St. Louis Church
Pittsford, New York

Parish Council Meeting
November 5, 2007

AGENDA

6:45 p.m. Refreshments – Ned Sayegh, Sarah McDonald

7:00 p.m. Opening Prayer – Lisa DePalma

7:05 p.m. Approval of Minutes – October 15, 2007 Parish Council Meeting

7:10 p.m. Pastor’s Sharing – Father Kevin

7:20 p.m. Vice Chairman’s Comments – Ned Sayegh

7:25 p.m. Deborah Housel from the Pastoral Planning Office of the Diocese

8:25 p.m. Hospitality Committee Report – Dino and Delaina Infantino

8:30 p.m. Stewardship Committee Report – Deacon John Payne

8:45 p.m. Open Forum

9:00 p.m. Closing Prayer – Sister Judith Ann Kenrick

St. Louis Church
Pittsford, New York  

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Parish Council Meeting
September 10, 2007

MINUTES

Goals for Parish Council Year 2006-2007:
(1) Stewardship, (2) Involvement, (3) Adult Education,
(4) Liturgy, (5) Community

Present: Father Kevin Murphy, John Barr, Nancee Bender McCaffrey, Keith Bullis, Jeffrey Calabrese, Susan Dermody, Lisa DePalma, Joseph DiPrima, Gregory Farrell, Stephanie Honz, Bradley Kammholz, James and Gina Kaufer, Edward Kay, Sister Judith Ann Kenrick, George Kimber, Thomas Kroll, Sarah McDonald, Carol McManus, Michael Moore, Mark Mungenast, Peggy O’Neil Midgley, Deacon John Payne, Susan Payne, Ned Sayegh, Dawn and James Schnell, Sally Schrecker.

Excused: Rosemary Graham, Dino and Delaina Infantino, Gerard Rooney.

John Barr began the formal part of the Parish Council meeting at 7 p.m., following dinner at 6 p.m. in the Meeting Room. John Barr welcomed Brad Kammholz who is serving a two year term, replacing Richard Smerbeck who was not available to complete his term.

Father Kevin, John Barr, and Sarah McDonald led an opening prayer in which Council members participated

Susan Dermody, expressed her appreciation to the Council for their support during the past several years. Susan resigned as Vice Chairman and Selected Representative of the Council to pursue her new career responsibilities that require frequent travel out of Rochester and makes her unavailable to participate on the Council.

The Council voted for Vice Chairman of the Council by secret ballot. Ned Sayegh was elected.

John asked for a motion to accept the minutes of the June 4, 2007 Parish Council Meeting. Jeff Calabrese made a motion to accept the minutes as submitted. Nancee Bender McCaffrey seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved.

John introduced Sarah Clapper, of Clio Associates of Rochester, who facilitated a discussion on Strategic Planning. The Council focused on Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats (SWOT). A list of the Council’s response to these topics is attached to these minutes.

A follow-up meeting to identify goals for the Parish Council is scheduled for October 1, 2007, at 7 p.m. Sarah Clapper will facilitate the discussion.

The meeting adjourned at 9:40 p.m.


_____________________________________
Sarah McDonald, Secretary

 

 

St. Louis Church
Pittsford, New York  

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Parish Council Meeting
May 7, 2007

MINUTES

Goals for Parish Council Year 2006-2007:
(1) Stewardship, (2) Involvement, (3) Adult Education,
(4) Liturgy, (5) Community

Present: Father Kevin Murphy, Pastor; John Barr, Vice Chairman; John Bernacki, Jeffrey Calabrese, Gregory Farrell, Rosemary Graham, Stephanie Honz, Bradley Kammholz, James Kaufer, Sister Judith Ann Kenrick, Thomas Kroll, Nancee Bender McCaffrey, Sarah McDonald, Peggy O’Neil Midgley, Mark Mungenast, Susan Payne, Ned Sayegh, Sally Schrecker, Richard Smerbeck, Jeffrey Stid. Also present were: Frances Barr, George Kimber, Colleen Knauf, and Carol McManus

Excused: Keith Bullis, Susan Dermody, Joseph DiPrima, Dino and Delaina Infantino, Edward Kay, Deacon John Payne, Gerard Rooney.

John Barr chaired the meeting in the absence of Susan Dermody. The meeting began at 7 p.m. with an opening prayer by Mary Kroll.

John asked for approval of the minutes of the April 23, 2007 meeting of the Parish Council. Ned Sayegh made a motion to approve the minutes as submitted. Sue Payne seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved.


Pastor’s Sharing

Father Kevin Murphy noted that the celebration of First Eucharist for 108 children was held on the weekend of April 22nd, and Confirmation will be celebrated in the Cathedral on May 22nd for 65 candidates from the parish.

Selection of Parish Council members will be held on May 20th at the 9 a.m. Mass. Those selected will begin their term at the June 4th Parish Council Meeting.


Saint’s Place Report

Fran Barr and Colleen Knauf reported on the past year’s programs and activities ministered by Saint’s Place. The Refugee Assistance Program helped 204 new refugees and 229 families. Over 1,300 gifts and 110 gift cards were received from the “Angel Tree” and given to 303 refugees for Christmas. Saint’s Place also administers a Tutoring Program with an enrollment of 40 students, and a Child Care Center. The Annual Sale, Saint’s Place major fundraiser, totaled $30,856. More than 200 volunteers helped with this three day event.

Saint’s Place has received several grants during the year, including Ronald McDonald House Charities; Heineman Foundation; Mark and Jannie Wu Foundation; IBM; United Way; and the Tony and Dee Spirit Award.

Financial statements for Saint’s Place were distributed. A balanced budget of income and expenses for Saint’s Place for fiscal year 2008 totals $138,328.


St. Louis School

John Barr gave a report on St. Louis School prepared by Kathleen Carroll, School Principal. The school’s current enrollment is 413 students, and 423 students are registered for the 2007-98 school year. School safety is a priority. A campus-wide camera security system is in operation, doors are locked, the campus is monitored, teachers are watchful, and a school emergency management plan is regularly reviewed. St. Louis School has been selected to participate in the Middle States Accreditation process. Accreditation encourages and fosters excellence and on-going improvements in a school. The first step in this process is a year-long self study.


St. Louis Parish Budget

Father Kevin presented for discussion proposed budget items of renovating the Reconciliation Room in Church for an estimated $5,000, hiring a staff member for the parish’s faith formation program, and installing a motorized screen on the wall behind the altar in Church for an estimated cost of $30,000. The Council was in agreement with the renovation, hiring a new staff member, and with the concept of the screen. Concern was expressed about the cost of the motorized screen, and it was decided to put a hold on this expenditure until further discussion.

Brad Kammholz made a motion to approve the 2007-08 Parish Budget presented to the Parish Council at the April meeting. Rich Smerbeck seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved.


Parish Council Constitution

Jeff Calabrese presented changes to the Parish Council Constitution. A copy of the changes and the revised copy of the Constitution are filed with these minutes. John Bernacki made a motion to approve the Constitution with the proposed changes. Ned Sayegh seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved. A parish wide meeting will be scheduled to ratify the Constitution.

Jeff thanked committee members Dino Infantino, Rich Smerbeck, Greg Farrell, Ned Sayegh, Father Kevin, John Barr, and Susan Dermody for their input in the process to update the Parish Council Constitution.

September Parish Council Meeting
There was discussion about having a brainstorming and goal setting meeting of the Council in September. Council members were in agreement that an extended meeting in September be scheduled from 6 p.m. until 10 p.m.


Open Forum
Ned Sayegh reported that the Pictorial Directory is at the printers and is expected to be available in late June.

No other topics were presented for discussion. The meeting was adjourned at 9 p.m. with a prayer led by John Barr.

NEXT MEETING:
Monday, June 4, 2007, 6:30 p.m.


__________________________________
Sarah McDonald, Secretary

 

 

St. Louis Church
Pittsford, New York  

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Parish Council Meeting
April, 23 2007

MINUTES

Goals for Parish Council Year 2006-2007: (1) Stewardship, (2) Involvement, (3) Adult Education, (4) Liturgy, (5) Community

Present: Father Kevin Murphy, Pastor; John Barr, Vice Chairman; Jeffrey Calabrese, Virginia Cornyn, Joseph DiPrima, Bradley Kammholz, James and Virginia Kaufer, Edward Kay, Sister Judith Ann Kenrick, Mary Kroll, Sarah McDonald, Peggy O’Neil Midgley, Mark Mungenast, Susan Payne, Ned Sayegh, Sally Schrecker, Richard Smerbeck, Jeffrey Stid.

Excused: John Bernacki, Keith Bullis, Susan Dermody, Gregory Farrell, Dino and Delania Infantino, Nancee Bender McCaffreyu, Deacon John Payne, Gerard Rooney,

John Barr, Vice Chairman of the Council, chaired the meeting in the absence of Susan Dermody. He began the meeting at 7 p.m. Mary Kroll said an opening prayer.

John asked for approval of the February Parish Council minutes. Peggy O’Neil Midgley made a motion to accept the minutes of the February 12, 2007 meeting of the Parish Council as submitted. Sister Judith Ann Kenrick seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved.

John recognized Ginny Cornyn for her participation on the Parish Council. Ginny is moving out of the Rochester area. Father Kevin also expressed gratitude to Ginny for her involvement in the parish and in the Rochester Community. The Council wished her well on her move to Oregon.


Pastor’s Sharing

Father Kevin Murphy reported that Council member, Edward Bauer, moved out of Rochester and the Facilities Committee and representatives of the Parish Council recognized his contributions to the parish at a recent Facilities Committee meeting.

Father Kevin and Peter Spinelli had a meeting with representatives from St. Bridget’s and St. Michael’s parishes to discuss opportunities for St. Louis to share in the ministries of the two Rochester parishes. More information on this effort will be available later in the spring.

The Endowment Committee for St. Louis Parish has been inactive for the last several years. Joe Votava agreed to reactive the Committee and review its mission.

Father Kevin reported that parish goals for the Catholic Ministries Appeal (CMA) for the next several years have been established. The Diocese is following a formula developed by the Center for Governmental Research. The goal for St. Louis for 2007-08 is $192,628 (the goal for 2006-07 was $199,980.)


Vice Chairman’s Comments

John Barr reported that St. Louis parish was the host location for a dinner for the Habitat for Humanity’s annual fundraiser. It was a well attended event. Saint’s Place Annual Sale in mid April was a success, and John recognized Sally Schrecker and her team of workers for the clean-up after this three-day event.


Proposed 2007-08 Parish Budget

Ed Kay, on behalf of the Finance Council, presented for discussion the Proposed 2007-08 St. Louis Parish Budget. He reviewed the revenues that total $1,292,655, and expenses that total $1,278,930, reflecting a surplus of $13,725. Ed also reviewed the Capital Expenditures Budget of $130,000. The Parish’s fiscal year ends June 30. The Council discussed the budget and will vote on it at the May 7th Parish Council meeting.


Social Justice Committee

Ginny Cornyn distributed a report on the committee’s discussion to identify an advocacy effort for the parish that could be continued over time. After several educational sessions, the issue of safe affordable housing was chosen. The committee discussed how this effort should proceed and after much research, it was determined that no fit was going to be found in the near term. It is the recommendation of the Social Justice Committee to the Parish Council that the committee change direction and become the parish coordinating committee for connection with diocesan social justice efforts. This would be a new approach for St. Louis and would deal with multiple issues, mostly around advocacy and direct service.

The next step for the committee is for a member to learn about the Diocesan Public Policy Committee and how to become a member. Ginny also noted that new leadership is needed for the Committee. She is resigning as Chair of the Committee with her relocation to Oregon. Rosemary Graham, a member of the Social Justice Committee, was in attendance at the Parish Council meeting. Rosemary volunteered to Chair the Committee. The Council welcomed Rosemary as new Chair of the Social Justice Committee.


Selection Committee

John Barr, Chair of the Selection Committee, thanked committee members Mark Mungenast, Peggy O’Neil Midgley, and Joe DiPrima for identifying 13 candidates for Parish Council. The names of the following candidates were presented to the Parish Council: Jim Bonafini, Kara Bosco, Lisa DePalma, George Kimber, Carol McManus, Karl and Piroska Mersich, Michael Moore, and James and Dawn Schnell. John and Julie Bernacki, Susan Dermody, Joe DiPrima, Brad Kammholz, and Jeff Stid are candidates for a second three-year term. Rich Smerbeck made a motion to accept the above list of candidates for the Selection Process. Ginny Cornyn seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved.

Selection of Parish Council members will be on May 20, at the 9 a.m. Mass. Five candidates will be selected for a three-year term, one candidate for a two-year term, and one candidate for a one-year term.


21 Rand Place Committee

Rich Smerbeck distributed a report from the Committee with a recommendation for use of the house at 21 Rand Place. The final recommendation of the committee reads as follows: The 21 Rand Place Committee recommends that the house at 21 Rand Place be used residentially in a way to help those-in-need in an impactful, long-term manner. Until the final use of the residence is determined, it should continue to be rented out. One member of the Committee also felt that the house should remain a family home.

There are three organizations currently interested in the house - Heritage Christian Services Group Home, Center for Youth – Group Home for Long-Term Transitional Living Program, and
The Sisters of Mercy – Community Residence. It is the recommendation of the Committee that a process be put in place by the parish leadership for evaluating interested organizations and/or opportunities.

Brad Kammholz made a motion to accept the findings of the 21 Rand Place Committee as presented. Sue Payne seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved.

Father Kevin commended the committee for their in depth research into the use of the house on Rand Place.


Open Forum

Jeff Stid asked about direct deposit contributions that are received by the parish monthly and bi-monthly, and how they are allocated to the organizations identified for tithing each week. Ed Kay and the Finance Committee will follow-up on the process for direct deposit contributions.

Ned Sayegh reported that the parish directory is in the proofing stage and is expected to be completed by late spring.

No other topics were presented for discussion. The meeting adjourned at 8:50 p.m. with a closing prayer by Sister Judith Ann Kenrick.

NEXT MEETING:
MONDAY, MAY 7, 2007
6:45 P.M. REFRESHMENT
7:00 P.M. MEETING BEGINS


_________________________________________
Sarah McDonald, Secretary

 

 

St. Louis Church
Pittsford, New York  

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Parish Council Meeting
February 12,, 2007

MINUTES

Goals for Parish Council Year 2006-2007:
(1) Stewardship, (2) Involvement, (3) Adult Education,
(4) Liturgy, (5) Community

Present: Father Kevin Murphy, Pastor; Susan Dermody, Chair; John Barr, Edward Bauer, John Bernacki, Keith Bullis, Jeffrey Calabrese, Gregory Farrell, Stephanie Honz, Dino and Delaina Infantino, Bradley Kammholz, James and Virginia Kaufer, Sister Judith Ann Kenrick, Thomas Kroll, Nancee Bender McCaffrey, Sarah McDonald, Peggy O’Neil Midgley, Mark Mungenast, Susan Payne, Ned Sayegh, Sally Schrecker, and Jeffrey Stid.

Absent: Virginia Cornyn, Joseph DiPrima, Edward Kay, Deacon John Payne, Gerard Rooney, and Richard Smerbeck.

Susan Dermody began the meeting at 7 p.m. with an opening prayer led by Jeffrey Stid.

Susan asked for approval of the minutes of the January 8, 2007 meeting of the Parish Council. Jeffrey Stid made a motion to approve the minutes as submitted, Sister Judith Ann Kenrick seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved.


Pastor’s Sharings

Father Kevin Murphy reported that there is a new sound system in church and thanked Jeff Stid for his leadership in overseeing this project.

The parish First Communion program begins in March with 108 children registered. The celebration of First Communion is scheduled for the weekend of May 5 and 6.

Father Kevin reported that contributions to the Catholic Ministries Appeal total $192,033, toward the parish goal of $199,890 set by the Diocese. Father Kevin will be making telephone calls to parishioners and invite their participation to help the parish reach its goal.

Father Kevin encouraged Council members to attend the Lenten prayer opportunities and other parish events that are being offered. Information is listed in the bulletin and in the parish newsletter.


2006-2007 Parish Council Goals Directional Plan

John Barr made reference to the Council’s goals of Adult Education, Community, Involvement, Liturgy, and Stewardship, and presented a plan with the following objectives: Focus the Council’s work on the goals and initiatives important to St. Louis Parish; create and sustain awareness about these goals and initiatives; and set the stage for 2007-2008 planning.

John proposed a strategy that includes discussing one or more goals at a Council meeting; communicating more frequently with parishioners; and beginning discussions about goals for the coming year. Stewardship and Involvement were discussed at the February meeting and he suggested that Adult Education be on the April agenda, Liturgy and Community on the May agenda, and a summary of the goals on the June agenda. The Council was in agreement with the plan John presented.
ACTION ITEM: John Barr to put follow-up on plan for Parish Council goals.


Parish Council Constitution

Jeffrey Calabrese reported that the committee continues to discuss proposed changes in the Parish Council Constitution. An updated document will be present to the Council for a vote in April.


Liturgy Committee

Stephanie Honz reported that members of the Liturgy Committee will begin to be involved in coordinating Eucharistic Minister, lectors, and servers, as well as being coordinators for special liturgies, i.e., Penance Services, Monday Lenten Series, and the Triduum liturgies.

Stephanie noted that the Committee received 56 responses to the survey about the Advent and Christmas liturgies. The results of the survey were printed in the February 4th parish bulletin.

Plans are going forward for a motorized screen to be placed in Church on the wall behind the Altar. The screen will be covered with a valance that will match the brick. The Committee is also looking into plans for renovating the Reconciliation Room in Church.

Stephanie encouraged Council members to attend the Monday Evening Lenten Series, and welcomed suggestions for future music programs.


Pastoral Care Committee

Peggy O’Neil Midgley reported on behalf of the Pastoral Care Committee. The mission of the Committee is to provide ministry to parishioners with special needs, which includes visits to hospitals, nursing homes, and individual homes. Mass and Communion Services are scheduled at the Highlands and Heather Heights. The ministries of the Lazarus Group, Bereavement Group, Stephen Ministry, and the Welcoming Committee are also part of Pastoral Care. Events sponsored by the Committee include All Soul’s Day Mass and Reception, Good Friday Blood Drive, and the Sunshine Luncheon.


Habitat Interfaith Partnership

Robert Scholl reported that the Steering Committee for the Habitat Interfaith Partnership includes the following faith communities and organizations: First Presbyterian Church of Pittsford; Christ Episcopal Church, St. Louis Catholic Church; St. Paul’s Lutheran Church; Mount Olivet Baptist Church, Temple Brith Kodesh, Islamic Center; and Pittsford Rotary. There are individual committees that are responsible for fundraising, hospitality, publicity/ceremonies, volunteers for construction, and finances. Several members of St. Louis parish participate in these committees.

St. Louis Church is the host location for a fund raising dinner in the spring. Construction of the house is scheduled to begin in July/August. Robert Scholl, on behalf of Habitat, expressed thanks to St. Louis Parish for contributing $20,000 toward this project.


Parish Council Selection Process

John Barr gave an outline for the selection process to fill five openings on the Council from members who have completed a three-year term. There will be an additional vacancy with the resignation of Edward Bauer who is moving out of state. Announcements inviting parishioners to join the Parish Council have been in the weekly bulletin during January and February, and will continue through March. The Search Committee will present the list of candidates to the Parish Council in April. Selection by lottery is scheduled for Sunday, May 20th. John also reported that Virginia Cornyn will be moving to Oregon and resigning as Chairman of the Social Justice Committee.
ACTION ITEM: Present names of candidates for Parish Council at the April meeting.


Stewardship

Father Kevin gave an update on the results of the Annual Parish Stewardship Renewal that took place in October and November. A total of 809 renewal cards were received, a 36% increase over last year; 795 new commitments to ministries were received; and 134 inactive families filled out a Stewardship renewal form. The combined opportunity to renew Stewardship and the Catholic Ministries Appeal resulted in a positive response.

Father Kevin noted that the contract for the Stewardship Consultants comes up for renewal in September and asked Council members for suggestions on whether to renew the contract or to do the Stewardship process by parish staff. There was discussion about the possibilities of doing the work in the parish, noting that a plan needs to be in place should the parish take over this project. No action was taken on the Stewardship Consultant contract.


Open Forum

Susan Dermody gave recognition to Dino and Delaina Infantino and the Hospitality Committee for organizing the Volunteer Appreciation Dinner at Mario’s that took place in January.

Susan reported for Rich Smerbeck on the discussions of 21 Rand Place. ARC of Monroe County has declined the opportunity to use the house as a group home. The committee is currently in contact with the Center for Youth.

Dino reported that the Hospitality Committee is discussing ideas for social activities for families and children under 8 years old. He noted that 17 parishioners indicated an interest in joining the Hospitality Committee during the Stewardship Renewal weekend.

No other topics were presented for discussion. The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 p.m. Dino Infantino led a closing prayer.

NEXT MEETING:
April 23, 2007
6:45 p.m. Refreshments
7:00 p.m. Meeting

___________________________________________
Sarah McDonald, Secretary

 

 

St. Louis Church
Pittsford, New York  

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Parish Council Meeting
January 8, 2007

MINUTES

Goals for Parish Council Year 2006-2007:
(1) Stewardship, (2) Involvement, (3) Adult Education,
(4) Liturgy, (5) Community

Present: Father Kevin Murphy, Pastor; Susan Dermody, Chair; John Barr, Edward Bauer, Keith Bullis, Jeffrey Calabrese, Virginia Cornyn, Joseph DiPrima, Gregory Farrell, Stephanie Honz, Dino Infantino, James Kaufer, Edward Kay, Sister Judith Ann Kenrick, Nancee Bender McCaffrey, Sarah McDonald, Peggy O’Neil Midgley, Mark Mungenast, Deacon John Payne, Susan Payne, Ned Sayegh, Sally Schrecker, Richard Smerbeck, Jeffrey Stid.

Absent: John and Julie Bernacki, Thomas and Mary Kroll, Gerard Rooney.

Susan Dermody began the meeting at 7:15 p.m. with a prayer led by Peggy O’Neil Midgley.

Susan asked for approval of the November 6, 2007 meeting of the Parish Council. Nancee Bender McCaffrey made a motion to approve the minutes as submitted. Richard Smerbeck seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved.


Pastor’s Sharings

Father Kevin Murphy reported that he received the results of the 2006 Stewardship Renewals from the Catholic Stewardship Consultants. There was an increase of 32% in renewals received, and 742 new commitments to ministries.

The parish pledges to the Diocesan Catholic Ministries Appeal to date total $185,000, toward a goal of $199,890.

The Parish Pictorial Directory is scheduled for completion in late March.

Father Kevin mentioned the possibility of expanding the parish’s outreach to St. Michael’s Church in Rochester, and together with St. Bridget’s work together on joint programs. There will be more discussion on this topic at a future time.

Father Kevin is considering a motorized screen in front of the Church under the stained glass window to be used when there are baptisms during Mass, to present the Diocesan video on the Catholic Ministries Appeal, and for other opportunities for visual presentations. A valance painted the color of the bricks would cover the screen.


Chairman’s Comments

Susan Dermody asked the Council for an opinion on starting the Council meetings earlier or extending them until 9:30 p.m. It was agreed to begin the meetings at 7 p.m. with refreshments available at 6:45 p.m. This change will begin with the February 12th meeting.


Susan’s report included the following:

• The Parish Council Agenda will be distributed two weeks prior to each meeting, and will also be published in the bulletin.
• The five goals identified by the Council will be printed on the minutes of each meeting as a reminder of what the Council would like to accomplish in the
2006-07 Council year.
• The minutes will include the names of the Council members in attendance as well as those who were absent. Susan reminded Council members of the importance in attending the meetings.
• Changes have been made to the schedule of meeting dates and committee reports that was distributed in September. A revised copy will be distributed to Council members.
• The February 12th agenda will include reports on Stewardship, Liturgy, and Pastoral Care. Bob School, parish representative on the Interfaith Habitat for Humanity Project, is also scheduled to give a presentation at the February meeting. On April 28th, St. Louis Church will be the host location for Habitat’s annual fundraiser.
ACTION ITEM: Updated Council Meeting Schedule/Committee Report Schedule to be distributed to Parish Council Members.


Parish Council Constitution

Jeffrey Calabrese, on behalf of the subcommittee to review the Parish Council Constitution, presented suggested changes to the document. There was discussion about what constitutes a quorum and the need for a parish meeting to approve the changes. It was concluded that the subcommittee will reconvene and discuss the Council’s concerns and give a report at the February meeting.
ACTION ITEM: Respond to questions on revisions to the Parish Council Constitution at February 12, 2007 Parish Council Meeting.


Search Committee

John Barr, Chair of the Search Committee, reported that five seats will be open on the Council in June. He asked for three volunteers to join him in the review process of individuals who indicate an interest in becoming members of the Council. Joseph DiPrima, Mark Mungenast, and Ned Sayegh agreed to join the Search Committee.
ACTION ITEM: Candidates presented to the Parish Council at May 2007 Meeting.


Tithing Committee

Susan Demody reported for the Tithing Committee in the absence of Gerard Rooney. The Committee will be reviewing priority commitments to determine whether those organizations continue to represent the needs for regular support from St. Louis Parish. The committee is introducing a tithing form that will be sent to organizations requesting support to assist committee members in becoming familiar with each organization and their financial needs. The Tithing Committee meets four times a year.


Finance Council Report

Edward Kay, Chair of the Finance Council, gave a presentation on the parish finances. Kate O’Gorman, a member of the Finance Council, was also present. Ed reported that the Parish Budget for 2005-06 totaled $1,290,000 and reflected a surplus of $10,000. Capital Expenditures totaled $55,000. To date, the parish has received $120,000 from the Partners In Faith Campaign.

Ed noted that the Finance Council is responsible for the parish’s Annual Budget and for the day-to-day expenditures and well being of the parish finances. The Parish Council is responsible for approving new expenses that occur after the budget has been approved.

The Parish Council discussed the parish investment funds and agreed to continue to hold open parish meetings to keep parishioners informed on the state of the parish’s finances.

Members of the Finance Council are: Father Kevin Murphy, Edward Kay (Chair), Frances Barr, Jeffrey Calabrese, Wendy Clifford, Susan Dermody, James Gould, Thomas Hanss, Robert Neilsen, Kate O’Gorman, and Birdie Proctor.


21 Rand Place Committee Report

Richard Smerbeck, Chair of the 21 Rand Place Committee, reported on the status of the house on that property. He noted the Committee’s charter is to research and recommend use of the house; the outside property is under the leadership of the Facilities Committee. The house is currently rented until a permanent use is determined. Rich noted the Committee is focusing on residential use of the house, stating that there is no need for additional meeting space or office space on the St. Louis Campus; a “lived in” house is consistent with the residential neighborhood; and keeping it residential makes it a safer and more secure area.

The Committee is reviewing the following possibilities: Group Home for developmentally disabled adults – Catholic Charities and Monroe County ARC; Community Residence for Religious (i.e., Sisters of Mercy, Visiting Clergy); Transitional living program for abandoned teens – Center for Youth Services; and continual rental. Rich asked Parish Council members for additional suggestions.

The uses for the house that are no longer being considered are: Senior Center, Hospice, Temporary Housing for Refugees, Adult Education Center, Library/Quiet Space, Long Term Foster Care Program, Overnight Shelter for the Homeless, and SSJ Spirituality Center.

There was discussion about restricting the use of 21 Rand Place to residential, noting that the opportunity to purchase the property was to expand parish ministries. It was concluded that Rich would go back to the Committee and review the concerns expressed by the Council about restricting the house to residential use. Committee members (Keith Bullis, Chrissy Carpenter, Gerald Deni, John and Maura Hoenig, Louis Leone, Kate O’Gorman, Sally Schrecker, Richard Smerbeck (Chair), will continue their discussions and present a final recommendation to the the Parish Council in April.
ACTION ITEM: 21 Rand Place Committee to discuss concerns expressed by the Parish Council about restricting the house to residential use and present a final recommendation to the Parish Council in April.

No other topics were presented for discussion. Deacon John Payne said a closing prayer. The meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.

NEXT MEETING:
Monday, February 12, 2007
6:45 p.m. - Refreshment
7:00 p.m. - Meeting

April Committee Reports
Youth
Social Justice
Saint’s Place
21 Rand Place


___________________________________________________
Sarah McDonald, Secretary

 

 

St. Louis Church
Pittsford, New York  

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Parish Council Meeting
November 6, 2006

MINUTES

Goals for Parish Council Year 2006-2007:
(1) Stewardship, (2) Involvement, (3) Adult Education,
(4) Liturgy, (5) Community

Susan Dermody began the meeting at 7:15 p.m. with a prayer led by Deacon John Payne.Susan asked for approval of the October 2, 2006 meeting of the Parish Council. Peggy O’Neil Midgley made a motion to approve the minutes as submitted. Nancee Bender McCaffrey seconded the motion, and it was unanimously approved.


Pastor’s Comments

Father Kevin Murphy reported that as of November 4, 2006, 444 parishioners have pledged $107,538 to the Catholic Ministries Appeal, toward the parish goal of $199,890. Letters to parishioners who have not made a pledge will be sent to encourage their participation in the campaign.

Father Kevin noted that there will be a change in the weekend Mass schedule for December 23 and 24. Two 4:30 p.m. Masses are scheduled on Saturday (one in Reddington Hall, and one in Church), and on Sunday there will be Mass at 7:30 a.m. and 9 a.m. There will be no 11 a.m. Mass.


Chairman’s Comments

Susan Dermody thanked Keith Bullis for organizing the slide presentation on New Orleans that was shown to parishioners at the Masses during the past weekend. Envelopes were made available for individuals and families who wished to make a donation to purchase gift cards to Home Depot, Target or Wal-Mart for the people of Our Lady of Prompt Succor parish. Over 500 envelopes were distributed.


Facilities Committee Report

Keith Bullis and Sally Schrecker reported on recent projects throughout the parish complex, and showed slides of a proposal for the use of the property surrounding 21 Rand Place. The architect’s drawings of the property show additional parking spaces and a wider driveway into the existing parking lot. A meeting with the Pittsford Village Board is required before any changes can be made to the property.

The facility projects on the parish campus included renovation of the apartment in the Manse, adjustment to the kneelers in Church, renovation of the kitchen in Reddington Hall, and repair of the railings to the second floor of Reddington Hall. Two security cameras have also been replaced in the school.
Action Item: Schedule a meeting with members of the Pittsford Village Board

New Orleans Project

Jay Murphy, a member of the planning group for the New Orleans Project, reported that the Church of Our Lady of Prompt Succor is now open, as well as the school with an enrollment of 100 children. Jay highlighted the history of the efforts, noting that three parishes (Transfiguration, St. Catherine’s, and St. Louis) have contributed a total of $75,000 to the rebuilding of this parish. The next step for the planning group is to connect families in the three parishes with families in New Orleans to be in contact with them and offer help whenever possible. Jay expressed appreciation to Father Kevin for his leadership in this project and to the parishioners of St. Louis Parish for their participation in helping the people in New Orleans affected by Hurricane Katrina. Jay circulated photographs of the area that showed there is still much cleanup to be done.


Stewardship

Deacon John Payne reviewed a timeline of the parish’s Stewardship activities from September through November 2006 that included, in part, letters sent to parishioners, homilies on Stewardship, Ministry Faire, Commitment Weekend, Catholic Ministries Appeal, and follow-up telephone calls to parishioners who did not return their card on Time, Talent, and Treasure. Deacon John expressed concern that out of 1,200 families, 800 have not responded. There was discussion on the need to respond to people who have expressed an interest in being active in the life of the parish, as well as St. Louis as a Stewardship Community. Stewardship will be discussed further at the February Parish Council Meeting.
Action Item: Stewardship Discussion on Agenda for February Parish Council Meeting.


Parish Council Constitution

Jeffrey Calabrese reported that a draft of the revisions to the Parish Council Constitution has been given to the Executive Committee for review. A copy of a final draft will be made available to Council member for review and a vote at the January meeting.
Action Item: Distribute proposed revisions to the Parish Council Constitution to Council members for review and vote.


Small Group Ministry

Bradley Kammholz reported that informational meetings have been scheduled for parishioners to hear about two Bible Study Groups that are planned. The topics are The Gospel of Luke and A Journey Through the Bible.
Action Item: Organize and follow-up on small groups participating in the Bible studies.

No other topics were presented for discussion. The meeting was adjourned at 9 p.m. with a prayer led by Father Kevin.

NEXT MEETING:

Monday, January 8, 2007
7 p.m. Parish Meeting Room

___________________________________________
Sarah McDonald, Secretary

St. Louis Church
Pittsford, New York