Parish Pastoral Meeting
The AGM was held on November 22, 2009 at 1400h in the church
Present: Lili-Anne Delage-Larson, Carol O'Brien, Janet Alder, Anne-Marie Bazinet-Miller, Fred Miller, Norah Comeau, Diane Borg, Elaine Borg, Graydon Paulin, Blaine Duffley, Steve Collens (chair), Shona Timmins (recorder), Ann Carmichael, Mike Charrier, Murielle Cornwall, Paul Albert, Deacon Eugene Perabo, John Moran, Linda Gunning, Fr. John DeCoste
Pastor's Address: Fr. John
Welcomed those present and thanked all for their volunteer work in the parish. New members nominated to the PPC were also welcomed. Fr. John emphasized the continued need of parishioners to come forward and share their talents and time with their parish community.
Opening Prayer: Fr. John
The minutes of the AGM held in November 23, 2008 were approved as read.
Additional Items for Agenda
Eugene asked that Ecumenical Service be added to the agenda
Parish Finance Council Report: Elaine Borg
The Finance report was circulated with the minutes. There is an ongoing appeal for more donors as we do have to fund the parish on our own and, presently, there is no cushion of money for unforeseen expenses.
The application to the Trillium Foundation was forwarded on November 01. The amount requested is for $250,000.00 for much needed kitchen renovations. A Carleton University Journalism student wrote a vignette to add to our proposal as well as a short video of a Sunday Supper in progress. It is possible that we may not hear back from Trillium until February 2010.
Our thanks to both Mike Charrier and Laura Urrechaga who are willing to work on the project if the RFP is successful.
A question arose concerning the stained glass window and its replacement. Eugene knows of someone who may be willing to look at the window and give us an estimate. It is thought that the window itself is approximately 50 x 25 feet. However, the kitchen renovations are a priority at this time.
Approximately, 25 parishioners have voted for the option to pay their weekly donations to the parish through a direct monthly debit program. At the end of November, discussion with the bank will determine if we can go along with this and at what cost.
Parish Pastoral Council Report:
This report is included.
Steve reported on the way in which the 4 new members to PPC were nominated. There is a need to know how these nominees were nominated and that a bio with photograph be made available for parishioners to learn more about the candidates. Discussion followed in terms of how we adhere to a continuum so that members who step down, ensure that new members are mentored. This occurs as the executive are re-elected after 2 years. Other PPC members remain in their present state and after 3 years are given the opportunity to become a part of the executive. The new members of PPC will be introduced at Mass on December 06. Biographies with photographs will be made available to all parishioners.
Other questions included a query as to Linda Gunning's replacement. A new administrative assistant has been hired. Her name is Leslie Van De Laar. Leslie is presently working her notice in her present employment and will start at St. MM's on the 1st December 2009. Linda will continue with the financial responsibilities until January 01 2010. Linda will also continue her Pastoral responsibilities in the parish in a volunteer capacity.
Parish Council members will be required to take over the reporting of the various committees so as there is timely reporting throughout the year. Lesley will be introduced to the parish on Sunday, December 01 at both Masses. She will be available to talk to parishioners at Coffee Morning after both Masses on this date.
Committee Reports:
Liturgy: Janet Alder
As an addition to her report, Janet called for more assistance especially in terms of parishioners to assist with Mass Coordination.
Dan Alder has organized the Triduum and other special season and services for several years and is looking for someone to assist him and maybe eventually replace him.
Greeters at the door of the church before Masses would be appreciated.
Pastoral Care: Norah Comeau
At this time, there is a priest who is also a resident at Billingswood Manor. Fr . Gerry Pocock is probably in his 80's but at this time has taken over the duties that were previously the responsibility of St. MM's. Fr. Pocock was a patient in the Ottawa General and then moved into the Residence and now celebrates Mass each Saturday for the residents. This has been a very positive opportunity for him and has given some reprieve to Fr. John and the pastoral care team, at least, temporarily.
Faith Formation: Anne Marie Bazinet-Miller
There may be 2 students from Carleton University who are interested in the RCIA program. Fr. Schulist as chaplain has referred them. It is also known that Canadian Martyrs' Parish also has 2 applicants who, in some ways might share scripture with St. MM's but remain involved in their own parish.
Social Justice: Graydon Paulin
This program continues to be front and foremost of all the volunteer activities that take place in the parish. $6,000.00 are budgeted each year for the program and so far, we have managed, through the annual bazaar, to raise enough funds to support this cause which not only provides a hot meal in the cold winter months but also provides hospitality to many who are out there and lonely in their everyday lives. Doors at “St. M and M's” are open long before the meal is served. This supports the need for communication and friendship for our guests. At this time, we have 4 teams and 75 volunteers. 24 meals are served between Thanksgiving and Easter with an average of 80 guests each Sunday. Kudos were expressed by the parishioners present for the dedicated work of this group.
BIBLE STUDY AND THE UNIVERSE STORY AND US! Norah Comeau
For the past 8 years a group of parishioners has been meeting on Wednesday mornings for Bible Study. Having completed that particular program the group decided to explore the Cosmos and how we as Christians relate to our universe. Guided by the insights of Thomas Berry, a leading environmental and spiritual thinker, they are exploring the story of the Universe and our place in it. In these sessions, they will consider how our spirituality can connect us with all of creation. They gather in the hall of St. Margaret Mary's on Wednesdays, (specific dates are advertised in the Bulletin) from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. All are welcome to join these sessions. For info,call Norah at 613-247-7133 or Norma McCoy at 613-729-8746.
Parish Life
No report submitted
Election of New PPC Members: Steve Collens
It was voted that nominations be closed for the new PPC as only 4 members presented themselves for the 4 available positions. This was proposed by Anne Marie Bazinet- Miller and seconded by Shona Timmins. The new members are as follows: Diane Borg, Lili-Anne Delage-Larson, Blaine Duffley and Steve Collens. All members of Council will be asked to write a short bio with photograph that can be exhibited at the back of the church for all parishioners to view. The new members will be introduced at both Masses on December 06.
New Business: Eugene Perabo
Eugene met with several parish members to discuss the week of Christian Unity which will take place in January 18 to 25, 2010. Deacon Eugene, Paul Albert, Maurice McDonnell, and John Moran have formed an organizing group. So far, there has been good response from the parish. The week will culminate with a pot luck supper on the Saturday evening at St. MM's. Dates will be announced later.
John Moran has recruited Bishop George Theckdath as an opening speaker. He is from the Syrian Orthodox Church and will speak on the impact of Christian Unity.
Closing prayer: Fr. John
The meeting adjourned at 1540h
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