Standing Committee News

April 19, 2016 Meeting Summary

2016-06-03T11:10:00.001-07:00

April 19, 2016 Meeting Summary

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Standing Committee

Minutes of the Meeting of April 19, 2016

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by Ms. MacFall at 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 19, 2016 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

Bishop Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. James Bocchino, Mr. John Gelati, The Rev. Greta Getlein, The Rev. Patrick Greene, Mrs. Lora MacFall (President), Mr. Neal McNamara, and Mr. F. Leon Sibielski (Secretary) were in attendance; The Rev. Kevin Lloyd was absent.

Bishop Knisely led the SC in opening prayer.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to approve the Minutes and Minutes Summary of the SC Meeting of March 15, 2016 with one abstention recorded.

Bishop Knisely provided the SC with background information about Chancellor Sayer’s role in the development of a Diocesan Bylaws Template and Checklist. The Bishop is empowering each congregation to come up with their own version of their bylaws using the checklist as a guide. The Rev. Getlein and Mr. McNamara volunteered to serve as a subcommittee to review and to recommend suggested revisions to all incoming parish bylaws. Mr. Sibielski volunteered to serve as a consultant to this subcommittee.

Bishop Knisely provided background information to the SC about St. Mark’s request for a $20,000.00 loan. They are hoping to utilize half of that amount to bring their church structure into compliance with the city of Warwick’s fire codes. St. Mark’s has $140,000.00 in savings, not endowment. A motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to approve St. Mark’s request for a $20,000.00 loan.

The SC interviewed The Rev. Deacon Linda Mackie Griggs. Following their interview, a motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to approve Deacon Linda Mackie Griggs for Ordination to the Priesthood pending a letter of recommendation to Bishop Knisely from the Commission on Ministry. (On April 27, 2016, the SC voted unanimously via email to ordain The Rev. Deacon Linda Mackie Griggs to the Sacred Order of Priests.)

The SC interviewed Grace Swinski. Following their interview, a motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to approve Grace Swinski for ordination to the diaconate pending a letter of recommendation to Bishop Knisely from the Commission on Ministry.

The SC interviewed James Kelleher. Following their interview, a motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to approve James Kelleher for ordination to the diaconate pending a letter of recommendation to Bishop Knisely from the Commission on Ministry.

The SC interviewed Edward Dean. Following their interview, a motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to approve Edward Dean for ordination to the diaconate pending a letter of recommendation to Bishop Knisely from the Commission on Ministry.

Bishop Knisely then entered into conversation with the SC presenting several informational items to them for their input.

The Rev. Getlein led the SC in closing prayer.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:25 p.m.

NOTE: The next meeting of the Standing Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, May 17, 2016, at 4:00 p.m. in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

Respectfully submitted

F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

March 15, 2016 Meeting Summary

2016-06-03T10:44:00.003-07:00

March 15, 2016 Meeting Summary

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Standing Committee

Minutes of the Meeting of March 15, 2016

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by Ms. MacFall at 4:10 p.m. on Tuesday, March 15, 2016 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

The Rev. James Bocchino, Mr. John Gelati, The Rev. Greta Getlein, Mrs. Lora MacFall (President), Mr. Neal McNamara, and Mr. F. Leon Sibielski (Secretary) were in attendance; The Rev. Patrick Greene and The Rev. Kevin Lloyd were absent.

The Rev. Bocchino led the SC in opening prayer.

Motions were made, seconded, and approved by the SC to approve the Minutes and Minutes Summary of the SC Meeting of February 16, 2016.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to consent to the election of The Rev. Dr. Douglas E. Sparks, Bishop Diocesan for the Diocese of Northern Indiana.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to consent to the election of The Rev. Patrick W. Bell, Bishop Diocesan for the Diocese of Eastern Oregon.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to consent to the election of a Bishop Suffragan for the Diocese of W. Texas.

Following a brief discussion about the age at which a person is considered an adult member of [a] congregation, and in an effort to be compliant with the Canons of the Episcopal Church the SC agreed to change the wording of Item 5 of our Diocesan Bylaws Checklist to read Do the bylaws state that members sixteen years of age and over are to be considered adult members of the congregation? Additionally, it was suggested that the checklist along with the parish’s bylaws be sent to the Bishop’s Office (Direction 6, Diocesan Bylaws Checklist) so that his administrative assistant could oversee its distribution to Bishop Knisely, Chancellor Sayer, and the SC.

It was reported that negotiations for the sale of the St. Mary’s property in Warwick had reached an impasse and the attorneys involved were attempting to resolve the issue of the subdivisions of that property.

Mrs. MacFall presented the following information:

· Linda Griggs is scheduled to be ordained to the Sacred Order of Priests on Saturday, May 7, 2016, at St. Martin’s Providence. She has been scheduled to meet with the SC at 4:15 p.m. on April 19, 2016.

· Ed. Dean, James Kelliher, and Grace Swinski are scheduled to be ordained to the Diaconate on Saturday, June 11, 2016, at St. Paul’s Pawtucket.

o Grace has been scheduled to meet with the SC at 4:30 p.m. on April 19, 2016.

o Jim has been scheduled to meet with the SC at 4:45 p.m. on April 19, 2016.

o Ed has been scheduled to meet with the SC at 5:00 p.m. on April 19, 2016.

Mr. Gelati led the SC in closing prayer.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:10 p.m.

NOTE: The next meeting of the Standing Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, April 19, 2016, at 4:00 p.m. in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

Respectfully submitted

F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

February 16, 2016 Meeting Summary

2016-06-03T10:40:00.002-07:00

February 16, 2016 Meeting Summary

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island
Standing Committee
Minutes of the Meeting of February 16, 2016

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by Ms. MacFall at 4:05 p.m. on Tuesday, February 16, 2016 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

The Rev. James Bocchino, Mr. John Gelati, The Rev. Greta Getlein, The Rev. Patrick Greene, The Rev. Kevin Lloyd, Mrs. Lora MacFall (President), and Mr. F. Leon Sibielski (Secretary) were in attendance; Mr. Neal McNamara was absent.

The Rev. Lloyd led the SC in opening prayer.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the Minutes of the SC Meeting of January 12, 2016.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the Minutes Summary of the SC Meeting of January 12, 2016.

The secretary distributed a document reflecting a previously agreed upon change to the remaining SC meeting dates for 2016 from the second to the third Tuesday of the months for February through June.

The following motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the sale of the real property located on Warwick Neck Ave., Warwick, RI and shown on the plan attached hereto as Exhibit A as Lot 1 of a proposed two lot subdivision of Lot 336, Plat 379 of the City of Warwick Tax Assessor’s Plats, currently owned by Saint Barnabas Parish, Warwick, as successor of St. Mary’s Church, Warwick (“Seller”), to Heritage Christian Fellowship of the Assembly of God, Inc. (“Buyer”), for Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($300,000.00), pursuant to the terms of a Commercial Sales Agreement and Deposit Receipt dated January 7, 2016, is HEREBY APPROVED. This approval is without condition, either precedent or subsequent, is final and binding and may be relied on by both the Buyer and Seller.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to consent to the election of a Bishop Coadjutor for the Diocese of Los Angeles.

The secretary distributed to the membership a redesigned Diocesan Bylaws Checklist. Bishop Knisely will be discussing with clergy the importance of bylaws and their being reviewed / developed by using the Diocesan Bylaws Checklist.

On behalf of the Bishop, Mrs. MacFall then entered into conversation with the SC presenting several informational items to them.

The Rev. Greene led the SC in closing prayer.

The meeting was adjourned at 4:50 p.m.

NOTE: The next meeting of the Standing Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, March 15, 2016 at 4:00 p.m. in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

Respectfully submitted by F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

January 12, 2016 Meeting Summary

2016-06-03T10:38:00.003-07:00

January 12, 2016 Meeting Summary

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island
Standing Committee
Minutes of the Meeting of January 12, 2016

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by Ms. MacFall at 4:06 p.m. on Tuesday, January 12, 2016 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

The Rev. James Bocchino, Mr. John Gelati, The Rev. Greta Getlein, The Rev. Patrick Greene, Mrs. Lora MacFall (President), Mr. Neal McNamara, and Mr. F. Leon Sibielski (Secretary) were in attendance; The Rev. Kevin Lloyd was absent.

Bishop Knisely led the SC in opening prayer.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the Minutes of the SC Meeting of November 10, 2015.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the Minutes Summary of the SC Meeting of November 10, 2015.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the Minutes of the SC Meeting of December 1, 2015.

The SC agreed to change its monthly meeting date from the second Tuesday of the month to the third Tuesday of the month so as to better accommodate those actions of the Finance Committee requiring SC approval.

The SC was presented for review and consideration a Purchase and Sale Agreement “to sell that property held in trust by St. Barnabas Episcopal Church at 358 / 356 Warwick Neck Ave., Warwick, RI to the Heritage Christian Fellowship of the Assembly of God, Inc. as per the executed Purchase and Sale Agreement between the parties dated January 7, 2016.

Bishop Knisely then entered into conversation with the SC presenting several informational items to them for their input.

The Rev. Bocchino led the SC in closing prayer.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:55 p.m.

NOTE: The next meeting of the Standing Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, February 16, 2016 at 4:00 p.m. in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

Respectfully submitted,

F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

November 10, 2015 Meeting Summary

2016-06-03T10:35:00.002-07:00

November 10, 2015

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Standing Committee

Minutes of the Meeting of November 10, 2015

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by Ms. MacFall at 4:05 p.m. on Tuesday, November 10, 2015 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

The Rev. James Bocchino, The Rev. Michael Coburn, Mr. John Gelati, The Rev. Patrick Greene, The Rev. Kevin Lloyd, Mrs. Lora MacFall (President), Mr. F. Leon Sibielski (Secretary), and Mr. Dennis E. Stark were in attendance. Additionally, The Rev. Greta Getlein and Mr. Neal McNamara, newly elected members to the SC, were also in attendance.

Bishop Knisely led the SC in opening prayer.

On behalf of the SC, Ms. MacFall welcomed The Rev. Greta Getlein and Mr. Neal McNamara to the SC. She also extended a post-operative greeting to The Rev. Bocchino. Ms. MacFall then extended thanks to the Rev. Coburn and Mr. Stark for their respective terms of service to the SC.

Mr. Sibielski nominated Mrs. MacFall for the position of President of the SC. The Rev. Lloyd seconded the nomination. There being no additional nominations, the secretary was directed to cast 1 ballot reflecting the unanimous approval of the SC to the reelection of Mrs. MacFall as President of the SC for the ensuing term.

The Rev. Bocchino then nominated Mr. Sibielski for the position of Secretary of the SC. Mrs. MacFall seconded the nomination. There being no additional nominations, the secretary was directed to cast 1 ballot reflecting the unanimous approval of the SC to the reelection of Mr. Sibielski as secretary of the SC for the ensuing term.

The SC agreed to continue to meet at 4:00 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

An additional item was added to the Agenda, that being information and discussion about the sale of the St Mary’s Church property which is located at 358 Warwick Neck Avenue, Warwick, RI.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of October 13, 2015 with 2 abstentions being noted.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the Minutes Summary of the Meeting of October 13, 2015 with 2 abstentions being noted.

Clarification of what role our SC would play in their petition was moot in light of the fact that the Rt. Rev. George R. Sumner had already been elected bishop and was holding fast to prior practice that “nobody gay gets married in an Episcopal church in the Diocese of Dallas.”

Following a brief explanation and discussion, a motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to approve a $50,000.00 loan by St. Mary’s Church, East Providence.

The following information was presented:

· 6 years ago, St. Mary’s Warwick and St. Barnabas Warwick merged.

· St. Mary’s property has been appraised at $550,000.00

· The Heritage Christian Fellowship (HCF) is currently renting the parish house

· HCF has offered to purchase the parish house for $270,000.00; the Finance Committee has recommended a counter offer of $300,000.00

· The St. Mary’s property would be subdivided

o St. Barnabas would keep the rectory and cemetery

o HCF would assume the parish house

· St. Barnabas and HCF will split the cost of the subdivision of the property and the installation of a new fire alarm system

A motion was made, seconded and approved by the SC as follows: In the opinion of the SC, St. Barnabas could move forward and pursue the sale of the St. Mary’s property located at 358 Warwick Neck Avenue, Warwick, RI based on the information presented.

Bishop Knisely then entered into conversation with the SC presenting several informational items to them for their input.

The Rev. Bocchino led the SC in closing prayer.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:30 p.m.

NOTE: The next meeting of the Standing Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, December 1, 2015 at 4:00 p.m. in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

Respectfully submitted by Mr. Sibielski, Secretary

October 13, 2015 Meeting Summary

2016-06-03T10:22:00.001-07:00

October 13, 2015 Meeting Summary

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island
Standing Committee
Minutes of the Meeting of October 13, 2015

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by Mrs. MacFall (President) at 4:08 p.m. on Tuesday, October 13, 2015 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

The Rev. Michael Coburn, Mr. John Gelati, The Rev. Patrick Greene, The Rev. Kevin Lloyd, Mrs. Lora MacFall (President), Mr. F. Leon Sibielski (Secretary), and Mr. Dennis E. Stark were in attendance. The Rev. James Bocchino was absent.

The Rev. Coburn led the SC in opening prayer.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of September 8, 2015.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the Minutes Summary of the Meeting of September 8, 2015.

The SC requested of Mrs. MacFall that she seek clarification of a petition to which we were unclear as to what it was that we were being asked to do by the Dallas Episcopalians for Unity of the Diocese of Dallas, TX.

Mrs. MacFall reported on a conference that she attended along with Bishop Knisely, The Rev. Linda Grenz, The Rev. Sunil Chandy, and The Rev. Veronica Tierney. The Rev. Canon Charles LaFond presented on the spirituality and how to praxis of Fearless Church Fundraising, an approach as described in his book of the same title.

The Rev. Greene led the SC in closing prayer.

The meeting was adjourned at 5:48 p.m.

NOTE: The next meeting of the Standing Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, November 10, 2015 at 4:00 p.m. in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

Respectfully submitted,

F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

September 8, 2015 Meeting Summary

2016-06-03T10:19:00.001-07:00

September 8, 2015 Meeting Summary

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island
Standing Committee
Minutes of the Meeting of September 8, 2015

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by Mrs. MacFall (President) at 4:05 p.m. on Tuesday, September 8, 2015 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

The Rev. Michael Coburn, Mr. John Gelati, The Rev. Patrick Greene, The Rev. Kevin Lloyd, Mrs. Lora MacFall (President), Mr. F. Leon Sibielski (Secretary), and Mr. Dennis E. Stark were in attendance. The Rev. James Bocchino was absent.

Mrs. MacFall led the SC in opening prayer.

Ms. MacFall acknowledged the receipt of a written request from The Rev. Milquella Mendoza, President of the Standing Committee for the Diocese of the Dominican Republic to consent to the election of The Rev. Moises Quezada-Mota as Coadjutor Elect of the Diocese of the Dominican Republic. A motion was made, seconded by and approved to approve the election of the Rev. Moises Quezada-Mota as Coadjutor of the Diocese of the Dominican Republic.

Mrs. MacFall acknowledged the receipt of a written request from St. Mary’s Portsmouth and the Sarah Gibbs Trust Trustees regarding the disposition of the former parish house and the 1.1 acre parcel of land on which it sits. This matter is being referred back to the Trustees for resolution as they are entrusted with this property not the Diocese.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the Minutes of the Meeting of July 14, 2015.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the Minutes Summary of the Meeting of July 14, 2015.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to approve the Minutes of the SC Email Meeting of Friday, August 14, 2015.

Mrs. MacFall reported that grants to the Cathedral Project will be handled by the Finance Committee.

Bishop Knisely then entered into conversation with the SC presenting several informational items to them for their input.

Mrs. MacFall then conducted a Mutual Ministry Review between Bishop Knisely and the Standing Committee.

Bishop Knisely led the SC in closing prayer

The meeting was adjourned at 5:50 p.m.

NOTE: The next meeting of the Standing Committee is scheduled for Tuesday, October 13, 2015, at 4:00 p.m. in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

Respectfully submitted,
F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

May 13, 2014 Meeting Summary

2014-06-13T12:04:00.001-07:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island
Minutes of the Standing Committee Meeting
May 13, 2014

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by the Rev. Anita Schell (President) at 4:35 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13, 2014 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

Present: The Rt. Rev. Nicholas Knisely, the Rev. Anita Schell (President), The Rev. Michael Coburn, The Rev. Kevin Lloyd, Mrs. Lora MacFall, Mr. William Plumb, Mr. F. Leon Sibielski (Secretary), Mr. Dennis E. Stark

Absent: The Rev. James Bocchino

Bishop Knisely led the SC in opening prayer.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept the Minutes of the Meeting of April 8, 2014.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept the Summary of the Minutes of the Meeting of April 8, 2014 and to post them to the SC section of the Diocesan web site.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to consent to the Election of a Bishop Coadjutor for the Diocese of the Dominican Republic in accordance with Canon III.9(a)(1).

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to affirm a loan request made by St. Paul’s Portsmouth of the Finance Committee through the Diocesan Revolving Loan Fund for safety improvements to its facility.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to recommend to Bishop Knisely that Jackie Kirby be ordained to the transitional diaconate.

In accordance with Diocesan Canon 11.6(b), (b), a motion was made, seconded, and approved to direct the secretary of the SC to notify all Diocesan Rectors, Vicars, and Priests-in-Charge of receipt of the written request by Church Beyond Walls for specialized mission status.

Bishop Knisely then entered into conversation with the SC presenting several informational items to them for their input.

The Rev. Kevin Lloyd led the SC in closing prayer.

Meeting adjourned at 6:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

April 8, 2014 Meeting Summary

2014-05-15T14:00:00.002-07:00

April 8, 2014 Meeting Summary

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Minutes of the Standing Committee Meeting

April 8, 2014

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by The Rev. Anita Schell at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2014 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

Present: The Rt. Rev. Nicholas Knisely, the Rev. Anita Schell (President), the Rev. James Bocchino, The Rev. Michael Coburn, The Rev. Kevin Lloyd, Mrs. Lora MacFall, Mr. William Plumb, Mr. F. Leon Sibielski (Secretary), Mr. Dennis E. Stark

Absent: (none)

Bishop Knisely led the SC in opening prayer.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept the Minutes of the Meeting of March 11, 2014.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept the Summary of the Minutes of the Meeting of March 11, 2014 and to post them to the SC section of the Diocesan web site.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to affirm the loan requests through the Diocesan Revolving Loan Fund made of the Finance Committee by Church of the Epiphany, Rumford and St. Columba’s Chapel, Middletown for improvements to their respective properties.

Bishop Knisely then entered into conversation with the SC presenting several informational items to them for their input.

The Rev. Kevin Lloyd led the SC in closing prayer.

Meeting adjourned at 6:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

March 11, 2014 Meeting Summary

2014-04-22T07:45:00.002-07:00

March 11, 2014 Meeting Summary
Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island
Minutes of the Standing Committee Meeting
March 11, 2014

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by The Rev. Anita Schell at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 11, 2014 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

Present: The Right Reverend Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Anita Schell, President of the Standing Committee, The Reverend James Bocchino, The Rev., Michael Coburn, The Rev. Kevin Lloyd, Mrs. Lora MacFall, Mr. William Plumb, and Mr. Dennis E. Stark.

Absent: Mr. F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

Bishop Knisely led the SC in opening prayer.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept the Minutes of the Meeting of February 11, 2014.

The SC revisited the request from Grace Church to transfer ownership of Grace Church Cemetery to the Gateway Cemetery Company. At the invitation of the SC, a delegation from Grace Church was in attendance for the conversation. Following their presentation, the following resolution was proposed, seconded, and approved: The Standing Committee consents to the transfer by Grace Church Providence of Grace Church Cemetery, together with the perpetual care fund, to the Gateway Cemetery Company, with the condition that the Gateway Cemetery Company assumes all obligations, including but not limited to all perpetual care contracts, and that Grace Church is indemnified from all actions and claims pertaining to the Cemetery.

Following a discussion about St. Thomas’ Bylaws revisions, a motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept their bylaws revisions with recommended grammatical and sustentative changes.

Bishop Knisely then entered into conversation with the SC presenting several informational items to them for their input.

The Rev. Anita Schell led the SC in closing prayer.

Meeting adjourned at 6:12 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

The Rev. Kevin Lloyd (in Mr. Sibielski's absence).

February 11, 2014 Meeting Summary

2014-04-22T07:32:00.001-07:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island
Minutes of the Standing Committee Meeting
February 11, 2014

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by The Rev. Anita Schell at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, 2014 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

In attendance: The Right Reverend Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Anita Schell, President of the Standing Committee, The Reverend James Bocchino, The Rev., Michael Coburn, Mrs. Lora MacFall, Mr. William Plumb, Mr. F. Leon Sibielski, and Mr. Dennis E. Stark.

Absent: The Rev. Kevin Lloyd.

Bishop Knisely led the SC in opening prayer.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept the following items:
· the Summary of the Minutes of the Meeting of November 12, 2013
· the Minutes of the Meeting of January 14, 2014
· the Summary of the Minutes of the Meeting of January 14, 2014

A motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to table until its March meeting a request by St. Thomas to approve the adoption of their amended bylaws pending further corrections to the copy received.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to table until its March meeting a request by the Vestry and Rector of Grace Church to transfer ownership of Grace Church Cemetery (intersection of Broad Street and Elmwood Avenue) to the Gateway Cemetery Company.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to assign to St. Augustine’s the status of Mission Congregation in the Diocese of Rhode Island, and to introduce them to the resources available in the Diocese to support their congregation’s mission and ministry to the students, faculty, and staff of the University of Rhode Island.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved by the SC to approve the Lease Agreement between the Diocese of Rhode Island and Hallworth Outpatient Rehabilitation Center.

Discussion took place about a Bylaw Template and Bylaw Checklist
· The template being an attempt by the former Chancellor at providing congregations with a format that was compliant with RI corporate law and the National Canons
· The checklist being an attempt by the present Chancellor at providing congregations with a list of the necessary items to be contained in their by-laws
· The need to encourage congregations to review their by-laws

Bishop Knisely then entered into conversation with the SC presenting several informational items to them for their input.

The Rev. James Bocchino led the SC in closing prayer.

Meeting adjourned at 6:10 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

January 14, 2014 Meeting Summary

2014-02-13T07:49:00.003-08:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Minutes of the Standing Committee Meeting

January 14, 2013

The regular monthly meeting of the Standing Committee (SC) was called to order by the Rev. Anita Schell at 4:37 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, 2013 in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House.

In attendance The Right Reverend Nicholas Knisely, The Rev. Anita Schell, President of the Standing Committee, The Reverend James Bocchino, The Rev., Michael Coburn, The Reverend Kevin Lloyd, Mr. William Plumb, Mr. F. Leon Sibielski, and Mr. Dennis E. Stark.

Absent: Mrs. Laura MacFall.

Bishop Knisely led the SC in opening prayer.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to accept the minutes of the meeting of November 12, 2013 with the following corrections:

· Change St. Mark’s Warren to St. Mark’s Riverside, East Providence;

· Change St. Mark’s property tax to the assessed tax made by the tax assessor’s office to St. Mark’s Riverside.

Information was provided to the membership about the ongoing efforts to securely store all SC documents in Google Drive.

A motion was made seconded, and approved to consent to the election of the Rev. Matthew Alan Gunter as Bishop Diocesan to the Diocese of Fond Du Lac in accordance with the Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church, 2012, Canon III. 11. 4(b). Discussion followed. Motion approved.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to consent to the election of Bishop Coadjutor for the Diocese of Southeast Florida in accordance with the Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church, 2012, Canon III. 11. 9(a). Motion approved.

A motion was made, seconded, and approved to consent to the election of the Rev. Alan K. Shin as Bishop Suffragan for the Diocese of New York in accordance with in accordance with the Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church, 2012, Canon III. 11. 9(b). (6) Discussion followed. Motion approved.

The Rev. Anita Schell provided background to the Chancellor’s oversight in the development of guidelines for the submission of the By-Laws being presented to the SC for their approval by St. Thomas (Greenville). There being no substantive issues to consider, a motion was made, seconded and approved to accept St. Thomas’ By-Laws as presented.

Bishop Knisely then entered into conversation with the Standing Committee presenting several informational items to them for their input.

The Rev. Michael Coburn led the SC in closing prayer.

Meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

December 10, 2013 Meeting Summary

2014-02-13T07:45:00.004-08:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island
Minutes of the Standing Committee Meeting
December 10, 2013

An impending snow storm on December 10, 2013 resulted in the cancellation of the Standing Committee Meeting.

November 12, 2013 Meeting Summary

2014-02-13T06:50:00.001-08:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Minutes of the Standing Committee Meeting

November 12, 2013

The regular monthly meeting of The Standing Committee was held on Tuesday, November 12, 2013 at 12 Noon in the Thompson Room at the Hope Club, Providence, RI.

In attendance: The Right Reverend Nicholas Knisely, The Hon. Scott Avedisian, President of The Standing Committee, The Reverend James Bocchino Mr. Jim Kelliher, The Reverend Kevin Lloyd, Mrs. Lora MacFall, The Reverend Jennifer Pedrick, Mr. William Plumb, The Reverend Anita Schell, Mr. F. Leon Sibielski, Mr. Dennis Stark.

Absent: The Reverend Mike Coburn, Mrs. Grace Swinski.

The meeting opened at 12:14 PM with prayer led by Bishop Knisely.

With a correction to the spelling of Hallworth House in the October 22 minutes motion to approve the minutes and minute summary of the October 22, meeting was made, seconded, and passed.

Motion to nominate The Rev. Anita Louise Schell to serve a one year term as President of the Standing Committee of the Diocese of Rhode Island was made, seconded, and passed.

Motion to nominate Mr. F. Leon Sibielski to serve a one year term as Secretary of the Standing Committee of the Diocese of Rhode Island was made, seconded and passed.

Bishop Knisely then entered into conversation with the Standing Committee presenting several informational items to them for their input.

The meeting adjourned at 1:12 PM

Respectfully submitted,

F. Leon Sibielski, Secretary

October 22, 2013 Meeting Summary

2013-11-21T07:25:00.002-08:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Minutes of the Standing Committee Meeting

October 22, 2013

The regular monthly meeting of The Standing Committee was held on Tuesday, October 22, 2013 at 4:30 pm in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House, 275 North Main Street, and Providence (note meeting change from the regularly scheduled second Tuesday of the month).

In attendance: The Hon. Scott Avedisian, President of The Standing Committee, The Reverend Mike Coburn, Mr. Jim Kelliher, The Reverend Jennifer Pedrick, Mr. William Plumb, The Reverend Anita Schell-Lambert, Mrs. Grace Swinski

The Right Reverend Nicholas Knisely was also present.

Absent: The Reverend James Bocchino

The meeting opened at 4:33 PM with prayer led by the bishop.

Motion to approve the minutes and minute summary of the September 16, meeting were made. The motion passes.

Moved and seconded, the Standing Committee supports the Bishop’s recommendation to move St. George’s, Central Falls into transitional mission status for a period of 5 years renewable. The motion passes.

Motion was made and seconded to give the Bishop authority to grant permission, should they petition before the December Standing Committee meeting, for the congregation of St. Paul’s Pawtucket to move to mission status. One abstention. Motion passes.

Council of Advice to the Bishop.

Acknowledgement was made to the outgoing members of the Standing Committee for their dedicated service: President, The Honorable Scott Avedisian, The Reverend Jennifer Pedrick, and Mr. Jim Kelliher and Ms. Grace Swinksi. Mr. Kelliher and Ms. Swinski leave their terms prematurely to pursue diaconal preparation. The Bishop expressed his gratitude for their support and counsel.

The Standing Committee also gave thanks in the following acclamation: “The Standing Committee of the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island raises its voice, in concert with angels, archangels, and all the company of heaven, in thanksgiving for the state of Holy Matrimony to be entered into this Friday by our friend and colleague Anita Schell-Lambert. We wish her and her beloved, Steve, all the blessings that the God of love can bestow on those who love God and we give thanks for this small, good, divine event."

The meeting adjourned at 5:40 PM

Respectfully submitted,

The Reverend Anita Schell-Lambert

Secretary

September 10, 2013 Meeting Summary

2013-11-07T06:03:00.002-08:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Meeting Summary of the Standing Committee Meeting

September 10, 2013

The regular monthly meeting of The Standing Committee was held on Tuesday, September 10, 2013 at 4:30 pm in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House, 275 North Main Street, and Providence.

In attendance: The Hon. Scott Avedisian, President of The Standing Committee, The Reverend James Bocchino, The Reverend Mike Coburn, Mr. Jim Kelliher, The Reverend Jennifer Pedrick, Mr. William Plumb, The Reverend Anita Schell-Lambert, Mrs. Grace Swinski

The Right Reverend Nicholas Knisely was also present.

The meeting opened at 4:42 PM with prayer led by the bishop.

Motion to approve the minutes and minute summary of the June 10, 2013 meeting was made and passed.

Noting the Commission on Finance’s approval of revolving loan requests to both St. Martin’s ,Providence and St. Thomas Greenville, the following motions were made:

Motion to approve a diocesan revolving loan in the amount of $100,000 for St. Martin’s was made and passed.

Motion to approve a diocesan revolving loan in the amount of $132,000 for St Thomas, Greenville, to upgrade the kitchen and heating systems was made and passed.

After interviewing Ms. Jackie Kirby, noting that the documentation relating to her application to candidacy has been reviewed, and in accordance with Canon III.8.4. (b) motion was made by to recommend to the bishop Ms. Jackie Kirby as a candidate for ordination to the Priesthood. The motion passed .

The Bishop gave the closing prayer.

Motion to adjourn the meeting was made at 5:49.

Respectfully submitted,

The Rev. Anita Schell-Lambert

Secretary,

Standing Committee

Diocese of Rhode Island

June 11, 2013 Meeting Summary

2013-09-25T08:53:00.000-07:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Minutes of the Standing Committee Meeting

June 11, 2013

Edgewood Yacht Club, Cranston, RI

The regular monthly meeting of The Standing Committee was held on Tuesday, June 11, 2013 at 4 pm at the Edgewood Yacht Club, Cranston, RI.

The Right Reverend Nicholas Knisely was also present.

The meeting opened at 4:42 PM with prayer led by the bishop.

1. Motion to approve the minutes of the May 2013 meeting was approved and passed

2. Motion to approve the amended constitution and by-laws of Trinity Episcopal Church, North Scituate was approved and passed.

3. Motion to give permission to the Diocesan of Rhode Island to sell the church building of St Mary’s, Warren to contractors William Camara and Nicholas Ferrara for $150,000 was approved and passed.

The meeting adjourned at 5:40 pm with prayer led by the Bishop.

Addendum:

As we have agreed to grant consent through email when appropriate or necessary, the following five consents were made via email after the June 13, 2013 regularly scheduled Standing Committee meeting

On June 26, 2013, in accordance with Diocese of Rhode Island’s Constitution & Canons and Standing Orders, Canon XV. 1, and having received at least five affirmative votes, The Standing Committee approved the formal resolution to allow St. Mary's Episcopal Church, Portsmouth to sell development rights to the Aquidneck Island Land Trust. The Secretary signed the Secretary's affirmation and sent via USPS to the Chancellor and to the Canon to the Ordinary certificates indicating this action.

On July 5, having received via email affirmation that all Standing Committee members of the Diocese of Rhode Island had voted, consent was given to the following:

In accordance with Canon III.11.3 (b) to the election of the Reverend Canon William Hallock Stokes to be the Bishop Diocesan for the Episcopal Diocese of New Jersey.

In accordance with Canon I.10.6 (a) to the reunification of the Episcopal Diocese of Quincy and the Episcopal Diocese of Chicago.

In accordance with Canon III.11.9 (b) (2) to the election of a bishop suffragan for the Diocese of Maryland.

In accordance with Canon III.11.3, (b) to the election of The Reverend Whayne M. Houghland, Jr. to be Bishop Diocesan for the Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan.

Respectfully submitted,

The Reverend Anita Schell-Lambert

Secretary, Standing Committee

Diocese of Rhode Island

May 8, 2012 Meeting Summary

2012-06-14T08:52:00.003-07:00

The regular monthly meeting of The Standing Committee was held on Tuesday, May 8, 2012 at 4:30 PM in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House, 275 North Main Street, and Providence.

In attendance: The Hon. Scott Avedisian, President of The Standing Committee, The Reverend Mike Coburn, Ms. Frances Gammell-Roach, Mr. James Kelliher, The Reverend Pam Mott, The Rev. Jennifer Pedrick, Mr. William Plumb, and The Reverend Anita Schell-Lambert. The Right Reverend Geralyn Wolf was also present.

Guests: The Reverend Patrick Campbell, and Ms. Sherilyn Pearce and Ms. Beth Gettel (via Skype, courtesy of the Reverend Pedrick)

The meeting opened at 4:38 with prayer by the Bishop in celebration of the Day,

Julian of Norwich.

1. During the Bishop’s Time, the Bishop reported that she will be visiting with the bishop nominees on Friday. She recounted a recent visit to Block Island filled with lots of food and hospitality. The Bishop and her staff are working very diligently to clean up any unfinished business, including Title IV cases and merging and closing parishes as well as staffing for the diocesan office. With regard to the Cathedral building, it will be secure and periodically checked. The books have been closed and books are in the diocesan offices, along with payments. The Cathedral Chapter does not want to take on the responsibility of oversight. The Chapter will disband and create a chapter or committee to oversee the cathedral. Discussion including logistics with new bishop’s arrival and Bishop Wolf’s leave-taking, the latter which officially is January 1, 2013.

2. Motion was passed to approve minutes of the April 10, 2012 meeting. Motion was passed to approve the meeting summary of the April 10, 2012 meeting.

3. Motion was passed to consent to the election of Bishop Suffragan for the Diocese of North Carolina.

4. Update on St. Alban’s, Centredale and Trinity, North Scituate. Mr. Avedisian reported that he wrote to the attorney for St. Alban’s. St. Alban’s rectory was sold for $137,000. May 6 Trinity, North Scituate voted to merge with St. Alban’s.

5. Update on St. Andrew’s, Little Compton. Per Mr. Avedisian, St. Andrew’s is finalizing an agreement with the Little Compton School department. Both the Congregational Church and St. Andrew’s of Little Compton will be jointly leasing parish buildings for a year.

6. Mr. Avedisian reported that the auditor for the diocese said that there were no pending Title IV cases and no other items necessary to go into the 2011 audit.

7. The Reverend Mott, rector of St. Mary’s, Portsmouth gave an update on St. Mary’s, Portsmouth. The Reverend Mott reported on the progress of their new building: financing has been in part through conserving of 40 acres of land, with a conservation easement and reformation of Sarah Gibbs Land for “purposes of land or seminary” given in the nineteenth century. In the meantime, a local growers market approached the Reverend Mott about using the former parish house for a winter farmers market. The immediate issue is for the former parish house to be given away in a limited partnership with Aquidneck Island Land Trust, the growers market, Eco Rhode Island and Sustainable Rhode Island as a sustainability center with various entities including the thrift shop. The Vestry of St. Mary’s has approved the vision, pending permissions.

Permission to give the land and the building for this limited partnership will need to be granted by the Standing Committee, along with permission to give an easement for the septic system.

8. Interview of Patrick Campbell for ordination to the priesthood. The Reverend Campbell reported that a new opportunity came to be priest in charge at Redeemer, Providence, and a two-year placement. Mr. Avedisian reported that all Reverend Campbell’s paperwork is in order. Ordination to the priesthood is scheduled for Saturday June 30 at 10 am at St. Paul's, Pawtucket.

According to Canon III.9.1-3, motion was made and passed to “testify that The Reverend Patrick Campbell, desiring to be ordained to the Priesthood, has presented to the Standing Committee the certificates as required by the Canons indicating his preparedness for ordination to the Priesthood have been met; and the Standing Committee certifies that all canonical requirements for ordination to

the Priesthood have been met, and we find no sufficient objection to ordination.”

9. Upon a Skype interview, courtesy of The Reverend Pedrick, and according to Canon III.8, motion was made and passed to “testify that Ms. Sherilyn Pearce, desiring to be ordained to the Diaconate and Priesthood under Canon III.8, has presented to us the certificates as required by the Canons indicating her preparedness for ordination to the Diaconate under Canon III.8; and we certify that all canonical requirements for ordination to the Diaconate under Canon III.8 have been met; and we find no sufficient objection to ordination. Therefore, we recommend Ms. Sherilyn Pearce for ordination.”

10. Upon a Skype interview, courtesy of The Reverend Pedrick, and according to Canon III.8, motion was made and passed, “Subject to successful completion of her psychological review and recommendation of Ms. Gettel for ordination by the Commission on Ministry to the Bishop, the Standing Committee testifies that Ms. Becky Gettel, desiring to be ordained to the Diaconate and Priesthood under Canon III.8, has presented to us the certificates as required by the Canons indicating her preparedness for ordination to the Diaconate under Canon III.8; and we certify that all canonical requirements for ordination to the Diaconate under Canon III.8 have been met; and we find no sufficient objection to ordination. Therefore, we recommend Ms. Becky Gettel for ordination.”

11. Report of Mr. Plumb for the Transition Committee about the upcoming election of the 13^th Bishop of Rhode Island noted the use of polling machines for the election

12. Closing Prayer was given by The Reverend Pedrick at 6:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

Anita Schell-Lambert

Secretary, Standing Committee

The Diocese of Rhode Island

April 10, 2012 Meeting Summary

2012-06-14T08:51:00.000-07:00

The regular monthly meeting of The Standing Committee was held on Tuesday, April 10, 2012 at 4:30 PM in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House, 275 North Main Street, Providence.

The meting opened at 4:32 with a for Tuesday in Easter Week and a reflection on the people in Diocese of Ezo by the Bishop

1. Bishop’s Time:

The Bishop reported from her the recent from House of Bishops’ meeting, Material about the structure, or potential restructure of the ECUSA was presented by The Rt Rev. Stacey Sauls. Bishop Wolf spent Holy Week and Easter at the Cathedral and Grace, Providence. Bishop Wolf reported that interviews are about to begin for Gloria Williams’ position. Ty Creason is leaving on June 30. Final service of worship for the Cathedral is Sunday, April 22.

2. Minutes

Motion was passed to approve the minutes of the March 13, 2012 meeting. Motion was passed to approve the March 13 meeting summary.

3. Approval of the sale of Grace Church Apartments

Motion was passed to approve the sale of the Grace Church Apartments at the $7 million cost to Preservation of Affordable Housing, Boston.

4. Further discussion about closing of Cathedral, depending on April 11 meeting. If the building closes, books will be boxed, records will be stored; vestments and linens will be stored by the Cathedral community. There are no merger conversations. Goal is the closing 2 weeks after April 22. Pending vote of Cathedral chapter, the next step is for Diocesan Council, Standing Committee and Bishop Wolf to charge a smaller task force with dealing with closing of cathedral and diocesan offices.

5. Update on St. Alban’s, Centredale.

Mr. Avedisian reported for the church representatives that $137,000 was made for sale of the St. Alban’s rectory, which was more than required by the Standing Committee.

Closing prayer was led at 5:41 PM by The Reverend Jennifer Pedrick.

Respectfully submitted,

The Rev. Anita Schell-Lambert

Secretary

March 13, 2012 Standing Committee Meeting Summary

2012-05-03T09:15:00.002-07:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Meeting Summary of the Standing Committee

March 13, 2012

The regular monthly meeting of The Standing Committee was held on Tuesday March 13, 2012 at 4:30 PM in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House, 275 North Main Street, Providence.

Guests for latter part of meeting: Ms. Elizabeth E. Anderson, Jr. Warden, Transfiguration, Cranston; Mr. Bill Baddeley, Jr. Warden, Trinity, Cranston; Mr. Dwight Barrett, Senior Warden, Transfiguration, Cranston; Mr. Mark Grimm, Vestry Member, Transfiguration, Cranston; The Rev. Marsue Harris, Interim Rector, Trinity, Cranston; Ms. Sue Hurn, Senior Warden, St. David’s, Cranston; The Rev. Peter Lane, interim rector, St. David’s, Cranston; The Rev. Mary J. Korte, interim rector, Transfiguration, Cranston; Mr. Stephan Sloan, Senior Warden, Trinity, Cranston; Mr. Michael Tullie, Senior Warden, Church of the Ascension, Cranston.

The Hon. Scott Avedisian, President of The Standing Committee, called the meeting to order at 4:35 PM. Opening Prayer was given by Bishop Wolf in memory of James Theodore Holley, first African American bishop, Bishop of Haiti.

1. During the Bishop’s Time, Bishop Wolf reflected on her sabbatical, particularly being a guest in England of WATCH, enjoying a cruise with her husband and a visit to the Diocese of Florida. She returned from her sabbatical to news of the cathedral’s closing and the death of the Chancellor. In the diocesan office, Gloria Williams announced her retirement; Ty Creason leaves the end of June.

2. The Bishop and Standing Committee reminisced on the contributions of the Chancellor. A resolution was passed in deep appreciation of the longtime ministry to the diocese of Chancellor Edmund C. Bennett.

3. Motion was passed to approve the minutes of the February 14, 2012 meeting.

4. Motion was passed to accept the amended by-laws of St. Martin’s, Providence.

5. Motion was passed to accept the revised agreement for the merger of St. Matthew’s, Barrington & St. Mark’s, Riverside.

6. Motion was passed to consent to the election of Bishop Suffragan for the Diocese of Texas.

7. Motion was passed to give permission to begin merger discussion between St. Alban’s and Trinity, North Scituate.

8. Members of Standing Committee, the Bishop met clergy and lay leaders from the 4 Cranston congregations. These leaders summarized their shared worship experiences and fellowship as well as delineating short-term goals for each parish.

The suggestion was made to have a uniform statement from all parishes about what is going on in their conversations around shared ministries. SC support the exploration of merger between St. David’s and Transfiguration

9. The Standing Committee acknowledged and congratulated one of its own, The Rev Pedrick as a candidate for Bishop of the Diocese of Rhode Island.

The Meeting closed at 6:30 with a prayer by The Rev. Coburn.

Respectfully submitted,

The Rev. Anita Schell-Lambert

Secretary

February 14, 2012 Standing Committee Meeting Summary

2012-05-03T09:14:00.002-07:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Meeting Summary of the Standing Committee

February 14, 2012

Guild Room, Emmanuel Church, Newport

The Hon. Scott Avedisian, President of The Standing Committee, called the meeting to order at 4:53 PM on Tuesday February 14, 2012. Other members of the Standing Committee present: The Reverend Mike Coburn, Mr. James Kelliher, The Reverend Jennifer Pedrick, Mr. William Plumb, and The Reverend Anita Schell-Lambert

1. The meeting opened with a prayer by The Reverend Jennifer Pedrick.

2. Motion was passed to approve the minutes of the January 10, 2012 meeting. Motion was passed to approve the meeting summary of the January 10, 2012 meeting.

3. Motion was passed to approve the amended by-laws for Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Newport.

4. Motion was passed to approve the amended by-laws of St. Stephen's Church, Providence.

5. Motion was passed to table approval of the amended by-laws of St. Martin’s, Providence until the March 13, 2012 meeting so that members had a chance to compare the old version and the new versions.

6. Motion was passed to affirm the decision of the Bishop to allow the Vestry of St. Alban's Episcopal Church, Centredale to remain in office through their merger process. (Bishop Wolf permitted the Vestry to be out of compliance with their by-laws due to their period of transition; they are voting on Feb 19 to suspend their by-laws to allow their Senior Warden to continue to serve).

7. Motion was passed to consent to the election of The Reverend Oge Beauvoir as Bishop Suffragan of the Diocese of Haiti. Motion passed.

8. Update was given on 2 further appraisals of property to be sold by Grace, Providence by Country and Coastal properties of Little Compton. Original appraisal was from Allen Booth (long time assessor in Newport).

Motion was passed to grant permission for Grace, Providence to sell their bequeathed property, as long as it sold at or above the minimum bid decided on by this committee.

9. An update of the Bishop Search process was by Mr. Plumb, a member of the Transition Committee.

Closing Prayer was led by The Reverend Mike Coburn at 6:30 PM.

The Reverend Anita Schell-Lambert. Motion passed.

Respectfully submitted,

The Rev. Anita Schell-Lambert

Secretary

Standing Committee Meeting Summary January 10, 2012

2012-02-23T11:59:00.002-08:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Meeting Summary of the Standing Committee Meeting

January 10, 2012

Diocesan House

The Hon. Scott Avedisian, President of The Standing Committee, called the meeting to order at 4:35 PM on Tuesday January 10, 2012. Other members of the Standing Committee present: The Reverend Mike Coburn, Ms. Frances Gammell-Roach, Mr. James Kelliher, The Reverend Pam Mott, Mr. William Plumb, and The Reverend Anita Schell-Lambert. The Right Reverend Geralyn Wolf was also present.

Guests: Dr. David Schmitter, Senior Warden and Jill Shurtleff, Jr. Warden, of St. Alban’s Church, Centredale; The Reverend Canon Jonathan Huyck, Rector, Grace Church, Providence

1. The meeting was opened at 4:35 with prayer by Bishop Wolf on the feast day of William Laud.

2. Bishop Wolf reported on her recent visit to Haiti with other bishops in Province I. The Bishop reported on various meetings with congregations.

3. Motion was passed to authorize St. Alban’s, Centredale to sell the St. Alban’s rectory, and a minimum bd was decided upon.

Motion was passed to authorize St. Alban’s to enter into conversations with one of the following congregations about a prospective merger: St. Thomas, Greenville, Grace Church, Providence, Trinity Church, North Scituate or St. Paul’s, Pawtucket.

4. Motion was passed that Grace Church, Providence, be permitted to sell bequeathed property in Little Compton, subject to an amount that will be given by the Standing Committee in the future. Seconded by Ms. Gammell-Roach. The Standing Committee requested that The Reverend Huyck receive 2 additional appraisals and that these appraisals be sent to the President of the Standing Committee, who will pass them on to the members of the Standing Committee so that there is not a delay in moving forward on a potential sale.

5. Consent was granted for the election of The Reverend Gregory Orrin Brewer to be the Bishop Diocesan of the Diocese of Central Florida.

6. Consent was granted for the election of the Reverend Andrew Marion Lenow Dietsche to be the Bishop Coadjutor of the Episcopal Diocese of New York.

7. The Reverend Pam Mott reported for the Profile and Search Committee that the committee is in the process of finalizing candidates, visiting and doing deep background checks in January.

8. Mr. Plumb reported for the Transition Committee that the committee is waiting for final agreements for the site of the consecration. The Transition Committee is also working on a location for the walk abouts.

Closing Prayer was led by The Reverend Mike Coburn.

The meeting adjourned at 6:30 PM.

Respectfully submitted,

The Rev. Anita Schell-Lambert

Secretary

December 13, 2011 Meeting Summary

2012-01-26T07:06:00.001-08:00

Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island

Minutes of the Standing Committee Meeting

December 13, 2011

Hope Club, Providence, RI

The Hon. Scott Avedisian, President of The Standing Committee, called the meeting to order at 12:00 noon on Tuesday December 13th at the Hope Club. Members of the Standing Committee present: The Hon. Scott Avedisian, The Reverend Mike Coburn Ms. Caryl Frink, Ms. Frances Gamell-Roach Mr. James Kelliher. The Reverend Pam Mott, The Reverend Jennifer Pedrick,Mr. William Plumb, The Reverend Anita Schell-Lambert, The Reverend Stephanie Shoemaker, and The Right Reverend Geralyn Wolf, Chancellor Edmund Bennett, Church Attorney Patricia Sullivan. Mr. Dan Pacheco and Ms. Jeanne Mason of Sts. Matthew and Mark Church were also present for various parts of the meeting.

1. The meeting was opened at 12:05 with prayer by Bishop Wolf.

2. The Bishop’s Time. Bishop Wolf reported on her recent visit to Haiti with other Bishops in Province I.

3. The committee then welcomed the two new members that were elected at Diocesan Convention: The Reverend Mike Coburn and Mr. James Kelliher.

4. The committee thanked The Reverend Stephanie Shoemaker and Ms. Caryl Frink for their four years of service as members of the committee.

5. The minutes of the November 8, 2011 meeting were approved.

6. The Honorable Scott Avedisian was elected to service a one -year term as President of the Standing Committee.

7. The Reverend Anita Schell-Lambert was elected to serve a one-year term as the Secretary of The Standing Committee.

8. The Standing Committee approved changes to the by-laws of Trinity Church, Pawtuxet.

9. With regard to the Cathedral plans, including the cemetery, the Bishop, Canon Fornal, and Mr. Avedisian met in early December with the Cathedral Chapter. Bishop Joslin will be at the Cathedral January – March 2012 , 3 days a week.

10. Dan Pacheco and Jeanne Mason of Sts. Matthew and Mark, Barrington reported that things were going well with plans for the merger. They have received two appraisals on their property. The Standing Committee approved the parish to market and sell their properties for no less than the minimum bid decided upon.

11. The Reverend Stephanie Shoemaker led the group in closing prayer, and the meeting was adjourned at 2:15 p.m.

The next meeting of the Standing Committee will be held on Tuesday January 10, 2012 at 4:30 p.m. in the Higgins Room at Diocesan House, 275 North Main Street, Providence.

Respectfully submitted

The Rev. Dr. Anita Schell-Lambert

Summary of Nov. 8, 2011 meeting

2011-11-28T06:54:00.000-08:00

The Standing Committee of the Diocese of Rhode Island

Summary of Meeting of Nov. 8, 2011

The Hon. Scott Avedisian, President, called the meeting to order at 4:35 pm. Other members in attendance were Ms. Caryl Frink, the Rev. Pamela Mott, Mr. WIlliam Plumb, the Rev. Anita Schell-Lambert and the Rev. Stephanie Shoemaker. The Rt. Rev. Geralyn Wolf, Ms. Becky Gettel , the Very Rev. Harry Krauss and Ms. Leah Nastasi were also present for various parts of the meeting.

1. The meeting was opened with prayer by Bp. Wolf.

2. The Bishop’s Time

a. As preparation for her convention address, Bp. Wolf has reread all of her convention addresses. One observation - “we have reinvented the wheel a thousand times!”

b. regarding the preliminary report of the Cathedral Close feasibility study - it does say “yes” to the possibility of low income housing and assisted living.

3. Ms. Rebecca Gettel, a senior at the Episcopal Divinity School, was interviewed as the Canons require and it was voted to recommend her to Bishop Wolf as a Candidate for the transitional Diaconate.

4. The minutes of the Oct. 11, 2011 meeting were approved.

5. After some discussion it was voted to give permission to St. Luke’s Church, Pawtucket to put the former St. John’s Church and parish house in Ashton on the market for sale.

6. Dean Krauss and Ms. Leah Nastasi, Senior Warden, of the Cathedral of St. John were present to continue the discussion about the future of both the cathedral building and the congregation. The financial picture is bleak. The Standing Committee is seeking as much information as possible so that it may be a support for this congregation as it moves forward.

8. Bp. Wolf closed the meeting with prayer.

There being no further business the meeting adjourned at 6:30 pm.

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, December 13, 2011 at noon; this is the annual transition luncheon meeting.

Respectfully Submitted,

Caryl Frink, Secretary

Summary of Oct. 11, 2011 meeting

2011-11-04T06:48:00.000-07:00

The Standing Committee of the Diocese of Rhode Island

Summary of Meeting of Oct. 11, 2011

The Hon. Scott Avedisian, President, called the meeting to order at 4:40 pm. Other members in attendance were Ms. Caryl Frink, Ms. Frances Gammell-Roach, the Rev. Pamela Mott, the Rev. Jennifer Pedrick,, Mr. WIlliam Plumb, the Rev. Anita Schell-Lambert and the Rev. Stephanie Shoemaker. The Rt. Rev. Geralyn Wolf and the Very Rev. Harry Krauss were present for part of the meeting.

1. The meeting was opened with prayer by Bp. Wolf.

2. Dean Krauss presented an initial report from the feasibility study prepared by Shawmut Design and Construction concerning the Cathedral. One result of the discussion will be an invitation to the Cathedral Chapter or selected representatives to meet with the Standing Committee in November.

3. The Bishop’s Time

a. There is much uncertainty about the 2013 financial picture for the diocese. Income is still decreasing. On the positive side is 98/99% payment of apportionment by congregations.

b. ECC had an increase in the numb er of 2011 summer campers. The Rev. Susan Carpenter is doing an excellent job in this very important ministry.

4. The minutes of the Sept. 13, 2011 meeting were approved.

5. Consent was given to the election of John McKee Sloan as Bishop Diocesan of the Diocese of Alabama.

6. There was an update on the work of the Search and Nomination and Transition Committees.

7. It was voted to hold a one day Diocesan Convention on Saturday, December 1, 2012.

8. The Rev. Stephanie Shoemaker closed the meeting with prayer.

There being no further business the meeting adjourned at 6:35 pm.

NEXT MEETING: Tuesday, November 8, 2011, 4:30 pm in the Higgins Room of Diocesan House.

Respectfully Submitted,

Caryl Frink, Secretary