
• February 7, 2015: Celebration of New Ministry of Sunil Chandy, 11:00am @ Christ Church, Westerly
• Presbyters Conference: February 10-12, 2015
• February 14, 2015: Parochial Report Workshop, 9am – 3pm, Diocesan Office
• March 7, 2015: Learn & Lead, St. Luke’s East Greenwich: Engaging Spiritual Growth

Adjourned: 3:15pm

Respectfully Submitted

Liz Crawley

Minutes November 2014

2014-12-23T09:50:00.004-08:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
November 19, 2014
Minutes

Opening Welcome to the new members of Diocesan Council and a brief orientation led by The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz.

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, The Rev. Noel Bailey, Mr. Robert L. G. Batchelor, Mr. Bob Bergstrand, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Michael Cunningham, Ms. Doris De Los Santos, The Rev. David Dobbins, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Canon Virginia Heistand, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Ms. Sue Hurn, The Rev. Canon David Lucey, The Rev. Mary Ann Mello, Mr. William Plumb, Ms. Susan Ursillo, Ms. Ellen Vadney,

Others in attendance: Canon Betsy Fornal, Ms. Liz Crawley, Mr. Ben Sibielski, Ms Nancy Kaull

The meeting opened at: 6:30pm and the bishop led with prayer.

Approval of Agenda: the agenda was approved

Approval of Minutes from October 22, 2014: Minutes were approved with the following two amendments: under New Business: Mr. Robert Larder and The Rev. David Dobbins to form an ad hoc committee to review the Hallworth House by-laws; The Rev. Dobbins will join the Compensation and Benefits Committee.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer was given by Mr. Robert Batchelor. The report was accepted as distributed.

Review of previous Action Items (ARs):
• None at this time

Task Force reports/updates:
• Deaneries: Need to get nominations persons designated by end of January each year and working on nominations much earlier.
• St. Dunstan's Fund – an update was given by Michael Cunningham: the fund has about $85K and in process of getting a change in status from the IRS; Michael gave a brief history of the school, which could not sustain itself; what are our options and how to stay true to the purpose of sacred music, how to improve and sustain it, is clear in the description. Royal College of Sacred Music program and Youth Evensong have been recipients of funds; recommend we talk to the Historical Society and place history in our archives at URI.
• Process to decide Diocesan Memberships: meeting rescheduled to December 2, 2014.
• Report on Convention visioning process: Canon Grenz gave brief report of results of “sticky notes” from Diocesan Convention, not many gathered but hope for future large diocesan gatherings to use this same process.
• Hallworth House by-laws: change in by-laws was needed to open the physical therapy center. Diocesan Council was pressed to decide before proper review; since then, the by-laws have been reviewed, The Rev. David Dobbins and Mr. Robert Larder will meet with Board of Trustees attorney from Hallwoth House to reinstate some things that were changed as well as other changes to update the by-laws again.
• Elder Task Force: 1st Alzheimer’s training was held in October with12 clergy participating; goal to have two other training programs in conjunction with the Diocese of Western MA. Next one for clergy: January 22, 2015. Later one or two for laity and clergy. Funded by a grant from Province I.
• Small Churches Task Force: The Rev. Bettine Besier reported on what constitutes a small church, some statistics, the summit held in September 2014. Laity is key, empowering them a priority; Refer to handout for summary of details of that summit.
Committee/Ministry Reports
• Finance Commission – report made by Mr. Bob Bergstrand; financial position of diocese remains strong; 1 parish has fallen behind in apportionment payments; annual audit was performed and reflected the strength of our finance department and treasurer; Mr. Robert Batchelor gave an overview of the audit.

Action Items
• Approval of the Episcopal Charities Grants – Nancy Kaull and Ted Hallenbeck presented the 2014 Resolution of Approval of the Episcopal Charities grants.

• RESOLVED that Diocesan Council approve the action of the Episcopal Charities Board of Trustees for 2014 Grant Distributions in the amount of $379,747 from the Annual Fund. The motion was approved unanimously.
• RESOLVED that Diocesan Council approve the action of the Episcopal Charities Board of Trustees for a grants totaling $34,900 from the Susan Hudson Memorial Fund. The motion was approved with one abstention.
• A motion was made to appoint Michael Cunningham as Vice President of Diocesan Council for a one-year term. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to appoint Liz Crawley as Secretary to Diocesan Council for a one-year term. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to appoint Ms. Sue Hurn as Diocesan Council representative to 2015 Task Force for a one-year term. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to confirm the appointment of The Rev. Erik Larsen to the Commission on Finance for a 2-year term. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to confirm the appointment of The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck as liaison from the Commission on Finance to Executive Committee: The motion was approved. A motion was made to appoint The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Mr. William Plumb and Ms. Ellen Vadney as members of Executive Committee for a one-year term. The motion was approved.
Other Business
Discussion about the composition of the Cathedral Corporation: there was a Chapter and a Corporation [original entity, legal board of directors], they were consolidated and Chapter eliminated; we now have a legal entity called the Cathedral Corporation with 6 members appointed by the bishop and 6 elected by the parish; with no parish this reverts to bishop appoints and convention convers; will need to re-do corporation, have conversation with diocese; the three Canons of diocese on Corporation [the Rev. Canon Virginia Heistand, The Rev. Canon David Lucey, and The Rev. Canon Anne Marie Richards]; need to form a 501c3 with secular overtones to assist with grant funding; corporation responsible for building and congregation, how to make the two work together; The Rev. Bettine Besier shared that at convention not everyone had a voice in the Cathedral vote….all were positive speakers and not an opportunity for those to speak against – there were some abstentions in the vote; the process of how the resolution was brought to convention; future Risen – recount story of how we arrived at this resolution, part of the process of the meetings held.

Report of the Canons
Linda reported: Priest-In-Charge at Ascension/St. John the Divine – did not move forward so they are back in the process starting over; Epiphany, Rumford on a short list of clergy options: Trinity, Cranston will have Priest-In-Charge Mitch Lindeman beginning December 1.
Betsy reported: thanks to all who assisted in convention success.

Bishop’s time
Decision made to rotate locations of council meetings for the 2014-2015 year; the Commission on Ministry has done a lot of work revising the process; an opportunity for an alternative way to train deacons, not only the Diocese of MA is in the works; Thanks to staff for work done at Diocesan Convention

Information and Announcements:

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: December 17, 2014 @ St. Paul’s, Wickford

Upcoming Events
• December 20, 2014: Saturday, 4-7pm Diocesan Leadership Christmas Party @ the home of Linda Grenz and Del Glover
• January 6, 2015: Installation of The Rev. Greta Getlein, 7pm @ St. Paul’s Pawtucket
• January 17, 2015: Diocesan Council Work day, 9am -4pm, Diocesan office
• January 22, 2015: Ordination of Jackie Kirby, 5:45pm @ St. George’s School, Middletown.
• February 7, 2015: Celebration of New Ministry of Sunil Chandy, 4:00pm @ Christ Church, Westerly
• February 14, 2015: Parochial Report Workshop, 9am – 3pm, Diocesan Office

Adjourned: 8:25pm

Respectfully Submitted,
Liz Crawley

Minutes October 2014

2014-11-26T08:18:00.002-08:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
October 22, 2014
Minutes

Opening Welcome

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Mr. Robert L. G. Batchelor, Mr. Robert Bergstrand, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Michael Cunningham, The Rev. David Dobbins, The Rev. Patrick Greene, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Canon Virginia Heistand, The Rev. John Higginbotham, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Mr. Sue Hurn, Mr. Robert Larder, Mr. Jim Rezendes [via Polycom], Ms. Ellen Vadney

Others in attendance: Liz Crawley, Mr. Jesse Dooley, Canon Betsy Fornal, The Rev. Canon David Lucey, Ben Sibielski

The meeting opened at: 6:30pm with prayer from The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely

Approval of Agenda: The agenda was approved as distributed.

Approval of Minutes: the minutes of September 24, 2014 were approved as distributed.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer: the Treasurer’s Report was given by Mr. Robert Batchelor and reviewed as distributed; we are currently under budget. The Treasurer’s Report was accepted as distributed.

Review of previous Action Items (ARs):
• Deaneries Task Force: feedback was given by both parties and set for the the next step, job description may be shared.
• St. Dunstan’s – no report at this time
• Process to decide Diocesan Memberships: no report, small group will schedule a meeting; council to make the political decision and P&B to make the budgetary decision;
• 2015 Budget Presentation led by The Rev. Canon David Lucey; put a footnote of explanation in the budget under the discretionary funds – MacSparran /Lee, Fosterian, Dunning, Gammell, Mudrack ; glossary/brochure to define funds or footnote page with the budget; why are some items that are washouts on both sides and others indicated at 0 [zero’s]; St. Philip’s Cemetery is questionable as to whether it should be in the budget or not [footnote it from ACS data base]; David was thanked by the council.
• Sticky notes at convention to gather ideas
• HH by –laws – Bob Larder drew up list

Task Force reports/updates:
• Elder Task Force – tomorrow is the first workshop we are offering, a training program, 12 clergy will be participating;

Committee/Ministry Reports
• Finance Commission – report was given by Bob Bergstrand as outlined in the October 14, 2014 minutes as distributed;
• Specialized Missions- Standing Committee consented to name Church Beyond the Walls as a specialized mission; Church of the Advent adding about 1 new family per week; Church of the Beloved will hopefully be a new mission church next year;

Action Items
• A motion was made to approve the 2015 Diocesan Budget for ratification by Diocesan Convention; the motion was seconded and the motion passed.
• A motion was made to approve the 2015 Compensation & Benefits package as presented by the committee. The motion was passed.

Other Business
• Meeting dates and times [
• Bob Larder and Dave Dobbins will form an ad hoc committee to review the by-laws of Hallworth House; Dave Dobbins will join the Comp and Benefits committee.
• A motion was made to nominate the following people to stand for election at Diocesan Convention for a three year term on the Commission on Investments: Mr. Jeffrey Belden; Ms. Fran Gammell-Roach; The Rev. Dennis Bucco. The motion was passed.
• A motion was made to the bishop’s appointment of Mr. Michael Lofaro as Chair of the Finance Commission was approved.

Report of the Canons
• Linda reported the St. John’s Saunderstown and Ascension, Wakefield have chosen a candidate – together funds will cover the yoked full time lead priest with retired clergy to assist, some shared program opportunities; orientation day here a the diocese on Oct 16th; St. Mary’s Home for Children annual meeting had more than a dozen diocesan clergy in attendance; CDC phone call had by bishop and Linda about Ebola and the stigmatization against Liberian community;
• Betsy reported that we have a full slate [ballot distributed] for Diocesan Convention;
Bishop’s time
• Taiwan – received a lot of satisfaction in making this trip; a true good will mission; TREC information shared; national apportionment asking may drop with the hope to pass that reduction along to parishes; Presiding Bishop’s election, current BP has decided not to stand, final slate offered in May 2015; Bishop visited Yale this past week, spent time with Seminarians; the bishop thanked the outgoing DC members;

Information and Announcements:

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday November 19, 2104 @ TBD

• Upcoming Events
• October 23, 2014: Installation of The Rev. Jennifer Pedrick, 7pm @ St. Mary’s, Portsmouth
• October 30, 2014: Heroes of Faith Breakfast, 7:30am, Rhodes on the Pawtuxet, Cranston
• November 7 & 8, 2014: Diocesan Convention [Friday evening @ St. John’s Barrington; Saturday @ St. Mary’s, Portsmouth]
• November 16, 2014: Installation of The Rev. Mark Sutherland, 4pm @ St. Martin’s, Providence
• December 3, 2014: Wednesday, Clergy Day

Adjourned: 8:47pm

Respectfully Submitted

Liz Crawley

Minutes September 2014

2014-10-30T11:53:00.001-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting

September 24, 2014

Minutes

Opening Welcome was given by Mr. Jim Rezendes, Vice President of council, in the bishop’s absence.

In attendance: The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Mr. Jim Rezendes, Mr. Robert L.G. Batchelor, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Michael Cunningham, The Rev. David Dobbins, The Rev. Patrick Greene, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. John Higginbotham, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Ms. Sue Hurn, Mr. Robert Larder, Ms Ellen Vadney,

Others in attendance: Canon Betsy Fornal, Mr. Ben Sibielski, Ms. Liz Crawley

The meeting opened at: 6:30

Opening Prayer led by Sue Hurn with thoughts and gratitude of this past summer shared by council members.

Approval of Agenda: The agenda was approved as distributed

Approval of Minutes from: The minutes of June 18, 2014 were approved as distributed.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer was presented by Mr. Robert Batchelor with review of the August Financial statement; The Treasurer’s Report was accepted as presented.

Review of previous Action Items (ARs):
• The Strategic Goals Task Force has not yet gathered together, as reported by The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck; No report;
• The Hallworth House by-laws will be reviewed by Mr. Robert Larder and The Rev. David Dobbins, and bring back some comments/suggestions for changes for review by Council. Canon Grenz will send copies of old and revised by-laws to both men.

Task Force reports/updates, Deaneries:
• Sue Hurn reported for the Deaneries Task Force that she has done a report on a job description for Dean and shared with Bp. Knisely and Mr. Jim Rezendes. AR Sue to resend. AR Bp. Knisely and Jim to offer quick feedback to Sue. Once they review this, it will be shared out to Deans of the Deaneries for their input before finalization
• Deaneries will offer possible appointments to Diocesan Council for the bishop’s approval and will be represented by East Bay and West Bay Deaneries for the 2014 Diocesan Convention.

Committee/Ministry Reports:
• The Rev. Bettine Besier reported that the Small Church Summit was very successful, was well attended, people were enthusiastic and want to do it again.
• The Elder Task Force has been given a grant by Prov I for training purposes around the subject of dementia. October 23rd the Alzheimer’s Project will sponsor a training session at St. Matthew’s Jamestown. A lengthier training will be offered at a later date open to parishioners for training focused on assisting the caregivers. This training will be done in partnership with Diocese of Western Massachusetts
• The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck gave the report of the Commission on Finance: they tidied up the Revolving Loan Fund changes to policy; a few churches exploring the possibility of loans through Washington Trust; The Commission on Finance decided to write off St. George’s apportionment not paid for 2013 as a bad debt, as reported in their September 9, 2014 minutes.

Action Items
• The St. Dunstan’s Fund is currently a foundation and has a balance of $85k. We are currently required to disperse at least 5% annually. It is currently in process [with IRS] of having it revert back to a 501(c)3 for two choir schools to have access to those funds. Until IRS makes a judgment, our hands are tied. It was determined that a Task Force of Council is needed to review and bring back to Council some recommendations of a process to determine whether to dissolve and disperse or manage as an endowment. [we will have to distribute at least 5% or more by year end]. AR: Michael Cunningham to lead that task force. Michael will contact Bob Batchelor for the provenance of the original bequest and an update on the IRS status.
• New Program Initiatives – can we come up with a process for handling requests to endorse certain programs such as [RI Interfaith Power & Light]? As a council, do we want to back away from all endorsements or not? Is Diocesan Convention the body to decide? If we endorse, belong to or fund such memberships [e.g.RISCC] we risk being associated with an organization that takes a position (political, ethical, corporate, etc.) that we don’t, do we stand potential of 501(c)3 conflict? Bishop has been clear he will not make these decisions for this diocese. Some highlights of discussion:
o If convention to be the platform, the resolution must have substance
o Perpetual memberships…should they be voted each year?
o Should approval be through the budget process?
o Any organization seeking consideration of something should present to Diocesan Council their request with detail
o Who does the application get submitted to, what is the timeline, what is the overall request, [a framework needed].
o It was decided that a Subcommittee of Council be formed - volunteers for subcommittee: Michael Cunningham, Ben Sibielski, Jim Rezendes AR Jim to call a meeting of this committee. AR Robert Larder will send preliminary steps that he suggested during the meeting to the committee

Other Business

Elections
• Council members need more clarity around appointments and elections, list of all committee openings, which are appointed, which are elected, etc.
Council continuity
• Council agreed to NOT to skip both July and August meeting opportunities, too much loss of continuity
• AR Liz to suggest a Summer council meeting for 2015

Committee on Salary Review
• Bishop’s nominations to council for appointment to Committee on Salary Review: Mr. Michael Cunningham, The Rev. Joan Testin and The Rev. John Higginbotham; Council confirmed unanimously.
Budgets
• The budget proposed for 2015 represents the 2014 budget rolled over into 2015; a recognition of all of the existing programs and what will be needed to continue through 2015. P&B and staff successfully balanced the budget proposed for 2015
• In the future, we need to build the budget based upon where “we” want to take the diocese; 2016 and beyond. This is Council’s budget!
• Do we look at what isn’t being done for the people of RI and focus there? Do we focused on the “underserved”? Are there areas of need that we already focus on, but not enough? Are there several areas that we have passion for and should put our treasures & efforts?
• AR spend most of October’s Diocesan Council meeting going through the 2015 budget line by line, so Council REALLY understands their budget ☺.
• AR David Lucey will be asked to lead presentation with Bob Batchelor and staff available to answer questions. Is there a document that you can send (or recommend from previous handouts) out in advance so council can study in preparation for your discussion?
• AR diocesan staff to arrange and solicit “direction, passions, priorities” ideas at convention. How to solicit ideas at convention? Sticky notes?
• Use the February Council off-site to review the results and then determine how that focus can be accomplished; then direct P&B to set a budget to fund such programs & efforts.
• Inform 2016 convention delegated of this new plan to allow for early (say Q2) Deanery discussions. Should Program & Budget get a preliminary budget reflecting “new” programs & priorities out to the Deaneries much earlier to get feedback?

Report of the Canons
Linda
• Introduced Mr. Ben Sibielski as our new Communications Director
• new employment assignment: The Rev. Sunil Chandy to Christ Church, Westerly
• St. James North Providence and St. Mary’s East Providence both received restart grants and new priest assignments
• St. James received $100K gift from former parishioner; Epiphany, Rumford receiving names next week
• The Rev’s Casey and Melody Shobe have moved to Texas, with Casey taking on a rectorship there
• The Rev. Richard Shippee back from retirement to serve as Interim Ass’t at Emmanuel, Cumberland
• Canon Grenz just returned from Transition Ministry Conference with good names for St. Peter’s and Epiphany
• Washington Trust relationship moving forward
• Thrivent relationship - on a diocesan level [credit union coming out of our Lutheran partnership] with financial services for lay people, providing small loans at low rates
• a resolution will be brought into convention from Cathedral Chapter to affirm the vision of Cathedral becoming a center of reconciliation and performance space. Need lots of money/grants to make this vision come to fruition
• Students at St. George’s School asking for worship services.

Bishop’s time
The Bishop is en route home from Taiwan. Mr. Jim Rezendes, Vice President of Council, spoke about the Property Committee, beginning to get legs under them, covering bigger emergencies first, will check with churches to see who their property leader is to connect with so they know of committee’s existence. Provide all churches with a list of reliable contractors, share better solutions.

Information and Announcements:
Resignations of The Rev. Joan Testin, Mr. Mike Brito and Ms. Jayne Bellows and reasons for their departure from Council; Rescheduling of the Nov, Dec and June meetings to previous week; in November we will decide February all day meeting with newly elected/appointed council members.

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: October 22, 2014, 2nd floor conference room at diocesan office;

• Upcoming Events
• September 25, 2014: Central Deanery Meeting, 7pm @Trinity, North Scituate
• October 2, 2014 – Clergy Day – Epiphany, Rumford
• October 7, 2014: Blackstone Deanery Meeting, 7pm @ Emmanuel, Cumberland
• October 16, 2014: Orientation Day for new employees around the diocese
• October 23, 2014: Installation of The Rev. Jennifer Pedrick, 7pm @ St. Mary’s, Portsmouth
• November 7 & 8, 2014: Diocesan Convention [Friday evening @ St. John’s Barrington; Saturday @ St. Mary’s, Portsmouth]

The meeting ended with prayer led by Linda Grenz.

Adjourned: 9:05pm

Respectfully Submitted,

Liz Crawley, Secretary

Minutes June 2014

2014-10-30T11:51:00.003-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting

June 18, 2014

Minutes

St. Peter’s and St. Andrew’s, Providence

Opening welcome by the Rev. Joyce Penfield, Rector of St. Peter’s and St. Andrew’s Church

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Robert Batchelor, Jayne Bellows, Robert Bergstrand, Mike Brito, Michael Cunningham, The Rev. David Dobbins, The Rev. Patrick Greene, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Sue Hurn, Robert Larder, The Rev. Joan Testin, Ellen Vadney

Others in attendance: Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Fornal, Ruth Meteer, The Rev. Dr Joyce Penfield and several parishioners: Charles Cowen, Jim Burgess and Ann Hamm of CDC.

The bishop offered an opening collect.

The meeting opened at 6:22pm.

Approval of Agenda: the agenda was approved as distributed.

Approval of Minutes: the minutes of May 21, 2014 were approved with the amendment to change the date on the minutes.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer. Bob Batchelor presented the Treasurer’s Report, noting the new format. On June 5th letter sent out to outstanding parishes delinquent on their apportionment payments. Bob noted those parishes as : Emmanuel Cumberland, Christ Church, Lincoln.. A motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report as presented was approved.

Review of previous Action Items (ARs):
• None for this month

Task Force reports/updates:

• Deaneries: last remaining task to provide a job description for deans and deaneries which has been sent to Jim Rezendes and Bishop Knisely to review.
• Small Congregations: Mike Brito presented the Small Congregation report and a Summit has been set for Sat Sept 20th. Over the summer Mike and The Rev. Bettine Besier will contact all the small congregations. 18 congregations.
• CDC Accountability (no report; currently addressed by 2015 TF)
• Elder Task Force: Betsy reported that a grant was submitted to Province 1 to develop a training program to increase awareness around Alzheimer’s and other dementia diseases.
• Sacred Music Fund Guidelines (report deferred to discussion on St. Dunstan’s)

Committee/Ministry Reports

• Finance Commission The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck reported. 4 applications from 4 different parishes for loans from the Revolving Loan Fund. Refer to minutes of Finance Commission from June 10, 2014 for details. Report of June 13th special meeting was handed out and detailed the unfinished business from the June 10, 2014 meeting, primarily surrounding the Revolving Loan Fund requests. A small Task Force of 3 members are crafting a Statement of Purpose that will be presented to Diocesan Council for approval. A motion was made that we insert the words loans determined by……greatest need into the Preamble of the Statement of Purpose of the Rules for Participation to read:
• Congregational Development Commission Report: Jim Burgess presented 4 key areas of the CDC: reach out more to the diocese…..making grants to support church programs….sponsoring educational opportunities such as Learn and Lead…..inviting national leaders to speak…Mike Brito offered the opportunity for the CDC to work with the Small Congregations Task Force. CDC reports to council, council does not approve loans dispersed by them. CDC has some expectations that some restructuring will happen and welcomes it.

Action Items

• A Task Force was establish made up of council members to include Bishop Kinisely, Sue Hurn, Ted Hallenbeck and Michael Cunningham. The purpose is for the Task Force to come back to September 24, 2014 meeting with a plan to develop a process by which strategic goals may be established.
• A motion was made to ratify the vote of June 6, 2014 to approve the by-laws of Hallworth House. The motion was approved. Discussion followed encouraging comments on these by-laws be sent to Linda and at the September 24, 2014 Diocesan Council Meeting we will vote again with any necessary edits included.

Other Business
• St. Dunstan’s Music School
o Update on recent developments: two new music schools being developed that want to fall under the St. Dunstan’s 501c3
o Discuss financial arrangements
o Review the decision to move funds out of St. Dunstan’s and into the Music Fund given the new developments
o A motion was made to rescind the previous motion to dissolve the 501c3 of the St. Dunstan’s Music Fund. The motion was approved.
o The Rev. Joan Testin enthusiastically supported this as a member of the Liturgy and Music commission.
•

Report of the Canons
Linda Reported: Rector of st. Martin’s has begun: mark Sutherland; Christ church Westerly received names and moving forward; Epiphany has Edmund Harris leaving and Mary Alice Sullivan will serve as interim; Ascension Wakefield and St. Johnthe Divine combining efforts and beginning the interview process; St. James NP now has Marilyn Smith Mason will be PIC and Judy Mitchell will work with her; Marilyn will also be PIC at St. Paul’s Portsmouth, working with Becky Anderson;
Betsy reported: Betsy passed out a Nomination Form for Diocesan Convention, encouraging Council members to think about who might be helpful additions to various committees/commissions of the diocese, for the Elections Committee to consider.

Bishop’s time: recounted his busy travel schedule during the Easter season; overview on trip to Jerusalem; how do we care for the displaced Christians in Jerusalem?; War College on strategies for organizations; Bishop will ask the council or the diocesan convention to make a resolution about the legalization of marijuana [not] in the fall;

A resolution of thanksgiving was made for the ministry among us of Ruth Meteer and wishing her Godspeed as she begins her program of study at Yale Divinity School. The resolution was approved.

Information and Announcements:
• Reminder and schedule for Diocesan Council meetings on 4th Wednesdays beginning September 24, 2014

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday, September 24, 2014 place TBD
o June 21, 2014: Ordination of Jackie Kirby to the Transitional Diaconate, 4pm at Grace Church, 175 Mathewson St., Providence
o August 14, 2014: Jonathan Daniels House Day
o September 13, 2014: Open Doors
o September 16-23: HOB in Taiwan
o November 7 & 8, 2014: Diocesan Convention [Friday evening @ St. John’s Barrington; Saturday @ St. Mary’s, Portsmouth]

The Rev. Dr. Joyce Penfield commented strongly urging us to not support the legalization of marijuana. Rebuilding Together is a ministry of assisting people with necessary repairs in homes and at churches. How might our diocese participate in this? Jane Eskelund, national board member, spoke briefly. Hope for the Episcopal diocese to become involved in this ministry this fall.

The meeting was adjourned at 8:27pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Liz Crawley
Secretary

Minutes May 2014

2014-06-19T07:11:00.001-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
May 21, 2014
Minutes
St. Paul’s, Wickford

Opening welcome by the Rev. Canon Virginia Heistand, Rector of St. Paul’s Church

In attendance: The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Robert Batchelor, Jayne Bellows, Robert Bergstrand, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Michael Cunningham, The Rev. David Dobbins, The Rev. Patrick Greene, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, The Rev. Canon Virginia Heistand, The Rev. John Higginbotham, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, Sue Hurn, Jim Rezendes, The Rev. Joan Testin, Ellen Vadney

Others in attendance: Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Fornal, Ruth Meteer, Peggy Amatore

The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck offered a collect/prayer.

The meeting opened at 6:30pm.

Approval of Agenda: the agenda was approved.

Approval of Minutes: the minutes of April 10, 2014 were approved.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer. Bob Batchelor presented the Treasurer’s Report. Balance sheet and Treasurer’s Report continues to improve in its new format,and is quite clear in its presentation. Overall budget year to date in good shape. A motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report as presented was approved.

Review of previous Action Items (ARs):
• None for this month

Task Force reports/updates:

• Deaneries: The only outstanding item is a job description on being a dean of deanery and a member of deanery and Sue Hurn is completing this; rules of order are moving along with nominations to Diocesan Convention; Nathan Humphrey is the Dean of Aquidneck Deanery; The Rev. Canon Anne Marie Richards nominated to Nomination Committee; Nathan shared St. Matthew’s, Jamestown request to become a member of the Aquidneck Deanery with Diocesan Council approval; A motion was made to accept St. Matthew’s into the Aquidneck Island Deanery. The motion was approved.
• Affiliated Agencies/Institutions Council Rules of Order – The Rev. John Higginbotham reported that Hallworth House [Edwards Homes] and St. Mary’s Home for Children are the only two affiliated agencies, all others are Friends of the Diocese. This ends the duration of this Task Force.
• Council Rules of Order – no report
• Small Congregations – The Rev. Bettine Bessier reported that they are working on defining a small congregation [mission churches and part time clergy?] Next step to contact Clergy and Senior Wardens of these churches and brainstorm in a meeting in the fall.
• Congregational Development Commission Reporting and Accountability – they will report in June.
• Elder Task Force – Betsy Fornal reported that we are in the process of writing a grant from Province I to begin training in the area of Alzheimer’s for clergy and lay Pastoral Care Teams, along with other New England Dioceses and the Lutheran Synod. Worries are mostly with family concerns around this disease. Doreen Putnam may become a trainer for our diocese in this area.
• Sacred Music Fund Guidelines – The Rev. Joan Testin wants to bring these guidelines to the Worship and Liturgy Commission to fine tune and then bring back to Diocesan Council to vote next month.

Committee/Ministry Reports

• Finance Commission: Bob Bergstrand reported that the diocese remains on solid footing with no red flags, in good financial position.
• Millennium Development Goals – Bob Bergstrand and Peggy Amatore [staff liaison to MDG] were present and Bob reported. Meetings are held in South County due to almost all members living there; this year’s monies will go toward the following goals: Promote gender equality and empower women; achieve universal primary education; reduce child mortality. They propose to fund mini grants in Africa; a nursery that was supported last year – Precious Children’s Orphanage in Tanzania; Sisters of St. Margaret – money for their scholastic fund to bring more children into the schools in Haiti. No expenses are incurred for or by the committee - zero budget; a report of recommendations for 2014 spending of the MDG funds will be available for approval by Diocesan Council; Council will need to decide how to govern this “committee”.
• Specialized Missions: At the bishop request, the Canon to the Ordinary consulted with Diocesan Council the proposal of the formal petition to create Church Beyond Walls [CBW] as a specialized mission. Linda reviewed the Canon with Council and much discussion followed, mostly surrounding the future sustainability of CBW. Council requests that they be continued to be informed about the progress.

Action Items

• A motion was made to approve the following people as members of the Property Committee: Jim Rezendes as Chair, Robert Bergstrand, John Gelati, Spence Harber, Jim Kelliher, Duncan Speel and Mike Brito. The motion was passed.
• A motion was made to concur with the bishop’s appointment of the following people to the Committee on Election: Leon Sibielski as Chair, The Rev. Patrick Campbell, Ellen Vadney, Sue Hurn, The Rev. Susan Stiles, The Rev. Betsy Lesieur and The Rev. Patrick Greene. The motion was passed.
• A motion was made to concur with the bishop’s appointment of Ann Bettinger to the Committee on Resolutions. The motion was passed.
• The approval of the Sacred Music Fund Guidelines was deferred to next month.
• A motion was made to pass the following amendments to the Diocesan Council Rules of Order to read as follows: #6 The Executive Committee of Council shall normally meet at least one week prior to Council to prepare the agenda for the next Council meeting. All matters to be considered for inclusion on the agenda, together with supporting documents (as requested by the Executive Committee) must be submitted to the Secretary prior to the meeting of the Executive Committee. The Executive Committee may make recommendations on any item
placed on the agenda. #7 Items submitted for inclusion on the Agenda after the meeting of the Executive Committee as per rule 6, above, shall require the consent of a majority of the Council members present in order to be placed on the agenda; #9 The minutes of the Council shall be posted on the Diocesan website once approved at the following meeting, unless otherwise ordered by Council. The motion was passed.
• A motion was made to approve the list of signatories on Diocesan financial accounts as presented by Bob Batchelor. The motion was passed.

Other Business

Report of the Canons
Linda Reported: Updated council on the status of churches in various phases of their process in seeking clergy; Joint Episcopal/Lutheran clergy day was held in early May with good results; CPG offering Planning for Tomorrow for laity and clergy; possible training workshops in various subjects to be offered in August-September; Cathedral brainstorming session last night with 85 attending with good energy, good ideas.
Betsy reported: we will be able to view the webcast from the TENS annual conference between June 6-29 at St. Martin’s, St. Peter’s, Trinity, Newport, with dates and times to be sent to all churches;

Bishop’s time: The bishop was not present. Was on a mission trip to Israel.

Information and Announcements:
• Reminder of moving the Diocesan Council meetings to the 4th Wednesday of the month beginning September 24, 2014.
• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday June 18, 2014 at St. Peter’s & St. Andrew’s, 25 Pomona Ave., Providence
• Upcoming Events:
o June 7, 2014: Eastertide Confirmations, 10am All Saints; Memorial, Providence
o June 7, 2014: ECC Fundraiser, 6pm at ECC
o June 14, 2014: Clergy Picnic, 12noon – 4pm, ECC
o June 21, 2014: Ordination of Jackie Kirby to the Transitional Diaconate, 4pm at Grace Church, 175 Mathewson St., Providence
o August 14, 2014: Jonathan Daniels House Day
o September 13, 2014: Open Doors
o September 16-24: HOB in Taiwan
o November 7 & 8, 2014: Diocesan Convention [Friday evening @ St. John’s Barrington; Saturday @ St. Mary’s, Portsmouth]

The meeting was adjourned at 8:29pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Liz Crawley
Secretary

Minutes March 2014

2014-06-18T13:27:00.003-07:00

EPISCOPAL DIOCESE OF RHODE ISLAND
DIOCESAN COUNCIL
March 20, 2014 6:30 p.m.
St. Thomas Church, Alton

Present: Ellen Vadney, Bob Bergstrand, Nathan Humphrey, Bob Batchelor, Linda Grenz, Bettine Besier, Ted Hallenbeck, Joan Testin, Michael Cunningham, Virginia Heistand, Bob Larder, Sue Hurn.

Also Present: Betsy Fornal, Ruth Meteer, Gillian Barr, Ann DiRobbio, Mary Hafey, Caroline Heistand, Emily Heistand, Prudy Patnoad

The meeting was called to order by Diocesan Treasurer, Robert Batchelor at 6:38 p.m. The meeting was opened with a collect read by host, Bettine Besier.

A motion was made, seconded and passed that Bob Batchelor serve as chairperson in the absence of the Bishop.

Approval of Agenda: It was moved, seconded and passed to approve the agenda as presented.

Minutes: The minutes were approved as presented.

Review of previous Action Items (ARs):
Ted Hallenbeck alerted the Council that the 2015 Task Force is refining the list of diocesan policies which are no longer being used and probably need to be removed. A number of items will need some study as to their efficacy and others need to be updated or eliminated.

Sue Hurn: the Deanery Sub-Committee will provide minutes of the Deanery Forum by the next DC meeting.

Sacred Music Task Force: Beginning to create a granting form for Sacred Music grants.

Small Church: Perhaps a Small Church Summit in the fall. Bettine Besier will work on this event. Betsy Fornal to assist.

Elder Task Force – Council members, Jayne Bellows and Joan Testin will explore what we can do with/for our elderly. Betsy Fornal to assist.

Information Items:
Jonathan Daniels House – Episcopal Service Corps site in south Providence. The Rev. Gillian Barr, Director of JDH, was introduced. JDH is focusing on recruiting non-profit sites for interns to begin in August for 10 months. JDH is particularly seeking organizations that provide direct service to the people in the margins, hopefully in South Providence. Interns do 15 hours of vocational and spiritual discernment in addition to 35 hours of volunteer work per week. Gillian is reviewing possible intern candidates with members of the Advisory Board seeking four to arrive in August. Leadership and Spiritual Life curriculum for discernment and spiritual development will be overseen by Gillian and others will be invited to assist as needed. JDH is seeking recommendations about agencies, housing sites, and wants to encourage churches to consider sponsoring an intern. Funds always welcome as well as furniture to fill the apartments. JDH hope to have a Development Committee going forward. Call Gillian with suggestions.

Treasurers’ Workshop – March 15, 2014. There were 27 treasurers two-thirds of them new treasurers in attendance. The treasurers would like a parochial report tutoring session at the beginning of February. They also asked for consistency in date for the Treasurers Workshop – the second Saturday in March.

Warden’s Workshop is next Saturday, March 29. All Wardens have been invited.
They have been encouraged to send another from from their Vestry if they cannot attend.

Hallworth House, our nursing and rehabilitation home, opened an outpatient rehab center in the former diocesan annex.

Finance:
Bob Bergstrand reported that the COF is discussing the Revolving Loan procedure and may make a recommendation to Diocesan Council concerning the size of the loans COF can authorize without additional approval of Diocesan Council. It was noted that the limit ($50,000) has not changed in many years. The COF will make a recommendation to Council next month.

Work continues on May House in Wickford which is the Bishop’s residence. The work includes updating and improving the HVAC, adding a generator, repairing some of the plumbing, replacing the oil tank, improving insulation. This work has been overseen by the COF.

The Commission on Finance authorized $30K for improvement to New Church (Pascoag)which has had good attendance since it began a month ago in the property formerly occupied by Calvary Church.

Improvements continue to be made to the St. Matthias Church, Coventry, which is being readied to host Church of the Advent, a church community for autistic people and their families.

COF approved the expenditure of $22,000 for the replacement of the carpeting in Diocesan House.

COF has been discussing ways to invest money currently in checking account. They expect to come to the Council next month with a proposal.

Finances of the Diocese remain solid.

Ted Hallenbeck spoke of a possible project to utilize Synod Hall as a museum depicting RI’s role in the slave trade.

Listening and Brainstorming sessions re cathedral will be held on April 5th and May 20th to bring ideas and discuss possible directions. Very helpful if Council members attend to hear and share ideas.

Report of the Treasurer:
Treasurer, Bob Batchelor, highlighted the February financial report in the new format courtesy of our new accounting system. The report now includes a one-page balance sheet. Budget is continually being improved upon in its format. Questions regarding the new format were solicited and answered. There is capacity to present the monthly budget for Council in several formats. Finance Dept. is working to see what works best to give Council the information it needs to make decisions.

Reports of the Canons:
Canon Linda Grenz reported about properties under Diocesan care and what we are spending. Next month two of them – Pascoag and St. Matthias properties will migrate into Congregational Development as they ramp up as new specialize missions.

New Church – Aimed at ECC related folks. Started a month ago, 68 first service, 65, 80 at third, 48 the last Sunday. Renovations continue to make the old Calvary Church property in Pascoag safe and habitable.

Church of the Advent – aimed at autistic families, has a lot of interest with from autistic community and those who provide services to them about starting with a mid-week service and other uses by the same community during the week. Not a standard church, experimental to meet the needs of the community who will gather there.

Church Beyond the Walls, started by Church of the Epiphany, which offers a worship service in Burnside park for those people on the street, sharing of meal and clothes. Hoping for a core group of 5 congregations to help this keep going. Will become a specialized mission of the diocese.

Episcopal Charities $420,000 is goal. The parish campaigns have begun.

We have contracted with a Church Attorney, required under Title IV for clergy misconduct and disciplinary canon.

Transitions:
Epiphany, Rumford – Jennifer Pedrick is new rector of St. Mary’s in Portsmouth
Christ Church, Westerly, will be seeking a new rector upon the resignation of Christine Purcell.
Church of the Ascension, Wakefield: Wayne Runner retiring in May.
St. John Saunderstown: Judy Mitchell will be retiring at the end of May.
Any recommendations?

Canon Betsy Fornal reported that the 2014 Learn and Lead – Forming Faithful Leaders held on March 1st at St. Luke’s Church in East Greenwich had 270 people registered and was the largest Learn and Lead yet. Only nine congregations did not have representation. 24 congregations had five or more participants. The survey following this year’s Learn and Lead indicate an interest in the topics of Christian Formation and Discipleship as a possible focus for next year.

Twelve churches have applied for CDC Annual Grants. They will be completing the full grant application and grants will be awarded in June.

Action Items:
Diocesan Council will invite committees/commissions who regularly grant funds to attend a Council meeting to discuss their criteria for granting funds. Each granting group will be asked to provide information on their goals and policies regarding their granting processes.

• Episcopal Charities will be invited to attend the Diocesan Council meeting in April.
• Millennium Development Goals Committee will be invited to attend the May Council meeting.
• The Commission on Congregational Development will be invited to attend the June Council meeting.

Bishop is away at the House of Bishops meeting at Camp Allen in Texas.

Council members are encouraged to attend diocesan events. Events calendar will be updated regularly.

Reminder: Meeting Thursday, April 10.

The meeting was adjourned by affirmative vote at 7:51 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Betsy Fornal
Secretary pro tem

Minutes February 2014

2014-06-18T13:25:00.002-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting

Saturday February 22, 2014

Minutes

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Bettine Besier, Mr. Robert Batchelor, Ms. Ellen Vadney, The Rev. Ted Hallenbeck, Ms. Jayne Bellows, The Rev. Joan Testin, The Rev. Canon Linda Grenz, Mr. Michael Brito, The Rev. Nathan Humphrey, The Rev. Patrick Greene, Mr. Robert Bergstrand, Mr. Robert Larder, Ms. Sue Hurn

Others: Ms. Liz Crawley, Canon Betsy Fornal

Absent: The Rev. John Higginbotham, Mr. Michael Cunningham, The Rev. Dr. Anita Schell, Mr. Jim Rezendes,

Approval of Agenda A motion was made to approve the agenda, so moved and passed.

Approval of Minutes A motion was made to approve the minutes from January 15, 2014, so moved and passed.

Review of previous Action Items (ARs):

Sub-committee Reports – Music committee hopes to have a plan for March Council meeting. No other reports offered.

Information items:

Companion Diocese – Bettine Besier presented their report. How do we get the relationship beyond bishop to bishop [such as Dominican Republic]? Triangle relationship with England diocese, US and another country? Navajoland – partner with one of their diocese along with Navajoland; Hispanic Diocese so we can learn how to do this ministry better here as an add-on. Cuba? Relationships can be done through the The Episcopal Church office. Action: call the Anglican Communion office of TEC thinking about a domestic and wider communion relationship.

Finance

Report of the Finance Commission – Bob Bergstrand reported. Reported update on May House projects. St. Matthew’s, Jamestown is current on loan payments.
Report of the Treasurer – Bob Batchelor reported. Continue to refine the new reporting system with ACS, going well. Bob passed out an Income/Expense [P&L] as well as a Balance Sheet. The report was approved as presented.

Report of the Canons

Betsy: promoting Learn & Lead, over 170 registered. CDC grant requests due March 1^st.
Linda: transitions: St. Mary’s Portsmouth called The Rev. Jennifer Pedrick as rector; St. Paul’s, Pawtucket drafting letter of agreement; St. Martins’ down to 2 candidates; St. James, North Providence has an interested person to serve as vicar; Good Shepherd, The Rev. Gillian Barr will serve as part-time Priest-In-Charge; Transfiguration launching an Hispanic Congregation; Ascension and Transfiguration will share expenses and look toward sustainability; St. George’s has moved to Aided Mission status; Bishop and Linda attended Provincial Bishop’s and Chancellor’s meeting and learn good info around Title IV, with one item being Linda and Betsy will no longer serve as intake officers; Leon Sibielski has agreed to be the Intake Officer; Epiphany, Rumford, Edmund Harris will serve as Priest-In-Charge through mid summer; Christ Church, Westerly, Rector Christine Purcell has resigned, Bishop Joslin will serve as head of a clergy team to get them through Easter, they plan to move quickly into another search process;

Action Items:

A motion was made that a Reserve Fund be set in the amount of $29,501.96 due from 2013 Apportionment Payments, against which payments may be received in the current year. The motion was seconded, and approved.

Bishop’s time:

Commission on Ministry: Jackie Kirby is tentatively set to be ordained 6/21/14; 1 person applying as an aspirant; another aspirant recommended by chaplain at St. George’s School and one more…so 3 aspirants in the priest tract and possibly 2 or 3 on the deacon tract; the Ordination processes are up on the web site. St. Augustine’s has applied to be a permanent mission and the Standing Committee has consented; February Presbyter Retreat went well.

Other business:

Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Thursday March 20, 2014 @ St. Thomas, Alton, 322 Church Street, Route 91, Wood River Junction, RI. Gathering time will begin at 6:00pm for refreshments and to meet members of St. Thomas; meeting will begin at 6:30pm. No wi-fi in Alton.

PLEASE NOTE: APRIL COUNCIL MEETING WILL BE THURSDAY APRIL 10, 2014, St. David’s, Cranston

MEETING ADJOURNED AT 3:20PM

Upcoming Events:

Saturday, March 15, 2014 – Treasurer’s Day, St. James, Woonsocket
March 19-26, 2014 – Spring House of Bishops
Saturday, March 29, Warden’s Day – St. John’s, Barrington
Saturday, April 5, 2014 – Cathedral Brainstorming Meeting – St. Marks’ Warwick, 10am – 12pm.
April 11-12, 2014 – Deacon’s Retreat @ ECC
Tuesday, April 15, 2014 – Chrism Mass – St. David’s, Cranston, 10:00am followed by lunch

Respectfully Submitted:

Liz Crawley

Minutes April 2014

2014-06-18T13:22:00.004-07:00

Diocesan Council Meeting
April 10, 2014
Minutes
St. David’s on-the-Hill, Cranston

Opening welcome by the Rev. Peter Lane, Rector

In attendance: The Rt. Rev. W. Nicholas Knisely, Canon Linda Grenz, Robert Batchelor, Robert Bergstrand, Bettine Besier, Michael Cunningham, David Dobbins, Ted Hallenbeck, John Higginbotham, Nathan Humphrey, Sue Hurn, Robert Larder, Jim Rezendes, Ellen Vadney

Others in attendance: Peggy Amatore, Liz Crawley, Joan Daly, Nancy Dorsey, Canon Betsy Fornal, Nancy Kaull, Peter Lane, Ruth Meteer, Dan Sepe, Ben Sprows

Bishop Knisely offered a prayer.

The meeting opened at 6:31pm.

Approval of Agenda: the agenda was approved.

Approval of Minutes: the minutes of March 20, 2014 were approved.

Special Order: Bishop Knisely nominated The Rev. David Dobbins to fill the unexpired term of The Rev. Wayne Runner through 2014. Council approved the nomination.

Finance: Report of the Treasurer. Bob Batchelor presented the Treasurer’s Report and reviewed the new format. Overall budget year to date in good shape. A motion to accept the Treasurer’s Report as presented was approved.

Review of previous Action Items (ARs):
• Invite funding groups to share policies and procedures
o Congregational Development Commission invited for June
o Millennium Development Goals invited for May
o Episcopal Charities was invited to today’s meeting: Peggy Amatore was joined by Nancy Dorsey and Nancy Kaull and gave an overview of the history of Episcopal Charities, the Susan B. Hudson Fund, and the process of how they receive and discern the grant giving. Looking for new board members. Board involvement has been good, lot of introspection. Should the focus of Episcopal Charities new endeavor to give a larger grant this year be in conjunction with a mission focus of the diocese? Council will work on finding a focus and making this an action item to address.

Task Force reports/updates:

• Deaneries: Sue Hurn reported on the status of the deaneries. No by-laws so will use Rules of Order, asking each deanery to establish them. Encouraging every deanery to meet and nominate for Diocesan Council and Delegates for Diocesan Convention. Job descriptions will be forthcoming for Deans. Some discussion on buy-in from all parishes.
• Affiliated Agencies/Institutions John Higginbotham reported on a list of affiliated/unaffiliated agencies that he received from the 2015 Task Force; Church Insurance can insure an agency if a staff member serves on the board.
• Council Rules of Order no report
• Small Congregations: no report
• Congregational Development Commission Reporting and Accountability Betsy Fornal reported that 12 grant requests in hands of sub committee; April 30th deadline for grants, moved out form April 15th [Holy Week].
• Elder Task Force Joan Testin piloting some questions around the Blackstone Deanery to have conversation in parishes/families to decide what this task force might do. Diocese of Western MA is developing a guide for dementia, with funding through a grant from Province 1.
• Sacred Music Fund Guidelines: Linda Grenz presented and a handout put together by the Rev. Joan Testin. Bp. Knisely suggested we receive this now and have as an action item at May meeting.

Side discussion came up on council functioning as their fiduciary responsibilities dictate.

Committee/Ministry Reports

• Finance Commission: Bob Bergstrand reported that the diocese is in very sound financial condition. No red flags. Checking account balance remains high and still on Finance Commission table to resolve what to do. Bob referred to the list of tonight’s action items from Finance Commission.
• Congregational Development Commission (Betsy Fornal, Jim Burgess, chair)
• 2015 Task Force (Ted Hallenbeck, John Higginbotham, Peter Tierney, chair) John Higginbotham handout out their process of RenewalWorks. Teams will be formed to go out to parishes to present their spiritual vitality survey to 6 parishes in summer and 8 more in the fall. Jay Sidebotham from Learn & Lead – his program. We have 5 parishes that have gone through this process and John indicated it has been successful.
• Hispanic Ministries: Palm Sunday at Transfiguration at 5pm will host the first Hispanic service [members of both Transfiguration and Ascension, Cranston] They have been knocking on neighborhood doors inviting all to this service.
• Episcopal Charities (Peggy Amatore, Nancy Dorsey, chair) see above
• Specialized Missions: Church Beyond the Walls – Edmund Harris will be leaving at the end of June. A letter is going out after Easter within 10 mile radius informing them of the formalization of this Specialized Mission. Council needs to have a formal petition to create the Specialized Mission at our May meeting. Model of bishop being the one to allow the starting of the specialized mission should/will be held up.

Action Items

• A motion was made to grant to Church of the Epiphany, Rumford, a Revolving Loan up to $55,000 for an energy conversion project at a rate of 1.5% and a term of five years. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made to grant to St. Columba’s Chapel, Middletown, a Revolving Loan of up to $100,000 for Parish Hall repairs at a rate of 2.25% and a term of 5 years. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made that the upper limit of a loan that may be approved by the Commission on Finance, per application, may not exceed 10% of the Revolving Loan Fund total balance which currently equates to $150,000 [10% of $1.5 million].The motion was approved.
• Upon recommendation from the Congregational Development Commission, a motion was made that Diocesan Council establish a fixed fund of $100,000 within the Diocesan Resource Fund for the purpose of making matching grants of up to $10,000 to mission congregations seeking to meet safety and/or accessibility codes for their buildings. Some discussion followed. A motion was made to amend the motion as follows: Upon recommendation from the Congregational Development Commission, a motion was made that Diocesan Council establish a fixed fund of $100,000 within the Diocesan Resource Fund for the purpose of making matching grants of up to 50% of the project cost with a maximum grant of $10,000 to mission congregations and aided parishes seeking to meet safety and/or accessibility codes for their buildings. The amended motion was approved.
• Upon recommendation from the 2015 Task Force, a motion was made to delete the following items noted as such on the handout list of Documents and Policies, which include Vision Statement, Enhance Effectiveness of Council Meetings, Funding Task Force, CDC – Live in Christ, Transform the World, Loans to New Clergy, Bookstore, Needs of Clergy Community DORI, Voting Policy and Capital Campaigns. The motion was approved.
• A motion was made that $17,154 of unspent funds in the Jonathan Daniels House account for 2013 carry over to the 2014 budget, increasing the budget by this amount. The motion was approved.

Other Business

Report of the Canons: Linda reported on the biannual transition ministry conference – 111 clergy looking for jobs and 117 churches looking for priests. More churches looking for assistants than in recent years. St Martin, Providence, has called a new rector, to be announced Monday after Easter; Ascension, Wakefield and St. John the Divine in Saunderstown in transition; Warden’s Day was well received, 77 in attendance; exploratory meeting with Thrivent Financial to develop an Episcopal Credit Union, online banking options including financial services, loans, etc; Church Insurance meeting…we will be getting appraisals next year to adjust any that have assessments that are off, a mandatory $3000 deductible coming ahead, and looking at earthquake coverage that may be added at no additional cost in 2015; Church Publishing…license to use Rite Worship we’re not happy with so we have negotiated to get licensing for Rite Song which included a free copy of Rite Brain;
Betsy reported that the Commission on Ministry and Bishop Knisely will be posting a day of discernment for those who have begun the process of the possibility of ordained ministry, by invitation only, on May 3rd.

Bishop’s time:

Would the 4th Wednesday of the month work to move the Diocesan Council meeting? This will be considered for the fall; House of Bishops – wonderful week there; Bishop’s Against Gun Violence meeting this week, bishop member of this group whose goal is to lower violence in our society.

Information and Announcements:

• Next Diocesan Council Meeting: Wednesday May 21, 2014 St. Paul’s Wickford
• Upcoming Events:
o April 11-12, 2014 – Deacon’s Retreat @ ECC
o Tuesday, April 15, 2014 – Chrism Mass – St. David’s, Cranston
o Thursday, May 1, 2014 Joint Clergy Day with Episcopals/Lutherans – St. Paul’s Wickford
o Tuesday May 20, 2014 Cathedral Brainstorming Meeting, Church of the Redeemer, 7pm

The meeting was adjourned at 9:03pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Liz Crawley
Secretary