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LOCAL CHURCH PROFILEOrient Congregational ChurchOrient, New YorkDesignated PastorNew York Conference, Suffolk Association04/20/2020LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE CONTENTSPosition PostingWho Is God Calling Us To Become?Who Are We Now?Who Is Our Neighbor?ReferencesConsent and Validation“God is able to provide you with every blessing, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.”(2 Corinthians 9:8)POSITION POSTINGLISTING INFORMATIONCOMPENSATION & SUPPORTWHO IS GOD CALLING TO MINISTER WITH US?LISTING INFORMATIONChurch name: Orient Congregational ChurchStreet address: 23045 Main Road, Orient, NY 11957Supplemental web links: Facebook; a new website that is being built nowAdditional ecumenical affiliations: Greenport Ecumenical Ministries(e.g. denominations, communions, fellowships)Conference New YorkAssociation SuffolkUCC Conference or Association Staff Contact PersonName: Rev. Gary FernerTitle: Associate Conference Minister for Search and Call Phone: (315) 446-3073Email: gferner@Summary Ministry Description: In a short paragraph, reflect on where your church is going and what it might look like when you get there. What do you need to get there? Who are you seeking to join you on this part of your church’s faith journey? We are looking to expand the vibrancy and relevance of OCC within the local and broader communities. Our vision is one where our ties with the local communities are strong, with OCC engaged with various subgroups within the community including, but not limited to, youth, single people, single parents, families, the LGBTQ+ community, people committed to issues of social justice, and those who feel alienated, lonely, and in need of spiritual support. We want to strengthen the connection of our members to each other, to OCC and to God. To achieve this vision, we need to build on the solidarity of our existing congregation, to expand our membership, further develop the strengths of our church’s leadership, and increase the church’s financial sustainability. We are seeking a person who is committed to values of inclusion, supporting the growth and outreach described. We have a strong base and foundation but need a leader. We have many rowers on the boat but need someone to steer. We are looking for a loving, welcoming, dynamic and spirited person. She/He would provide thoughtful and challenging spiritual leadership and guidance.Photographs:Insert 1 – 3 images of your church, its people, its parsonage or building or gathering space, etc. What we value about living in our area (2 – 3 sentences): Community, history, quality of life, natural beauty, rural character, cultural opportunities, farms, wineries, and sea-related local businesses. Our cultural opportunities include Oysterponds Historical Society, North Fork Theatre, Poquatuck Hall events, and local art talents.Current size of membership: 83Languages used in ministry (other than English):Position Title: PastorPosition Duration:Designated-Term – a called position for a designated time period for a defined purpose, in which the pastor may move church membership to the congregation served and may move standing to the related associationCompensation Level ? TimeDoes the total support package meet conference compensation guidelines? YESCore Competencies:Caring, Spiritually Guided, PENSATION AND SUPPORTSalary Basis (from the Call Agreement Workbook, equal to Cash Salary plus Value of Parsonage/Housing Allowance): $Compatible with the 2020 UCC N.Y. Conference GuidelinesBenefits (choose one): Salary includes Optional BenefitsWhat is the expected living situation for your next minister (e.g. parsonage, living nearby with a housing allowance, living elsewhere to commute as needed)? Parsonage or living nearby with Housing AllowanceComment on the residential/commuting expectations for your next minister.Recommendations are to live within a proximity to Orient compatible with being able to comfortably accommodate the ? time work expectations.State any incentives (e.g. school debt reduction or retention bonus after a certain number of years in position): N/ADescribe peer and professional supports available for ministers in your association/conference: Suffolk Association, Church Ministries Committee, Greenport Ecumenical Ministries, NY ConferenceIf applicable, describe how your church will adopt part-time adjustments in the pastoral schedule to support a minister’s bi-vocational employment: We are flexible in negotiating specific time allocations, duties, responsibilities depending upon the candidate’s needs and other demands.WHO IS GOD CALLING TO MINISTER WITH US?Describe the ministry goals you envision your next minister co-collaborating with the congregation to achieve.Increased relevance and engagement in our local communitiesIncreased presence as a spiritual and philosophical touchstone in our local communitiesIncrease active participation and numbers in our congregationIncrease financial sustainabilityIncrease outreach to those members or friends of OCC who have not been in churchFind creative ways to engage the congregation in a deeper wayInspire people to get more involved in OCC activitiesFind Contemporary sources of guidanceMeet with congregants to get to know them and explore things they are questioning and struggling withDescribe how your vision of the minister you are now seeking will assist the congregation in making an impact beyond its walls. Be spiritually inspiring, help address complicated issues/questions/ doubtsHelp members develop their own deep and personal Relationship with GodDeliver sermons that inspireLead study groupsWork collaboratively with the Moderator Team to support them as Lay leadersHelp people work together to build strong collaborative teamsHelp create and organize social, cultural and recreational eventsThink outside the box re all activitiesWork with Wider Missions Committee within the North Fork to connect to other working for the common goodSpecify language requirements or culturally-specific capacities preferred in a next ministerial leader, and why those matter to the congregation’s sense of calling. English speaking required; Spanish speaking would be a bonusBased on what you have learned about who your church is, who your church’s neighbor is, and who God is calling the church to become, describe four areas of excellence from The Marks of Faithful & Effective Authorized Ministry that your next minister will display to further equip the congregation’s ministry in these areas. Building transformational Leadership Skills Working Together for Justice and Mercy Exhibiting a Spiritual Foundation & Ongoing Spiritual Practice Caring for all CreationWHO IS GOD CALLING US TO BECOME?Who is God calling you to become as a congregation?A refuge of spirituality and peaceContinuation of tradition while also thinking outside the box, including in the music – i.e. use more modern hymns; time and place of service – i.e. experimenting with time of service, including Saturday eves, service on the beach in the summer….A center of community and a place to form communityAs embodied in the teachings of Jesus, we believe in the power of love, the importance of compassion and kindness, the principles of mutual respect, inclusion, integrity, openness and charity through worship and outreach.We are an open and affirming church, and we need to affirm the dignity and worth of every person created in the image of God.We welcome into our fellowship and membership persons of every race, language, age, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical and mental ability, economic circumstance, marital status, and faith background.Describe how God is calling you to reach out to address the emerging challenges and opportunities of your community and congregation. Church suppers were changed from week nights to Saturday nights and are now called Community suppers, and are marketed to all Orient Community.Messy ChurchDuring the prior three years, implementation of the Strategic Plan to identify needs beyond the building.The Suppers have brought in new attendees from the community; the Messy Church has enabled parents of community Tuesday’s Angels to be involved.Forward steps would be taking further action on the implementation of the Strategic Plan..WHO ARE WE NOW? CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTIONS11-YEAR REPORTCONGREGATIONAL DEMOGRAPHICSPARTICIPATION AND STAFFINGCHURCH FINANCESHISTORICAL INFORMATIONCONGREGATIONAL REFLECTIONSDescribe your congregation’s life of faith. God is an all-loving, caring, forgiving, and constant presence for all who seek. Mercy and grace are at the core of God’s love.Much of the congregation is engaged and seeks spiritual guidance from theologians – however, they are not incorporated into the general congregation.The Holy Spirit is present in our church and brings us together as a community of believers.Describe several strengths or positive qualities of your congregation.Resiliency – a small but very dedicated congregation committed to survival and growthStrong sense of community – some long-term and multi-generational membersWelcoming to allOpen-mindedIntellectually engagedCommitted to social justiceWillingness to step up or step in when help is neededDescribe what worship is like when your congregation gathers. Worship takes place in a beautiful, historical church on Sunday mornings. In summer months, worship takes place outside in the Peace Garden.Music, provided by both the choir and the entire congregation, is central to our worship. A mix of traditional hymns and more contemporary music seeks to appeal to a broad variety of congregants. Guest musicians often perform during the summer months.The service follows a traditional program which appeals to many, and the congregation is seeking to add alternative services to appeal to both current members and potential new ones.The last Baptisms occurred in the summer of 2019 and were attended by visiting family members from another state who were related to the two cousins being baptized. It was held in the sanctuary in front of the congregation, and the parents and God parents accompanied the babies.Phrases that describe good preaching:From the heartMay include current morality issuesIncludes humorSpeaking to the congregation (with glances at the notes or sermon); not reading to the congregationDescribe the educational program and/or faith formation vision of your church. Tuesday’s Angels provides activities, Christian education, and fellowship to local children as well as to the church’s children. The children also present an annual Christmas Pageant during worship. The curriculum being used is Deep Blue Connect.The class also assists with baking for John’s Place, assembling CWS school kits, and planting flowers for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.Messy Church is part of our Christian Education program. It is scheduled for at least 2 or 3 times a year, and includes intergenerational activities and a meal.Confirmands – Youth leadership attended the New York Youth Conference in 2017 and 2018. They participated as readers for the Lessons and Carols worship at Christmas time.In the Summer, one (adult) member leads a Lectio Divina series open to all.Describe how your congregation is organized for ministry and mission. The congregation is led by the Church Council. Committees are volunteer and open to any members. Most active congregants and council members serve on multiple committees.Decisions are made within the committees or by the council. Decisions are communicated through announcements at service, which are also in the bulletin, and in our bi-monthly The Harbor Light newsletter. We are working to update our webpage and Facebook page so that announcements and news can be included there as well.Our church struggles for increasing our membership and community involvement. We struggle with the dilemma that the topics that will engage and vitalize certain parts of our community will turn off others, because of differences of political beliefs within the community. We seek to remain a church that welcomes a diverse range of views while still challenging and engaging.When it comes to decision-making, how many hours are spent in meetings per month? Council meets for about two hours a month. Additional meetings may be called for business needing immediate decisions.In addition to the council, committees meet monthly or bimonthly. Recently, the total sum was about 10 hours a month.Think of a time when action had to be taken quickly, for example when a crisis or disaster occurred. How was that accomplished?Recently our church building faced an electrical crisis which threatened the very building. Several members acted quickly to resolve it. This is typical for our church; members step in where they are needed.Can you provide the next minister with a copy of an organization structure, bylaws and/or annual report to further explain the patterns of the church’s activity and governance? [Yes/No]Yes. We can provide bylaws and printed Annual Reports. The bylaws are being worked on for revisions at this time.11-YEAR REPORTChurch#:462620??????Assoc:540Schedule:0Orient Congregational Church UCC Orient NY11957YEARMEMBERSAVG WEEKLY ATTENDANCECHR ED/FAITH FORMCONFIRMATIONCONFESSIONTRANSFER OR REAFFIRMDEATHS OR TRANS OUTOTHER LOSSESNET MEMBSADDS-REMOVED2008129551200000020091205524002110-9201012055240000002011120552400000020121205524000000201312055240000002014120552400000020151034013003218-1720161034013000000201786429300300201886429000000YEARCURRENT EXPENSESCAPITAL PAYMENTSBASIC SUPPORTTOT OTHER UCC GIVINGTOTALOCWMOTHERGIFTSWIDER MISSIONBASIC SUPP% CURR LOCALTOTAL EXPENDPLEDGES AND OFFERINGS2008$162,368$0$3,600$2,062$5,662$0$5,6622.22$168,030$02009$150,794$0$2,000$939$2,939$7,800$10,7391.33$161,533$75,2002010$150,794$0$3,600$4,991$8,591$0$8,5912.39$159,385$02011$150,794$0$3,600$1,710$5,310$0$5,3102.39$156,104$02012$150,794$0$2,700$2,306$5,006$0$5,0061.79$155,800$02013$150,794$0$4,500$2,198$6,698$0$6,6982.98$157,492$02014$150,794$0$3,600$959$4,559$0$4,5592.39$155,353$02015$150,794$0$3,600$3,663$7,263$0$7,2632.39$158,057$02016$150,794$0$4,000$3,332$7,332$0$7,3322.65$158,126$02017$78,634$0$4,000$2,898$6,898$0$6,8985.09$85,532$84,9382018$78,634$0$4,125$1,118$5,243$0$5,2435.25$83,877$0% CHANGEMEMBERSAVG WEEKLY ATTENDANCECHR ED/FAITH FORMTOTAL ADDITIONSTOTAL REMOVALSCURR LOCAL EXPENSESTOTALOCWMTOTAL EXPENDITURE2013-2018-28.33-23.64-62.500.000.00-47.85-21.72-46.742008-2018-33.33-23.64-25.000.000.00-51.57-7.40-50.08Please note: Zero values ("0" or "$0") may reflect missing information in some years. Christian Education/Faith Formation refers to Church School Enrollment for all figures before 2007.CONGREGATIONAL DEMOGRAPHICSDescribe those who participate in your church. Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)Number of active members:80 XNumber of active non-members:40 XTotal of church participants (sum of the numbers above):120 XPercentage of total participants who have been in the church:Is this percentage an estimate? (check if yes)More than 10 years:75% XLess than 10, more than 5 years:16.5% XLess than 5 years:8.5% XNumber of total participants by age:0-1112-1718-2425-3435-5455-6465-7475+Are these numbers an estimate?(check if yes)103679301440 XPercentage of adults in various household types:Is this percentage an estimate? (check if yes)Single adults under 35:12.5% XJoint household with minors:12.5% XSingle adults age 35-65:11.4% XJoint household with no minors:34.1% XSingle adults over 65:29.5% XPage 12Education level of adult participants by percentage:Is this percentage an estimate? (check if yes)High school:100% XCollege:75% XGraduate School:20% XSpecialty Training:25% XOther (please specify): XPercentage of adults in various employment types:Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)Adults who are employed:40% XAdults who are retired:40% XAdults who are not fully employed:20% XDescribe the range of occupations of working adults in the congregation:Diverse job fields, including:Law EnforcementMusiciansFarmingReal EstateHealthcareFinanceDesignTheatreSecretarialBaymenCarpentryLawEducationLandscapingMinisterialResearchDescribe the mix of ethnic heritages in your congregation, and the overall racial make-up. Most UCC congregations tend to describe themselves as “diverse.” Yet, the vast majority of UCC congregations are mono-cultural. What does diversity mean in your context?Racially, we are a predominantly homogenous congregation, though that is due to the demographics of the area. There is a growing Latino population in the larger surrounding area which is an area we could seek out.Although racially homogenous, we are extremely diverse:In religious background and experiencePoliticallyEconomicallyEducationallyIn sexual orientationIn marital/family statusAge [though the congregation does skew to middle-age / retired, again due largely to local demographics]List the date your congregation has had or will have a conversation using a resource such as the Welcoming Diversity Inventory. Comment on the results.It is a very thought-provoking and helpful tool in assessing our views about welcoming diversity.It is our intent to use and discuss this resource with our new minister.It has not been used in the past.PARTICIPATION AND STAFFINGComplete the following chart. Please leave blank any fields that are not applicable to your congregation.Ways of GatheringEstimated number of people involved in attendanceWho plans each of the listed gatherings? (list any and all worship planners, such as various lay leaders, pastors, musicians, other staff)Adult Groups or Classes -- Strategic Planning Group10-12Lay LeaderBaptisms (number last year)2Music & Worship Committee, Supply PreacherChildren’s Groups or Classes7-9Christian Education Comm. Chair, Church School teachersChristmas Eve and Easter Worship 100Music & Worship Chair, Music Director, Supply PreacherChurch-wide Meals501. GEM; 2. Wider Missions Comm; 3. Fundraising CommChoirs and Music Groups10Music Director [Organist/Choir Director]Church-based Bible Study0Communion (served how often?)30-50, MonthlySupply Preacher, Music & Worship Chair, Music DirectorCommunity Meals50Moderator, committee membersConfirmation (number confirmed last year)0Page 14Drama or Dance Program0Funerals (number last year) 330-75Moderator, family, Funeral Home, Music & Worship Chair, Music DirectorIntergenerational Groups0Outdoor Worship 50Moderator, Music & Worship Committee, Music Director, Supply PreacherPrayer or Meditation Groups3-5Lay LeaderPublic Advocacy Work0Retreats0Theology or Bible Programs in the Community0Weddings (number last year)0Worship (time slot: _9:30) July-August40-50Supply Preacher, Music & Worship CommitteeWorship (time slot: 10:30) Sept.-June25-35Supply Preacher, Music & Worship CommitteeYoung Adult Groups or Classes0Youth Groups or Classes0Other Lenten Services50Supply Preacher, Moderator, Music & Worship Committee Other Hosting John’s Place --overnight housing for Hispanic men15 various timesModerator, Community members, Wider Missions Committee memberList all members or regular participants in your congregation who are ordained, licensed, or commissioned ministers. Indicate those with current United Church of Christ Three-Way Covenants (i.e. serving in a congregation) or Four-Way Covenants (i.e. serving in a ministry beyond a congregation). NameThree-Way or Four-Way Covenant? (3 or 4 or No)Ministry SettingType of Ministry RoleRetired? (Y or N)Geoffrey ProudNOMeth & Cong churchesPriest (R.C.) Minister (UMC)YMark V. Applewhite3 or 4UCCPastor, Hospital ChaplainNMark V. Applewhite[continued]3 or 4PC(USA)Currently also Interim PastorNCraig MalbonUCC ordainedCatholic Healthcare Services of LIHospital-based chaplaincy???Craig Malbon [continued]???Princeton Theological SeminaryAppointed Visiting Scholar???If one or more previous pastors or retired ministers currently hold membership in the church, describe their role(s) in the life of the congregation:Mark Applewhite is a member and acts as Supply Pastor when invited.Craig Malbon is a member on the rolls. He has no role in the life of Orient Congregational Church.List all current staff, including ministers. Exclude the position you are seeking to fill. Indicate which staff member serves as head of staff.Staff PositionHead of Staff?Compensation (full time, part time, volunteer)Supervised byLength of Tenure for current person in this positionModeratorYesVolunteerChurch Council2 yearsAdministrative Ass’t/BookkeeperNoPart-timeModeratorOpenCustodianNoPart-timeModeratorOpenFinancial SecretaryNoVolunteerModeratorOpenClerkNoVolunteerModeratorOpenTreasurerNoVolunteerModeratorOpenREFLECTIONAfter reviewing the congregational demographics and activities above, what does this information reflect about your congregation’s overall ministry? It is supported predominantly by an elderly generation.It is racially non-diverse due to demographics, but hosted John’s Place, a community outreach program for the Hispanic Community, for about 15 years.Our ministry aims to continue working towards being a fully inclusionary place of worship, and a source of comfort and help to the entire community.With a racially diverse local community, opportunities abound in this area of ministry.CHURCH FINANCESCurrent annual income (dollars used during most recent fiscal year) 2018SourceAmount Annual Offerings and Pledged Giving$78,224Endowment Proceeds (as permitted within spending policy, such as a cap of typically 4.5%-5% on total return)$-0-Endowment Draw (beyond what is permitted by spending policy, “drawing down the principal”)$10,000Fundraising Events$Gifts Designated for a Specific Purpose$2,317Grants$-0-Rentals of Church Building - SPRINT cell tower$30,391Rentals of Church Parsonage $12,000Support from Related Organizations (e.g. Women’s Group) Preschool Tuition$8,800Transfers from Special Accounts$7,775Other (specify):Wedding/Funeral – non-member $2,300Other (specify):Building Use donations from community organizations$2,575Other (specify):Interest, Dividends, Capital Gains$6,089TOTAL$160,471Transfers:Endowment - $10,000 to pay for Parsonage repairsIn/Out (prior years’ fair income) $2,500 for Parsonage paintingMemorial (unrestricted) $2,000 for Parsonage paintingMemorial (Music Fund) $2,275 piano purchase and shippingWider Missions $1,000 to pay NY Conference for Our Wider MissionsCurrent annual expenses (dollars budgeted for most recent fiscal year): $Attach most recent church budget, spending plan, operating statement, or annual treasurer’s report as shared publicly with the congregation, or – if your church does not pass an annual budget – list current budgeted expenses here.201820192020Actual $167,709Actual $108,487Budget $101,525SEE 4th column 5th columnof accompanying pages 17c through 17ePages 17b through 17e were in the Annual Report for 2019 shared with the congregation. Page 17b is the income; pages 17c through 17e are the expenses.The 4th column is the 2019 actual amounts; column 5 is the 2020 budget. Considering total budgeted expenses for the year, compare total ministerial support. What is the percentage?20182019202032.23%9.24%10.83%Has the church ever failed to pay its financial obligations to a minister of the church?NOIs your church 5-for-5, i.e. does it include each of the following contributions during the church year? (indicate those included during the most recent fiscal year)_X_ Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM – Basic Support) _X_ One Great Hour of Sharing _X_ Strengthen the Church _X_ Neighbors in Need _X_ Christmas Fund In what way is OCWM (Basic Support) gathered? If calculated as a percentage of operating budget, what is that percentage? (recommended 10%)The pledge cards offer the two options – Local Expenses and Wider MissionsThe Wider Missions funds are in a separate bank account. The Financial Secretary is in FL and cannot provide the pledged amounts at this time.What is the church’s current indebtedness? NONETotal amount of loan debt:Reason for debt:Are capital and other payments current? YESIf a building program is projected or underway, describe it, including the projected start/end date of the building project and the total project budget. NONEIf the church has had capital campaigns in the last ten years, describe:Year(s)PurposeGoalResultImpact2013-2014Restoration and conservation of stained glass windows$75,000$75,000Protection from weather, injury. Positive feedback from community. $$If a capital campaign is underway or anticipated, describe:Year(s)PurposeGoalResultImpact$$$$NONEDescribe the prominent mission component(s) involved in the most recent (or current) capital campaign.None. One could state that the preservation and subsequent practice of illuminating the windows (from inside the sanctuary) at night is the mission/ministry of outreach to the community. At the least it raises consciousness of the presence of God’s house in this community.Does your church have an endowment? YESWhat is the market value of the assets? $`174,605Are funds drawn as needed, regularly, or under certain circumstances? Funds are drawn out occasionally for special usage, particularly for capital projects.What is the percentage rate of draw (last year, compared to 5 years ago)? Not computed. Unclear. % of what? SEE BELOW Describe draw on endowment, if any, to meet operating budget expenses for the most recent year and the past five years: NONE at either time. All draws have been for one-time or capital projects.Specifically:2013: $20,000 for new generator and replacement furnace for sanctuary building2017: $15,360 for Parsonage repairs, and portion of the Sanctuary painting2018: $10,000 for Parsonage repairsThe Parsonage repairs included exterior work, new roof, gutters and chimney cap, interior painting. The Sanctuary was painted; the driveway and parking lot were repaved. Concrete floors were put into the three-bay garage. A new air conditioner and replacement heating unit were put into the Memorial Hall. As stated above, earlier a new generator and replacement furnace were installed in the Sanctuary (Church) building.Much of the funding for the2016-2018 projects came from the Summer Fairs or from individual donations. Because of the extensive preparations for the Tercentenary Celebration in 2017, the Summer Fair was not held. It was also not held in 2018; the men were ready for a summer off.At the current rate of draw, how long might the endowment last? yearsPlease comment on the above calculations or estimates: There are no specific plans for future capital projects. Meeting the needs of a minister who would move into the Parsonage will naturally ensue. Possibly the kitchen and appliances will need to be considered.Other AssetsSEE NEXT PAGE Reserves (savings): $ $77,702[General Investments in Vanguard]Investments (other than endowment): $ $130,293[General in Merrill Lynch, Memorial Fund, and Wider Missions investments]Does your church have a parsonage? YESFair market rental value of the parsonage: $2,000 to $2,500 a monthHow is the parsonage used? The former Music Director rented it, as the former minister owned a home. It is currently vacant.Street / City / State / Zip: 23045 Main Road, Orient, NY 11957Finished square footage: unknownNumber of Bedrooms, Number of Bathrooms:4 bedrooms, 1? bathsAssessed real estate value: The tax bill has $4,800.Available for minister residence: Y/N YESExpected minister residence: Y/N YESCondition of structure, systems and appliances Good, oil heat, window air conditioningEntity in the church responsible for review and needed repairs. the Church CouncilDescribe all buildings owned by the church: Church, Memorial Hall (offices and small meeting room), Parsonage, GarageDescribe non-owned buildings or space used or rented by the church: NoneWhich spaces are accessible to wheelchairs? (worship space, pulpit, fellowship space, facilities, etc.) : Memorial Hall and GarageReflection: After reviewing the church’s finances and assets described above, what does this information reflect about your congregation’s mission and ministry? Our mission giving is below optimum or recommended.Capital Campaign for stained glass windows by fundraising was successful and involved the larger community.We have no elected Treasurer at this time. Te Budget & Finance Committee prepares the budget each year.HISTORICAL INFORMATIONName one to three significant happenings in the history of your church that have shaped the identity of your congregation. Add the most important event in the life of your church in the past 10 years.300th Anniversary Celebration (1717-2017)Vote to become Open and Affirming Congregation. (Adopted April 10, 2005)Hosting John’s Place GuestsThe retirement of our previous minister (12/31/2018)Describe a specific change your church has managed in the recent past.During the past 12 months, we have had much more participation by the members of the congregation of the church as a whole in the governance and day-to-day running of the church’s affairs.Having to close our pre-school program two years ago, due to the next-door public school opening the same.Every church has conflict, some minor, some larger. “Where two or three are gathered, there will be disagreement….” Describe your congregation’s values and practices when it comes to conflict. Prior to 2019 (and for many years), we have not done well as a congregation in handling conflict. The policies and procedures in place to resolve and mediate conflict did not work, because the pastor refused to participate in the process that had been set up to deal with conflicts and disagreements. one long-term result of this impasse has been a significant loss of church members.We have learned from this experience the importance of having open communication, strong congregational leadership, shared decision-making, open discussion of conflict and differences of opinion, and transparency in decision-making.Prior to the last pastor, the Pastor Relations Committee was active and intentional for conflict resolution.Recent conflict between the Treasurer and the Church Council, including the Moderator, regarding the Treasurer’s disagreement with choosing an Interim pastor versus on-going Supply, and the budget chosen by the Council and the congregation. The Treasurer resigned; we learned a big difference in liberal vs. traditional (faith) view and management of the budgetPage 21aMinisterial History (include all previous ministerial staff for the past 30 years) Staff member’s nameYears of serviceUCC Standing (Y/No)Ann Van Cleef17 YLouise Armstrong (Interim)2 YJames Cavanaugh4 YGary Haase3 YDonald Hamlin4 NComment on what your church has learned about itself and its relationship with persons who provided ministerial leadership:We learned that our first need in a minister is spiritual guidance.We have learned that we want and need a pastor who will work collaboratively with a strong lay leadership, sharing decision-making.We look to a pastor to support the congregation in being self-governing, setting policies and procedures, working collaboratively to address our spiritual needs, and grow the church.Has any past leader left under pressure or by involuntary termination? Y Ask us Has your church been involved in a Situational Support Consultation? N Not familiar with this.Has a past pastor been the subject of a Fitness Review while at your church? N Not to my knowledgeWHO IS OUR NEIGHBOR? COMMUNITY VISIONMISSION INSITECOMMUNITY VISIONHow do the relationships and activities of your congregation extend outward in service and advocacy? For example, which service activities has your church participated in this past year? Where has the church participated in global connections of care and justice? What is currently transformational in your church’s engagement with neighbors near or far?Hosted MLK eventsHosted John’s Place Guests (shelter and breakfast for local homeless Hispanic men)Participated in events conducted by local social justice groups around issues of unity, respect, and civility for all; vigils in solidarity for victims of racism and mass shootings.Invited speakers involved with immigration rights to present programs to the congregation and at community suppers.Donated money to immigration rights groupsTransformational – We include other local community groups in our activities. Such as Orient Fire Department, Oysterponds Historical Society, Orient Association, Orient Community Activities, various missions, Wider Mission involvements.We lend church and our memorial hall to Alcoholics Anonymous meetings twice a week, and homemakers group (who serve the community) once a week.Describe your congregation’s participation in meetings, relationships and activities connecting the wider United Church of Christ (association / conference / national setting). One delegate (the Moderator) attended the New York Conference Annual Spring meeting in Poughkeepsie, NY. Three delegates attended the Suffolk Association Fall meeting at Sayville Congregational Church. Orient Congregational Church hosted the 2018 Suffolk Association Spring meeting. Youth planning and yearly youth event attended by two confirmands and their parents (Leadership roles) 2017, 2018Check all of the following “statements of witness” that apply to your UCC faith community. (Find more information on these statements at .)__ Accessible to All (A2A) __ Creation Justice __ Economic Justice XX Faithful and WelcomingXX God Is Still Speaking (GISS) __ Immigrant Welcoming __ Inter-cultural/Multi-racial (I’M) __ Just Peace XX Global Mission ChurchXX Open and Affirming (ONA) __ WISE Congregation for Mental Health __ Other UCC designations:__ Other similar designations in affiliated denominations__ NoneReflect on what the above statement(s) mean(s) to your community. Is your congregation interested in working toward any of the above statements of witness in the near future?We are welcoming to all people. We are interested, and expect to take firm steps toward these with the direction and help from our new pastor.We are applying for a grant to install an elevator for wheelchair=bound people. This is needed for some members to attend services, and for some to attend music programs hosted by our church, such as the North Fork Chorale.We have a large local Hispanic population and are thinking pf hosting an ESL class.Describe your congregation’s participation in ecumenical and interfaith activities (with other denominations and religious groups, local and regional).Our church is a member of the Greenport Ecumenical Ministries (GEM). We attend (and occasionally host) mid-week GEM services during Lent.Inviting and welcoming local Rabbi as supply preacher as well as former retired Methodist, Presbyterian, Baptist, and Reformed Church ministers.We host a World Fair Trade group on Mission Awareness Sunday annually.We invite speakers from the missions we support to take part in worship services.We annually shared (took turns hosting) special services in previous years with local Methodist Church (now closed).If your congregation has a mission statement, how does that mission statement compare to the actual time spent engaging in different activities? Think of the range of activities from time spent gathering, to governance, to time spent going out.Given our small numbers, we are endeavoring to achieve the goals of our mission statement to the best of our ability.Without the presence of a current pastor, much of our time is spent on continuing the basic work of the church. However, we have also been able to spend considerable time in volunteering for our John’s Place and the putting together of CWSS kits each spring. The time spent in planning regular and special services is extensive.Much time and effort is also spent in organizing and having our fairs which benefit both the church maintenance and outreach programs.Reflect on the scope of work assigned to your pastor(s). How is their community ministry and their ministry in and on behalf of the wider church accounted for in the congregation’s expectations on their time?We expect their ministry will be accounted for in their outreach to members who are ill, not attending church, and in outreach to the community organizations in order to build connections with them.Our former ministers were cooperative for the most part. Our most steady supply pastor during the last year has reached out and helped a member struggling with cancer.MissionInSiteComment on your congregation’s MissionInsite report with data for your neighborhood(s) or area. What trends and opportunities are shown?How do your congregation’s internal demographics compare or contrast to a) the neighborhoods adjacent to your church, and b) other neighborhoods with which your church connects? Our demographics reflect those of our neighborhood communities, regarding family structures.Demographics don’t reflect large Latino/a population on the North Fork as a whole.Our church membership is largely white – 99%. While the predominant race in Orient Hamlet is white, there is a large black and Latino population in the neighboring Village of Greenport and in Southold Town.How are the demographics of the community currently shaping ministry, or not? The fact that the North Fork is becoming more geared towards being a retirement type of area (prohibitive costs for families), we have a large elderly membership. Those who are younger have jobs and school activities on weekends that keep them away from attending church.What do you hear when you talk to community leaders and ask them what your church is known for? What do new people in the church say when asked what got them involved?Being an open and affirming congregationHaving friends or family members who attendFeeling very welcomedHaving attended a special event or service (e.g. Christmas Eve, etc.)REFERENCESName up to three people who have agreed to serve as phone and written references. Make sure they are not members of your church but are persons who know your church well enough to be helpful to candidates seeking more information. Request a letter from each reference in answer to the four prompts below. Attach the letters (up to three) as desired.REFERENCE 1Geoffrey ProudName / Position / Setting(Telephone / Email / Relationship to the Congregation)631-323-3523 GFProud@ since closing of Methodist Church, he has been a member of our choir; occasional supply preacher; FriendREFERENCE 2Patton RudderName / Position / Setting(Telephone / Email / Relationship to the Congregation)501-944-9495 pattrudder@ FriendREFERENCE 3Betty SatterwhiteName / Position / Setting(Telephone / Email / Relationship to the Congregation)212-362-9672 or 631-323-2652 BASatterwhite@ choir member, FriendPROMPTS FOR REFERENCESDescribe some areas of strength in this church’s ministry. Describe some areas for improvement in this church’s ministry.Describe a significant experience you have had of this church’s ministry.Anything else you wish to share.Reference 1Geoffrey ProudPrompts for References Geoff Proud 1.10.20Describe some areas of strength in this church's ministry.OCC has a strong core of members willing to take on tasks as needed, and who are creative in initiating activities that benefit the church: community socials, special fund-raising, committee service. There is only one part-time employee; the rest of the work of the church is done by volunteers -- all but leading the liturgical services. Describe some areas for improvement in this church's ministry.Church attendance is, of course, always an area in need of improvement. This is true of most churches. Assuming there is a population here sufficient if attracted to support the church, a plan and an effort ought to be made to increase regular attendance. First step is inquiry and study. I believe we have the talent to undertake such a project. Describe a significant experience you have had of this church's ministry. I am an adherent of “the old-time religion.” Hearing the congregation sing the classic hymns out of the hymnal is spiritually supportive. Anything else you wish to share.Sunday liturgical service is the focal point of the church’s presence. OCC has a fairly good musical program. Some other traditional elements are missing: the Creed, psalm responsive prayers, sermons that draw deeply from the Gospel message and the person of Jesus. I have experience of these components in the Methodist congregations I have known. I can’t say they are surely effective in supplying what we need, but they are the essence of Christian worship and if done right, let us assume that the Spirit will respond and help us. Reference 2Patton RudderAreas of strength not in any particular orderOCC is the oldest Congregational Church in the state of New York.It has a very dedicated group of long-time congregants.The church is open to all people.The church’s leadership is open and willing to try new ways to strengthen its ministry.The reputation of OCC within the Orient and North Fork ecumenical communities is strong.The church’s physical presence in the hamlet of Orient includes one of the most significant historical structures on the North Fork.The church has a quality music program with dedicated musicians and choir.OCC has the spirit and commitment to maintain an active community outreach program.Areas for improvementChanging demographics on the North Fork of Long Island have altered the fundamental environment in which all service organizations located here develop and function. OCC is no exception. An aging population and an increase in second-home ownership within the Orient community make it a challenge to maintain the strengths enumerated above. In a perfect world, the church should have a full-time minister or, at least, a consistent person in the pulpit each Sunday. Secondly, I think it is extremely important to sustain the music program and, thirdly, the church building must be maintained.Developing a viable youth program is also important but that is a function of attracting the parents. Again, we go back to the evolving demographics.Significant experienceI began attending OCC three years ago after the Orient Methodist Church closed and I moved from Greenport to Orient. From the beginning, I was welcomed into the congregation and made to feel at home. I immediately felt the strong sense of community that is so prevalent within the congregation and quickly developed a bond with the church and its members.Reference 3Betty SatterwhiteOCC ProfileMy name is Betty Satterwhite. My husband, Laurence Sutter, and I have owned a home in Orient since 1982. Our permanent residence is in New York City, but we try to come to Orient as often as we can and, except for the winter months, we are here almost every other weekend. For over 20 years, we have attended the Orient Congregational Church (OCC) and have sung in the church choir. Although I am not a member of the OCC, I am very proud of this institution and I regard it as an irreplaceable part of the fabric of Orient. The OCC is recognized as a center for community activities and participates in providing social (and fund-raising) events that draw people to the church. Despite the somewhat transient nature of its attendees due to its location in a summer-vacation destination, the church is an established pillar of the village. It provides activities that allow neighbors to meet face to face. It has assumed the sponsorship of monthly community pot-luck suppers that draw residents to mingle with each other and exchange their views on local issues. One of the most important achievements of the OCC has been its leading role in advocating outreach to the gay and lesbian community in Orient and neighboring towns. It has encouraged an “open and affirming” policy of welcoming anyone, regardless of sexual orientation, to participate in services. The OCC has also contributed to helping the homeless in the winter by housing overnight some of the men who rely on the services of John’s Place, a shelter sponsored by St. Agnes Roman Catholic Church in Greenport, a town that is about 9 miles away from Orient. Homeless men are transported to Orient and given a bed for the night and nourishing meals at a time when there is a high demand for shelter.The ministry of the OCC could be improved by updating its Facebook page more frequently so that the photos displayed in a timely fashion. Also, it needs to have a website that describes in detail the church’s goals and could profile its history and give information on the church’s schedule. The website could alert people about planned events such as the community supper, or a baptism, functions to which everyone is welcome. And then there is the always-difficult issue of financial support. I am not intimately familiar with how the church’s accounts are managed, but I do sense that financial security is an ongoing concern.The most significant experiences I’ve had with the OCC have been getting to know many of its members. These are generous, smart, talented, warm and optimistic people who as a whole are, without question, the foundation of Orient Village. My husband and I have had rewarding musical performances with the choir director and other singers; and although there will be a new music director in the coming year, I feel sure that the church’s well-known reputation for musical excellence will be maintained. Also I have met interesting individuals whose professional careers in medicine, entertainment or academe are impressive. One particularly significant moment stays in my thoughts. It came about because one of the church members had been battling a form of cancer. The congregation included him in the weekly prayer list, and when he got a diagnosis of “all clear,” he shared it with us at the Sunday service. He expressed his relief and happiness, but also thankfulness to God and o the OCC for its members’ support during his terrible ordeal. I was deeply moved and brought to tears by his statement of faith.The church is open to change and has the ability to overcome difficulties. The officers and church attendees are smart, dedicated people who can be relied upon to support its pastor. They will willingly pitch in to help do whatever is needed with energy and skill. They and the community of Orient Village will be welcoming to a new presence in our lives.Betty SatterwhiteCLOSING THOUGHTSCLOSING PRAYERSTATEMENT OF CONSENTCONFERENCE/ASSOCIATION VALIDATIONCLOSING PRAYERInclude here any prayer or dream for the minister you imagine journeying toward you… a poem, for example, or a Scripture passage or a piece of music that is meaningful to your Search Committee:STATEMENT OF CONSENTThe covenantal relationship between a church and those called by that church to serve as pastors and teachers and in other ministerial positions is strengthened when vital information is openly shared by covenantal partners. To that end, we attest that, to the best of our abilities, we have provided information in this profile that accurately represents our church. We have not knowingly withheld any information that would be helpful to candidates. As the committee charged with the responsibility for identifying and recommending suitable new minister for our church, we have been authorized to share the information herein with potential candidates. We understand that a candidate may wish to secure further knowledge, information, and opinions about our church. We encourage a candidate to do so, recognizing that an open exchange of relevant information builds the foundation for continuing and healthy relationships between calling bodies and persons seeking a ministry position.Which individuals and groups in the church contributed to the contents of this Local Church Profile? (for example, church council or consistory, transition team, etc.)Search and Call Team; Moderators, past and current; Administrative Assistant/BookkeeperAdditional comments for interpreting the profile:Signed: Name / Title / Date: VALIDATION BY CONFERENCE/ASSOCIATIONThe congregation is currently in good standing with the association / conference named. Staff Comment:To the best of my knowledge, ministerial history information is complete.Staff Comment:To the best of my knowledge, available church financial information is presented thoroughly. Staff Comment:My signature below attests to the above three items. Signature: Rev. Gary FernerName / Title: Associate Conference Minister for Search and CallEmail:gferner@Phone:315-446-3073Date:04/20/2020This document is created through support to Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM) and is only possible through the covenantal relationships of all settings of the United Church of Christ. “Jesus answered them, ‘Have faith in God!’” – Mark 11:22 ................
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