Hellam, PA

St. James Lutheran Church

Council News

A Parish Council meeting was held at St. James on September 16 to approve a pastor compensation package for a shared part-time pastor (65% part-time) for 2009. This compensation package for a shared part-time pastor, which will be presented in the 2009 budget at our Annual Congregational Meeting on Sunday, November 16, is only an estimate, as there are several variables that would depend on the status of the candidate.

 

The Parish Council unanimously agreed to continue with Pastor Warner as our shared interim minister.

 

The financial report for the first six months of 2008, prepared by the Finance Committee, is included in this newsletter. Please read it carefully, especially the explanation page.

 

Marie Griffith, Martin Rawhouser and Jim Riches were appointed to serve on the Nominating Committee. Marie Griffith will serve as chairperson. The terms of Carolyn Dietz, Bob Long, Judy Tatara and Steve Moore will expire this year.

 

Our Harvest Home contributions to the Lutheran Homes totaled $185.00 (Kelly = $170.00 and Sprenkle = $15.00) and we also had a selection of food items for the Eastern York Food Pantry. Sincere thanks to Erika Pennachio for arranging the lovely Harvest Home display and for delivering the food items to the Eastern York Food Pantry.

 

During September and October members of St. James participated in various interchurch and synodical events:

 

September 7 - Twenty-three members shared in the worship service and picnic with Canadochly, Emanuel and Our Saviour's at Canadochly.

 

September 9 - Nine members attended a Bible Study with Bishop B. Penrose Hoover at St. Paul Lutheran Church in York. Anyone from the York Conference (19 congregations) was invited to attend. There were 31 people in attendance, ten of whom were clergy.

 

September 20 - Four St. James people attended the "Congregations Together in Mission" seminar with the Rev. Peter Rudowski at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Spring Grove.

 

October 1 - Five members participated in the Taize Worship Service and enjoyed refreshments at Canadochly Lutheran Church.

 

October 5 - Nearly seventy people of the community enjoyed the benefit performance of "The Keystoners" with Harry Hatterer and the refreshments during intermission.

 

October 19 - Twenty-eight members were inspired by the musical talent and motivational presentation of Kerry White.

            

September, October and November - St. James members along with those from Canadochly are participating in Bible   Study with Pastor Mark Jeske.

 

Sharing Christian fellowship with others provides interesting learning ex­periences for all participants.

            

As we approach Thanksgiving and the Christmas Season, let us show our gratitude to God for the many blessings He has bestowed upon us.

 

 

 

 

Carolyn S. Dietz

 Lay President

 

Carolyn S. Dietz

Lay President

NEWS FROM THE CONGREGATION COUNCIL