From the President, November 2010
Wow! Things are really heating up at TJMC! The Ministerial Search Committee has finished putting the final touches on all the written material and research that ministerial candidates will see. The Board of Trustees has just appointed Canvass Co-Chairs for the upcoming 2011 Canvass. Many thanks to Karen Ransom and Dan Spitzner for agreeing to head up this very essential task! Committees are going full force with activities. Policies, procedures, and bylaws are being scrutinized. Youth are traveling and getting “locked-in.” Covenant groups are starting. I am constantly humbled and awed by the energy and activity here at TJMC!
As for the Board of Trustees, we have been working diligently to formulate a set of goals and an action plan that will take us through the next several years. After many hours of retreat time and lots of homework, we are narrowing down our very big ideas into something workable. Many thanks to Ian Sole for leading us through the work of S.M.A.R.T. goals. (Specific Measurable Actionable Realistic Timely) The areas we are focusing on are: · Who We Are: what is our special and unique identity and our mission;
- Where Are We: our buildings and grounds;
- Who Decides: governance, policies and procedures, and leadership development;
- How Do We Do It: issues of stewardship, time, treasures, talents, and dollars.
The process is taking more time than I originally thought, but I am very excited about the depth and significance of the goals we are working on. My gratitude to the Board for taking the extra time to put together this important plan.
Just a reminder of a few things to look for this month. The Fall Chilifest and Silent Auction is on Saturday, November 6, from 4-7 PM. Cottage Conversations on the Meaning of Membership are winding down. We want to hear from you, so please make sure to sign up for one before it is too late! Plan your scrip purchases for the holidays now! Check with the scrip table for scrip from the stores of your choice. If you do not see what you need, simply ask and they might be able to get it for you! I know I need to stock up on gift cards for the nieces and nephews for the upcoming holidays!
Finally, a sincere thank you goes out to members of the congregation who made donations to the Ministerial Discretionary Fund. With your generous support we raised that budget line from $165 to $1,695 plus several donations of scrip. Thank you for your support of this beneficial aspect of ministry!
Donna Baker President,
Board of Trustees
president@uucharlottesville.org