The next meeting of the MFC Board of Directors will be
on Wednesday, February 8th. 2012 from 11:00 A.M. to 11:30 P.M.
at SouthCross Community Church, Burnsville, MN.

For directions email drhaaheim@yahoo.com

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the MFC
on September 14, 2011. Other minutes follow. If you see any errors, please notify me at
<drhaaheim@yahoo.com>. Thanks, Bob

MFC Meeting September 14, 2011  Colonial Church Edina
Present: Tony Rambo-The River; Chris Meirose-Waseca; Patti Haaheim, Bob Haaheim, Casey vanderBent – SouthCross Community Church;  Ellen Laird, Bridgette Groeschen, Sharon Binger- People’s Church, Present by phone:  Nadene Johnston-Warroad; Cathy Schuyler-Duluth
Tony opened the meeting with a devotional from Psalm 101, highlighting verse 2 – “I will walk with integrity in my house.”  He then opened our meeting with prayer.
Church Reports
SouthCross is celebrating its 10th anniversary and rally day.  Great day at church with several visitors.  New choir director. Buried time capsule - which included a bulletin, list of members, acorn, and pastor’s note - to be opened in 25 years.
People’s had great Sunday School attendance; choir is back from summer sabbatical.  Held our last outdoor worship service of the year.  The students who went to the Appalachian mission trip to present during worship.  New intern named Justin.  Sharon will be attending ICF planning meeting on September 29th.
River Dan Baumgad has been the worship leader at the last 2 monthly gatherings. He is working with Tim Johnson on guitar.  Heather Mitchell (the new youth director), her children and husband are here.  Continuing to evolve worship services into some sort of organized chaos.  Oct 9th next preview service.
Waseca had its fall kick off last Sunday.  Men cooked lunch. (Also there were homemade bubbles for kids using Dawn dish soap, water and glycerin.)  Director from Camp Omega, Bob LeCroix came and lead worship.  About 120 people attended.  All youth programming kicks off tonight.  2 Bible Studies – Mondays, book of John, Wednesdays 6 week DVD driven curriculum on evangelism.
Duluth had a beautiful worship service on Sunday.  Parables of Grace for bible study on Tuesday, Wednesday night discussions, and Thursday kids program start next week.  Chocolate chip cookies to welcome students.  School is renting some parking spaces, so kids will actually be in church parking lot.  Duluth Festival Opera is practicing in the church.
Warroad had their annual meeting at Centuran church with no electricity.  Finished with potluck.   HUGE landscaping project is done.  Took dirt down a foot and landscaped away from church.  Probably would have been a $15,000 project if hired out.  Sunday School kicks off this coming Sunday.  Bible study this morning. Pulpit search committee is starting up due to encouragement from interims.  (Chris Meirose may be able to help Nadine with more contacts within Minnesota.)
Minutes
August Minutes mailed last evening by Chris Meirose.  Bridgette Groeschen will be added to the email list.
Corrections:
Remove “Tony to be paid referred to audit”, replace “We may need 2 seating’s for dinner” with “We may need 2 seating’s for picnic at Minnehaha park, replace “Saturday night Monday is unplanned” with  “Saturday night and Monday nights dinners are on our own”, remove that Lisa has agreed to be the youth leader. Clarify Ed Stetzer is working with the church planning committee.
Casey moved to accept minutes with corrections, Ellen seconded, approved.
Treasurer’s Report
Sharon moved report to be sent to audit, seconded Patti, approved.   Discuss next year’s budget by email.
Annual MFC Meeting
Original meeting was scheduled for October 15th at SouthCross.   Agreed to move it to October 29th at SouthCross from 10-2pm.
 2012 Meeting
Patti and Casey had a site visit to the Hilton on Monday.  Good space, light rail station is an easy walk.  Diana from Waseca has done a great job on transportation to Colonial for Tuesday’s banquet.  Casey will send out letter for resource needs including AV Equipment – especially for large screens.  He is also looking for a local bookstore to be there and for a mission project.  Hoping to improve website with feedback.  Identifying banquet catering costs with Colonial. Copier needed for about 2000 copies. Bridgette and Joe are helping coordinate kids program.  Need person to head picnic planning.  Carrie LOVES us!  Patti will be presenting costs to Executive Committee.  Proposing registration include lunches. $240-total cost.  Banquet is extra, trying to keep it under $25.   Attendees are able to purchase optional breakfasts for meals 60/day- down from $110/day last year. Expecting approximately 200-350 attendees. 
Nominating Committee Discussion
Chris agreed to serve as moderator; Bob agreed to continue as treasurer.  The committee will continue to discuss further nominations via email.
Bylaws
The group discussed and voted to move forward after discussion.  Main change was proxy voting.  Will discuss term limits for officers at the annual meeting.
New Business
Ellen reported that the St Croix Valley Chaplaincy is looking for people to do a weekday worship including lay people.  She encouraged our group to consider volunteering.
Patti will be sending survey’s to the churches to get feedback from the churches regarding workshops for the 2012 meeting.
Next Meeting will be held October 12th at United Theological Seminary.
Meeting adjourned around 1pm
Respectfully submitted, Sharon Binger, Secretary

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the MFC
on March 9, 2011. Other minutes follow. If you see any errors, please notify me at
<drhaaheim@yahoo.com>. Thanks, Bob

MFC Minutes– 11:00AM, March 9, 2011
United Seminary
 

Present: Tony Rambo-River Church, Ellen Laird, Sharon Binger, Bridgette Groschen, Rev. Beth Faeth – People’s Church, Patti Haaheim, Bob Haaheim, Rev.Casey vanderBent -SouthCross , Rev. Cathy Schuyler- Duluth*, Rev. Chris Meirose*
*indicates present by phone.  Rev’s Faeth, Schuyler and Meirose joined the meeting during check-in creating a quorum.

Check In
People’s Congregational Church is seeing a lot of growth with younger families joining.  Sunday School is thriving.  During the Lenten season People’s will have a soup/supper followed by viewing and discussing the video series “Living the Question.”Bridgette Grochen is replacing Jim Laird as a director on the MFC board.
The River Church is considering a move across the river to plant a church and asked for prayers.  About 60 people came to a game night the River Church sponsored in the St. Joseph town hall.  Tony traveled to the Milwaukee CCD meeting and has put together a plan to offer block parties, game nights and other strategies to bring families together.  The “regulars” of The River Church will be attending worship at other churches in the valley as they re-establish the church in Wisconsin.  Tony is happy for the approval from the Vicinage Council and will be ordained at People’s Church on March 20th.
Duluth Congregational Church held a pancake supper.  They also served Swedish meatballs. (Personal note:  I could not put pancakes and Swedish meatballs in one food related sentence.) Music was provided by a new member.  Everyone had a blast.  Life is good.  John Carson attended worship in Duluth.  Things slow down this time of year as people travel to better weather.  Cathy and other church members are going to Columbia with the Methodist Church to build school rooms and provide other mission services.  They will be leaving on March 18th.
Waseca/Northfield – Chris called in from his car while he waited in Northfield for help due to a flat tire.  He reported that the church will be offering the course “Crazy Love,” during Lent and beyond - for the next 10 weeks.  It will be followed with a meal and practice for the Praise Choir.
SouthCross  is having a regular Ash Wednesday service tonight and in the following weeks will offer a Taize style worship focusing on the 10 commandments and the theme of Love. The deacons sponsored a St Patrick’s event.  Their next sponsored event is in April, and the church will provide child care so the parents can have a bit of a break.  Patti Haaheim said it’s nice to be back as she rejoins the board of directors after an extended vacation.
Minutes
Corrections - February minutes showed asterisks by people’s names with no explanation.  Correction: an asterisk means that the person was present by phone.  
February minutes did not mention that the reason there were corrections from past meetings was due to the fact that the corrections had been noted but had not been detailed.
Minutes were approved with corrections.
Treasurer Report
Bob explained the report and why we do an annual adjustment.  Patti moved and Tony seconded the Treasurer’s report be referred to audit.

2012 NACCC Report
The 1st meeting of the Minnesota Host committee will be on March 31st at 6pm at SouthCross Church with dinner being served.  Casey is working with Warroad, Colonial and Plymouth to obtain committee members from their churches.  He is planning to have Minnesota Churches create a power point and other presentation materials for presentation at the annual meeting in AZ.  
Casey added that since Patti will be the moderator in 2012 she will need support to create the presentation and to attend the annual NACCC meeting.
Patti indicated there has been a lot of discussion about the Youth involving Exec Committee . While in Alaska the youth commission decided to do mission work in 2012.  They are going ahead with mission work in Appalachia and will not be part of the Minneapolis annual meeting.   They will join with the adult group again in Florida.  The annual meeting planning team has a Youth Committee representative – Lynn Merkel.
Vicinage Council and Ordination
There was a good discussion regarding the Vicinage Council meeting for Kevin Clark and Tony Rambo held at People’s Church.  After detailed and differing perceptions were shared, it was concluded that a specific process for Vicinage Council and Ordination, including roles and responsibilities for the participants, would help all attending to prepare with a consistent understanding of what to expect.  Casey volunteered to solve this problem and every other problem in the world of Congregationalism.  We love you, Casey!
New Business
Beth will be on the April Agenda as she is part of the Strategic Planning Committee for the NACCC.   Hopefully the plan will be ready for this summer for presentation at the annual meeting.  She and the committee are depending on input from the regional associations of churches.  
Patti will be attending the upcoming workshop in Michigan about healthy churches.
Our faithful meeting was adjourned with prayer at 1pm.
Respectfully Submitted,

Sharon Binger, Secretary of the MFC
Our next meeting will be at Colonial Church on April13th at 11am.

Fellowship Meeting February 7th, 2011

Present
Cathy Schuyler, Duluth
Bonn Clayton, Edina
Casey vanderBent, Burnsville
Chris Meirose, Waseca
Ellen Laird, Sharon Binger, Bayport
Nadene Johnston, Warroad*
Ken Krussow, Remer*

Meeting opened at 11:00am with prayer by Bonn. There was a quorum.
January Minutes
Casey suggested that the minutes list meeting participants by Church
Casey’s 2 specific corrections for the December minutes are as follows:
• Change SouthCross check-in to say “Co-sponsoring a holiday part with People’s for the Family Place.”
• Change Nominations to say, “Bonn Clayton’s name was added to the slate for Executive Secretary with a nomination from the floor. “
Casey’s corrections for January minutes are as follows
Change bylaws committee membership to be Bonn, Ellen and Cathy. Casey is not part of this committee
Minnesota Host Committee CYM Commission on Youth Ministries
The River Church report needs separation from People’s report.
Kevin Clark is working at Pizza Ranch - a Christian outreach organization
Minutes were approved as corrected
Treasurer’s Report/Fund Report
2010 – People’s check is reported in 2011 as 2010 income.
Bob will be asked to make the annual transfer of 95% of the increased value of funds into the General Fund balance. Fund monies to Operations budget.
Treasurer’s report was referred to audit by unanimous vote.
Meeting time
Cathy suggests we move church check-in back to the beginning of the meeting as she has a long drive. If she ends up running late, she can catch up on church news in the minutes and still be part of the business meeting. All agreed
Annual Meeting Host Committee
Casey the co-chair of the Host Committee is still looking for delegates to the committee from Warroad and Remer.
Nadine reported that Warroad is still looking for delegates to be part of the host committee for the NACCC meeting in 2012.
Ken Krussow reported that he and/or Darlene will represent Remer
Jeff Sartin, Executive Minister from Plymouth Church is looking for a representative for their church.
On Thurs, the exec committee will be meeting with CYM to hopefully make a decision on the location for the youth conference.
We need to be mindful of 2012 budget fundraising and we will look at the 2011 budget for subsidizing the meeting in Arizona at our next meeting.
Proposal for Term Limits (Casey, as requested by Chris generated a written proposal found as appendix to these minutes)
Ellen Laird would like to reorganize bylaws to make them easier to follow. As part of the committee to incorporate clarification of voting, she will be happy to draft her suggestions.
There was a lively discussion on term limits, and with our usual Congregational approach there were those for and against term limits. What was a key discussion is what is best for the body and not what is best for the individual.
Chris said that making the election process fully open and equitable is our main goal.
Nadene suggested three year officer terms with each person limited to 2 terms in a row. Based on her experience on larger boards and it takes a year to get settled in.
Ellen would like us to table term limit idea and look closer at the process and who is qualified to vote. There was general agreement to tabling this discussion, while there seemed to be a consensus for staggered, multi-year terms for officers. The bylaw committee was asked to work on recommended language.
Chris mentioned his church is good with the new proposal for alternates. Cathy will check with her church.
Special Announcement
There will be 2 Vicinage Council meetings at People’s Church on March 5th for both Kevin Clark and Tony Rambo. There will be a lunch served between the 2 separate meetings. A formal invitation will be forthcoming from Pastor Beth Faeth from People’s Church in Bayport, MN.
Reports from the Churches
Duluth
Cathy gave an animated report of all the excitement at her church! They had a renewal of baptism worship service, welcomed new members and installed officers for new council. Teen Challenge visited and took a free will offering. The new church custodian is a good fit. This January there was a council meeting, a quarterly retreat and an annual meeting with a potluck meal. As they look ahead to the upcoming year they are excited about the moving of one of the high schools. Since students will be walking by the church they are planning to open it after school for kids to play ping pong, use the internet, etc. They also are looking to work with older adults by offering courses about Facebook, etc. The church will be attending the JRLC on February 17.th. On Fat Tuesday they will serve a pancake supper!
Warroad
Nadene reported that this Lenten season they are joining with their long time partner, Zion Lutheran Church. There is a 5:30 meal with worship at 6:30.
Remer
Ken reported that they have a new interim pastor, Bruce Pound. The women continue to meet weekly. On Feb 20, the men will be serving breakfast. They are helping at the food shelf in February. Sadly, they have lost a couple of elderly folks.
SouthCross
Casey reported that the church uses deacon groups, and all members are part of a group. These groups are taking turns sponsoring outreach to the community. Currently they have something planned for Valentine’s Day, St Patrick’s Day, and a parent night out. They have decided to drop their annual Harvest Fest and instead are providing an outdoor concert. They hope to be able to get a good price on a local Christian Band. The church surveyed the need for a Contemporary service. While the majority felt one service is sufficient, the 5th Sunday of the month is for the 25% who are interested in a different worship experience. They have re-signed the contract with the childcare center which leases space from them.
Colonial
Bonn receives a weekly email from which he can pass on information. Daniel Harrell is preaching II Corinthians. There is a Contemporary Worship service at 5pm on Sunday. For 25 years they have had Wednesday night services with meal and worship. The plans for the assisted living place are in place and Colonial expects to have 1.5 million cash as well as additional income for each year.
People’s
Sharon reported that there will be a Sunday School Valentine’s party this coming Sunday. Their annual meeting was held in January and there was a concerted discussion surrounding our current 2 worship services. Ski weekend is this weekend and our churches from Iowa will be joining us.

Waseca
Chris reported that there have been a lot of baptisms. Instead of traditional Lenten services, they have decided to study the book, “Crazy Love” by Francis Chan. There will be a meal followed by the study. Because it is a 10 week curriculum, they will continue 4 weeks after Easter. Modifications to the front of sanctuary are on hold, but the church will talk with an architect for ideas. They are also discussing long term plans for the music ministry.

After Words
Cathy mentioned that Piedmont College is coming to People’s the 2nd week of May and will be performing on Sunday, Tuesday they will be performing in Duluth. They are hoping to perform at other churches and to potentially recruit students.
Casey mentioned that it’s time to get out the MFC Newsletter. Besides the church reports, he will also include information about the 2012 meeting to be held in Minneapolis. He will also mention the upcoming ordinations.

Meeting was adjourned at 1pm.
Next Meeting is March 7th, 11am at United Theological Seminary
Respectfully submitted,
Sharon Binger
MFC Secretary
 
In preparation for our MFC Board meeting on Wednesday (11 a.m. at Colonial), our Moderator asked me to send out some info that I shared at our last meeting regarding a recommendation for officer term limits for the Board.  The first paragraph that follows is some of the rationale that I shared.  The second paragraph to follow (in bold) is the wording of the recommendation.  The last paragraph is just some information you may want for your own processing as you prepare for the discussion at the meeting.
 
In a small organization like ours, made up of very different churches, it is important that those elected to represent this organization reflect that diversity.  Thus it is necessary to rotate any leadership position on a regular basis, balancing the need for experience with the need for broad representation.  Additionally, in a small organization, when it is regularly difficult to find people to serve in some positions, we should not willfully turn somebody away if they express an interest in serving in a particular position.  It is only right and fair that a person who has been in a position for some time release that task to another person with whom they are in fellowship so that others get the chance to share their gifts and serve the Fellowship.
 
I recommend a term limit for all officer positions on the MFC Board of Directors, to be set at four years, with the exception that if another candidate cannot be found to serve, the Board may extend the period of service by one year.  (It may also be wise to add to this a specific number of years between terms in the same position.  For example, a person may serve in a position for 4 years and then must take at least 2 years off from the position before serving in the same capacity again.)
 
Our initial discussion in January made it clear that we have differing opinions on this matter, with at least one member voicing a strong objection (on principle) to the notion of term limits.  We did agree, though, that whatever we decide will have to be written up in the form of a bylaw amendment and offered for review and action at the next annual meeting.

Minutes MFC Meeting  April 2010 held in Remer Minnesota

Kathy Stanik opened with prayer at 11:55

Church check in

Ken Krussow welcomed us to Remer

Hugh Perkins 
Laruel Perskins
Helen Haase
Kathy Stanik
Bob Haaheim
Cathy Schuyler
Bonn Clayton
Diana Welander Waseca
Chris Meirose
Nadine J Warroad

Remer
Fish Fry - 3rd annual fundraiser  Men cooked and women brough desserts.  
Maundy Thursday Service, Good Friday walk, Easter Egg hunt on Palm Sunday, new Bible Study Class called the “Eight Primary” stories of the Bible.

Waseca
Diane, youth are gearing up for Youth Christian Camp in Waterville.  Fundraising for it, end of July bible school.   Chris does a great job of serving the community.  May 2nd  3 couples, (6 adults and 6 children) will become members.  Annual salad luncheon is on May 7th.  Church spring clean up.  Cabinet will talk with pastor about a progressive dinner this fall.  Are purchasing a illuminated cross to replace wooden cross.  Chris talked about wrapping up youth programming, and begin a Wednesday “Play in the parks” evening throughout the summer.  About 30 people attended last year on a consistent basis.  Chris is “twittering” and 2 people are following from his church and about 20.  Connects more with people on Facebook.

Warroad
Bible study is studying book of Ruth.  2 retired ministers are serving  every other weekend.   Easter egg hunt was inside.. Last Sunday Potluck after worship to welcome back a member.  Later in the afternoon, 60 people for a Cantata being performed at the church.  Doing outside work on the church, landscaping and pain ting.

Colonial
Daniel Harrell was called  as senior minister and will begin June 1st.  He is from Park Street in Boston.
eeeeeeeeeddsssssssssx
Peoples
2 services
Confirmation

SouthCross
Confirming 2 on May 2nd.  Dedicating new building work on May 26th.   Leadership summit last Sunday and  have narrowed down the highest priorities.  Membership and Outreach are highlighted.  Working on meditation path as original pictures need to be protected and will be displayed again.

Duluth
Casual  Sunday, the Sunday after Easter.  Having a rummage sale this Saturday.  Had a council retreat recently and it was good.  An outsider facilitated and helped Duluth feel empowered about what they can offer.  New custodian.

Bonn talked with Jessica Allen of Plymouth and has been trying to reach her with no phone response.  Cathy reported that Jim Gertmanian  received an award from the Joint Religious Coalition.

Ratified decisions made at last meeting - 

Approval of  past minutes\
$600 approved for Tony Rambo
Financial reports accepted

Treasurer’s Report
$3000 has been spent on youth since April 1st.
Bonn moved we move treasurer’s report to audit committee.  Casey seconded   Approved

Executive Committee Meeting

Annual Meeting in Alaska at end of June
Jim Haas from Remer may be interested in attending.

Cathy discussed the use of Proxies for people not able to attend.  This year there will be further discussion and voting regarding inactive and active churches.

Potential sale of the NACCC office as the space is larger than what is needed the money from the sale is needed.

The MFC will offer$400 to moderator to attend the national meeting and $500 to assist a new participant.
Bonn moved and Casey seconded that this money would be available to a church that might not otherwise send a delegate.  Passed.
If interpreted, please contact Cathy Schuyler

We discussed and approved  protocol regarding the nomination and voting of officers

MFC will gather at annual meeting with up to 5 delegates, and 3 can serve on the board of directors.  The board of directors typically elects the officers.

Cathy outlined the current bylaw practice and reviewed proposed protocol..

It was agreed that a nominations committee will be established in May,.  Nominees will be announced at the annual meeting and voting will occur at the first Board of Directors meeting following the annual meeting.  Officers will be seated immediately.,

Respectfully submitted,
Sharon Binger

***********************************************************************************

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the MFC
on March 12, 2010. Other minutes follow. If you see any errors, please notify me at
<drhaaheim@yahoo.com>. Thanks, Bob

MFC Meeting March 12 Colonial Church in Edina

Attending: Bob Haaheim,Casey vanderBent, Cathy Schuyler, Tony Rambo, Ellen Laird, Chis Meirose (by phone)

There was not a quorum so decisions will be ratified at our next meeting.

Update on Churches
SouthCross, Patti had second hip replacement and will be released soon. Casey discussed the building plans and work should be completed by our next meeting. Found 3 carpets they agreed on, and they were all out of stock. Linn’s Carpet Service from Farmington installs carpet for free. During Lent they are using “Lenton Conversations” instead of “When I survey the Wonderous Cross” for study. Desserts are being served instead of soups. Narcotics Annonymous may begin using the church Sunday nights.

Waseca
Chris reported that new families are joining and he is keeping his head above water for Lenten and Easter.

People’s
Lenten worship this year includes soup dinner and study of the book, “An Altar in the World,” by Barbara Brown Taylor. There will be an Easter Breakfast provided by the youth and followed by an Easter egg hunt and worship at 10am.

Duluth
Kathy Kelly preached at church and it caused quite a stir. Questions arose about how the church worhsips. The speaker talked about things are happening in Afghanistan and it was interpreted as somewhat political. In all , this experience is deepening Duluth’s understanding of itself and each others.

Last months minutes approved.

Treasurer’s Report
Bob Haaheim presented the report and he suggested that we may want to move some of the money into the theological fund from the general fund.
Casey moved, Sharon seconded move to audit

International Congregational Fellowship
Sharon mentioned that AMCO is hosting a dinner on Sunday night at the annual meeting and encouraged people to attend.

Casey reported that Seth’s ordination was a love fest. Seth needs prayers to buy a house which is owned by the Salvation Army. He will be going through hoops to buy it.

River Church Update
Tony attended the CCD meeting in Milwaukee. The application is in and received. John Carson will be setting up an asssessment process for The River. Beginning outflow teams, Every Monday Matters. This week the teams went to the food shelf. Handed out candy the week before. Mark Host from Methodist Church has opened the doors for Sunday evening worship. Plan is to use next 2 Sundays for plan and prayer. 28th will be a vision tour meal at the church. Calling the time, “The Gathering.” Good news! CCD will be providing funding with hopes there will be matching funding from other churches. Tony is planning to be ordained and he is working with Pastor Beth at People’s as a possible location for ordinatino.

Pulpit Exchange
Chris is still working on the schedule.

Tony mentioned that both he and Lisa will provide pulpit supply as needed.

New Business
Money Casey moved and seconded we spend $600 to help Tony attend H.O.P.E. Waseca needs funding for 1 youth.

Leadership Team Report
Chris, Cathy, and Casey joined with John Carson, Tom Nevilles, Stu Merkel. Tom Neville will share planting church information. Using Tony as our poster child for growth. Primary growth of our membership is through the planting of new churches, not through existing churches. Chris encourages us to build on the momentum that Tony is provided. Prayed about St. Cloud as a place to plant. MFC would make a team to move church planting to the front of our vision. We will look to move forward with the Baptist idea, but we many use a different assessment process. The history of the MFC is church planting.

Our next meeting is in Remer on the 21st from 11:30-2pm
Email Larry Lawrence if you would like to carpool to the meeting in Remer.

Convocation
Cathy and Patti will be attending for sure.

Ellen moved to adjourn at 1:10pm

Following are the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the MFC
onOctober 24, 2009. Other minutes follow. If you see any errors, please notify me at
<drhaaheim@yahoo.com>. Thanks, Bob

Minnesota Fellowship Annual Meeting
October 24, 2009
Attending:          Chris Meirose – Waseca – First Congregational Church
Larry Lawrence, Patti Haaheim, Bob Haaheim, Casey vanderBent –Burnsville - Southcross Community Church
Beth Faeth, Sharon Binger – Bayport – People’s Congregational Church
Pamela Jensen – New Richland-First Congregational Church
Bonn Clayton-Edina-Colonial Church of Edina
Pete Sneve, Cathy Schuyler – Duluth – Duluth Congregational Church
Darlene Krussow, Kenny Krussow – Remer-Congregational Church of Remer

The meeting was called to order by Moderator, Casey vanderBent
Church Check-in
Waseca – growth in youth, from 25 to 40 in Sunday School and Wedneday nights youth up from 8 to 30  Retucking masonry on the bell  tower
Southcross – Budget is difficult due to economics
              Harvest Festival did not draw as many purchases from crafters
             Remodeling extra room for nursery and chapel
Missions trip to Mississippi with 11 youth and 2 adults went well
Peoples – Summer worship held in labyrinth and in church
                Continuing 2 worship services this fall 9am is traditional 10:30am is contemporary worship
                Environmental Fair
                Harvest Festival
                Derby Days
 New Richland- Pamela has served 6 years as interim pastor
                Lost 2 key members this year due to death
                Church is diminishing as most parishioners are in their 70’s and 80’s
 Colonial - interim search active for a pastor since last May
                3 or 4 finalists
                Jack Horton has been part time senior pastor – is doing a good job
Duluth – Open doors to the city for bear grease dog sled run, opened door and offered warmth and chili
                Confirmed youth
                Lots of music going on – concerts monthly
                Put in a playground
                Blessing of the Animals – Peter Sneve’s dog is still wearing a halo
                Handed out cookies at fall festival
Remer – An elderly church with a lot of active members
                Have a fall thanksgiving dinner
                Have a walleye dinner
                38 members is average attendance
                Children have gone to combined religious release day with other churches
 Meeting Minutes
Last annual meeting minutes November 2007 presented and approved
Treasurer’s Report
Treasurer’s report reviewed and our fiscal year end is at calendar year end
Beth Faeth moved that we increase scholarship to $250.  Cathy moved we change to $4250 NAPF/HOPE  Beth seconded.  The new amount reflects $250 per attendee for scholarships to the 2010 annual meeting in Alaska.
Revised budget approved.  Total expenses will be $7071 with a projected deficit of $717.
 Meeting break for Communion
Annual Meeting Resumed
Nadine Johnston and  Dotie Moyer joined by telephone from Union Congregational Church
Kathy Stanek joined by telephone from Congregational Church of Remer
New attendees from Colonial Church of Edina included Don Klassy, as well as the Head Deacon, who was an alternate filling in for Jack Fortin.
The MFC voted to add new members from Colonial, Remer and Warroad to the Board of Directors.  Other churches were reminded to provide updated slates of board members for voting in November.
Review of New Goals
Casey reviewed the goals of the MFC which were updated this year by the MFC board
Pamela suggested that our churches continue to work on fair share giving to the NACCC
Casey confirmed that the 2012 meeting of the NACCC will be hosted in MN by the MFC churches
Planting a new church –  there is an individual planting a new church in MN who will be working with the MFC.
The annual meeting was adjourned at 2:20pm
 Respectfully Submitted,
Sharon Binger, acting secretary

 The  Board of Directors of the MFC
October 24, 2009
Election of officers
The following were elected by vote of the board
Cathy Schuyler – Moderator
Chris Meirose – Moderator Elect
Bob Haaheim – Treasurer
Bonn Clayton – Executive Secretary (paper ballot)
The position of secretary still needs to be filled.

Upcoming
January 29-31 at People’s  - ski weekend
Clergy retreat December 3rd overnight  $75 if church is paying $55 for individuals on their own.
Next meeting is at 11:30  11/11/2009 at United Seminary in New Brighton

Meeting Adjourned

Respectfully submitted,
Sharon Binger, acting secretary

MFC BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ MEETING
JUNE 3, 2009

Members present:  Bonn Clayton - Colonial, Casey vanderBent - SouthCross, Sharon Binger – People’s, Pamela Jensen – New Richland,

Beth Faeth – People’s, Chris Meirose - Waseca, and Cathy Schuyler - Duluth.

Church Check In:

Minutes of 3/11/09:  not available.  Will try to resurrect them.

Treasurer’s Report:  No formal report.  We received word from Bob that our investments are beginning to rebound. 

Casey is writing checks while Bob is away.

Old Business:

MFC Goals:  We continued our review of goals under “For our Budget” and “For our Future.”  See separate sheet for details of updates. 

Final review and approval in September.

MFC Annual Meeting Cancellation:  Casey reviewed our Articles and Bylaws and determined that we were in violation to move our

annual meeting to the spring.  We decided simply to include in our meeting minutes that we recognize our error.  Should we move annual

meeting to the time of October BOD meeting?  Cannot seem to get people to come to a separate conference.  Motion to schedule our

MFC Annual Meeting in conjunction with our October Board meeting.  (Bonn/Beth.  Unanimously)

New Business:

NACCC Annual Meeting gathering:  Should we have a breakfast meeting?  We will need to email possibilities and probably confirm when we

get there.

Other reports:  At the NACCC Annual Meeting we will be voting on a motion to require a minimum contribution from member churches

in order to retain membership.  Casey asked for discussion and offered to answer any questions people might have. 

Adjournment at about 1:30 p.m.

Next Meeting:  Wednesday, September 9th, 11:30 to 1:00 at United Seminary.

Respectfully submitted by
Casey vanderBent, Acting Secretary

***********************************************************************************

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of the MFC
on March 11, 2009. Other minutes follow. If you see any errors, please notify me at
<drhaaheim@yahoo.com>. Thanks, Bob

MFC BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

Abbreviated Minues of March 11, 2009

Church Check In:  No record.

Minutes of 2/11/09 approved.

Treasurer’s Report:  Report from Bob dated 1/14/09 referred to audit committee.  Casey will seek out
somebody to do an audit of our records.

Old Business:

MFC Goals:  We continued our review of goals.

MFC Annual Meeting:  Letters not out yet for invitation.
           
New Business:

NACCC Annual Meeting gathering:  Should we have a breakfast meeting?  Will bring schedule of event to next meeting

to try and pick a date/time.

NACCC Annual Meeting in 2012:  We have been awarded the privilege of hosting the Annual Meeting of the NACCC

in the Twin Cities in 2012.  Too early to nominate a Host Committee.

Other reports:  no record. 

Adjourned

Next Meeting:  Wednesday, June 3rd, 11:30 to 1:00 at Colonial.

Respectfully submitted by
Casey vanderBent, Acting Secretary

Minnesota Fellowship of Congregationalists
Board of Directors Meeting
August 13, 2008
Colonial Church of Edina

****************************************************************************************************************

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of the MFC
on August 13, 2008. Other minutes follow. If you see any errors, please notify me at
<drhaaheim@yahoo.com>. Thanks, Bob

MFC

Present:            Pamela Jensen, Sharon Binger, Diane Hatman, Casey vanderBent, Beth Faeth, Bonn Clayton, Marlene Slettehaugh, Cathy Schulyer           

We extend our deepest sympathy to Patti and Bob Haaheim upon the death of Jean Dando, Patti’s mother.  Beth moved, Sharon second that we purchase a memorial bench for the meditation path at SouthCross church with funds from MFC treasury in the amount of $50 in memory of Jean Dando.  Motion Carried

Check-In:
Colonial – moving forward in Interim time.  By-laws committee in place and are voting on changes by consensus.  Lots of talk about what Congregationalism is.  Plans to move “The Bridge” service into the Great Hall rather than the sanctuary.    Search Committee will not be formed until the By-laws work is complete. 

People’s – Youth activities, Prayer Shawl Ministry anniversary, Sabbath during July, Yoga classes, Garden Gatherings, New Fall schedule, Community Carnival planned for September 7th.  Lots going on!

SouthCross – hope to dedicate the first phase of the Meditation Path later this month.  New daycare as renters to begin next week.  Ministry for Men in Transition from prison and a    Bible Study for Latino adults sponsored through a church in Faribault are two groups currently using SouthCross facility.  Active youth ministry happening.  Seth is doing well and finally has internet access in his new home.

Waseca – Vicinage Council was held for Chris Meirose and his ordination was the next day.  Seems like a great fit – pastor and parish.  Chris has requested the approved funds for his expenses in Boston Seminar.

Plymouth – Congregations Concerned for Creation is active at Plymouth.  Ralph Colby recently gave a “50 year perspective” sermon.  Jim Gertmanian has “guaranteed” Casey that an “official” representative would start coming to our meetings.

Duluth – just finished VBS; had a joint picnic with Pilgrim UCC; “Worship and Rejoice” will be their new hymnal.

New Richland – did have someone who was interested in the pastorate, but the cabinet decided not to pursue him.

Sharon moved, Bonn second that we approve the minutes from May, 2008.  M/C.

Geoffrey Lipale = missionary from Pilgrim’s Presence in Kenya.  Visited some of our churches in May and also attended NA Annual  Meeting.  Has requested People’s Church be their church partner and Sharon Binger to be their “sponsor”.  Main focus = education for girls, empowerment for women, stopping female gentile mutilation.   Sharon has asked how the MFC might partner with Pilgrim’s  Presence, and hopes for continued conversation around this issue.

International  Congregational Fellowship (ICF) = meets in Milwaukee in July, 2009 for both adult and youth.  Hopeful that NAPF/HOPE will choose to meet during ICF rather than in June.  Sharon handed out brochures and is encouraging us to inform our churches about this opportunity.

Web site = needs some updating, and conversation ensued regarding language.  Still wondering about the scripture reference on the home page.  Cathy moved, Bonn second that we ask Bob to move the mission statement to the home page on the web page.  M/C with one nay.

At our next meeting we will evaluate our stated goals (as printed on web page) as well as begin conversation around our mission statement and appoint an ad hoc committee for further work on mission statement wording.   See attached for mission statement and goals.

Annual Meeting Conversation – At Duluth, November 22nd  (Tentative)

Casey says he is expecting two seminary scholarship applications.

Newsletter deadline = August 15th. Please submit your offerings to Casey.

Casey has asked that MFC vote to recommend to the NACCC to that we host the Annual Meeting in 2011.  Bonn moved, Beth Second.  M/C.

Sharon moved that we adjourn. 

Respectfully submitted,
Beth A. Faeth

****************************************************************************************************************

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of the MFC
on August 15, 2007. Other minutes follow. If you see any errors, please notify me at
<drhaaheim@yahoo.com>. Thanks, Bob

Minnesota Fellowship of Congregationalists
Board of Directors Meeting
August 15, 2007
Colonial Church of Edina

Present: Seth Jones, Sharon Binger, Patti Dando Haaheim, Diane Hatman, Cathy Schuyler, Bob Haaheim, Pamela Jensen, Marlene Slettehaugh and granddaughter Rachael, Beth Faeth, Becci Dawson Cox

Check-In:  Southcross = VBS just completed, Seth Jones is to begin his internship September 1st and will be preaching three weeks in a row while Casey is away, Harvest Festival is September 22 from 10 – 4.  Colonial = John Westphal is at Boston Seminar this week; “Core Experiences” member integration program will be introduced this fall; Pyro I and II (camps for junior/senior high) completed.  Duluth = just finished VBS with 34 children, goal is for the church to get the word out that they are alive and functioning; Fridays at noon music concerts this summer, will be moving to Thursdays at 1:00 – open to community; “Worship in the Woods” last week, Cathy’s Installation on September 30th at 3:00 p.m.  New Richland = responsible for the Worship in the Park at Farm and City Days – Pamela preached, will have a Confirmation class in the fall, as an aging congregation many are struggling with illness. Plymouth = a new Lily Foundation pastor who will be with them for 2 years; gearing up for a Charter School to start this September (K – 12).  People’s = gearing up for Fall with new program schedule, Shrimp Boil fundraiser for Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, MS on September 23, mission team going to Biloxi in October.

Minutes from the July meeting were approved as presented (with typos corrected).

Bob presented the treasurer’s report.  Pamela moved, Becci second that the report be sent to audit.  M/C.

Annual Meeting discussion = November 10th at Colonial.  Attend the Tony Campolo presentation from 9 – 12, then MFC would have lunch and business session either on site at Colonial or somewhere else. 

We had a discussion regarding next year’s officers.  We need a Vice Moderator.  Sharon appointed a nominating committee: Becci Dawson Cox and Cathy Schuyler, with the possibility of adding a third member. 

Women’s Retreat = Becci moved, Cathy second that the deposits be paid (120 to ARC and 250 to Holly Whitcomb) M/C

Other:
Casey requests all newsletter articles by August 27th.  There will be no reminders, so please get your info to him ASAP.

People’s Church is going to Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, MS from October 14 – 20 to do post-Katrina relief work.  There are spaces available, so if you have adults who are interested, please contact Beth Faeth.

Becci has been involved in the Minnesota Council of Churches interviewing candidates for  a program position involving stewardship of the environment, Native American ministry, poverty relief

Patti and Sharon went to Honduras with ICF, and reported that the experience was positive.  They are gearing up for the ICF gathering in Milwaukee in 2009.

Future meeting dates:
Wednesday, September 12th at Colonial
Wednesday, October 10 at UTS,
November meeting during Annual Meeting, November 10th
No meeting in December
January 9, 2008 at UTS

Respectfully submitted,
Rev. Beth A. Faeth

****************************************************************************************************************

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of the MFC
on July 11, 2007. Other minutes follow.

MFC Board of Directors
Meeting Minutes of July 11, 2007

Members present:  Patti/Bob Haaheim, Casey vanderBent – SouthCross / Sharon Binger, Becci Cox – People’s / Diane Hatman, John Westphal, Jeff Lindsey, Bonn Clayton – Colonial / and Cathy Schuyler - Duluth.  Marlene Slettehaugh was our very welcome visitor from Plymouth, Mpls.

Meeting called to order at 11:10 by Sharon. 

Church Reports:

Edina:  Jeff had a great time at the HOPE conference, where he was the speaker.  He expressed concern about dwindling numbers for the NAPF part of the conference.  Colonial has a team going on mission to Peru on the 14th – their 9th trip.  Their H.S. group is in Mexico this week.  They will be working with Habitat for Humanity in Oct. and will let other MFC churches know about opportunities to participate.  They continue to work with the Peace Foundation, teaching members about justice issues and reaching out to neighborhoods in conflict.  The staff have begun a visioning process.

People’s:  They are also engaged in a visioning process.  There are currently groups assigned to host meetings on their focus topics, to get congregational feedback.  Sharon says they are still pushing for air conditioning in the church (after which we heard of Colonial’s woes in that regard).

Duluth:  Cathy introduced herself.  Her first Sunday in the pulpit was the 8th and her first funeral the following day.  They had 50 people in attendance on her first Sunday, which is a good number for them right now.  They recently got news that their insurance company will pay to re-roof the church after hail damage.

Plymouth:  The events related to their sesquicentennial are over.  Recent highlight was the combined worship they shared with Westminster Presbyterian at Orchestra Hall.  Both churches were celebrating their 150th anniversaries this year.

SouthCross:  Patti shared (very humbly) that she’d received an award at the recent annual meeting of the NACCC.  She and several other MN folks will be off to Honduras for the ICF planning meeting and mission trip – leaving this Friday.  SCC is knee deep in plans for its Second Annual Harvest Festival, to be held on 9/22, with kid’s games, bake sale, crafts, and a silent auction this year.  The new cookbook will be ready for sale as well.  Our mission team heads off to Red Lake on the 12th, with 7 youth and adults in attendance.  This is our second year.  Meditation Path expansion has begun and SCC is also in a visioning process.

Minutes of the May meeting were approved as presented.  (BCox/CV – passed)

Treasurer’s report was received.  No questions.  Motion to refer to Audit Committee.    (BCox/BClayton – passed)

A reminder was given to our Treasurer that the dues/donations to the MCC and NACCC should be paid.  He will take care of it.

News from NACCC Leadership Team: 
Becci shared that the new Mission Statement was finally approved at the NA’s annual meeting.  She encouraged everyone to put next year’s meeting on their calendars as things are shaping up to be a good meeting in Plymouth, MA.
Patti explained the reason for the Honduras trip (see above) and mentioned the latest work of the Division for Ministry in helping churches.
Bonn and Casey reported no news from the Executive Committee, other than the need to rework some recommendations given to the body at the annual meeting.
Bonn gave a brief update on the renewed work of the World Christian Relations Committee.

Becci then reviewed, briefly, the results (thus far) of a task force that she has been chairing for the NACCC.  She presented printed copies of the Church Services Commission (CSC) Visioning and drafts of plans to create an Event Planning Commission, Women’s Issues Task Force, and Christian Ed Task Force.  The task forces would each be the first in a three year rotation of task forces that would take on the work previously assigned to the CSC, but to which they’ve been unable to give fair attention due to the work required for the annual meeting each year.  The Women’s Issues Task Force would rotate with Men’s and Family issues and CE would rotate with Confirmation and Adult Ed; all in 3 year cycles.  She asked that we review the information and provide feedback to her regarding strengths and weaknesses.

Theological Scholarship Committee:  Casey presented the recommendations of the Committee (members include Patti H., Pamela J., and Beth F.) regarding two requests received.  The motion was made to award Seth Jones a renewal scholarship for the 2007-2008 school year in the amount of $2,500 and to award Kevin Clark a first time scholarship of $3,000 for the same year.  The motion passed unanimously.  Casey will get checks from Bob and notify the recipients as soon as possible.  Casey also shared that the Committee would like to have further conversation with the Board, at a later date, regarding some of the guidelines for making awards.

Women’s Retreat:  Patti reminded all of the scheduled retreat on 9/28-29 and expressed concern that nothing concrete was set, other than date and speaker (Holly Whitcomb).  No location has been determined.  She will check in with Beth and suggested that each church put something in their August newsletter.

Cathy’s Installation at Duluth:  Cathy’s installation will be held on Sunday, September 16.  She would love to have MFC representation and we enthusiastic pledged to try.

Annual Meeting:  Tentatively set for October, but with no location.  We asked Colonial to consider hosting.  Diane agreed to look into dates and coordinate it, possibly with Seth’s help.  She asked us to check out October 6th on church calendars.

Next Meeting:  Our next BOD meeting will be August 15 at 11 a.m. at United Seminary.

Bonn reminded everyone to share missions information for possible collaboration.

Adjourned at 12:58.

Respectfully submitted by

Casey vanderBent, Acting Secretary

****************************************************************************************************************

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of the MFC
on May 9, 2007. Other minutes follow.

Minnesota Fellowship of Congregationalists
Board of Directors Meeting
May 9, 2007
First Congregational Church, Waseca

Present:  Diane Hatman, Casey vanderBent, Patti Dando Haaheim, Bob Haaheim, Pamela Jensen, Beth Faeth, Bonn Clayton, Carl Sonnenberg, Tom Smith, Jon Marburger, Diana Welander, Noreen Paulson

Check-in:  Southcross:  Preparing for Mother’s Day brunch; looking forward to encouraging Kevin Clark (a member of People’s Church who is currently attending SouthCross) through seminary; working on meditation path; had a very successful women’s retreat with 15 participating.  Colonial:  Chosen Zambia as a mission project; two different worship services, the contemporary one “picking up steam”,;preparing for the Spring Sale (May 16, 17, 18); Bonn reported on the plethora of activities offered at Colonial; concentrated peace efforts in North Minneapolis to which other MFC churches will be invited to participate.  People’s:  Busy month with baptisms, confirmation, Mother’s Day, graduation, end of Sunday School year.  Volunteer appreciation potluck, another great Blessing Fund distribution; plans for “A Night for Dane’s Place” for the youth raising awareness for homelessness,  Getting ready for several trips: NA Annual Meeting, NAPF/HOPE, Honduras, Mission trip, an Adult mission experience to Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, MS   New Richland:  had annual salad luncheon last weekend with 70 in attendance; Sunday school coming to a close,  tough year for a small church – two women passed away, others dealing with illness; will provide a worship service in the park for New Richland’s Farm and City days. Waseca:  celebrated Confirmation for three students (who officiate the worship service); a few youth going to NAPF; introduced their interim pastor, Jon Marburger. (also serves the United Methodist church in town); Bible school will happen in June; welcomed 4 new members; Diane is a member of the search committee and will be attending the NA Annual Meeting; Noreen is the Sunday School superintendent, and a member of the deaconate, preparing for the end of the Sunday School celebration, also a member of the search committee.

Correction to April minutes:  should read Zach Dando Thompson, SEMINARY scholarship monies available.  Bonn moved, Casey second that the minutes be approved as corrected.  M/C

Patti, Beth, Becci, Pamela, and Sharon presented their drama “Women Who Paved the Way” at the Plymouth Church women’s luncheon honoring their sesquicentennial. 

Bonn contacted Derrick Godfrey at Remer Congregation to inquire about their membership in the MFC.  They stated that when they joined the NA, they also joined the MFC.  A letter to this regard was sent from the church to Bonn.

Becci lifted up the issue of quorum.  With Remer as members, it will be more difficult to reach a quorum unless more of our inactive churches become more involved.  We decided we would be even more intentional about trying to include them in our monthly meetings via phone, in person, etc.

Bob presented the treasurer’s report.  The “Women who Paved the Way” received a gift from Plymouth Church women’s Group which they donated to the Minnesota Fellowship.  No expenses this month.  To receive the $100/participant and chaperone grant from the MFC for NAPF/HOPE send Bob Haaheim an email requesting such.  Bonn moved, Becci second that we grant all those participating these grants.  M/C.  Bonn moved, Casey second that we send the treasurer’s report to audit.  M/C

Waseca inquired about the search process and conversation ensued.  We shared experiences of that which made for a positive search experience.  Suggestions included:
A specific set of questions for the initial interview that is asked of each candidate; securing a formal background check (criminal and financial), visiting a candidate’s church to see him/her preach or to observe preaching in a “neutral pulpit”; when getting ready to present a candidate to the congregation, offering opportunities for the candidate to meet members of the congregation; a chance for the candidate to meet with other staff members.  Waseca is already doing or is prepared to do many of these things. 

A MFC women’s retreat will be offered September 28 – 29, 2007 with Rev. Holly Whitcomb from Wisconsin facilitating.  A venue still needs to be secured.

Casey reported that he has received scholarship inquiries and applications.

The meeting was adjourned to lunch, provided by some of the women of Waseca church.

Heartfelt thanks to our gracious hosts in Waseca for the lovely meeting space and delicious lunch!

Respectfully submitted,
Beth A. Faeth
Secretary

****************************************************************************************************************

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of the MFC
on April 11, 2007. Other minutes follow.

 Minnesota Fellowship of Congregationalists
Board of Directors Meeting
April 11, 2007
Colonial Church of Edina

Present:        Casey vanderBent, Sharon Binger, Bonn Clayton, Patti Haaheim, Pamela Jensen, Beth Faeth, Seth Jones, Becci Dawson Cox

Sharon opening the meeting with prayer.

Check – in:  Colonial: Easter was well attended, lots of youth and women’s activities happening, a new church administrator has been hired.   Good Friday service changed format this year to be an evening worship experience. (The seven last words of Christ.) SouthCross:  A good Lenten season – well attended mid week services.  Holy Week services had a lot of energy.  Spring clean-up at the end of the month.  New front doors have been purchased.  Still working on the church cookbook (new publisher deadline is June 1).  Harvest Festival is planned for September 22, planning to participate in Apple Valley’s July 4th parade.  Women’s Retreat is first weekend in May at Mount Olivet Retreat Center.  Men’s retreat being planned for fall.  New Richland:  Record attendance for Easter Sunday!  Salad luncheon is first weekend in May.   Senior Deacon, Lorraine, who has been ill with cancer, is in remission!  Praise God!  The American Legion is having a benefit for her on April 22.  Tom is also healing and is back in church.  People’s:  Easter was well attended as was our ecumenical Good Friday service (with Bethlehem Lutheran Church).  This Sunday the youth are officiating worship (annual Youth Sunday) with the theme being mission.  Gearing up for NAPF/HOPE.  Strategic planning continues.  Planning is underway for a mission trip to Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, MS in October.

International Congregational Fellowship will have an Executive Committee meting in Honduras in July to plan the gathering next year in Milwaukee.  12 – 14 youth will be in Honduras to work with the Honduran Congregational Mission.    Several MFC’s are going: Patti, Sharon, Zach Dando, Maria Cox, Ian Binger. 

Corrected minutes from March 14, 2007:  Should read  “The Treasurer’s report was referred to audit.” Casey approved, Patti second that the minutes be approved as amended.  M/C

Patti presented the Treasurer’s report in Bob’s absence.  Very little activity this month.  Becci moved, Bonn second that we send the report to audit. M/C.

We discussed ways to get our inactive churches more involved in MFC.  How can we extend ourselves to our churches in the midst of transition?  It was suggested that we have a director’s meeting in Waseca and/or Duluth. 

Update on events:

• Women Who Paved the Way will perform at Plymouth Church on April 24th
• Fall Women’s retreat… Beth will contact Holly Whitcomb to solidify dates and email out information.  Venue still needs to be decided. 
• NA Annual meeting = Many MFC’ers are going.  Hopefully Warroad or Remer will take advantage of our scholarship money and send a delegate.  Bonn will contact.  We will plan a Minnesota Luncheon once we have the meeting schedule.

Related Boards/Commissions/Divisions/Committees Updates:

• All pastors and congregations received a survey on the proposed mission statement for the NA.  Becci reminded us to please send them in!
• MCC (Minnesota Council of Churches) = Bonn reported that Peg Chamberlain, the director, is undergoing hip replacement surgery and will be out for 2 months. 
• DFM (National Association Division For Ministry) = Women’s Clergy gathering at NA Annual Meeting will be held in the evening this year. 

General Updates:

• Sharon composed a letter of congratulations to Plymouth Church for their sesquicentennial.  Beth will send.
• Youth = Debbie at People’s has created a “Night’s Out for Dane’s Place” (based upon the Night Out at Plymouth Church) on May 18 – 19th.  Youth will raise funds for Dane’s Place, and sleep outside in boxes.   Evening activities will be around raising awareness for homelessness.

Other Business:

• A reminder that we do have scholarship monies available!  Right now we have two potential applicants.
• Patti, Casey, Beth, Pamela, and Lynda Johnson will be traveling to the NA Minister’s Convocation in  Mundelein, IL.   
• We hope to meet in Waseca next month.  Bonn will contact.  If it isn’t possible, we will meet at United Theological Seminary.  May 9, 2007.

The meeting closed with prayer.

Respectfully submitted
Beth A. Faeth
Clerk

****************************************************************************************************************

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of the MFC
on March 14, 2007. Other minutes follow.

Minnesota Fellowship of Congregationalists

Board of Directors Meeting

March 14, 2007

Colonial Church of Edina

Present:            Bonn Clayton, Pamela Jensen, Casey vanderBent, Sharon Binger, Bob Haaheim, Marlene Slettehaugh, Barbara and Paul Laederach

We welcomed Dr. Tom Richard as our esteemed guest.

Check – In:            Plymouth: Eager to welcome “Women Who Paved The Way” on April 24^th for their women’s luncheon in honor of their 150^th Anniversary.  They anticipate 250 in attendance.  Sunday, April 22 is Celebration Sunday, with a historical pageant.  Worship is 10:30 a.m. with a reception to follow.  Everyone is invited! A historical display of the church and the neighborhood will be in their art gallery for two months.  Casey suggested that a letter be sent from the Minnesota Fellowship to congratulate Plymouth Church on their sesquicentennial.  Sharon will write the letter and Beth will send it to the Senior Minister, Moderator and Board of Deacons chairperson.  SouthCross:  Seth Jones has covenanted with SouthCross to be their seminary intern beginning next fall.  Building improvements are ongoing.  A meditation path has been created and “stations of the cross” will be installed on the path this summer.  The church cookbook is nearing completion.  New Richland: Two lay leaders are dealing with major health concerns, which is taking it’s toll on the whole congregation.  Tom Smith, the church moderator is recuperating from additional cancer surgery.  The senior deacon is also continuing cancer treatments.  No progress on searching for a permanent pastor.  Let’s keep New Richland in our consistent prayers!  Colonial:  The church is very active, lots going on.  Last Sunday there was a special meeting to discuss the budget.  Colonial is growing in attendance and giving units and revenue.  Bonn requested $500 be given to the NACCC.  The youth are going on retreat this spring and are planning a mission trip for the summer.  All church retreat is scheduled for the first weekend in May.  People’s:  Annual free spaghetti dinner and dessert auction for the youth was held last weekend.  A huge success!  Wednesday evening soup suppers and discussions around grace are in process.   The youth are gearing up for NAPF.  A year long strategic planning process is underway, with 12 people serving on the Leadership Team. 

We welcomed Dr. Tom Richard, NACCC executive secretary to our meeting and he updated us on the state of the NA, as well as briefed us on information regarding the Capital Campaign and its two initiatives.  Copies of handouts are available. (And will be shared at our next meeting).  Right now, emphasis is being placed on finding donors able to contribute large gifts.  The hope is that the entire campaign can be funded through individual gifts rather than asking congregations for pledges.  More information will be received at the NACCC annual meeting in June. 

The minutes for February were amended.   Becci and Beth’s absence were accounted for.  The minutes were approved.   

The treasurer’s report was approved. 

Marlene talked about the “Night Out” event at Plymouth Congregational Church.  Youth will sleep in boxes in the parking lot raising awareness for homelessness. 

A reminder that our meeting next month, April 11, will be held again at Colonial Church in Edina.  Our May meeting will be held at United Theological Seminary.

Respectfully submitted,

Beth A. Faeth

****************************************************************************************************************

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of the MFC
on February 14, 2007. Other minutes follow.

Minnesota Fellowship of Congregationalists
Board of Directors Meeting
February 14, 2007
Colonial Church of Edina

In attendance: Sharon Binger, Bonn Clayton, Pamela Jensen, Marlene Slettehaugh, Casey vanderBent

CHECK-IN: Colonial  -- Doing pretty well. Worship services are three-quarters full even with many out of town.  Good preaching.  Jeff Lindsay has agreed to be the speaker @ HOPE 2007.  SouthCross – Congregation approved a seminary intern (Seth Jones).  Wednesday nights in Lent Soup & Supper – “Covenant” theme.  New Richland – We had a very successful Valentine’s Luncheon.  We mourned the death of our friend, Joan Besser.  Please pray for our brother, Clayton’s surgery.  People’s – Beth and Becci are at the race track today.  (editor’s note… sorry we lost the seminary fund…)  Holding Wednesday evening soup suppers and worship (theme = grace)  in Lent.  Youth Ski Weekend this coming weekend.  Plymouth – Be sure to check out the Plymouth Center Series at the church website plymouthchurch.org

Bonn moved and Casey seconded the motion that the minutes from the last meeting be approved.  However, having no quorum, all motions were tabled until the March meeting.

Please notify all directors that Tom Richard is coming to the March meeting of the MFC Board of Directors.  He will give us an update on the NACCC Capital Campaign. 

The attendees of the “Conversation Among Christians” gave the board a review of a very interesting workshop.  Kudos to Bonn on an excellent program.

Beth has been asked to lead devotions at Convocation this spring!

Clergy Retreat: Scheduled for March 29-30 at the ARC. 

ICF 2007 Meeting: Sharon and Ian Binger and Maria Cox are attending the ICF Meeting in Honduras this year.

MFC Newsletter: March 1 deadline for submissions to Casey for the next newsletter.  March 15 publish date.

Christian Churches Together in the USA met last week.  Bonn represented the NACCC at the meeting of 36 churches.

Sharon closed the meeting in prayer.

Next Meeting:             Wednesday, March 14, at Colonial Church

Respectfully submitted,
Pamela Jensen, secretary pro-tem

(with one addition from Beth Faeth, secretary)

****************************************************************************************************************

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of the MFC
on November 8, 2006. Other minutes follow.

Minnesota Fellowship of Congregationalists
Board of Directors Meeting
November 8, 2006
Colonial Church of Edina

Present:            Nancy Smith, Paul vanAntwerp, Becci Dawson Cox, Danielle Jones, Pamela Jensen, Sharon Binger, Marlene Slettehaugh, Bob Haaheim, Patti Dando Haaheim, Bonn Clayton, Peter Sneve, Seth Jones, Jeff Lindsay

Patti opened us in prayer.  Introductions were made.

CHECK – IN:
SouthCross – Successful fall festival, Thanksgiving Dinner is this weekend, finished stewardship campaign. People’s – Harvest Festival is November 18th, Heritage Sunday is November 19th featuring “Women Who Paved The Way” (from NA Annual Meeting), Leadership Retreat  was held last weekend, just finished Stewardship season featuring the Beatitudes and exploring what it means to be blessed. Duluth – Peter introduced Nancy Smith as their new interim minister.  Search committee has been formed.  Paul vanAntwerp, the intergenerational minister, spoke about the core of people who remain dedicated. Colonial – Journey of Faith this past weekend, new Habitat for Humanity project underway, numerous support staff changes, Danielle and her spouse have been on staff as youth pastors for about 2 months.  They are building relationships and enjoying their ministry beginnings.  Seth Jones attended the symposium in Wauwatosa this past weekend.  Seth presented a forum on the “Congregational Way” that was successful. New Richland – Fall Festival last weekend, possible buyer for parsonage, two key lay leaders struggling with major health issues. Plymouth – Construction of new education wing underway.  Vivian Jones returned to preach.  “Congregations Caring for Creation” has sparked interest from congregants.

Pamela moved, Bonn second that we approve the minutes from October.  M/C.

Bob presented the Treasurer’s report.  Patti moved we approve the report and send to audit.  Becci second.  M/C

Beth read a thank you note for the $60 gift from Debbie Muhlenkord, Director of Youth Ministries at People’s Congregational Church.

We began to review the brainstorming list from last meeting, contemplating a plan and course of action for each one, along with recognizing key people who may facilitate the plan’s success.
            1.  Shared missions

• Bonn will coordinate, collect information regarding mission work in the churches and share.

            2.  Youth involvement – establishing a statewide PF

• Ski weekend hosted at People’s Congregational  Church, February 1 – 3, 2007/ Metro - wide 30 hour Famine/ Plymouth Church Homeless sleep out/ Pyro & Pyro II Colonial Youth camps in August
• MN Fellowship Statewide Youth Ministries Coordinator – Bonn and Pamela met to discuss the position and proposed two options: we either enhance the position and provide more compensation or we make this position voluntary.  Possibly develop a youth ministry committee/ commission with a representative from every church.  Paul suggested a discussion board via the website. 
• Sharon suggested each church consider “sponsoring” a youth event, inviting all MFC churches to participate.
• Sharon offered to coordinate the sharing of information regarding youth events, facilitating conversation between youth directors, and posting information on the website.

           
3.  Offering continued support to our churches without pastors
            4.  Continue to develop positive relationship with Plymouth Church
            5.  Pulpit exchange

• Exchanges in 2005: People’s/Duluth; New Richland/SouthCross
• Who would like to exchange again?
• Beth will coordinate

            6.  Statewide music/arts programming
            7.  Encouraging our congregants to consider the ministry as a vocation
            8.  Resource clearinghouse

Our next meeting with be Wednesday,  January 10th at 11:00 a.m. at United Theological Seminary.

The meeting was adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,
Rev. Beth A. Faeth

*****************************************************************************************************************

Following are the Minutes of the Meeting of the Board of Directors of the MFC
on October 11, 2006. Other minutes follow.

Minnesota Fellowship of Congregationalists
Board of Directors Meeting
October 11, 2006
United Theological Seminary
3000 Fifth Street NW
New Brighton, MN 55112