Our new garden benches, with memorial plaques, have been installed in a space especially prepared for them under the little grove of trees behind the church. We give thanks to Caroline Williams for her generous gift, to Marla and John Pearson for arranging to have the plaques made and installed, and to Michael Brunson for the lovely path and landscaping surrounding the benches. We hope to schedule a blessing of the benches and grounds in the near future.
New Mission Statement
Our Mission Committee discussed the draft mission statement, and although it’s not perfect they decided that we could live with the following new mission statement for All Saints and see how it wears. We invite your comments and suggestions:
The mission of All Saints Episcopal Church in Beech Island is to grow mature, accomplished Christian disciples through reverent worship, spiritual friendship, and prayerful stewardship.
Note: We interpret stewardship in the broadest sense, not only in financial support of our church and ministry, but also in the intentional care and use of our land, buildings, resources, and our personal gifts for ministry and service.
Food pantry update:
The administrators of Redcliffe Elementary School have promised to send a simple announcement about our food pantry to parents in the near future. We may expect an increased attendance at the food pantry!
Report of the Mission Committee meeting of April 18, 2012:
• Our income and expenses are on track so far this year
• A donation made by the Dunbar family at Easter will be at least partially used to spruce up the memorial garden in front of the church
• Cindy has been asked to think about furniture that might work better for us in the parish hall
• The historic sign is being refurbished and will be installed in front of the church
The following goals and objectives were approved by the Mission Committee for 2012:
Evangelism and pastoral care:
Goal: Increase our membership numbers, participation, and continue to provide pastoral care to existing members
Objective: to incorporate 10 new members in 2012
Christian formation:
Goal: Provide spiritual support and Christian education to members of all ages
Objectives: establish Sunday school for children; increase attendance and participation in Christian education programs
Outreach and service:
Goal: Increase effectiveness of our outreach to Redcliffe Elementary School
Objectives: serve between 10-20 families a month through food pantry; start backpack program for 2012-13 school year
Repair and maintenance of church buildings and grounds:
Goal: Continue to maintain and repair buildings and grounds for beautiful and functional worship and fellowship spaces.
Objective: Carry out maintenance and repair according to plan
Worship and liturgy:
Goal: provide a welcoming and spiritually supportive worship experience
Objective: increase average Sunday attendance
