Annual Parish Meeting Agenda - Christ Church



2015 ANNUAL REPORT

Pen and Ink Drawing by Catherine B. Rickerby

THE MISSION OF CHRIST CHURCH…

“Christ Church: A community committed to exploring the reality of God in today’s world.”

Adopted by the Vestry 2012

CHRIST CHURCH 380 Sycamore Avenue, Shrewsbury, New Jersey, 07702

Parish Office Phone 732-741-2220 Fax 732-219-8991 Rectory Phone 732-224-1072

ChristChurchShrewsbury@

Annual Parish Meeting Agenda

The 313th Annual Meeting of Christ Church will begin in

the Parish House and will be accompanied by a covered dish brunch!

Invocation

Call of the 313th Annual Meeting

Minutes of the 312th Annual Meeting, January 25, 2015

Presentation of Candidates and Casting of Votes

Presentation of Awards

Presentation of Reports and 2016 Budget

Other Business

Meeting of New Vestry to elect Officers of Vestry

Adjournment

THE ANNUAL REPORT FOR 2015

Given at the Annual Meeting of Christ Church

Shrewsbury, New Jersey

January 31, 2016

The Right Reverend William “Chip” H. Stokes Bishop

The Reverend Lisa Sauber Mitchell Rector

The Reverend Mary Frances Schjonberg Priest Associate

The Reverend Victoria Cuff Deacon

The Reverend William Balmer Deacon

Casey Surgent Parish Administrator

Christine Psolka Organist and Choir Director

Jeff Veil Sexton

Gerry Marengo Treasurer

Phyllis Edwards Altar Guild Directress

Sue Napoletano Christian Formation Coordinator

Nancy Stewart Clerk of the Vestry

THE VESTRY

Elaine Feyereisen, Senior Warden (2017)

Rod Webster, Junior Warden (2016)

Term Ends Jan. 2016 Term ends Jan. 2017 Term ends Jan. 2018

Sue Napoletano Walter Dein Rachelle Spencer-Mikita

Patrice Thornton Peggy James Corey Folta

Sarah Schmid Julie Sinn Cassidy Rita Saible

Deputies term ends 2016 Alternate Deputies

Kim Roberts Christine Meislohn

Robert Honecker Diane Ingenito

William Cuff Neil Ingenito

2015 NOMINATION COMMITTEE REPORT

The terms of the following vestry persons expire at this meeting

Vestry: Sue Napoletano

Sarah Schmid

Patrice Thornton

Rod Webster

The following person is duly nominated to serve as Junior Warden for a 2 year term:

Peggy James

The following persons are duly nominated to fill 3 vestry positions for 3 year terms:

Joanne Montgomery

James O’Connor

Rosemary Pappa

The following person is duly nominated to fill one vestry position for a 1 year term:

Tara Dunford

The following persons are duly nominated to serve as Deputies to Diocesan Convention

Christine Meislohn

Diane Ingenito

Neil Ingentio

The following persons are duly nominated to serve as Alternate Deputies to Diocesan Convention:

Dianne Regiec

David Regiec

Georgette King

The Nominating Committee is comprised of the Senior Warden and the retiring Vestry members.

Minutes of the 312th Annual Parish Meeting, Sunday, January 25, 2015

The Annual meeting was held in the Parish House following the 10 a.m. service. After the opening prayer, the meeting was called to order at 11:30 a.m. A quorum being present, the 2014 Annual Report was distributed to all in attendance. The Minutes of the 2014 Annual Meeting were reviewed, and a motion was made by Patrice Thornton, seconded by Corey Folta and passed unanimously to accept the Minutes as presented.

Nominating Committee

The following slate of candidates was presented:

Senior Warden (2-year term): Elaine Feyereisen

Junior Warden (1-year term): Rod Webster

3 Vestry members (3 year-term): Corey Folta, Rita Saible, Rachelle Spencer Mikita

The slate was passed unanimously with a motion made by Julie Sinn Cassidy, and seconded by Sue Napoletano. The following were nominated as Alternate Deputies to Diocesan Convention: Christine Meislohn, Diane and Neil Ingenito. The Alternate Deputies were unanimously elected following a motion made by Tom Cameron, and seconded by Sheila Hatami-Watson.

Senior Warden, Bob Kelly, presented awards to our interns, Amanda Lopes, Kerri Sullivan, and Caitlin Guenther, and recognized them for their work with the Parish Register and our historic objects. Mother Lisa presented awards to retiring Vestry members, Neil Ingenito, Sheila Hatami-Watson and Dianne Regiec, and to Sr. Warden, Bob Kelly.

Treasurer’s Report

Treasurer Gerry Marengo reviewed in detail our finances, income and expenses from the past year. We ended the year with a deficit of $7,401 and the deficit continues to be an area of concern. He asked the congregation to assist with fundraising projects such as the Bazaar, the Eggstravaganza, and church rental for weddings, to help close the budget gap and avoid a year-end deficit. Overall income for the year was $9,132 below budget, but expenses were also below budget. On a positive note, special offerings were higher than budget. The 2015 budget projects a total deficit of $29,816. He reviewed the Diocesan Fair Share Assessment and explained how it is calculated. In 2015, we pledged $17,000 to the Diocese. Gerry thanked Lynne Marengo, who pays the bills and balances the accounts, and thanked the various counters who count weekly cash and make out deposits. He said the Finance Committee reviews our finances and investments, and makes recommendations to the Vestry. A parishioner asked about our investments in Vanguard funds and was told the reports are available to view in the office.

Bob Kelly described the two grants Christ Church was awarded from the New Jersey Historic Trust for historic preservation projects in the Church and graveyard and the Rectory. The Vestry recently approved the appointment of Bob Kelly as Project Manager for the grants as the representative of Christ Church. He will work with the historical architects and said the work may be completed this year.

Following the drawing for the 50/50 cash calendar, the meeting was adjourned at 12:40 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Nancy Stewart, Vestry Clerk

DETAILS FROM THE PARISH REGISTER

FOR THE YEAR 2015

Baptisms

Liam Frank Barger

Juliana Carolina Bustamonte

Stephen Abraham Craven

Olivia Grace Dunford

Rachel Jean Giannone

Veronica Elizabeth Giannone

Bryce Michael Gilkison

Kaylin Hayes Kiningham

Danielle Katherine Lauterwasser

Olivia Susan Olsen

Marriages

Natalia Morris to Anthony Baker (recorded in St. Elizabeth’s, Elizabeth, NJ)

Elyse Nicole Saeger to Robert William Veil

Rachel Marie Bohanan to Patrick Arrington Llewellyn II

Transfers to Christ Church

Natalia and Anthony Baker, from St. Elizabeth’s Episcopal Church, Elizabeth, NJ

Diana Berardelli, from Redeemer St. John Lutheran Church, Brooklyn, NY

Walter Burrell, from West Caldwell Presbyterian Church, West Caldwell, NJ

Andy and Shannon Bustamonte, from RC in Venezuela and St. Elisabeth RC in Allentown, PA

Stephen and Jennifer Craven, Dexter and Cody, from St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ

Paul and Jennifer Giannone, from Mary Mother of God RC, Hillsborough, NJ

Paola Lauterwasser from Ecuador (Roman Catholic)

Cassandra and Abigail Murphy, from St. James Episcopal Church, Eatontown, NJ

Transfers from Christ Church

Lesley Castellini to Trinity, Asbury Park, NJ

Whitney and Nancy Beebe to Episcopal Church of the Redeemer, Midlothian, VA

Burial of the Dead *denotes a member of Christ Church; ** denotes a former member

Louise Emily Aders*

Albert Edwin “Eddie” Condon

Phyllis Reay Smith Condon

Dorris Crandall*

Pamela J. Creamer

Harriet Hommer*

John J. Landers*

Mark Mackenzie Lawrence*

Albert Victor Maffei

Robert Irving Manson*

Margaret McMillan

Agnes Patricia Convey Meislohn

Jeffry Valleau Miller

Clifford E. Petrie*

Nancy Beatus Smith*

David Parson States*

Bryan James Veil

The Average Sunday Attendance

ASA for the past seven years:

2015 - 83 2014 - 80 2013 - 92 2012 - 92 2011 - 88 2010 - 91 2009 - 94

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RECTOR’S REPORT

“My mouth shall recount your mighty acts and saving deeds all day long;

though I cannot know the number of them….” Psalm 71.15

I think I know what the Psalmist is talking about. When I look at our parish and reflect on what God has worked among us, the blessing bestowed, and the many hours of work and ministry done by all of the parishioners here, I am truly amazed, a little stunned, and profoundly thankful. We have a committed staff and vestry and a congregation that truly loves Christ Church; together we accomplish so very much!

As we came to the end of 2015 we have begun to see the fruit of YFI: Young Family Initiative. YFI was started a year and a half ago as a program to concentrate as fully as possible on young children and their families. Our second Sunday of the month program “Seeing is Believing” (in its second season) is blossoming under the direction of an incredible team of laity and clergy. Our second Annual Blessing of the Stockings was marvelous for both young and old. And this year, we added another piece we call “Beyond Baptism”. It is a way families who have their children baptized here stay connected with the parish. For four years after their baptism, on the anniversary, each child is invited to church for a special blessing and gift. By the time they make their fourth anniversary they will be ready for Church School! YFI has been so successful that we are adding a regular nursery worker to our staff beginning this Sunday. It also means that we will be adding more activities this year; perhaps a Christmas Pageant and a Halloween gathering.

This year we also had the great privilege of celebrating the ordination of three of our very own parishioners to the Diaconate: Magdalena Aders, Bill Balmer, and Karen Reeman. After three years of formal training and study they have each begun their diaconal ministries in various places. Magdalena is deacon at Trinity, Matawan. Karen is at St. James, Eatontown. And Bill has remained here at Christ Church. Equally exciting was the formation of the Monmouth Center for Diaconal Ministry – the very first ministry of its kind in our Diocese.

We are sharing in the MCDM with two other parishes: St. John’s, Little Silver and Trinity, Asbury Park. Eve Chamberlain and Carolyn Bradley (also ordained in May) along with Bill Balmer are the first “new” deacons to participate, along with Gail Bennett and Vicki Cuff, experienced deacons at Trinity and Christ Church, respectively. The five deacons and three rectors have been meeting once a month here at Christ Church to build community and plan how the three parishes can partner together for various inter-parish ministries. I am so very excited about where this may lead; in a world in which we have many challenges in our local parishes, the model of the MCDM may prove the way to forge ahead as we the people of God in Monmouth County.

What else is going on at Christ Church? Work on the Rose Garden was largely completed and we held a wonderful dedicated for it. The preliminary work of evaluating our properties in regard to the grants awarded us are nearly completed; this will be the year to begin (and finish!) the construction. Interns from Monmouth University continue to grace us with their presence and unearth new information about our rich past.

Our adult study groups continue. We bid a sad farewell to Maureen Kilroy who led the Adult Lectionary Group for so many years; Deacon Bill Balmer stepping in on Sundays at 9:00am. Peak of the Week continues to read and discuss a vast array of interesting books. A Lenten Study of spiritual practices ensued during the weeks before Easter and EFM continues to boom with 9 members and 2 mentors from four different parishes.

2015 was the year our fundraisers exceeded $19,000 – a $5,000 increase over the previous year. This speaks to the many dedicated people who work so hard to make these a success; do read about it in the Fundraiser Report.

Our choir is another ministry in which we excel; several new members were added this year, and it is a testimony to the community of the choir and its leadership that the newest members are all recent members of Christ Church. Parking Lot Prayers got a mini facelift with a new name: Mass on the Grass. With the talent and support of Brother Richard Biernacki at the keyboards, we are having a wonderful time. Come join us for a summer afternoon. We do love our music!

And lastly, I do want to mention a rather unexpected gift that has come our way, and which you will be hearing more about. Longtime member Robert Manson passed away February 2nd of last year. He and his wife Dorothy were both active here at Christ Church for many years. Bob left a sizeable gift of approximately $340,000 to Christ Church, which we received last fall. The gift was earmarked for a very specific purpose: the upkeep and repair of the Church building (and nothing else). While this does not relieve us of the challenges we have with our day-to-day operations and budget, it truly is a blessing that will have ramifications long into the future. It is also a reminder to all of us to carefully and prayerfully consider what legacy we will each leave behind; even a small gift given to the church can make a great impact on the future of our ministry and presence here on the corner of Broad and Sycamore.

I want to thank you, the people of Christ Church, for all the support you have given me through these eighteen plus years. It is because of who you are and your generosity of spirit that I am able to rise each day with the gladness that comes in serving a congregation that I so love. I could not have thought of a better place to celebrate 25 years of ordained priesthood last March, and I do hope there are many more to come.

I pray you will receive the reports in this booklet with interest and joy, knowing that they only scratch the surface of all the blessings God has bestowed on us. Here is to another year…..

Peace,

Mother Lisa Mitchell+

SENIOR WARDEN’S REPORT 2015

The Christ Church parish is alive and active. Our year in review contained here in the Annual Report reflects the vast array of talents of our parishioners and the many ministries taking place frequently. Vestry members and committee chairpersons have outlined the extensive ways that our parish flourishes and the ways our lives together in Christ are impacting our relationships with each other, the community and the world.

Our ministries together pertain to our relationships with each other, the community and the world. The liturgical or worship committee led by Mother Lisa, plans for our spiritual journey together, with the assistance of our Altar Guild and Choir who set the scene for beauty and create the ambience in our services. Thanks to them for their tireless work. Our ushers, greeters, lectors, and coffee hour hosts provide the structure that allows the congregants to delightfully enjoy their spiritual Sunday attendance and the comradery that follows each week. The Property Committee ensures that our place of worship and other properties are cared for in the best manner possible and provide innumerable hours of physical labor to their upkeep. Special thanks go out Walter Dein and Chris Brondi and his team. The parish enjoys the fruits of the labor of each of these groups of dedicated parishioners as they weekly draw upon their talents to provide these ministries.

Our church is one steeped in history. We have been fortunate to receive the grant that is providing the means to continue to keep our buildings, the graveyard and the rectory in a condition to withstand the ravishing of weather and age, as outlined in frequent updates from Bob Kelly – the mastermind behind all things history for our parish. We are so fortunate to have his ministry to our parish and his dedication to continued focus on the welfare of our properties. Thanks to Bob for his untiring efforts. Additionally, we have received a sum of money that will provide for future needs of the church building so we can ensure future generations of parishioners will continue to worship here and enjoy its beauty and history. We are a very fortunate congregation indeed.

As the business of the church evolves, none are more daunting than the finances of the parish. Our thanks to Gerry and Lynn Marengo for their innumerable hours spent as Treasurer and Assistant Treasurer. They are providing for the smooth operations of the parish finances and lead the finance committee in sound decision making regarding everything budget related. Rod Webster is the key person who also works with the finance committee. He provides for the ministration of the endowment funds and for our newly created fund for long term investments. He shares his wealth of information regarding these long-range plans as well as all the many issues related to insurance and diocesan financial matters. A world of thanks to these key leaders of our parish.

The children are our future, is an often told phrase. No one believes that more adamantly than Sue Napoletano as she continues to provide program for all ages. She will be missed as a vestry member during this upcoming year, but we are fortunate to hear of her continuing leadership of the educational aspects of our congregation. Additionally, she is instrumental in our fundraising efforts such as “Eggstravaganza” and other parish events. Thanks to Sue, as well as to vestry member Julie Cassidy and Deacon Vicki, our Young Family Initiative has become a growing educational initiative that will continue to flourish. Our young folks are growing in numbers, and are learning about the love of God!

As the Senior Warden, I am SOOOO very thankful for the leadership of each of our vestry members and committee chairpersons as they use their talents, time and efforts to provide for this congregation. As you read this annual report, reflect upon the roles taken on by so many volunteers, as they share their relationships with each other, the community and the world. Again, I firmly believe that it is relationships that tie together our spiritual journey together. We touch the outside community and world through our many Outreach programs. Parish Life volunteers enable us to celebrate together and develop friendships and relationships. Thank you to each of our parish leaders for your time and energies.

Our parish is blessed with the work of Casey Surgent in the parish office, Chris Psolka our Organist and Choir Director, and Jeff Veil, Sexton. They are committed to providing their talents to our parish and work above and beyond the call of duty to do so.

Our clergy are so energetic! They excite our parishioners with their spirituality, guidance and support. Mother Mary Frances, Deacon Vicki and Deacon Bill are integral to our parish life in so many ways! Additionally, our deacons are a blessing to our parish! We value our relationships with them and enjoy the many ways they minister to our parish.

I cannot thank anyone more than Mother Lisa. She energizes the vestry, leads us through the twists and turns of the parish and nurtures our spiritual growth, education and personal growth. She is always there for the individuals of the congregation and is untiring in her work with the vestry and other church members. Her work doesn’t end with the worship and spiritual life of the congregation. She oversees all the aspects of the parish including the use and control of the buildings, education of all ages in the scriptures, doctrine and in the exercise of ministry as baptized persons. She is key to the education and preparation for baptism, confirmation, reception and reaffirmation of persons, and actively involved in the lay committees of the vestry and the myriad of groups that support every facet of congregational life. Working with Mother Lisa is joyful and she enables each of us to discern what God is calling us to do and to focus on our mission within and outside of the faith community of Christ Church.

The relationships of Christ Church – Clergy, Wardens, Vestry, Committee Chairs, congregation members are reflected here in the Annual Report. They enable us to share in our mission and vision: “Christ Church: A community committed to exploring the reality of God in today’s world.”

Prayerfully submitted, Elaine Feyereisen

2015 STEWARDSHIP REPORT

Our Stewardship campaign started on Sunday, November 8. That was the Sunday the MCDM (Monmouth Center for Diaconal Ministry – our 3 deacons) conducted the service and explained what the deacon does and why they do it! The following Sunday, November 15, Elaine Feyereisen addressed both services and told her story of what Christ Church means to her. Ingathering Sunday was November 22. Invitations to our luncheon were again designed, made and donated by freelance designer Susan Heckman. A delicious luncheon was catered by Ruffino’s of Eatontown.

The following is a comparison of pledge data for 2015 and 2016 as of 1/11/2016.

2016 2015

Number of pledges 64 71

New pledges 8 10

Increased pledges 39 31

Decreased pledges 4 11

Projected pledges 27 27

Pledges $141,939 $151,786

Projected pledges $ 16,500 $ 22,265

Total pledges $158,439 $174,051

Note:

1. New pledges include people who may have pledged consistently in the past, but did not fill out a pledge card the previous year.

2. The budget in 2015 estimated 96% contribution of the pledge totals shown above, and in 2016, we are using 92% to align with the diocesan average and what we are seeing as well. We do not use the total dollar amount pledged since we never get 100% fulfilment.

3. Projected pledges are an estimate of contributions from parishioners who have consistently contributed in the past but have not submitted a pledge for 2016.

4. This data shows that we have lower totals for the number of pledges as well as the total pledged in 2016 versus 2015.

Stewardship 2016

If you've turned in your pledge card for 2016, thank you. If you haven't, please do. It's not too late! Mail it, drop it off at the church office or put it in the offering plate. If you regularly put money in the plate, but have never completed a pledge card, please consider completing a card this year. We have asked everyone to try to increase their pledge, even if it is only by an extra 1 week contribution. Every increase helps no matter the amount. Don't be afraid, if your circumstances change, you can always change your pledge. Let's make 2016 the best financial year yet! Thank you, The Stewardship Team

Respectfully submitted by Peggy James, Stewardship Commission

MUSIC MINISTRY REPORT 2015

In 2015, the Liturgy Committee continued its plan to vary service music throughout the liturgical year. Toward this end, during Lent, cantor Jamie Green chanted the psalms. Additionally, during the Creation season the Schubert setting of the Sanctus and Agnus Dei were sung.

Choral anthems for Maundy Thursday included a contemporary arrangement of Ubi Caritas by Browning and Ave Verum, a traditional chant. The Good Friday service, a collaborative effort by choir members Barbara Carroll, Patricia Falzone, Lynn Marengo, Jim Halpern, and Jamie Green included sacred reflections from a variety of genres - classical, gospel, Gregorian chant and Renaissance.

The Easter Vigil and Easter Sunday 11:00 am services featured Surrexit Christus by Pergolesi, arr. Proulx, and Come and Be Joyful from the Vivaldi Gloria, arr. Hopson, with trumpet. The Children’s Easter service included Jeanine Reeman, flute, playing Hornpipe from Handel’s Water Music and Air on a G String by Bach.

Parishioner Jeanine Reeman, flute, and guest artist Elina Lang, cello, joined St. Gregory’s Choir for the Christmas Eve 10:30 service. Anthems included I Wonder As I Wander by John Jacob Niles, The Hand That First Held Mary’s Child, by Forrest, Star Carol by Rutter and Sussex Carol by Willcocks. The cellist joined singer Janet Breslin in Sweete Was The Song The Virgin Sung. Cello, flute and organ combined in a performance of the Benedictus from Karl Jenkins’ Mass for Peace. Danielle Lauterwasser sang the solo verse in Once In Royal David’s City.

Kevin Psolka-Green provided the Children’s Christmas service music on guitar. Featured was the vocal solo, The Friendly Beasts, a traditional carol arranged by Garth Brooks.

During the summer, Brother Richard Biernacki works with Mother Lisa to provide music at our out service “Mass on the Grass.”

The vestry sponsored Music Ministry Appreciation Sunday in September, a Eucharist celebration with additional music which was followed by a lovely brunch. Donations were requested to supplement the Organ Fund, the Cameron Music Fund, and the Ann Marie Kelly Memorial Music Fund. These additional monies allowed for the hiring of trumpet and oboe soloists and an additional singer for the choir at Christmas.

St. Gregory Choir gained two new sopranos: Diana Berardelli and Danielle Lauterwasser.

I’d like to express my appreciation to Mother Lisa Mitchell for her support and the following members of St. Gregory Choir for their dedication and hard work:

Barbara Carroll Patricia Falzone Diana Berardelli

Jamie Green Lisa Halpern Jim Halpern

Bob Kelly Lynn Marengo Renee Meislohn

Sarah Schmid Diane Skelly Patrice Thornton

Danielle Lauterwasser

Respectfully submitted by Christine Psolka, Organist and Choirmaster

2015 ALTAR GUILD REPORT

The ministry of the Altar Guild members is the preparation for the two Sunday services, special Holy Days, weddings, baptisms, funerals, and memorial services.  We also trim the church for Christmas, Easter and special Holy Days.  The members of the Guild assure the linens, silver, brass and priest’s vestments are well maintained so that Christ Church is always a holy and beautiful place in which to worship.

The following members serve faithfully on teams of two or three members with one team only one member for one week each month.  The members are Pam Aschettino, Pam Diamond, Kate Diliberto, Phyllis Edwards, Edgar John, Ann Miller, Barbara Raspanti, Rachelle Spencer-Mikita, and Cindy Webster. If you believe this is a ministry which would interest you, please speak with Mother Lisa.

A special thanks to Barbara Raspanti who has maintained our flower account and by making sure that the flowers are paid for and also acknowledging the donor. Thank you to Carol Kenney and the Silver Tulip for their faithful service to Christ Church.  In May 2015 Carol sold her business and for the remainder of the year, the new owner assumed making our flower arrangements.  We are now using Boxwood Gardens Florist and Gifts.  Cindy Webster has graciously agreed to take charge of our flowers and special seasonal arrangements at the church for Sunday services and special feast days etc. and for notifying the florist of our special needs. Cindy has been preparing the widow arrangements for many years for the church.

This year we purchased several new purificators (linens) for our church services, and also a new Gospel cover for our Gospel book, given in memory of Lawrence Feyereisen and was dedicated at the children’s Christmas service.

We are still trying to find a reliable source to repair the gold chalice.

The Altar Guild thanks Mother Lisa for her direction, prayers, and support throughout the year.

 Respectfully submitted by Phyllis Edwards, Directress

2015 Altar Guild

Flower Account Financial Summary

TD Account Balance, January 1, 2015 …….. $1573.00

Income:

Regular Weekly Flower Donations $1690.00

Memorial Contributions …………………………………… $2548.00

Interest ……………………………………………... $ 1.79

Total Income: $4239.79

Expenses:

Weekly Regular Flowers ………………………………... $1865.65

Holiday Services ……………………………..… $572.00

Safe Box ………………………….…….. $123.05

Total Expenses: $2560.70

TD Account Balance, December 31, 2015 ………….…….. $ 3252.09

Notes:

1. Expenses for Nov. and Dec. greens are not included in this report.

2. Expenses for Christmas decorations are not included in this report.

Respectfully submitted by Barbara Raspanti, Altar Guild

ADMINISTRATIVE REPORT 2015

It’s hard to believe that May will mark my 6th year of employment at Christ Church. Time sure does fly by. 2015 continued to be “business as usual, busy as usual.” My major job responsibilities do not change too much from year to year and I will repeat myself in stating that “It is the people I am blessed to work with and encounter on a daily basis that make my job unique and rewarding.”

I am very happy that Christ Church continues to acquire “active” new members, many with young children. It has been nice to hear that “Seeing is Believing” is well attended and loved by those who do attend.

This year I have had the pleasure of working with some new and/or returning volunteers. Judy Buncher accepted the challenge of as 2015 Bazaar Chairperson and did a wonderful job! One volunteer I come to appreciate more and more over time is Lynn Marengo. (And that’s not because she does the payroll!) She not only supports the treasurer, Gerry, with paying bills and balancing check books, but she makes trips to B.J.’s, Costco, Staples, finding us the best deals on office, kitchen and cleaning supplies. She has also been coming in almost twice a month to do some extra, heavy duty cleaning, above and beyond the part-time Sextons responsibilities. She is an angel!

I have come to accept the fact that the last week of the month will always be a little crazy preparing the monthly newsletter. I have taught myself not to stress out about it and pray for patience. There are always last minute additions, editing, layout issues, that cut it down to the wire, but it all seems to come together in the end and for the most part – on time.

There is one job responsibility of mine that has become a bit stressful and currently my biggest challenge; the “Those Who Serve” schedule for our services. For just about the last 20 years or so, I have worked with volunteers in many different capacities, both professional and personal. I myself am one. I try to be sympathetic, knowing that we all have busy lives and schedules. I get it! I try my best to accommodate schedules, vacations, etc. I can’t stress enough how much it helps if I know ahead of time, dates that you are not available. I do understand that calendar changes, meetings, appointments come up at the last minute. My reason for mentioning this is not to focus on those who are already serving. I would like to address those who do not serve. I am asking those of you sitting in the pew, to sincerely consider joining one of the many ministries necessary to make Sunday worship just what it is meant to be. If we could recruit a few more folks, one would “possibly” only have to serve once a month, or every 5th/6th weekend. Some of our current folks are supporting not just one area of service but three! We are in need of additional Chalice Bearers, Greeters, Lectors and Ushers. Please consider joining one area of service. I guarantee it’s good for the soul. Please speak with Mother Lisa, Peggy James, or call the office.

I would again like to thank everyone who has helped in the office in anyway over the last year and very special thanks to those who lend a hand when it comes time for collating, folding and stapling holiday bulletins and special reports!

If I seem at ease in my job it is because I am. I sincerely feel loved and appreciated. It is the care and respect of the people I interact with that help to make me happy in my work.

Respectfully submitted by Casey Surgent, Parish Administrator

CHRISTIAN FORMATION COMMISSION REPORT 2015

Sue Napoletano continues the lead in teaching the Lower Church School. Attendance has been fairly steady. In addition, since the inception of the YFI program which hosts Second Sunday program entitled “Seeing is Believing” the number of families participating in Lower Church School has increased significantly. Look for more from Julie Sinn-Cassidy on this innovative and fun program for our children and their parents.

As for church school, we remain prepared and ready to go forward on a weekly basis with whoever arrives. Our focus in class this year is the theme “Small but Mighty”. We have

presented lessons on different persons in the Bible (think David, Daniel, Noah, Jonah, Moses) who, with God’s grace and help, are able to perform amazing feats with spectacular results.

Christina Alfano and Jeanine Reeman have been faithful volunteers in the Church School and Nursery and make themselves available for classroom or nursery duties.

At the Middle Church School level, our children are mostly participating as acolytes or engaged in the Girls Friendly Society. At this grade level the basics of Episcopalian worship and doctrine are introduced so participation is encouraged. It is a first step in the confirmation process. If

there are any families who are seeking to have your child make their confirmation in the next couple of years, please let me know. We remain ready to offer a Middle Church School program for anyone who may be interested and to institute new programs to meet the spiritual needs of

our older children and youth.

One of the main goals of the Christian Formation Commission has always been to offer our children and Youth a loving, cheerful and safe environment in which to explore and learn about our Faith and how to put that Faith into action. It is evident that the commission is on track in that regard. Continued support of the Church School Program by parents is very much key to a successful outcome of the program and more importantly, the successful development of faith and ensuing service in our children and Youth.

Church School also includes special activities and programs:

Pancake Supper (or should I say “breakfast). Last year’s pancake supper was again a success thanks to the service of the GFS. The pancakes and sausage were yummy and a good time was had by all – even those working away in the kitchen.

Easter Egg Hunt. This past year our Youth and even some of the Parishioners hid the many dozens of Easter Eggs donated by our generous parishioners for the annual Easter Egg Hunt. In fact, once again we had some many eggs we ran out of places to hide them. It was “eggs-citing” for all, especially for those children who found the Alleluia Eggs and were awarded the beautiful Lamb Cakes. Alleluia Eggs and Lamb Cakes were lovely.

Youth Sunday, June 14, 2015. Highlights of this special day included senior sermons by Casey Alfano and Sophie Halpern. From each of their presentations

it was gratifying to note that their time at Church and in Church School left an indelible mark on their faith formation. A common theme running through their sermons was sincere appreciation of their Church experience and how it led to their personal growth. Thanks for the people who mentored and influenced them over the years were offered. Casey Alfano was named the Cassie Kerr scholar for the year. Sophie and Casey were both awarded other scholarships. There was a full complement of children and Youth represented as either acolytes, lectors, nursery care givers, GFS members or nursery attendees who were recognized. Some awards were given out. The program concluded with the traditional Ice Cream Sundaes.

Rally Sunday: This year Rally Sunday took a different form. Since it was the second Sunday in September, the year kicked off with the “Seeing is Believeing” Program “When the Saints Go Marchin’ In”. Each second Sunday the children

are offered a lesson about the two saints of our church followed by a related craft activity and concluding with family Eucharist in the Chapel.

St. Nicholas Sunday: On Sunday, December 6, 2015, the Bishop of Myra aka

St. Nicholas appeared for his annual visitation. Jamie Green delightfully recounted the story of the real St. Nicholas to our youngsters and Parish. The youngsters were given special chocolate “gold” coins as a remembrance treat from St. Nicholas. The visitation coincided with our annual in-gathering of toys and gifts for St. Mark’s, Keansburg which, as always, was astounding.

Although my vestry term has come to an end, I look forward to continuing to serve our children, Youth and congregation as the Church School Director and

to continue in any other capacity (or persona) as the church may need. I am blessed to be part of this amazing faith community which is Christ Church, Shrewsbury. God Bless Us Everyone.

Respectfully Submitted by Susan Napoletano, Christian Formation Vestryperson

WEDDING COMMITTEE ANNUAL REPORT 2015

In 2015 we hosted four weddings. At this time there are three weddings scheduled with deposits for 2016 and two more couples who are quite interested in having their ceremonies at Christ Church, but have not finalized yet.

It seems that couples find us from our website, or by word of mouth. Many recommendations for us come to the couples from reception venues and previous officiates.

We would welcome any parishioners, who would like to help us in any small or large way. Our tasks include showing the church to interested couples, coordinating wedding details, directing parking on the day of the wedding, bell ringing after the ceremony, preparing a small gift as a thank you to the couple, and advertising our service to reception sites and other ways. Volunteers are welcome to be involved with any of these tasks at their own availability. Please feel free to contact me.

Our gross income in 2015 was $3,275.00. Total expenses were $300.00. We have a net profit of $2,975.00. We also received a deposit for a 2016 wedding at the end of 2015; since it was deposited into the bank in 2016, it will be recorded in our 2016 wedding financial statement.

I am sincerely grateful to all the devoted committee members and helpers this past year: Peggy James, Tara Dunford, Elaine Feyereisen, Gordon Brown, Mimi Brown, Meg Bernhardt, Rosemary Pappa, Gerry Marengo, Walter Dein, Jeff Veil, Kim Honecker, Kate Apostolacus, Jill Bruger, Perky Cameron, Paul Murgio, Mother Lisa, Casey and the Altar Guild.

Respectively submitted by Noel Murgio, Wedding Committee Chairperson.

FUNDRAISING REPORT 2015

2015 was a year of transition for the Fundraising area of Christ Church. A new vestry member, Corey Folta, was appointed commissioner of the fundraising committee. All the events remained but we tried to expand them and increase the revenue for each project.

Joanne Montgomery was the chairperson of the Flea Market this past spring. She added a preview night, added food and music for that event and had specific items and gift baskets available that evening. We increased the overall revenue by $1,128.55 over 2014 revenue! Thank you, Joanne and your team.

Judy Buncher came to the Bazaar after we started executing the event. She was a wonderful team captain and has wonderful ideas that we may use for 2016 event. For 2015, Christ Church brought in a record breaking $9,530.36. This is an increase of $1815.14 from 2014. Judy and her team did an excellent job. Thank you.

As you can see from the chart below, each category did extremely well in 2015. The entire congregation appreciates your hard making each event a success.

|Source of Fund Raising Income  |Contribution |

| |  |

|Book Sales |                      $   172.75 |

|Calendar Games |                      $   432.50 |

|Eggstravaganza |                      $1,381.30 |

|Flea Market |                      $2,613.55 |

|50/50 Raffle |                      $1,907.75 |

|Moravian Pies |                      $   595.00 |

|Boscov’s |                      $   150.00 |

|Holiday Bazaar |                      $9,530.36 |

|Lantern Tour |                      $2,385.49 |

|===================== |                       ======= |

|Total |                     $19,168.70 |

Where do we go from here? In 2016, we will concentrate on marketing our building for Weddings. We will be analyzing the market and see where best to put our efforts. As well, we will be producing the same events from 2015, growing them as we feasible.

Respectfully submitted by Corey Folta, Vestry

MEMBERSHIP COMMISSION REPORT 2015

The Membership Commission’s area of concentration is maintaining and growing the membership at Christ Church. This has been a challenging area for us, as it has been for so many of our fellow churches and denominations. However, even as we have bid farewell to some of our cherished, long-time parishioners, we have also welcomed several new individuals and young families. We look forward to joining and partnering with them on their spiritual journeys, and we are working to attract more new members to our congregation.

A major project this year has been the development of an updated brochure. The new design is complete, and it is ready for review and printing.

The commission is also always looking for effective ways to overcome the difficulties posed by the changing paradigm and culture vis a vis attendance at church, and several other vestry programs—the YFI initiative headed by Julie Cassidy in particular—have been working to address this. As stated last year, we are a warm, loving, intelligent and accomplished worship community here at Christ Church. Just as it has been said that “it takes a village to raise a child,” the truth remains that it “takes a parish” to grow and nurture our Christ Church community. It is a challenging task, but with good collaboration, sustained effort and strategic innovation, we look forward to a rewarding, successful partnership and journey in faith and fellowship. We welcome your input!

Respectfully submitted by Patrice L. Thornton

USHER REPORT 2015

The ushers have one of the most important roles in the church. The usher or greeter is the first person a guest will meet. The ushers need to make a guest feel comfortable and be available to answer their questions. They make sure all the assigned lectors are present, and if not, they need to find a substitute. Many times our ushers act as tour guides since so many guests have questions about the church. When the service is over, they straighten up the kneelers and books and prepare the church for the next service. Being an usher is a very rewarding experience and we are always looking for new ushers for both services. If you think that you might like to be an usher, please talk to me or Mother Lisa. We would love to have you!

Current ushers are: Walter Dien, Chris Brondi, Mimi Brown, Judy Buncher, George Edwards, Elaine Feyereisen, Jim Miller, Susan Perl, Rod Webster, Bramley Maber and me!

Respectfully submitted by Peggy James, Usher Coordinator

FATHER MAINER FUND 2015

The Father Mainer Fund was established many years ago by an Episcopal priest connected with Christ Church. The purpose of the Fund is to help individual poor people and he stated that up to $2,500 could be spent from it each year. Because of the difficulty in finding reasonable low-cost housing in Monmouth County and because Father Mainer also relied on low-cost public housing, this account is used specifically to assist people with housing needs. The maximum amount to be dispersed each year remains $2,500. The maximum amount given out to any one family is $500. In 2014, five allocations for a total of $2,036 were given out to the following:

Electric bill for a single man and his mother $225.12

Assistance with rent for 3 families $1,500.00

Assistance with rent, utilities for 1 family $294.00

Total: $2,019.12

End of Year Balance of the Fund: $7,651.94

The Father Mainer Fund is a limited fund; he assumed that once the monies are dispersed, the account will be closed. However, the needs are as real today as they were in his own day. If you would like to make a donation to this fund, your check may be made out to “Christ Church” with “Father Mainer Fund” on the memo line.

Faithfully Submitted,

Mother Lisa Mitchell, Rector

PROPERTY REPORT 2015

2015 was a busy year for property. Many of the smaller projects listed below were completed during the Second Saturday Workdays.

Church Yard:

Setting up the “Mass on the Grass” area

Patched the hole in the driveway

Cleared up the unused parking lot area

Filling in pot holes of the parking lot

Trimming trees, bushes and raking up the black walnuts

Improving the rose garden area

Repairing the fence after being damaged by a car accident

Putting up the No Parking and No Left Turn signs

Replaced the historical Blue sign

Putting up and taking down the fence banners

Church Building:

Temporary duck work repairs

Installed a handle at the lectern

Replaced 13 kneeling pads

Scrubbed all the tiled floors

Repaired baptistery font lid

Church Rectory:

Replacing the hot water heater

Repaired and painted the garage

Replaced the living room rug

Parish House:

Repaired two faulty toilets

Replaced emergency light batteries

Removed the glass table from the library

Replaced the coffee maker

Replaced the faulty dehumidifier

Installing the window air conditioners

Did a major cleanup of the undercroft basement area

Painted 4 new bookcases

Installed additional LED lights

Repaired library curtain rods

There is also a host of reoccurring tasks such as picking up of trash in the church yard and untangling the Episcopal flag.

Particular thanks to Chris Brondi, George Edwards, Peggy James and Edgar John who work tirelessly on property matters.

Sincerely submitted by Walter Dein, Property Chair

2015 Christ Church Cemetery Fund Financial Summary

1/1/15 Balance $10,287.52

Deposits

Sickles Fund $7,910.00

Plot Purchases & Funerals $4,740.00

Donation (for parking lot gravel) $2,000.00

Interest on Account $6.29

Total Deposits: $14,656.29

Checks and Debits

Lawn Care (mowing) $5,680.00

Boxwoods for Rose Garden $ 214.00

Parking Lot Gravel $1,846.90

Snow Removal $4,149.87

Grave Digger $ 750.00

Stabilizing monument $ 80.00

Plaques for graves $ 276.72

Check orders $ 25.75

*Transfer to Investment Account $5,000.00

Total Debits: $18,023.24

12/31/15 Balance $6,920.57

*Note: When the balance of the account goes above $10,000.00 we transfer money to another investment account for better yields.

Faithfully Submitted,

Mother Lisa Mitchell, Rector

CHRIST CHURCH INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY -COMMUNICATIONS REPORT 2015

2015 saw the continued strengthening of our communications capabilities using social media.

The Parish Facebook page continues to be actively managed by Kim Roberts-Honecker and is attracting many friends to our numerous events and activities. It is being coordinated with our parish web site.

The web site has been an active follower of the parish’s activities including Upcoming, Ongoing and Past Events. We have continued to keep it up to date, one of the most difficult aspects of a web site managed mostly by volunteers. We have also sought to enrich the web pages with photos and videos. We now have over a year of sermons preached from our pulpit on the web site to listen to. Most of the richness is focused on the Home page where we post all our special events including the Crown and the Rector’s monthly letter. In addition our Donation page again brought in about $400 this year. The calendar is also up to date and a good way of seeing what is happening from your home or work locations.

We have also posted the new Graveyard brochure and the HRMG booklet on the web site accessible from the cemetery page. The new aerial video of the church is also in the Ongoing Special Events section of the Home page.

Moving forward we are looking to expand information about our many ministries as well as build a capability for visitors to make comments and interact with us about our parish life.

Thanks to Kim, Rupa DasGupta, Mimi Brown, Casey Surgent and all who provided content for the web site and Facebook.

Faithfully submitted by Robert M. Kelly, Jr.,

YFI: Young Family Initiative 2015

YFI (Young Family Initiative) continues to grow as we focus on young children and their families in our church community. The purpose of YFI is to engage current families with young children in the parish and to attract new families from the local community. Our goals are three-fold: 1) seek ways to meet the needs of parents in regards to the nurture and care of their children; 2) develop a network of support and fellowship for the parents themselves; and 3) plan educational and social events to attract young families in the immediate area. YFi is meant to work in conjunction with our current programs, complementing and supplementing existing parish structures such as Church School, GFS, Mass on the Grass, Goodies in the Graveyard, the Parish Picnic, and Communion Class.

After a spring filled with getting to know the church, the fall edition of “Seeing is Believing: Experiences of the Holy for Parent and Child” began focusing on a variety of saints. On the second Sunday of every month, parents are invited to join their children in the Parish House for a special session to explore and develop the spirituality of their children. Georgette King, Walter Dein, Deacon Vicki Cuff, and Sue Napoletano and Mother Lisa have all presented short lessons and lead activities, which are followed by a small communion. At least one member of the clergy is present at each “Seeing is Believing” session. All of the second Sunday gatherings continue to be well attended, and our program has drawn in new families.

In December, we hosted out second Blessing of the Stockings. The morning was filled with cookie decorating, tree trimming, and a delightful visit from St. Nicholas, who related the story of his life and hid chocolate coins in the stockings. Then, Mother Lisa blessed all the holiday stockings. Nine children and their adults attended the celebration, and the cookies that were not eaten were donated to the children at St. Clare’s House in Neptune. In addition, the children made Christmas cards for the boys and girls of St. Clare’s House. A very special thanks to Saint Nicolas and to all the members of Girls Friendly Society who assisted us on that day. All in all, we had a great morning.

While I am the lead for the YFi program, it could not be as successful as it has been without the help of Sue Napoletano, Deacon Vicki Cuff, and Mother Lisa. Thank you all.

If you would like to be part of YFI – whether in planning future events or helping with current ones, do not hesitate to contact me.

Faithfully Submitted by Julie A. S. Cassidy

GIRLS’ FRIENDLY SOCIETY 2015

Reverend Lisa Mitchell, Clergy Sponsor

Dorrie Pedalino, Branch Advisor

Girls’ Friendly Society is an organization that serves girls ages 5 and older (and I do mean older! Even those of us long out of school love staying active in GFS). We ended the program year “Dreamin’ of GFS” in June. The theme of the 2015-2015 year is “And Away We Go!” This year we are focusing on partnering with our Sister Chapter of St. George’s Church-by-the-River, Rumson.

The girls participated in many various activities including the following:

• SOUPer Bowl Sunday: the girls and moms made a variety of delicious soups that were sold on Superbowl Sunday to parishioners and taken to shut-ins.

• Jon Bon Jovi Soul Kitchen: Our college-aged GFSers were able to learn about the volunteer experiences at Soul Kitchen in Red Bank. At the JBJ Soul Kitchen, they believe that a healthy meal can feed the soul. JBJ Soul Kitchen is a community restaurant with no prices on the menu; customers donate to pay for their meal. If you are unable to donate you may do volunteer work in exchange for your family’s meal. The girls participated in the experience and were able to “Pay it Forward” by also contributing to four future meals for customers who are unable to pay.

• Palm Crosses: the Altar Guild joined the GFS to make Palm Crosses for Palm Sunday. The Altar Guild took the girls on a very interesting and informative tour of the sacristy and we all had lunch together (thank you, Phyllis Edwards!)

• Pancake Brunch: the bad news was that the snow shut out our Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper. The good news was that we rescheduled it after Easter for a Sunday, which meant the entire Parish could enjoy our delicious breakfast fare! Proceeds profited the Casey Kerr Scholarship Fund. A tip of the hat to Sue Napoletano who led the charge.

• GFS Board of Directors Meeting: Representatives joined other GFS groups at St. George’s by the Sea in Rumson for our Spring Meeting and St. Mary’s, Clementon, for our Fall Meeting.

• Book Donations: we donated many books to Holiday House in Cape May to be sold to raise funds for the House (this is the place where we go to camp each summer). Dorrie Pedalino transported the books and assisted with the sale.

• Annual Mother/Daughter Retreat: Our retreat began with a House Blessing at the Bernhardt-Apostolacus home. We received a hospitable welcome and a delicious supper thanks to Meg and Kate! The Retreat was held at Grove Hall, with the theme of “Blessings”.

• Holiday House Summer Camp: The program for camp this year was “A Triad of Life and Death: All Hallows’ Eve, All Saints Day, and the Commemoration of All Faithful Departed (All Souls’ Day)”. A long title for a very fun and interesting week learning about Life, Death, and the saints that influence our lives.

• BUNCO Invitational: we began September with a bang! St. George’s, Rumson joined us for a lively game of BUNCO with supper and prizes for all. It was a great way to invite new girls to the group.

• CROP Walk: This year, GFS coordinated our church volunteers. A special thanks to Jeanine Reeman.

• Holiday Bazaar: We assisted in decorating for the bazaar and setting up vendor tables. Additionally, some girls baked goodies for the Bake Shoppe and assisted at Preview Night.

• St. Mark’s Soup Kitchen: on the day after Thanksgiving, our girls were there with homemade cookies in hand! They helped prepare and serve lunch.

• Holiday Express: One of our favorite volunteer events is helping at Holiday Express. We packed gift bags for the neediest of residents in a variety of facilities. The branch donated socks, pens, pencils, and candies. Several families of GFS members supplemented the group donation with individual donations. Those who may not have otherwise received any type of gift during the holidays appreciated our contributions greatly. We were blessed to provide Holiday Express with a $14,000 donation of products (craft items, stuffed animals, bibs, etc.) provided by DMC Corporation, Kearny, NJ.

• Coffee Hour Hosts: We had bagels, homemade banana nut bread, and brownies for the parishioners. The girls assisted with baking the food, set up, serving, and clean up.

• Blessing of the Stockings: This event was hosted at Christ Church for the greater community. GFS assisted in decorating a tree, helping the younger ones decorate cookies for donation to St. Clare’s Home for Children and crafting handmade greeting cards to St. Clare’s residents.

As you can see, we had a very busy year! We absolutely love GFS and do appreciate the support of the entire parish. Girls and their mothers do not need to be members of Christ Church to be involved in GFS. If you are interested, or know someone who might be, do not hesitate to call us.

Faithfully Submitted,

The Reverend Lisa Mitchell and Dorrie Pedalino

GRAVEYARD COMMISSION REPORT 2015

In September 2015 the vestry appointed Robert M. Kelly Jr. to be the Chair of the Graveyard Commission. Presently the Commission has a second member, Reverend Lisa Mitchell and representatives of both the History and Property Commissions due to the close linkages between the Graveyard Commission and those Commissions.

A new charter for the Commission was also approved by the vestry.

A brochure describing the Graveyard and its features was published in October.

The new graveyard feature, the Heritage Rose Meditation Garden, was dedicated in October. This beautiful space is intended for both meditation and memorials. In addition the HRMG will be available for the interment of ashes and memorial plaques to be placed on the Belgian stone border. The HRMG was a joint effort by the parish and the Shrewsbury Garden Club. An HRMG booklet was created for the occasion.

[pic]

Heritage Rose Meditation Garden

The graveyard segment along the fence on Sycamore Avenue that features plots for cremains with an individual plaque has been renamed the Sycamore Garden. The Sycamore Garden has ten grave plots and eight have been acquired.

The following were the interments in 2015.

Louise Aders Main Graveyard

Eddie Condon Main Graveyard

Phyllis Condon Main Graveyard

Larry Feyereisen Memorial Garden

Pam Havel Sycamore Garden

Jeffrey Miller Memorial Garden

The new aerial video of the church that is on the parish web site has some beautiful perspectives on the graveyard from remarkable vantage points.

Robert M Kelly Jr.

Graveyard Commission Chair

Sandy Disaster Relief Grants for Historic Sites

The signs in front of the Church and the Rectory announce to the world that we are undergoing restoration related to repair and resiliency from storms like Superstorm Sandy. This restoration is enabled by federally funded grants received by the parish for such historic sites. We have been awarded about $150,000 for the church (and graveyard) and about $122,000 for the Rectory. The grants are being administered by the New Jersey Historic Trust.

The grants do not require matching funds, as is the case for many grants. However the grants require the recipients to fund the approved work and to seek reimbursement after the work is completed. Given the significant sums involved this can be quite a burden and some temporary source of funds was needed. The solution, that is quite beneficial to the parish, has been the approval of a 0% interest loan from the Diocese. This will enable us to avoid the costs of a traditional bridge loan or use of funds from our endowment that would negatively impact the endowment’s critical investment earning power.

In 2015 most of the work funded by the grants has been focused on Condition Assessments for the Church building, the gravestones, and the Rectory.

For the Church building and the Rectory we have engaged the services of Westfield Associates, an historic architecture firm, with extensive experience in this area including work during our 1997 re-stabilization project. Their Condition Assessment work is completed. We are in the process of reviewing that work to establish priorities for the construction indicated by the Assessments and to prepare bid packages for construction firms to perform the work. We are endeavoring to complete the work by October of 2016.

For the graveyard we engaged the services of Lorraine Schnabel, a graveyard conservator. Lorraine has been assessing the condition of all the gravestones in the graveyard. This work will result in a photo of each gravemarker and a delineation of each stone’s condition. These will be recorded in our graveyard database. When the condition assessment work is complete at the end of February, we will seek a qualified gravestone repair firm to address the gravemarkers in most critical need and within the grant funding levels. This work should be completed in 2016 as well.

The clock winding mechanism is being addressed separately due to the special expertise required in this area. This work has been performed by Stevenson Services who performed work on the clock tower in 2005. This work is now complete as can be told by the resumption of the proper clock operation and the tolling of the hour.

Thanks to the rector, wardens, and treasurer for their guidance in this significant project.

Robert M. Kelly, Jr.

SDRG Project Manager

HISTORY COMMISSION REPORT 2015

We had a very active year in celebrating and sharing our rich history.

In January we searched for the gravemarker of John Grimke, Revolutionary War hero and prominent early South Carolinian. We did not find the gravemarker but feel confident we know where in the graveyard he was interred.

As we do every year we participated in the County’s Weekend in Olde Monmouth event hosting many visitors and complete with a display of historic objects.

On Memorial Day weekend we once again read the names of all the veterans in the graveyard right after our Sunday service. Stuart and Judi Buncher were in costume.

[pic] [pic]

During the Sunday service before Independence Day, Members of the Dead Actors Guild portrayed three folks buried in the graveyard and told their stories.

We participated in the New Jersey Historical Trust conference in June. We were part of a session at the conference that discussed the historical importance of church graveyards with ours being a good example of preservation and information.

We again hosted the Shrewsbury Borough 4th grade class telling them about the remarkable history right in their midst. Magdalena Aders told the story of the Hazard family.

[pic]

We received two grants for the repair and storm resiliency of our two historic properties. The total awards amounted to about $272,000 and no required matching funds.

We created some aerial footage of the church and the first video developed from this is now on the parish web site.

[pic]

A Monmouth University History student did her senior thesis on 18th century gravemarkers and used examples from our graveyard to illustrate her analysis.

In October we dedicated the new Historic Rose Meditation Garden that is a joint effort between the church and the Shrewsbury Garden Club.

At the Shrewsbury Historical Society annual party in October, the Dead Actors Guild was again on hand to portray several other souls interred in the graveyard.

We created a brochure describing the Graveyard and a booklet providing extensive information about the Historic Rose Meditation Garden.

We participated in the Lantern Tour with our Four Corners partners. There were over 200 folks on the tour.

Taylor Cavanaugh, a History and Anthropology major at Monmouth University, worked with us to research and write her senior thesis. Her topic was the evolving iconography of grave markers in the 18th century. She used many examples of this from our historic graveyard. Taylor also presented her results at the Shrewsbury Historical Society in January 2016.She is the sixth student to complete work and research here at the church.

All of these activities will be described in more detail in our upcoming annual History Newsletter.

Looking ahead to 2016 in addition to our regular annual events, we will have another Monmouth University student working with us to create additional church videos celebrating a variety of our dimensions as a place of worship and a community. Furthermore new events and activities always seem to crop up.

Respectfully submitted by Robert M. Kelly Jr., Parish Historian

OUTREACH COMMISSION REPORT 2015

Outreach continued to provide to community assistance to those in need. The congregation has been paramount in being a part of this assistance. Many donations were made to the Covenant House program to help those youth in the Asbury Park program. Further donations were made for the Halloween party. Many thanks to all who donated.

This year our “Books 4 Books” program donated $1,500.00 to our Companion Diocese of Ecuador, earmarked for educational purposes.

Martha’s Cupboard (see report elsewhere) continued to provide for seniors at the Washington Manor Senior Building.

Christ Church responded to the challenge and raised $1,171.00 for Project Spigot Spallation. This raised funds to purchase a well through Episcopal Relief and Development. In addition, a special Christmas donation was made to ERD for the purchase of a donkey, plow and cart.

Generous donations were made to the Backpacks for a Smooth Start. These donations go to children in the Keansburg area. Thanks to Elaine Feyereisen for organizing this drive.

Jeanine Reeman coordinated The Crop Walk and had participants from Christ Church again this year to help raise money towards ending hunger.

The Christmas Toy Drive continues with its success again due to the generosity of this parish. The toys are dispersed to families in the Keansburg area through St. Marks. Thanks again to Elaine Feyereisen for her work on organizing this.

Christ Church’s Hat and Mitten Tree was again a success with many “decorations” donated. The new gloves, mittens, hats and other accessories were donated to the Covenant House, for those in need in Monmouth County.

Thanks to Jim Miller for again organizing Christ Church’s participation is ringing the bells on behalf of the Salvation Army this year. Thank you to all the bell ringers!

CONNECT at Christmas had another successful year, with Christ Church sponsoring 8 families in need of a very special Christmas. Thanks to all those who made it merry for these families: Mother Lisa, Eric Antonelli, Ellie Bates, Meg Bernhardt, Walter Burrell, Tara Dunford, Jim O’Connor and family, Susan Perl and Natalie Watson. Many thanks to Sheila Hatami Watson for coordinating with Love INC (In the Name of Christ).

Respectfully submitted by Rachelle Spencer Mikita, Outreach Commission

OUTREACH FINANCIAL SUMMARY REPORT 2015

Outreach Financial Summary Report 2015

Outreach Funds:

TD Account Balance, January 1, 2015 $ 4383.90

Income:

Contributions $ 2433.00

Expenses:

Expense Diocese contributions $ 1982.00

Expense DFMS $ 526.00

Expense Miscellaneous $ 1658.80

Total Expenses: $ (4166.80)

TD Account Balance, December 31, 2015 $ 2650.10

Notes:

1. Diocesan contributions include donations for Trinity Cathedral in Trenton, Books for Ecuador

2. Miscellaneous contributions included Spigot Project , backpacks for Smooth Start program

Respectfully submitted by Rachelle Spencer Mikita and Neil Ingenito

THE ROBERT MANSON FUND

The parish has received a very generous gift of $340,070.37 from the estate of Robert Manson. The gift will be used as Bob requested: exclusively for the upkeep and improvement of our historic church building.

At the direction of the Vestry and Finance Committee, the gift has been placed in Vanguard Wellesley Income Funds Admiral Shares (VWIAX). This is a 40 year old balanced mutual fund which is income-oriented and offers exposure to stocks and investment grade bonds. The income provided by the fund can be used with approval from the Vestry to pay for eligible church building expenses.

Income from this fund cannot be used for any other purpose including salary or benefits for staff, graveyard or walkway repairs, upkeep of parish house and rectory, diocesan assessments, etc.

The 2016 Budget does not include any impact from this new fund as the Vestry wants to allow ample time to clearly define the rules for use and the special controls that need to be exercised in order to comply with the letter and spirit of Bob Manson’s generous gift. We are very grateful to God for this wonderful blessing!

PARISH LIFE REPORT 2015

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of those parishioners who so graciously volunteered to host Coffee Hour this year: Diana Berardelli, Walter Dein (+friends), Elaine Feyereisen, Jen and Paul Giannone, GFS, The Lauterwasser family, Ann and Jim Miller, Rachelle Spencer Mikita, Rosemary Pappa, Dorrie and Erin Pedalino, Stacy and Cassie Reagan, Rita Saible, Nancy and Bob Stewart and Cindy and Rod Webster. If I have omitted anyone I apologize, but please know your help was greatly appreciated. Weekly coffee hour is an important part of parish life. It's a chance to socialize, catch up on things and enjoy a good cup of coffee.

There were some special events this year as well.

Our Independence Day celebration: The Chorus of the Atlantic once again entertained the congregation followed by a reception.

Blue Claws Game: In August parishioners again gathered for a fun filled evening of baseball at First Energy Park in Lakewood joined by members of Covenant House.

A reception was held after services in November to welcome our new Deacons Bill Balmer, Eve Chamberlain and Carolyn Bradley.

The Vestry hosted a Music Appreciation Sunday to thank Chris Psolka and the choir members for all of their hard work and for the joy their music brings to Sunday worship.

We now look forward to another year filled with fun and fellowship.

Sincerely, Rita Saible, Parish Life

KNITTING PEARLS 2015

Another year of knitting needles moving swiftly along through yards and yards of yarn.  We have continued to make blankets for children in our parish and prayer shawls for anyone who would find comfort in wrapping up in one.    

As usual we participated in the annual bazaar by making and selling hats and scarves.  We also made a few snowmen and some other novelty items. Sarah Schmid was in charge of the knitting booth. Others helping were Pam Aschettino, Perky Cameron and Sue Sellers.

We are looking for some new knitters and we will gladly teach anyone needing instruction.

We are grateful that our work brings joy to others.

                                                    

Respectfully submitted by Carolyn (Perky) Cameron 

MARTHA’S CUPBOARD 2015

Martha’s Cupboard is one of the Outreach Programs at Christ Church. In Conjunction with the Food Bank of Monmouth County we help to supply food to the seniors at the Washington Manor Senior Building. We do this through food and cash donations that supplement the monthly allocation from the Food Bank. We have been involved in this Ministry for over seven years. We have developed a great working relationships and friendships the residents and staff at the Washington Manor. This is a monthly distribution taking up less than two hours and allows us to help up to fifty individuals. I hope to keep this program vital for the foreseeable future with the help of our parishioners.

I would like to thank the volunteers who join us for the food distribution at Martha’s Cupboard, Kit Schiavo, Carol McKeever, Mother Lisa, Jeff Veil, Allie Cummings, John Potzae, Deacon Bill Balmer, Justin Regiec and Pat Malley and Gerry Marengo. I would also like to thank the Webster and Marengo families for their cash donations that allow us to supply the pantry at Martha’s Cupboard.

Special Thanks to everyone who donates generously to the cupboard on a weekly basis and to anyone whom I may have missed listing above. With the help and support of our congregation we are fulfilling an important and necessary outreach.

Respectfully submitted by Dianne Regiec, Director Martha’s Cupboard

The Monmouth Center for Diaconal Ministry

Mission Statement

To encourage, lead, and enhance the exchange and growth of ideas and ministries that promote acts of mercy, justice, and compassion to anyone in need within the reach of our communities of faith in Monmouth County.

The ministry of the Diaconate is as old as the church itself. From the very beginning, deacons have been a vital link between the structure of the church and the world. Deacons have traditionally ministered “out in the world” making the parameters of their work far more flexible and adaptable than that of either priest or bishop. And because deacons also call the rest of the church to follow them in ministry in the midst of a very diverse culture, it can be argued that it is the Diaconate that holds the key to leading the entire church into a structure that can adapt most easily to our changing times. Out of this thinking, the pilot program titled the Monmouth Center for Diaconal Ministry (MCDM) was instituted, with the approval of Bishop Stokes, by the Rev. Lisa Mitchell, Rector of Christ Church, Shrewsbury and the Rev. Vicki Cuff, Deacon, also of Christ Church, Shrewsbury. At their invitation, Trinity, Asbury Park and St. John’s, Little Silver, agreed to be part of the project.

The MCDM proposes a different model for a much more regional, collaborative style of ministry that allows identification of need in specific areas and the sharing of resources among parishes to address these needs. The model moves beyond the parochial definition of the parish as the sole site of all ministry outreach by recognizing the strength that comes through collaboration and sharing of our talents. The project hopes to reinvigorate our parishes and lead us out of our parochial natures by helping us to think outside the box and open up new ways to be the presence of Christ in a changing world. This model does not eliminate the assignment of deacons to specific parishes. In each congregation participating in the project, the deacon continues to serve at the altar, preach (if appropriate), and meet with parishioners/parish committees to discuss the particular ministry they help coordinate. With a collaborative model for diaconal ministry, deacons are able to stay connected with one another (which is sometimes difficult for bi-vocational clergy), to exchange ministry ideas, and to work together on new projects and ways to call our churches into deeper ministry together.

Beginning in June, the MCDM Committee met monthly during 2015 at Christ Church, Shrewsbury. As three of our members were newly ordained in May, much of this time has been spent in allowing these deacons to acclimate to ordained life and practice. The three were introduced to Christ Church in November with a special “MCDM Sunday” in which they preached and explained the presence of deacons in the Sunday liturgy. They will be with Trinity, Asbury Park, and St. John’s, Little Silver this January. The Committee is working on our first joint project to be held this Lent: an educational experience for the three parishes and the greater community. Do keep an eye out for our next announcements; we are very excited about working together as the Episcopal Church in Monmouth County.

MCDM Committee

Christ Church, Shrewsbury: Lisa S. Mitchell, Rector

Victoria Cuff, Deacon

William Balmer, Deacon

St. John’s, Little Silver: Valerie Redpath, Rector

Eve Chamberlain, Deacon

Trinity, Asbury Park: Michael Way, Rector

Gail Bennett, Deacon

Carolyn Bradley, Deacon

Faithfully Submitted,

The Rev. Dr. Carolyn Bradley, Deacon

2015 LAY MINISTRIES REPORT

Acolytes

Casey Alfano, Christina Alfano, Kate Apostolacus, Anthony Baker, Kyle Clarke, Harry Eager, Max Eager, Sophie Halpern, David Immerman, Edgar John, Georgette King, Jimmea King, Larissa King, Erin Pedalino, Cassie Reagan, Jeanine Reeman, P.J. Reyes, Brandon Shin, Danny Shin, John Smalls, Erin States, Matthew White, Michael White

Altar Guild

Pamela Aschettino, Pam Diamond, Kate DiLiberto, Phyllis Edwards, Edgar John,

Ann Miller, Barbara Raspanti, Rachelle Spencer Mikita, and Cindy Webster

Chalice Bearers

Sharon Babb, Judy Buncher, Perky Cameron, Priscilla Gettis, Edgar John,

Georgette King, Mark Landers, Rebecca Pruitt, Rod Webster

Clock Winders

Walter Dein, George Edwards

Greeters

MiMi Brown, Perky Cameron, George Edwards, Elaine Feyereisen,

Bob & Kim Honecker, Maureen Kilroy, Barbara Raspanti

Lectors

Sharon Babb, Natalia Baker, Meg Bernhardt, Richard Brugger, David Burrell, Perky Cameron, Tom Cameron, Bill Cuff, Walt Dein, Corey Folta, Bob and Kim Honecker, Peggy James, Maureen Kilroy, Mark Landers, Christine Meislohn, Susan Coene-Perl, Rebecca Pruitt,

Patrice Thornton, Bob Zeller

Ushers

Carl Alfano, Chris Brondi, MiMi Brown, Judy Buncher, Walt Dein, George Edwards,

Elaine Feyereisen, Peggy James, Bramley Maber, Gerry Marengo, Jim Miller, Susan Coene-Perl,

David and Dianne Regiec, Rod Webster

Additional members that serve when available during holidays or other special occasions

David Alfano, Joshua Brown, Christine Maber, Robert Maber, Robert Marengo,

Colin Mitchell, Linette Reeman,

To all of the above, many, many thanks from a grateful Parish.

(Apologies if we missed anyone!)

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