Annual Parish Meeting
    January 31, 2007

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A brief report of the 2007 Annual Meeting follows below.

Retiring Vestry Members Those completing terms on the Vestry were thanked and gifted. Completing full three year terms were Craig Carpenter, Jane Hemmer, Jane Oliver and Keith Rooks. In addition, Suzanne Greene, who filled an unexpired term in 2006, and George Stump, who served as the 2006 treasurer, were recognized and gifted for their service.

New Vestry Members An excellent slate of ten nominees for the five open Vestry positions was presented to the Annual Meeting. Those elected to the Vestry are: Joe Cronmiller, Suzanne Greene, Doug Smith, Rodney Smith and Jason Voyles. One of these five will complete the unexpired term, serving for one year, and the other four will serve full three year terms. The person who ends up serving for one year (a name will be drawn at a Vestry meeting this month) will be eligible to run for a full three year term at the next Annual Meeting.

Rector’s Remarks In his remarks, the rector revisited some of the highlights of the year just past. Mentioned were our excellent efforts and offerings in the areas of Outreach, Worship and Programs. The second Festival of Arts, organized and executed by Jeremy Landers and Bob Burrell, was described by the rector as the most outstanding church program offering he has experienced in 25 years of church life. The superb work of the Adult Education Committee, under the chairmanship of Jay Gaspar, was also noted. Looking ahead to 2007, the installation of our long-awaited pipe organ, the upcoming pilgrimages for adults and youth, and second youth and adult outreach trips to the Gulf Coast Region were all highlighted.

Financial Report The financial report given at the Annual Meeting included the news that the principal of the Van Geisen Fund has been repaid. The $200,000 principal of this fund was used over a decade ago to help build the new church. A final payment of $50,000 has restored the entire principal of the fund. The review of the 2006 Operating Budget revealed that income exceeded expenses last year and resulted in a surplus of almost $40,000. These funds have been placed in the Reserve Fund for future needs, including the renovations and additions to the choir loft that will be required for the installation of the organ. This work is expected to cost about $30,000. The 2007 budget figures also were shared. A $920,000 budget has been adopted for 2007, compared to $908,000 for 2006. Questions regarding pledging trends and other financial practices were raised and a motion to survey the parish was moved and passed.

 

 

GRACE EPISCOPAL CHURCH
located on the corner of Washington Street and Boulevard
mailing address: 422 Brenau Avenue, Gainesville, GA 30501 
phone: 770-536-0126  fax: 770-536-1587
http://www.gracechurchgainesville.org