P.O. Box 44073
Bedford, Nova Scotia B4A 3X5
Radio CHSB 99.3 Hill Top FM
www.bedfordbaptist.ca
February 18, 2010
Table of Contents
In Memoriam
Minutes of Annual Meeting
Acknowledgement
Ministers Reports
Senior Pastor......................................................................... A
Associate Pastor................................................................... B
Edu-Kid Project.................................................................
Christmas Family Project..................................................
Benevolent Fund...............................................................
Director of Youth Ministries................................................... C
Officers and Boards Reports
Moderator.............................................................................. 1
Church Clerk......................................................................... 2
Deacons............................................................................... 3
Trustees................................................................................. 4
Church Historian.................................................................... 5
Christian Training Reports
Christian Education Committee............................................ 10
KidZone.................................................................................. 12
KidVenture/HiVenture............................................................ 14
Ladies Alive .......................................................................... 16
Intergenerational.................................................................... 17
Summer Ministry Coordinators............................................. 18
Missions Reports
Missions Committee............................................................. 19
Jean Rushton WMS.............................................................. 21
Muriel Bent WMS.................................................................. 23
Seniors Outreach Ministry.................................................... 25
Beacon House ...................................................................... 26
Worship Reports
Music Committee.................................................................. 28
Sanctuary Choir..................................................................... 29
Committee Reports
Constitutional Review Task Force......................................... 30
Decorating Committee.......................................................... 31
Floral Committee................................................................... 31
Friendship Circle.................................................................... 32
Historical Records Clerk....................................................... 34
Library Committee................................................................. 35
Social Committee.................................................................. 36
Prayer Chain.......................................................................... 37
Visitation Committee............................................................. 38
P.A. System Committee....................................................... 39
Radio Station Steering Committee........................................ 39
Technology Committee......................................................... 40
Stewardship Committee........................................................ 41
Finance Committee............................................................... 42
Investment Committee.......................................................... 44
Analysis of Weekly Offerings................................................ 47
Nominating Committee.......................................................... 48
Financial Statements............................................................. 55
Auditors Report...................................................................... 61
In Memoriam
Norina MacLeod
February 28, 1930 – January 11, 2009
*Bertha Joudrey
August 29, 1913 – January 24, 2009
*Althea Kaulback
April 16, 1912 – May 3, 2009
**Curtis Chipman
June 24, 1910 – July 1, 2009
Craig Sherman
June 5, 1951 – September 17, 2009
Lola Murphy
July 17, 1920 – October 20, 2009
**Paula Steeves
January 15, 1927 – September 24, 2009
Ida Johnston
June 1, 1916 – November 11, 2009
Rev. John Butler
August 21, 1918 – November 25, 2009
*Denotes membership
**Denotes former membership
BEDFORD BAPTIST CHURCH
MINUTES OF THE 109th (2008) ANNUAL MEETING
February 24, 2009
Approximately 59 people gathered in the Vestry for the 2008 Annual Meeting.
The meeting opened at 7:05 p.m. with a word of welcome by the Moderator, Bev Giffin.
Pastor Bob offered a brief devotion based on Matthew 16:24 encouraging us all to surrender completely to the Lord.
Dr. Ida offered a prayer, leading into the Memorial Moment for the 11 members and adherents who died during 2008.
Lloyd Mitchell MOVED the adoption of the minutes as distributed, seconded by Ann Ingram.
Alana Foster MOVED the approval of the minutes for the 2007 Annual Meeting, seconded by Gordon Irving.
The Moderator called for any business arising from the minutes:
· Al Ingram gave a brief report on the progress of the constitutional review committee and noted that they hope to have a completed report for presentation at next year’s annual report.
Al then MOVED the adoption of his report as presented, seconded by Kathy Cochrane.
The Moderator called for the review and motion of approval for the following reports:
· Staff and Officers (pg. A – 12) - MOVED by Ian Haggarty, seconded by Heather Cox
· C.E. (pg. 13 – 21) – MOVED by Andrea McCurdy, seconded by Louise Archibald
· Missions (pg. 22 – 29) – MOVED by Sandra MacKenzie, seconded by Jean Woodworth
· Worship (pg. 30 – 33) – MOVED by Gordon Irving, seconded by Heather Cox.
· Committees (pg. 34 – 44) – MOVED by Ian Haggarty, seconded by Jeff Irving
One amendment was noted on page 42 – the call letters of the radio station should read CHSB not CHBS as noted in two places on the page.
- Finance (pg. 53 – 58) – MOVED by Doug Burke, seconded by Dianne Cox.
- Auditor (pg. 66) – MOVED by Webster Sweet, seconded by Barry Matthews
One amendment was noted in the Audit report – the word “rule” in the fourth paragraph should be replaced by “guideline”.
- Nominating Report (pg. 45 – 51) - MOVED by Lloyd Mitchell, seconded by John Giffin the adoption of this report, excluding the Deacons Board. Lloyd noted that the committee would continue to address the outstanding issue of membership on the CE committee through 2009. He acknowledged and thanked the committee members.
There was one amendment: Tara Williams was omitted from the Readers List.
The Moderator called for a vote on all the above reports. Carried.
Deacons Board - MOVED by Graham Starratt, seconded by Ron McLean, that Bob Archibald and Heather Cox be made Deacons. Carried.
MINUTES OF THE 109th (2008) ANNUAL MEETING Page 2
February 24, 2009
Financial Statements (pgs. 59 – 65) – Doug Burke MOVED the adoption of the 2008 Financial statements as presented. Seconded by Lloyd Mitchell.
Doug noted the following:
- The mortgage has been re-negotiated to reduce our monthly payments. We were able to do this due to the $100,000 we paid down on the mortgage using monies borrowed from the investment funds. There are 14 years left to go in the term of the mortgage.
- Pages 60-65 – non-budgeted receipts have been separated from the ones we budget for.
- Page 62 – the cost of the small study group books seems high but this is off-set by monies in the receipts where people donated the cost of their book.
The Moderator called for the vote on the acceptance of the 2008 Financial Statements. Carried.
2009 Budget: Doug spoke to the 2009 budget as presented.
He noted that the last three years it has been a struggle to meet the budgets as set and last year was particularly difficult. The beginning bank balance in 2008 was approximately $5,000 which is not even equivalent to one payroll. By April there was no money in the bank – bills were paid as money came in to cover them or by using the monies in the Reserve Funds. Meetings were held in June and September to advise what was happening, and a Second Mile campaign was launched. It was mid- November before the cash level rose again, and thanks to the generosity of the Second Mile, $2,500 donated by the Friendship Circle, and other contributors we started 2009 with approximately $17,000 in the bank. We are still in a precarious position.
The Finance Committee is concerned about the 2009 budget. They would have preferred a budget of $370,000 but are presenting $378,600. The Boards and Committees carefully reviewed their figures and cut where they could.
Questions:
- It was noted that the medical plan for staff is fully paid by the church by recommendation of our Convention and there is an increase in 2009.
- CE budget seems high in relation to the 2008 expenses because in 2008 some material was donated and other cost savings were realized that we cannot expect in 2009.
- The Radio Ministry does not have a budget as that committee feels they will generate, or already have, sufficient funds to meet their needs. A donation of $1,000 was received from a station in Ontario and with the $1,500 on reserve it should be enough.
- The Benevolent Fund doesn’t have a budget as only the amount donated (or what comes in) will be spent. The fund is confidentially administered by the Deacons and Pastoral staff.
- What the Summer Missions Fund (pg. 64) of $5,649 was? Lic. Kevin Haggarty explained that it was residual funds raised by the youth to fund their summer mission trips that was not needed at that time. The monies were placed in a reserve fund till they were needed.
- Why are we paying ourselves interest on the monies borrowed against the investment funds? Because we borrowed that money it cannot earn interest/dividends and the repayment of interest helps compensate for that. Doug stressed that he feels very strongly that this is the correct thing to do and would have strong objections if it were ever considered unnecessary to do so.
MINUTES OF THE 109th (2008) ANNUAL MEETING Page 3
February 24, 2009
- It was noted that we are depleting our reserve accounts in order to meet our annual budgets and this is cause for concern.
- How are the investments controlled? They are held at the Bank of Nova Scotia and administered by the Treasurer, with input and guidance from the Finance Committee. Two signatures are required for all transactions. Our current account is held at the Bank of Commerce. Reserve funds are mostly held in GICs.
- What is the Stevens Social Fund? An amount left by Laurie Stevens and is being held until used for something of special significance.
The Radio Ministry borrowed monies from the Memorial Fund to start the program. This needs to be paid back in 2010. The funds were used to buy material and equipment. Lisa Rand, from the C.E. Committee, noted that C.E. highly valued this endeavor and MOVED that the loan to the Radio Committee be forgiven, removing the need for repayment. Seconded by Ian Haggarty. Carried with one negative vote.
The Moderator called for a vote on the acceptance of the 2009 proposed budget. Carried.
Doug added one final note. As of the Sunday previous to the meeting, we are behind our budget by $6,000 already.
Refugee Sponsorship – Sandra MacKenzie gave a brief report on the progress of our “paper sponsorship of Fasil Yohanna from Ethiopia. We are aiding a neighbour, Yehayes Taefora, to bring this young man to Canada. Mr. Taefora will assume financial and practical care for Fasil, we are helping him with the paper work. Graham Starratt took the file to Immigration. The whole process will take almost two years. Without our help and support this would take Mr. Taefora 5 to 10 years. Other churches in the area have asked if there is some help they can provide so we are sure this partnership will work well.
New Business
- Kathy Cochrane spoke on behalf of the Board of Deacons. They have interviewed Heather Cox and would like to recommend that she be given a License to Minister. Is Heather going into the ministry? Yes. Kathy MOVED that Heather Cox be granted a License to Minister, seconded by Bernie Levy. Carried.
- Ron McLean MOVED that Kathy Cochrane, Miriam MacDonald, and Heather Cox, be allowed to lead baptism and communion services as per their licenses to minister. SECONDED by Ian Haggarty. Carried.
All business was determined to be complete. The following comments were then made.
Ron McLean spoke about how encouraged and excited he is when reading the reports by Pastor Bob, Dr. Ida and Lic. Kevin Haggarty. He can see the Spirit of God working here. He noted that we are fortunate to have high quality of leadership at Bedford Baptist and that the members of pastoral staff each have unique gifts that enable them to work separately and as a team. He hoped he spoke for many in this and hoped that they each felt supported and encouraged.
Bernie Levy spoke about the support that has been received for “Bricks for Bayside” which he brought to us last year. He thanked the church for all the support and work that has been done. He is very grateful.
MINUTES OF THE 109th (2008) ANNUAL MEETING Page 4
February 24, 2009
Lloyd Mitchell noted that after listening to and reading the Finance reports, he felt that the Finance Committee deserved a vote of thanks. A round of applause was given.
Heather Cox noted that in the attendance here tonight there were 13 youth members and prays we continue to affirm them.
Dr. Ida gave a brief update on Elizabeth Manteuffel, our former organist, who is very ill. It is wonderful to see the outpouring of love and support for her and her family and they are very grateful for it.
Lic. Kevin Haggarty noted how much we have to celebrate, new faces in the church, new opportunities to minister, a Finance Committee so dedicated and caring, and carrying a great burden. He then closed in prayer.
The meeting dismissed at 9:00 p.m.
Respectively submitted
Alana Foster,
Assistant Church Clerk
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
As you read this report on the activities of our church, you will realize that the work of our church is accomplished by many people.
There are many people in our church who faithfully serve the Lord in the areas He has called them to: Teachers in our children’s programs, leaders of our youth programs and summer ministry programs. Folks, who serve in the nursery, sing in our sanctuary choir and the worship team. People who serve as: deacons, visitors, ushers, and greeters. Individuals who serve as treasurer, moderator, vice moderator, church clerk, church historian, historical records clerk, envelope secretary, chairs of committees and those who serve on the various committees. Individuals who serve as: tellers, Beacon House representatives and office helpers. People like the ladies of our WMS groups, Friendship Circle, Ladies Alive, leaders of our small group ministries, members of our prayer chain, and the trustees who maintain our church property. Our pastors, church staff and all those who quietly perform a multitude of tasks that seems to go unnoticed. Without these members of our congregation giving of their time, talents and resources the church would not flourish.
To all who joined in the “Body of Christ” to do the work of the Kingdom,
“Thank you!”
“Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts,
remembering that as members of one body you are called to live in harmony,
and never forget to be thankful for what God has done for you.
Let Christ’s teaching live in your hearts, making you rich in the true wisdom.
Teach and help one another along the right road with your psalms and hymns
and Christian songs, singing God’s praises with joyful hearts.
And whatever work you may have to do, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, thanking God the Father through him.”
Colossians 3:16 (Phillips)
Church Staff
Rev. Robert Ohsberg Senior Pastor
Rev. Dr. Ida Armstrong-Whitehouse Associate Pastor
Lic. Kevin A. Haggarty Youth Pastor
Mrs. Lynn Sharam Ministry of Music
Mrs. Sharon Higgins Office Administrator
Mr. Joel Scott Caretaker
Report of the Senior Pastor
In looking over the year of 2009, I echo the words of my last report. Life in its various forms has continued to impact all of us. “As we have gone through the year, we have sometimes borne up others, and sometimes we have been the ones borne up.” Thank you for being part of our fellowship. I am thankful to be part of it, too.
On a personal note, as the summer drew to a close, Nancy’s father was hospitalized in Saint John. Through the following weeks he made recovery but was in need to continuing care. Nancy and her sister and husband closed the home, and Nancy’s mother and father moved to Halifax. In a matter of weeks Nancy’s father died and we relocated her mother within the same care facility. But this has been a major strain, commitment and demand for Nancy and our family. Thank you for all the expressions of care and for the many prayers. Thank you for your patience, too. I really appreciate that you know and understand that I am not a pastor in a vacuum, but live a life similar to yourselves.
We were able to implement our Christian Life and Service Seminars (C.L.A.S.S.) late in the Fall. Let me again briefly outline it:
C.L.A.S.S. 101 - Introduction to Our Church Family
We are introduced to Jesus Christ and salvation, what is important to our church and our key practices, and how we are organized.
C.L.A.S.S. 201 – Developing Your Spiritual Maturity
We focus on four basic habits every Christian needs to develop in order to grow in spiritual maturity.
C.L.A.S.S. 301 - Discovering Your SHAPE for Ministry
During this class we'll use tools that help us see how God wants to utilize someone with your SHAPE (Spiritual Gifts, Heart, Abilities, Personality and Experience).
C.L.A.S.S. 401 - Discovering Your Life Mission
You’ll discover and realize your place in our world and at home. “Discovering My Life Mission” equips and empowers you for life-changing missions.
This approach is important for BBC in a couple of key ways:
- In presenting this to our Deacons and their adoption of it, this becomes the cornerstone for our church membership process. As a person seeks to indentify themselves with us in our church, they will be guided through these seminars. They will find out more about us, and we about them, and there will be times of commitment incorporated into the sessions. Then this leads to meaningful avenues for ministry.
- CLASS will also function as a cornerstone for our Christian Education development. Various things like seminars, study materials and small groups can be organized at the various levels introduced in CLASS. For example, evangelism builds upon 101, Bible Study upon 201, studies on the Holy Spirit on 301, and outreach on 401. Once again, as a person moves through these seminars, meaningful avenues for ministry are identified.
Our CLASSes are not a one-time opportunity, but will be offered on an ongoing rotation through the year.
In our church life together we continue to search for a Choir Director / Organist. No one of us anticipated the time it has taken as we progress to replace Elisabeth, whom we deeply loved and appreciated. While we have really been blessed with our various interims (at year’s end Christine Cole, and as I now write, Lynn Sharam, whom we treasure and appreciate) we desire the continuity that comes from filling the position and the development of our music ministry. We note with deep appreciation the on-going ministry of our Worship Team, as we continue to affirm diversity in our worship. And we continue to uphold our Music Committee and the Search Team with our prayers.
I know you’ll enjoy reading the reports about our Radio Station Hill Top FM 99.3 We get a variety of positive responses from all over the place. We are improving in our Sunday morning worship broadcasts and many are finding them meaningful. It takes a lot of work to keep the programming going, and I thank Heather, Kevin and the many others who contribute their time and skills.
I have officiated in 3 funerals and assisted in several others during the course of the year. Kindly continue in prayer for one another and for those of the larger communities around us, that they may know God’s comfort and support as they continue on.
I had the privilege and joy of conducting 3 weddings in ‘09.
I have visited with many of you as you have stopped in at the office. I have been with you in hospital and care-facilities, and in your homes too. I trust that our conversations and prayers have been encouraging.
I have continued to preach on a regular basis, sharing responsibilities with Pastor Ida and other guests. I pray that I have been truthful in the handling of God’s Word, and that the Holy Spirit has brought His truths to you in practical and meaningful ways.
There was a decreased attendance for our Summer Drive-In Services, being supported by people mainly from our own church. Still, I was blessed by the many who ministered in music and by those who gave personal testimony on The Witness Stand. Thanks again to our Sound Crew who made it possible to be heard “right in your car.”
Everything we do as a church needs to relate to God’s calling and sending us to take part in His mission. Where we once thought of BBC as the sending agency and missionaries as the people who we sent, we now need to think of Nova Scotia as the mission territory, for we realize that God is a calling and sending God, and our church – we, you and me - are the called and sent people. So as we enter 2010, let’s ask: What is God calling and sending us to be and do? The answer is expressed in our communities as we look around and design our ministry in response to our sending God.
We must be a community of faith where we see and participate in God’s mission together. At the center of our life and ministry, we will spend time together, opening our minds and hearts and imaginations to the movement of the Holy Spirit through prayer and worship, Bible study and conversation. At the same time we need to learn about our neighborhoods, asking, “What are the forces and factors that are blocking the fulfillment of life as God intended it?” Together we will understand God’s mission here amongst us, shape our ministry in ways unique to us, and use the gifts we have been given.
This year we will learn a little more about our history, theology and commitment. We will share commitments that enable God’s leading to become reality. We will be the means by which people will be welcomed into God’s kingdom. I am looking forward to being part of this! Aren’t you?
Respectively submitted,
Pastor Bob
“You were chosen to tell about the excellent qualities of God, who called you.”
1 Peter 2:9 GWT
Report of the Associate Pastor
“Great is thy faithfulness, morning by morning new mercies I see”
As the activities and ministry of 2010 get under way, it is good to pause for a moment and remember God’s goodness and faithfulness to us in the year 2009.
May I personally express appreciation to all who shared in the leadership of Bedford Baptist this past year with your time and talents to further the work of Christ. A significant part of the work is “behind the scenes”. Thank you to a host of people whose work is inconspicuous but “to the Lord”.
As I review 2009, the following are some of the ministries that I had the privilege of being involved in. These ministries are a sample of the many and varied opportunities the Holy Spirit gives.
As well as a written account, I have included a statistical report that also indicates the numerous facets of ministry in which I am involved. It’s been an incredible experience of “being a servant of the Lord.” at Bedford Baptist. I share in the preaching, teaching, visitation, counselling, care ministry, new life, weddings, discipleship, outreach, mission and losses/ death in the congregation. I share in the joys and the sorrows as we walk in the Lord.
January - This was a very hard time in the life of our church.
We had over 9 families in our church that were grieving the recent loss of a loved one. I shared in funerals, memorials and/or visits with family members.
This was the beginning of 6-7 week Small Groups and Marriage course held on Sunday evenings. Nancy Ohsberg coordinated the Small Group ministries and I coordinated the Marriage Course. (There were 9 people enrolled). This video series is an excellent resource for better communication and gives “tools” for couples to better understand and deal with conflict. This course is offered at least once every year. If applicable, please consider coming to the next series.
Through our Missions Committee, Miro and Christy Rak spoke at a Sunday morning service about their call to Czech Republic for a Short Term Mission. (1year). They were presented with a cheque and a promise of our prayers for the coming year.
February - On February 15th, the Radio Committee had their Launch of "99.3 FM, Hilltop Radio" after our morning church service. Our Youth room was packed with people from the congregation. Pastor Kevin was on the air telling our listeners of our official status as Pastor Bob and I cut the ribbon. This broadcasting has become a reality after many years of hard work and visioning. This started as a youth program and the signal range was our church parking lot. A strong core of people, led by Pastor Kevin, working closely with a consultant, slogged through all the CRTC regulations, purchased and installed the equipment needed and set up programming for our own radio station. It has been a mammoth task. What a wonderful vehicle for ministry this station will give us to reach out to our community. Praise God! (It will broadcast 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The station can be heard in Bedford, Sackville, and parts of Halifax, Mount Uniacke, and Hammonds Plains)
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In February I was involved with writing and editing some reports for our Annual Business Meeting (February 24th). Although it is time consuming, it is a wonderful way of recalling all God’s mercies to us in the past year and His faithfulness to us. I am particularly thankful for Sharon Higgins’ dedication and Pastor Nelson’s “eagle eye” with all the extra work these Annual Reports entail.
March - The Christian Education Committee held its second “Lunch & Learn” event after our Sunday worship. This teaching focused on Ministering to the Elderly and we had two excellent presenters. I am excited that we are trying to address “grassroots” issues at our church.
This was a good month for looking beyond our church to being aware of our world and its needs. On March 27, I attended the annual “Jesus to the Nations” mission conference at Mount St. Vincent University. Approx. 20 of our Youth Alive and their leadership also attended as part of their 30 hour famine program. Our Missions Committee gave support through a church donation.
Also in March, I drove and took part in the regular rotation of our church’s ministry to St. George’s Soup Kitchen. This is coordinated by Krista-Lee Bates under the Youth Ministry. It is a great outreach and you are invited to share in this ministry. Check with Krista-Lee or Kevin for further information.
At the end of the month you gave me a special blessing. - Thank you for the wonderful celebration that you as a congregation planned to mark my ministry among you for the last 20 years. It was humbling, overwhelming and incredible to have that experience of love and support from you. There were many people behind the scenes that made that event possible and I thank you for the gift of the day. There were over 226 people who signed the guest book. From the “love offering” I received I went in October to see the art treasures of Rome and Paris with my 2 daughters. Gregg stayed at home and kept the home fires burning.
April - This was one of the highest points, for me, in the Christian Year. We worshiped and fellowshipped in many ways during Holy Week. They included our Palm Sunday Intergenerational with 9 craft options – 75p participated, our annual Seder Meal – 100 participants plus kitchen staff (largest attendance ever), Maundy Thursday -75p (Highlight was washing Bernie Levy’s feet), Good Friday – Faith Baptist Church joined us for the service and over 175 were in attendance, Early Easter Services - 70p. (I wrote an Easter mini-drama that Bonnie Matthews and Thomas McGrath performed) and finally our 11am Easter Service with 370p.
With University and College students being stressed with final exams, the Pastoral Staff on behalf of the CE Committee sent out 45 “Toonie” letters to show our support and care to our University/College Students.
I enjoyed serving on the Stewardship Committee. The main fund raiser was a Beans and Brown Bread Luncheon held in April. (I made some chili for those who weren’t “purists"). It was a great time of fellowship and money was raised to help with the church budget. God worked through all our activities, big or small.
May - For the 4th year, we held a “New to You” clothing sale at the church. This is a great way to be good stewards of what God has blessed us with and a good opportunity to recycle clothing. It was also a good way of bringing in the community to our church and was helpful as a fundraiser for CE Ministries.
In May, Canadian Baptist Ministries asked if I would step up to be one of 4 regional vice-presidents for the National Board (representing the Atlantic Region). I have been grateful that the Church has seen this as part of my ministry outside the church location.
We received word in May that we had been offered 3 Government Grants (applied for 4). Although we started the application process and the receiving of resumes in February, we re-opened the job applications as we made commitment to engage in open competition to visible minorities and those with disabilities. Interview committee consisted of CE representative. Deacon’s representative, Senior Pastor and Associate Pastor. Our Summer Staff began in June.
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On Mother’s Day, we celebrated Solidarity Sunday. “Toonies” were collected to support outreach in Indonesia and $900 was raised. We had a special interest in Indonesia as Paige Burns-Mamamit who is a field staff/ Missionary working in Indonesia was our Missions Sunday speaker last year. We were humbled by her message.
I appreciated taking Sunday, May 10th to attend Maia’s graduation at Acadia University. Present and past members of our church, Divinity students Kevin Haggarty, Borden Scott and Christopher Drew all graduated on that day as well!
Through the efforts of many, we had a wonderful surprise party to celebrate Pastor Kevin’s graduation, complete with words of tribute and cardboard testimonies.
Our Hi/KidVenture came to its year-end complete with singing, BBQue, cotton candy, giving of Bibles and fireworks. Over 90 people attended. As coordinator, Wendy Levy and I were very thankful for the many busy hands and feet to make this outreach/teaching ministry possible.
I shared in supervision of Krista-Lee Bates who was hired as a UBWMU DVBS Coordinator and did ministry at our church for a month before going to 10 churches in the NS and NB areas.
June to August - In June our church hosted the Lay Pastor’s Training Program graduation and our Kathy Cochrane was one of the graduates!
It was good to be asked to give the opening prayer for the Lwr. Sackville “Relay for Life” cancer fundraiser. As a church I think we need to be visible in our community.
I began a year of supervision with Lic. Jody Linkletter who is doing a year of Internship as a requirement for ordination.
We began our Summer Drive-in Services and I enjoyed exploring the “I Am” themes as a sermon series. (Thanks to Rev. Joan Nickerson for the idea.)
Under the auspices of the Library Committee and spearheaded by Wanda Tingley, we had the most successful reading program in the history of our church. This program encouraged people from the congregation to read spiritual books from our church library. The library is a wonderful resource for us to be connected with God.
In August we had a full contingent of delegates/visitors who attended our yearly CABC Oasis. There were about 10 in total who attended from our church.
September - In September we were blessed to have Borden Scott as our speaker for our annual church fall retreat at Camp Mush-A-Mush. It was a truly intergenerational event. There were as many youth as there were adults that attended. God gave us a great way to begin our fall with fellowship and renewal.
On our 110th Anniversary of our church we had the wonderful experience of 4 teens who were baptized by Youth Pastor Kevin and Youth Leader and Divinity Student Heather Cox. It visually portrayed God’s command to “Go and make disciples, baptizing them…”
October - Our CE committee, with help from our Baptist Association, held a “Rapha” conference in our church. Its purpose was to raise awareness and understanding to our churches re mental illness. This is a justice issue that the church should be championing and we did!
November - Our church participates in the annual Remembrance Day service at the Bedford Cenotaph and this year there was an exceptionally large crowd of over 1300. I was one of five clergy to take part.
On November 29th, I helped coordinate the Christmas Intergenerational. Over 100 people participated in learning centres, had supper coordinated by the Social Committee and “The Hanging of the Greens”. (Thanks to the Bakers’ and Thomas’ for preparing the decorations.)
December - I was involved over the Christmas season with coordinating some of the “Christmas Giving”. There was the wonderful “Mitten Tree” that was a great help to parents of Hi/KidVenture and a local school and the Christmas Family Project. (See separate report) As well, I was encouraged by the response that the congregation made to the CBM Gift catalogue.
We once again held our “Blue Christmas” Service. This year we sent out 31 invitations to families who had recently lost a loved one. This year the service was taped so that those unable to attend the service could listen to the CD.
As usual, we had a wonderful Celebration of the gift of Christ coming as Immanuel, “God with us.” It happened in many ways. Through the Sanctuary Cantata, the special family craft night for Hi/KidVenture complete with a story from Stephen Davidson and Haycorn, the special Christmas gifts purchased by Youth Alive for needy families, the Soup Kitchen carolers, the warm socks for the homeless, the many purchasers of CBM gift cards, the excitement of our Christmas Eve family service and the quiet, thoughtful atmosphere of the Christmas Eve Reflective service, we brought glory and obedience to God. Praise God!
Wider Ministries - I’m very grateful to the church for allowing me to serve in ministries beyond the scope of the local church. I am in my 11th year as a RCMP chaplain, my 5th year as a National Board member of Canadian Baptist Ministries and my 3rd year as-chair of the Halifax Baptist Hospital Chaplaincy Committee.
I want to say thank you for the opportunity to minister in partnership with you at Bedford Baptist Church over the last 21 years. It has been a profound season of ministry for me as you have allowed me to be with you in the different experiences of your lives. Together we have sought to live out our faith in order to walk more closely with our God through Jesus Christ. It has been a privilege to serve as one of your pastors.
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In the past year, there have been many who have served Christ faithfully in the church and in our community and in our world. It has been a privilege to work with the various Boards and Committees from our church and those who have chaired them. A special thank you to the following chairs or heads of ministries for 2009:-
Moderator, Bev Giffin; Church Clerk, Ann Ingram; Assistant Church Clerk, Alana Foster; Treasurer, April Barrett; Envelope Secretary, Marion Grant; Church Historian, Sandra Irving; Deacons, Katherine Cochrane; Missions, Graham Starratt; Trustees, Ted Keddy & Phillip Cox; Christian Education, Lisa Rand & Andrea McCurdy; KidZone, Gillian Davidson; Hi/KidVenture, Wendy Levy and Andrea McCurdy; Ladies Alive, Marg MacPhee; Website, Tim McLean; Muriel Bent WMS, Sandra MacKenzie; Jean Rushton WMS, Arlene Metcalfe; Seniors Outreach, Ron & Norma McLean, Marion Grant and Miriam and George MacDonald; Beacon House, Jean Woodworth; Small Group Ministries, Nancy Ohsberg; Music, Elaine Melanson & David McCurdy; Sanctuary Choir, Juli Melanson; Worship Team and Girls in Motion, Heather Cox; Guys Playing Stuff, Ben Bates & Daniel Mitton; Reserved/back-up Choir Director, Wendy Levy; Reserved/back-up Pianist, Jane MacLaren; Resident Ventriloquist, Stephen Davidson; Bulletin Folders, Ross and Clara Scott; Phone Reminder, Marg MacPhee; Nursery, Susan Scott; Pre-School, Duane & Judith Yeomans and Bernie Levy; Constitution Task Force, Al Ingram; Library, Wayne Nickerson; Friendship Circle, Nancy Duffy; Social Committee, Dianne Cox, Lois Long & Lynda Mitchell; Floral, Sandra MacKenzie; Visitation & Tape Ministry Committee, Miriam MacDonald; Historical Records, Wayne Nickerson; Stewardship, Catherine MacMullin; Finance, Doug Burke & Bob Short; Investment Committee, Doug Burke, Bob Short, April Barrett & Ian McKinnon; Auditors, John Davies, Webster Sweet; Intergenerational, Beryl MacKinnon and Andrea McCurdy; Summer Ministry Coordinators, Heather Cox, Alex Ewing and Stefan Purdy; Prayer Chain, Erna Rand & Nancy Duffy; Decorating, Suzanne Baker & Debbie Thomas; Radio, Ian Haggarty; PA System, Brian Bates & Phillip Cox; Technology, Nathaniel Rand & Adam Wambolt; Nominating, Lloyd Mitchell.
I've been blessed with the presence and prayer ministry of our congregational clergy and their spouses throughout the years. Their support has been greatly appreciated - Rev. Nelson & Arlene Metcalfe, Rev. Joan & Wayne Nickerson, Rev. Dr. Ron & Norma McLean, Rev. Henry & Lynn Sharam, Rev. Gary & Jean Myatt, Rev. Marlene and David Knowles, Rev. Dr. Frank & Donna Guinta, and my dear husband Rev. Gregg Whitehouse.
I have also been blessed with the opportunity to work in ministry together with a very devoted staff this past year. - Sr. Pastor, Rev. Bob Ohsberg; Youth Pastor, Kevin Haggarty; Office Administrator, Sharon Higgins; Interim Organist/ Choir Director, Lynn Sharam and Christine Cole; Caretaker, Joel Scott.
Respectfully submitted,
Rev. Dr. Ida Armstrong-Whitehouse
Associate Pastor
Report of the Edu-Kids Project
This fall we supplied over 23 children with school supplies through the Edu-Kids Project. It was rewarding to be able to help families with school supplies
Thanks to you the Congregation for making this new project of four years a success with your generous and varied donations.
Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Ida
Report of the Christmas Family Project
This Christmas we assisted in providing gifts and food support to 18 children and adults. Thanks to the support of the following: Ocean Nutrition, Friendship Circle, Youth Alive and families and individuals within our church for their generous support.
We also gave 60 Hi/KidVenture children items for winter weather from the Mitten Tree (extras were given to school). Through St. George’s Soup Kitchen, we provided over 100 warm items for the homeless. Thanks to Superstore (Bedford & Lower Sackville) for their kind donations and to Miriam MacDonald for coordinating this.
This project is coordinated by Dr. Ida under the Deacon’s Benevolent Fund Ministry..
Respectfully submitted,
Dr. Ida
Report of the Benevolent Fund
This ministry is primarily funded through the monthly Communion offerings; $4617 was received. This ministry is administered by our pastoral staff and accountable to the Board of Deacons through the Chair of the Deacons. It is used to help those who are in need. Our greatest demands are for assistance with food and oil. We had 123 requests in the past year for assistance to which we were able to respond.
Respectfully submitted,
Rev. Robert Ohsberg & Rev. Dr. Ida Armstrong-Whitehouse
“Whenever we have opportunity, we should do good
Whenever you possibly can, do good to those who need it.”
Ephesians 5:16
Report of the Youth Pastor
“Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” Matthew 7:1, 2
This is a tough verse. Many of us struggle with it. All of us have failed at it at some point in our lives. I mean, it is easy to judge isn’t it? We look at someone who is different from us or who looks a certain way, or talks a certain way...or acts a certain way, and we categorize them. We judge. We judge them because they are young...or old. We judge them by their past actions, or present ones. We judge them for who they hang around, or where they hang around.
Sometimes we don’t call it judging. Sometimes we call it “opinion” or “passing thought”. Sometimes it’s an “I’m just saying...” and others it’s an “I know this is true”. Regardless we are often quick to judge and slow to love.
You may wonder why I am starting my report this way. Well, it is primarily because this can be one of the biggest struggles we have as a youth leadership team. We have young people who come from every walk of life. Many have never been in a church before. Some of them do not respect us as leaders, some do not respect the building and some have no respect for God. Sometimes we wonder what brings them here at all. In our frustration it can become easy to fall into a pattern of judgement and discipline.
But God has challenged us to reverse the pattern of our lives. He has asked us to be quick to love and slow to judge. We remind ourselves that “all have sinned and fallen short of the Glory of God” (that includes all of us btw ‘by the way’); that the next verse of Matthew 7 reminds us to “First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend’s eye.”
The more we concentrate on this, the more we see God doing great things in our midst. We saw four young people going through the waters of baptism last year. Three committed themselves to Christ for the first time. You will see them in church on Sunday mornings. Others have started coming to church and our Fireside Bible studies, a number of whom do so without any parental support.
Quick to Love has also helped to increase our numbers at Youth Group on Wednesday nights. We had an average of 55 youth every week, our top night hitting over 80. We are currently ministering to over 120 young people on a regular or semi-regular basis. This has led us to look at significant changes in this years’ ministry plan. We are excited about where God is leading us.
Slow to judge has opened the doors to many long hours of stories and confessions and pleas for help. Our youth understand that they can share with us without being condemned or defined by their struggles. It gives us the opportunity to give them biblically based advice that
helps develop a biblical worldview and a healthy lifestyle. While we do not pretend to know it all, they know we will laugh with them, and cry with them, celebrate their victories and mourn their defeats.
To deepen relationships we provide many opportunities to be in community and grow together. Girls In Motion (GIM) continues to provide an important source of encouragement, fellowship and instruction for our girls. Our Movie Night team and Spaghetti Social team continue to give our youth opportunities to be involved in service and outreach. Our Mission Team continues to visit the Soup Kitchen at St Georges and has organized several senior’s home visits. Our pre-service time has from 15 to 20 young people getting together at 10:15 on a Sunday morning to talk about the scripture passage of the day and pray (You should know that we pray for you as you come to church on Sunday!). Our Fireside group ranges from 15 to 22 every Sunday night.
This summer we had the joy of helping with 3 VBS programs; one here, one at Faith and one in Mount Uniacke. We had a great experience attending and participating in Conventions’ Tidal Impact Mission Tour. It was really well put together and our young people had a very rich spiritual experience there. Our Spiritual Retreat at the end of the summer was also well attended and God had something to say to all of us. Many of our leaders are involved in their own small groups where they study and share in deeper more meaningful ways.
I guess what I am saying is that reversing the trend in our lives and moving towards our “quick to love, slow to judge” way of being has not been achieved by osmosis or by a sudden change of heart. It has come by way of hours and hours of study and prayer. It has come from the Spirit’s conviction and inspiration. It has come by remembering that “We love, because he first loved us”. (Read all of 1st John actually, it’s a real eye-opener). And it has come with a unified vision and purpose of why we exist as a leadership team and why our church exists as a ministry. We exist to live out the Great Commandment and the Great Commission. We exist to love, God-style, unconditionally. We exist to bring God’s Kingdom here to earth. That can only happen...if we love. Period.
I should include a quick word about our Radio station here I suppose. We have had a good first year on the air. Two of our youth are doing weekly live broadcasts. It has been good to get feedback from both church and community listeners. Thank you for your support.
Once again, I turn to the unique translation in the Message to give us something to think about:
Matthew 7:1-5 "Don't pick on people, jump on their failures, criticize their faults— unless, of course, you want the same treatment. That critical spirit has a way of boomeranging. It's easy to see a smudge on your neighbour's face and be oblivious to the ugly sneer on your own. Do you have the nerve to say, 'Let me wash your face for you,' when your own face is distorted by contempt? It's this whole traveling road-show mentality all over again, playing a holier-than-thou part instead of just living your part. Wipe that ugly sneer off your own face, and you might be fit to offer a washcloth to your neighbour.”
I’ve been excited to see fewer and fewer washcloths in our church and more and more face-wipes. I see a lot of love and compassion in our community of faith. I see it spreading throughout our church family and becoming the core of who we are. Perhaps that’s why so many people seem to be coming to our church...and staying.
May God continue to bless our church with His presence; may Christ continue to be the example that we strain to live closer to; may the Spirit convict us and soften our hearts, and may we always be a church known for being “quick to love, and slow to judge”.
Thanks for all your prayerful support of our Youth Ministry in 2009.
Yours in Christ,
Kevin Haggarty,
Youth Pastor
Report of the Church Moderator
The main objective of the Executive Committee is to hold monthly meetings on a regular basis and also to hold any special meetings, during the year. The communication of members of the Boards and Committees is of utmost importance in order to support and encourage the numerous programs being held throughout the year.
During the year 2009, there were regular monthly meetings, with the exception of a break during the summer months of July and August. Three special meetings were called; the first being held on November 10, 2009 for a Congregational meeting to discuss the Annual Budget for the year 2010. The second meeting was called on November 26, 2009 for discussion regarding a Gift (monetary) from an anonymous donor. The third meeting was to discuss the hiring of a full time Music Director.
The members of the Executive Committee as well as the Chairs and members of all the Boards and Committees have been tireless in their endeavours during the past year and we congratulate each one for their dedication to their tasks.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Alana Foster and Grace Johnston for their willing and able support. They have cheerfully rose to any occasion and task that has been handed to them by me. The love and support from these ladies was very uplifting to me during some trying months.
I would also like to say a word of thanks to the Pastoral Staff, Rev. Bob, Dr. Ida, and Pastor Kevin who have guided us through the year with their leadership and prayers.
My thanks to all of the folks who have served on the Boards and Committees, during the past two years. I will be retiring as of the end of February, but hope to be involved with the life and heart of the church for many more years.
Respectfully submitted,
Beverly Giffin,
Church Moderator
“...what does the Lord God ask of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways,
to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul.”
Deut 10:12 NIV
Report of the Church Clerk
I am pleased to present the 2009 Annual Report of the Church Clerk.
In 2009 the duties of the Church Clerk and Assistant Church Clerk were separated into two distinct areas. Alana Foster, as Assistant Church Clerk, took on the responsibilities of attending the Meetings of the Executive Committee, Church Council and any Special Meetings, recording and distributing the minutes. The Church Clerk, attended any meetings the Assistant Church Clerk was unable to attend [only one this year], recorded all changes in membership status during the year and was responsible for all correspondence regarding membership.
Minutes of all meetings were duly recorded and made available to the congregation.
One Baptismal Service was held on September 27th.
BAPTIZED AND NOT RECEIVED INTO MEMBERSHIP:
Jason McCurdy, Sasha Hubley, Taylor Parsons and Nicole Willmore
DEATHS
During the year we mourned the passing of 9 members and adherents of our congregation: Bertha Joudrey*, Curtis Chipman, Althea Kaulback*, Paula Steeves, Norina MacLeod, Lola Murphy, Ida Johnston, Craig Sherman, and Rev. John Butler. * indicates membership
TRANSFERRED IN AND RECEIVED THE RIGHT HAND OF FELLOWSHIP:
Goldye Smith, David Rice Smith, Rev. Dr. Frank Guinta, Donna Guinta, Carl Dominey,
Sylvia Dominey and Rev. Marlene Knowles.
TRANSFERRED OUT TO OTHER BAPTIST CHURCHES
Kenneth Drew, Sandra Drew, Borden Scott, Barbara Ward and William Ward
THE FOLLOWING STATISTICALLY SUMMARIZES THE MEMBERSHIP ACTIVITY IN 2009
At the end of 2008 total membership was……..396
Received by Baptism ……………………………….0
Received by Transfer………………………………..7
Transferred Out………………………………………5
Died……………………………………………………2
Total Resident Membership……………………...396
The actual active resident membership is 279.
Respectfully submitted,
Ann Ingram, Church Clerk
“Your word, O Lord, is eternal; it stands firm in the heavens.
Your faithfulness continues through all generations.”
Psalm 119:89-90 NIV
Report of the Deacon’s Board
The Deacons work alongside the Pastoral Staff to oversee the spiritual health of the congregation and to encourage and confirm the various ministries of the church. Although not always visible, the Deacons have worked hard behind the scenes this past year determining how best to serve the congregation both now and in the future. They have continued to endeavor at getting to know and better meeting the needs of the people of our congregation. There was considerable contact between Deacons and their “Deacon Care List”. Some ways contact was maintained with our church families included cards, phone calls, e-mails and, especially, face-to-face contact and visitation whenever possible. Deacons also fulfilled a number of specific duties: The “Deacon on Duty” will be seen each Sunday greeting the congregation as they arrive for the Service. Deacons are given the responsibility of preparing and serving monthly Communion. Deacons interview candidates for Baptism - and this past year were pleased to welcome several candidates. The Deacons arrange the “Witness on the Stand” testimonies for the summer Drive-in Services. The Deacons, along with the pastoral staff, are also tasked with distributing the benevolent offering fund thereby meeting down-to-earth material needs in our local community.
During this past, year Deacon Heather Cox, applied for and obtained a Church License to Minister while commencing her studies at Acadia Divinity College. The Deacons were pleased to receive, Deacon Miriam MacDonald, as the Student Field Experience (SFE) student for the next two years. Four Deacons had the privilege of preaching in our summer morning services while three Deacons had the responsibility of being Convention Delegates in Wolfville in August of 2009. Seven of the Deacons led small group studies during this past year including a unique new small group called Life After Fifty-five (LAFF) led by Miriam MacDonald.
On a lighter social level the Deacons participated in the celebrations of Ida’s 20 years of service and Kevin’s graduation. The Deacons and the Spaghetti Luncheon Team jointly prepared and served the Easter Breakfast in April and hosted the Seder Meal (100 people).
This has been both a challenging and rewarding year. The Deacons regretfully say good-bye to Webster Sweet and Bob Archibald and thank both for serving on the Deacon’s Board.
Respectfully Submitted,
Kathy Cochrane,
Chairperson of Deacons
“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through.
May your whole spirit, soul and body, be kept blameless
at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
1Thessalonians 5:23
Report of the Trustees Board
The Trustees continue to faithfully look after the church property, buildings and equipment. Ten regular meetings were held in 2009 and the Trustees participated in many work projects both inside and outside the church. Thank you to all the Trustees who contributed to the committee in 2009. Special thanks to Ralph Miller and Greg Wolfe who work all summer to look after maintenance of the church lawn.
“Many hands make light work” and the Trustees appreciate the many contributions of individuals and groups who work with the Trustees to help keep the church facilities in good order. In addition to church caretaker, Joel Scott, who has the important job of keeping the church clean, many individuals volunteer their time and talents to assist with Trustee projects over and over again. Thank you to the Kid Zone staff and helpers who painted the vestry and the classrooms and to College and Career who painted the primary classroom.
In addition to the day to day operation and maintenance of the church facilities, the Trustees planned, organized and completed the following projects:
· removed the “Celebrating the Faith” sign from the exterior wall of the sanctuary
· installed the sound proofing panels in the gymnasium with financial support provided by the Germany Mission Team
· acquired 75 good condition chairs at no cost from Stevens Road Baptist Church and constructed a new storage area to accommodate the additional chairs
· installed rain gutter flashing on the CE wing roof above the new garden
· relocated the second level CE wing washroom door from the corridor to the preschool classroom (formerly the 2's and 3's room)
· installed laminate flooring in the pre-school room that was purchased with funds from the Germany Mission Team and the spaghetti social ministry
· arranged for the cleaning and sanitizing of the carpets in the Sanctuary, the library, the nursery and the Heffler Room
· introduced “Guidelines for Room Use”
· replaced the electric stove in the parsonage
· replaced the combustion chamber in the parsonage boiler
Other projects that the Trustees assisted with were the installation of the antenna cable between the radio room and the radio station transmitter, installation of the Germany Mission Team funded television monitor in the choir loft and the purchase of surge protection and backup hardware for the church computers. Several Trustees also assisted in the construction of the new cabins at Bayside camp.
Respectfully submitted,
Ted Keddy and Phillip Cox
Co Chairs
“…whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
I Corinthians 10:31b NIV
Report of the Church Historian
The “Church on the Hill” had another year full of activities and programs for participants of all ages.
Weekly and monthly programs for boards, committees, children, youth, women and men continued making the monthly calendars a cornucopia of choices to work in God’s Kingdom and enjoy fun and fellowship together.
The Halifax Region United Baptist Association Council held their monthly meeting at the church. “Mondays in Metro” saw a Seminary Course on “Christian Ethics” under the leadership of Dr. Bill Brackney held at the church during the winter months. The Lay Pastor Training Program continued throughout the year for several Friday and Saturday sessions with our own Lic. Kathy Cochrane participating. The Constitution Review Task Force met most months and a Spaghetti Social one Sunday a month and a movie night one Saturday night a month were regular events. As well, the Executive of the Atlantic Baptist Women met at the church during the year.
January: The Finance Committee announced that the 2nd Mile Campaign carried out in the fall of 2008 had been a success and reduced the year end budget deficit to $5,350. The short term goals were to have a significant deficit reduction and to strengthen the Bedford Baptist Church cash position and these were met.
A seven week marriage course began in January as did a six week course called “God Is Closer than You Think”. As well, a daytime weekly program called LAFF – Life After Fifty-Five began. The purpose of LAFF is:
- To foster spiritual growth
- To receive and give prayer support
- To receive and give encouragement and support
- To get to know new people
- To find connection and community
- To share life’s experiences
On January 25, 2009, our special guest speakers were Christy Nickerson Rak and Rev. Miro Rak. They shared with the congregation their up-coming ministry to Litomerice, Czech Republic where they would be serving for most of 2009. Also on January 25th, Bertha Joudrey, a long time church member passed away.
February: The Missions Committee reported that they were giving $500 for the Mayich family ministry in Mongolia and $500 for Miro and Christy Rak for their Czech Republic ministry.
On February 8, 2009, the KidZone children’s group passed out Valentines to our church seniors 65 years of age and older and on February 15, 2009, after 6 years of work, the 99.3 Hilltop FM Radio Station was officially launched and the church now has an expanded outreach over the airwaves.
On February 24, 2009, the annual church business meeting was held to review the annual reports submitted and to approve the 2009 budget.
March: On March 8, 2009, a Lunch & Learn was held following the morning worship service entitled “Responding to the Needs of Aging”.
The Association Licensing Committee met at the church on March 21, 2009 to discuss licenses for a large group of candidates. As well, a Convention of Atlantic Baptist Churches Mission Rally was held the same day. The topic for the rally was “How do we Minister to New Canadians Who Come to Canada to Live?” The speaker was Dr. Barber, Director of Missional Initiative for the Baptist Convention of Ontario & Quebec.
On March 22, 2009, a Sunday morning small group session on Christian Meditation was begun with Rev. Henry Sharam as the facilitator.
The church celebrated 20 years of service for Rev. Dr. Ida Armstrong-Whitehouse as Associate Pastor on March 29, 2009. The speaker for the morning worship service was Rev. Joan Nickerson and following the service there was a luncheon and a time of fun and fellowship which included presentations, special music, skits, poems, cards, gifts and a money tree. Many of Ida’s family were able to attend and participate. A special photo album had been prepared and prayers of blessing were part of the event.
April: The first Sunday in April was Palm Sunday and two new members were received into church membership. Rev. Frank and Donna Guinta, our Region IV pastor and his wife, transferred their membership and became members.
The Easter Intergenerational “New Life in Christ” was held in the afternoon on Palm Sunday with over 100 people participating. The Easter week continued with the Maundy Thursday service and on Good Friday members of Faith Baptist Church worshipped with us and Dr. Bill Brackney was the guest preacher. Easter week concluded with the annual early service, breakfast and colouring contest and the morning worship service on Easter Sunday.
On April 15, 2009, the church was pleased to celebrate with Abel McGill as he became a Canadian citizen. Some church members were able to attend the Citizenship formalities with Abel. A Spring Thaw Beans & Brown Bread luncheon was held on April 19, 2009 following the morning worship service with donations going to help defray the winter heating costs. The Men’s Group held a bowling night on April 24, 2009 for fun and fellowship.
The Halifax Region United Baptist Association had their Spring Rally at Faith Baptist Church on April 25, 2009. It was a celebration of 400 years of Baptist history. Sandra Irving became the new Moderator of the Association at the end of that session and will serve in this capacity for one year. Many other members of Bedford Baptist participated in the day’s activities and Cheryl Hartlen, a delegate representing the church, wrote a synopsis of the day’s events for the church bulletin on May 3, 2009.
May: On May 2, 2009, there was a giant clothing sale held in the church gymnasium. Twenty young people from the church attended the annual Spring Forth event in Moncton on May 8 & 9, 2009. Mother’s Day, May 10, 2009 was also Solidarity Sunday with a focus on Indonesia.
Kevin Haggarty, Borden Scott and Christopher Drew, members or former church members, graduated from Acadia Divinity College on May 10, 2009. Their Commissioning Service was held at Wolfville Baptist Church on May 8, 2009 and the congregation was invited to attend. Kevin was not able to attend these events due to his participation in Spring Forth so on May 17, 2009, the church acknowledged Kevin’s accomplishment in graduating from Acadia Divinity College. Rev. Dr. Andrew MacRae was the guest speaker at the morning service and a celebration luncheon followed the service.
May 22, 2009 saw the Senior’s group taking a bus trip to Truro and Victoria Park. The Men’s group held a Men’s Breakfast at the church on May 23, 2009.
The Atlantic Baptist Women’s Convention was held on May 22 – 24, 2009 at the Atlantic Baptist University in Moncton. There were ten ladies from the congregation who were able to attend this event.
The last weekend in May, the church had a plant sale on the 30th, and on the 31st there was a presentation of 4 children and dedication of their parents during the morning worship service. Following the service there was a young couple’s luncheon.
June: Lic. Kathy Cochrane was one of the June graduates who completed the Convention’s Lay Pastor’s Training Program. The graduation was held at the church on June 13, 2009. In the evening of the same day, there was a pie and craft auction fundraising event.
The Church Family Picnic and Grad Barbeque was held on June 14, 2009 and Lic. Borden Scott gave the message. Former church member, Lic. Christopher Drew, had his induction service at West End Baptist Church. It was a great pleasure for Rev. Nelson Metcalfe, Chris’ former pastor to give the Induction Sermon and for Sandra Irving, HRUBA Moderator and family friend to participate in the Induction.
On June 27, 2009, many church members attended the Bayside Camp Open House. It was an opportunity for many church members to visit the new site and tour the new facilities.
The summer ministry team was introduced on June 28, 2009. Heather Cox, Children’s Ministry Coordinator, Stefan Purdy, Youth Ministry Coordinator and Alex Ewing, Computer/Radio Technician received government grant positions to work at the church. The drive-in evening church service and lemonade on the lawn began on June 28, 2009.
Another church member, Krista Lee Bates, also received a summer position as a Daily Vacation Bible School coordinator for the United Baptist Women’s Missionary Union. It is wonderful to see so many of our youth working in a Christian environment and sharing their gifts in a variety of ways.
July: Lic. Kathy Cochrane, a recent Lay Pastor Training graduate preached the sermon for the morning worship service on July 5, 2009. The Daily Vacation Bible School program “The Kingdom of the Sun” was offered from July 6 -10, 2009. On July 11, 2009 the summer drive-in movies began and on July 26, 2009 it was announced in the bulletin that there would be summer computer classes, with Alex Ewing, for those interested. On July 20 – 24, 2009 several of our church youth and adults assisted with a DVBS program at Faith Baptist Church.
August: Lic. Miriam MacDonald preached at the morning worship service on August 2, 2009. Miriam became our Supervised Field Education Student in the fall of 2009. An Arts Camp was held at the church from August 10 – 14, 2009. At the conclusion of the camp, the participants presented the play “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” on Friday evening.
Five delegates and several other church members attended the Oasis Convention Assembly in Wolfville from August 19 – 22, 2009. Several of the attendees wrote brief highlights for the next couple of church bulletins.
On August 30, 2009, Heather Cox, a student at Acadia Divinity College, preached the sermon. The last drive-in evening worship service for the summer was held that evening.
September: A Community Fair was held during the day on September 12, 2009 and a drive-in movie was presented in the evening. On September 13, 2009, Rally Day Sunday began the fall programs and a hotdog and corn boil followed the morning worship service. The Church Fall Retreat was held at Camp Mush-A-Mush on September 18 – 20, 2009. Lic. Borden Scott was the guest speaker for the weekend.
The Seniors went on another bus trip to the Old Orchard Inn and the Botanical Gardens at Acadia University on September 25, 2009. The last drive-in movie for the season was held on September 26, 2009.
On September 27, 2009, at the church’s 110th anniversary, a Baptism service was held and Jason McCurdy, Sasha Hubley, Taylor Parsons and Nicole Willmore made their public commitment to God. Rev. Dr. Harry Gardner was the guest preacher. There was a Spaghetti Social following the service and a celebration for the Summer Reading Program for the participants who read books from the church library over the summer. In the evening there was a potluck dessert buffet and 5 new Sunday night small group classes began for the fall season.
October: In preparation for Thanksgiving, the congregation was asked to participate in “Harvest Gathering” and to donate produce and non-perishable goods as well as monetary gifts for Beacon House. Many donations were made and presented.
“Harvest fields with gold aglow, laden branches bending low,
Crowded garners, closing year – sing Thanksgiving time is here.
Lord, we know not how to tell the thanks our hearts that swell,
Hearts that, full of gratefulness, sing Thanks giving time is here.” Anne Bancroft
On October 17, 2009, the church hosted a Rapha Seminar on mental illness. A new program called C.L.A.S.S. – Christian Life and Service Seminars was started and the first Class 101 – Basic Introduction was held on October 23 & 24, 2009. The same program was presented again on November 20 & 21, 2009.
Rev. Greg Jones presented a seminar at Bedford Baptist Church on October 27, 2009, to assist Convention of Atlantic Baptist Churches in understanding the “Connected in Mission Appeal”. This is a new three year United in Mission Appeal.
The Association Licensing Committee met at the church once again on October 24, 2009, in preparation for the Fall Association meeting which was held at Bayside Camp. Several people from the church were able to attend the Association meeting.
November: On November 8, 2009, for the Remembrance Day service, Rev. Nelson Metcalfe was the special speaker. The church Men’s group had a work party at Bayside Camp on November 14, 2009. This special work party was in addition to the many days and evenings Bernie Levy and his team of volunteers had spent building cabins and doing whatever other work was necessary to get Bayside Camp up and running for the summer programs and the many other weekend programs throughout the year. The camp would not have been ready for use without Bernie and our volunteers and many others from throughout the Association churches.
On November 14, 2009, there was an update in the church bulletin from Rev. Marlene Knowles who was on a mission trip to India.
November saw the beginning of the Olympic Torch travelling through Nova Scotia. It was a great honour for Jeff Irving to be a torchbearer on November 17, 2009 in Antigonish. Some family members and other church youth were able to go and cheer for Jeff. Another torchbearer connected to the church was Michael Ross who carried the torch in Cole Harbour on November 18, 2009.
The first Sunday of Advent, November 29, 2009, saw the annual Advent Intergenerational take place and this was followed by the Hanging of the Greens when the church is decorated in preparation for the celebration of our Saviour’s birth.
December: The month began with the addition of a new member on December 6, 2009. Rev. Marlene Knowles returned to the church, after years of service elsewhere, with a transfer of membership.
On December 5, 2009, the Senior’s Christmas Dinner & Celebration was held at Faith Baptist Church. Throughout the month of December members were encouraged to participate in the “Gifts for Change” program for the Canadian Baptist Ministries Christmas Gift program. Approximately $3,855 was raised to send to CBM. A mitten tree was also placed n the church foyer for donations of mittens and scarves for later distribution.
A Blue Christmas service was held on Sunday, December 13, 2009 for those suffering from grief, loss or loneliness. The choir and additional singers presented the Christmas Cantata “Mary, Did You Know?” under the leadership of Christine Cole on December 20, 2009. The church continues to search for a full time choir director and organist and we were blessed to have Lynn Sharam as interim organist/director for the January – June period and then Christine Cole filled the position for August – December.
We celebrated the Advent period with the weekly lighting of the Advent Wreath candles and then the lighting of the Christ candle on Christmas Eve. Two services were held Christmas Eve, the Early Family Service followed by the Reflective Service. The 2009 year ended with a New Year’s Eve program for the youth at the church.
God has richly blessed Bedford Baptist Church and the annual history review touches only briefly on the highlights. There are many other programs and activities that many volunteers participate in throughout the year and without their efforts we would not be able to continue to let our light shine in this small corner of God’s World.
Respectfully Submitted,
Sandra J. Irving,
Historian
“We proclaim him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom,
so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ.” Col 1:28 NIV
Report of the Christian Education Committee
Our committee for 2009 was composed of Louise Archibald, Krista –Lee Bates (Secretary and Youth Representative), Heather Cox (Comptroller and Deacon Representative), Ben Levy, Nancy Ohsberg, Lisa Rand (Co-Chair), Andrea McCurdy (Co-chair), Tracy Tulloch, Goldye Smith, Daniel Mitton, Victoria Ohsberg and the Pastoral Staff of Kevin Haggarty and Rev. Dr. Ida Whitehouse. During the year we received resignations from Louise Archibald, Nancy Ohsberg and Tracey Tulloch, for various personal reasons.
The Christian Education Committee has continued to support and oversee the following programs on a continuing basis.
KidZone, our children’s program during Church time, continued to be directed by Gill Davidson. The Church Nursery was coordinated by Susan Scott (Susan will be resigning in January 2010), and Bernie Levy coordinated teachers and helpers for the Church time pre-school program with Duane and Judith Yeomans taking on this role in September. These programs occur during our Sunday morning worship time to offer care and spiritual nourishing for our children aged newborn to age 12.
KidVenture and HighVenture, our mid-week evening program for children ages 4-12 (50 children registered), was blessed to be coordinated first by Wendy Levy and Rev. Ida Whitehouse, with Andrea McCurdy joining them throughout the year. Andrea now serves in this role as the Coordinator of this program with Wendy and Ida’s support during a transition phase. This program continues to remain a very dynamic, albeit challenging program, and is reaching out to the children in the local community as well as our church family. Due to the high numbers of the children in this program and the youth program, KidVenture is now offered on Monday evenings to be able to make full use of all available spaces within the church. A family outreach component of this program initiated last year was carried forward with family supper nights. Thanks to Bob & Louise Archibald, Murray & Debbie Thomas, Ed & Dorothy Hughes, Angela Tait, Leela Bates and Marion Grant. This has proven to be an opportunity to have closer contact with the parents of the children in the program and make family connections.
The Youth Group continued to meet on Wednesday Nights and was aptly guided by our Youth Pastor, Kevin Haggarty and several young leaders. It continues to be an area of growth both in numbers and wonderful spiritual development for our youth.
The small groups continued to be organized by Nancy Ohsberg, meeting for sessions in the winter, spring and fall. This time of fellowship, singing and small group study continues to support continuing spiritual education and fellowship for our adults. Leela Bates has continued to setup and clean up for the refreshments for the evening.
Our Fall Church family retreat was held again at Camp Mush-a-Mush with Borden Scott as the guest speaker. Borden and Amy Scott served as the camp’s cooks. Several people attended this weekend retreat enjoying outdoor activities, fellowship, and food and “Listening to God’s Voice”. A Clothing Fair was organized in the spring and served as a fundraiser for this retreat.
Intergenerational events were held at Easter (61 participants), and Christmas (81 participants).
The combined Graduate BBQ and Church Picnic was held in June. University/College Student “Toonie” Letters were sent to the students to acknowledge that their church family was thinking and praying for them.
Our ministries in the summer were blessed once again with the ability to hire 3 summer students through Government Grants in the capacity of a Children’s Program Coordinator, Youth Program Coordinator and Computer/Radio Lab Facilitator. Heather Cox, Stefan Purdy and Alex Ewing provided leadership and support for DVBS, Arts Camp, Spiritual Week, Movie Nights, a Mission Trip, the Church Picnic, as well as a new initiative, with Alex Ewing focusing on technology and Radio use in our ministries. Our committee, along with generous financial support from the congregation, was able to sponsor eight children in attending summer camps at Bayside.
The Christian Education Committee sponsored a lunch and learn session held in March for seniors, entitled “Responding to the Needs of Aging”. This session focused on the aspects of aging and supports available for the elderly and care givers. Valerie Lewis M.D. and Jackie Cajolais of the Sackville Senior’s Advisory Council offered this informative session. In the fall, the committee hosted a workshop by RAPHA (God Heals) which is the Baptist Convention initiative in Mental Health education and the church’s response to Mental Health issues. This session included a presentation by Brian Schrock who facilitated a wonderful discussion amongst attendees. The Social Committee provided a wonderful lunch for all attending.
Other new ministries this year have included the development of the Men’s Fellowship Group coordinated by Randy Murphy and Ronzo Mantley, L.A.F.F. (Life After Fifty Five) led by Miriam McDonald and the Young Couples group, supported by various Christian Education members. These new initiatives bring a sense of connection, fellowship and support to people in our congregation who fall in these groups. These new ministries will now be funded as separate ministries under Christian Education.
Other administrative duties have included continuing to work on the details and practicalities of implementing the Plan to Protect, the plan that creates policies in our church for the safety of the children in our programming. In response to a request from the Stewardship Committee, we gave a PowerPoint presentation of some aspects of our Christian Education programming. We were very blessed by financial donations which allowed us to fund from our “wish list”. We were able to create a DVD featuring our children’s programming to give to parents, fund some additional hours for our Youth Pastor during the summer months, and approval was given to purchase a new radio processor, purchase an Internet connection with Satellite Christian programming and purchase additional Bibles. We are grateful to this donor for supporting these valuable ministries.
Two of the most joyous occasions this year included joining with our Church family in recognizing and honoring Rev. Dr. Ida Whitehouse on the occasion of her 20 years of ministry at Bedford Baptist in March and “surprising “and congratulating our Youth Pastor, Kevin Haggarty on the occasion of his graduation with his Bachelor of Theology from Acadia University. We are indeed truly blessed to have these two individuals serve amongst us here.
We are grateful for the leadership provided for meeting the needs in these programs. We would like to thank Susan Scott (Nursery Coordinator), Bernie Levy and Duane & Judy Yeomans (Church Time Preschool Coordinator), Wendy Levy (KidVenture Coordinator), our Summer Ministry coordinators, Heather Cox, Stefan Purdy, and Alex Ewing for their service to God’s ministry in their respective roles. We would also like to thank our Christian Education committee members of Louise Archibald, Nancy Ohsberg, and Tracey Tulloch for their dedication during their time with us. We would like to thank the Social Committee for their support in many of the above events and our Deacons for coordinating our Seder meal (100 people) on Palm Sunday.
Report of the Christian Education Committee Con’t
The people that are mentioned above and many others are so instrumental in all these activities. There is much behind the scenes work required for these educational endeavors.
The many aspects of our Christian Education program are only achievable through the many people who volunteer their time and energy to these programs. God has blessed us! We thank you and covet your continued prayers, financial support and encouragement.
Respectfully Submitted,
Lisa Rand & Andrea McCurdy,
Co-Chairs
“…so that you may lead lives worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to him,
as you bear fruit on every good work and as you grow in the knowledge of God.”
Colossians 1:10 NSRV
Report of KidZone
Just this past Sunday as I sat and discussed Joshua’s crossing of the Jordan River, the older children were commenting on how we communicate to each other what God has done for us. We decided that we don’t build monuments out of stone any more, but rather have opportunities to talk about our experiences through participation in the different programs at the church. Comments were made about how many great programs we have and how many opportunities there are to learn and talk about God. As an adult leader it was gratifying to hear the children’s response to our church families life together and the activities we share. I am so thankful for the privilege of working with the children and together being able to share our experiences of God.
What I am going to tell you about now are the details of our weekly program which can be shared on paper. What you will not see are the wonderful experiences with the children that are difficult to put into words. To join with the children as they pray, sing praises to God and participate in the joy of discovery are truly humbling and awe inspiring adventures. I sometimes find it hard to choose words that even start to describe those experiences.
The winter and spring months of KidZone saw the conclusion of the “Journeys with Jesus” theme. We followed the ministry of Jesus through such stories as Jesus calming a storm, healing of the blind man as well the story of Zacheus. We also looked at the death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus. It was a great opportunity to present the basics of the gospel to those younger children who may not have had much exposure to it as well as to the older children who could hear it again, perhaps with more mature insight.
KidZone continued through the summer months, with a rotational program of stories, science experiments and crafts. As numbers are usually down during these months, this provided a fun, more relaxed program for the children and leaders to enjoy. We had a number of guest storytellers including Bob Archibald, Nancy Duffy and Cleona Fenerty. Heather Davidson provided our science component. Our year round staff also provided additional leadership for these months.
Report of KidZone Con’t
In the fall, we launched the program called Splish-Splash. The focus of this program is around Bible stories where water is involved! We were pleased to have a significant number of new children (Grade Primary to Grade 6) join us for the launch of this program. So far, we have looked at the stories of Noah and the flood, Moses crossing the Red Sea, Moses getting water out of a rock and Joshua crossing the Jordan River. As we head towards the spring and summer, we will explore some stories from the New Testament such as the Samaritan woman at the well, Jesus calming the storm and Jesus washing his disciple’s feet.
In addition to each 3-week story unit, we continue to place a great deal of importance on prayer and our mission project. We continue to be delighted with the children’s desire to pray and bring their thanks and concerns to God. We chose a mission project this year entitled Wells for Schools. Money is being raised for the building of school wells for children in Western Kenya. It is a co-operative venture between a number of organizations, Baptist included.
The highlights of the year for me have been many. I was delighted to have the new puppet stage, thanks to Ivan MacPhee. Heather Davidson and Jacob Rand are our two puppeteers who present a skit for each unit. Having Karen MacRae work on a song for the Christmas Cantata was also a wonderful experience for the leaders and children. The most gratifying events of the year, however, often center around what could be thought of as minor achievements but in the life of any given child are huge. A child who overcomes shyness to participate fully in the program or a child who is not comfortable praying, prays for the first time.....those for me are the most significant highlights of the year.
As always, I am so thankful to all of the volunteers who have helped over the past year. I have a great team of snack ladies: Cathy Levy, Faith Barrett, Joanne Hall and Rebecca Forbes. Thank you to Heather Cox who very capably leads the opening song time. Thank you of course to the dedicated leaders from this past year: Heather Cox, Karla Wolfe, Victoria Ohsberg, Carolyn Derrah-Murphy and Randy Murphy, Cleona Fenerty, Jacob Rand, Michelle Vekeman, Sophie Hall and Stephanie Wambolt.
It is with great pleasure that I submit this report and ask your continued prayer for love, energy, and vision as we work with the children of this church.
Respectively submitted,
Gillian Davidson
KidZone Co-ordinator
“Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for
it is to such as these that the Kingdom of God belongs”.
Mark 10:14b NRSV
Report of the KidVenture/HiVenture
January to May 2009
Resuming after the Christmas Break in January 2009, this weekly children’s program met on Wednesday evening from 6:30 to 8:00, for children aged 4 to Grade 6, inclusive.
Leadership for January to May was as follows:
Age 4/Primary Wanda Tingley, Tara Williams, Joe Poirier
Grades 1 and 2 Joyce Haggarty, Janette Haggarty
Grades 3 and 4 Dr. Ida, Isabel MacKay, Darrell Harris, Andrea McCurdy
Grades 5 and 6 David McCurdy, Stephen Rand, Bernie Levy
Recreation Ronzo Mantley, Randy Murphy
Crafts Nancy Ohsberg (preparation), Wendy Levy, Juli Melanson
Snack Joanne Hall, Elaine Melanson, Michelle Vekeman
The program began with singing in the Sanctuary, led by Juli Melanson and Brianna Bates, assisted by Brian Bates on sound.
Creative and engaging Bible stories were taught by Bob Archibald, Walter Scott and Stephen Davidson. A study of the work and life of Canadian Baptist missionaries, specifically in Kenya, was completed, taught by WMS members Nancy Ohsberg and Louise Archibald.
Rebecca Forbes presided over the Frog Pond, eagerly anticipated by the children, where they have the opportunity to choose a small prize or treat approximately once a month.
To reach out and become better acquainted with the families of our KidVenture/HiVenture children, several special events were held to which siblings and parents/guardians were invited. Family Games Night in April was lots of fun, with booths and games set up all around the Gym and an ice-cream sundae break as well! An ice-cream social was held in conjunction with the Church Clothing Fair, from 11:00 to 1:00 on a Saturday in May, and our Closing was a Family Barbecue on May 27, 2009.
We are very thankful for our dedicated leaders and those in the congregation who support us in so many ways, from cookies to prayer. We are planting seeds in the lives of these children, for which God will give the harvest in His time, what an opportunity, what a mission!
Respectfully submitted
Wendy Levy & Ida Whitehouse,
KidVenture/HiVenture Co-ordinators
”And any of you who welcomes a little child like this because you are mine,
is welcoming me and caring for me.”
Matthew 18:9 TLB
Report of the KidVenture/HiVenture
September 2009 to December 2009
Kid/HiVenture started in September with a kick off night of singing, scavenger hunt, snack and a puppet show featuring Stephen Davidson and Haycorn. The High Venture group had an enjoyable hike to Jack’s Lake.
There were a few changes made to the programme which were implemented in September. The biggest change was moving the meeting night to Monday evenings to accommodate the increase in numbers to both Kid/HiVenture and the Youth Group. Secondly, two additional ‘story tellers’ were added so that each age division has a teacher geared for their particular level of understanding. Several rotational options were drafted to easily accommodate split groups if necessary.
The children ages four to grade four have been exploring the Bible stories of Samuel, David, Moses and the birth of Jesus. Each evening they have a time of singing, story time, gym time and craft time and of course the most popular snack time.
The High Venture group have spent time on such subjects as, People who met Jesus, the Ten Commandments and ‘the Bible God’s Compass For Life’. They have worked on projects involving sandblasting, woodworking, knot tying, carving hiking sticks and stained glass. Also Miriam MacDonald was a guest Bible story teller.
Rebecca Forbes visits once a month for her now very famous and much anticipated Frog Pond. Here the children are greeted with a smiling face and the chance to choose a small toy or treat from the myriad of goodies Rebecca brings in.
The Christmas closing was a successful family event where all members and their families were invited for a time of singing, craft, a Christmas story with Steven and Haycorn, cookies, hot chocolate and apple cider. Every child left with a candy cane and their choice from the mitten tree. Many people contributed their time, materials, expertise and energy to make that evening a good time for families. Thank – you!
It should be mentioned that all volunteers were given the opportunity to attend an orientation night where they were given information on the Plan to Protect, filled out Abuse forms and were asked to have Police Record Checks updated as outlined in the Plan to Protect.
The Kid/HiVenture program relies heavily on many volunteers who weekly give their time and attention to the 50 children registered. The following people have our deepest thanks for their continued faithfulness:
Age 4 and Primaries Wanda Tingley – story teller/leader
Joe Poirier & Tara Brewster – leaders
Grades One and Two Barry Matthews – story teller
Janette Haggarty, Joyce Haggarty, Krista-Lee Bates,
Kim Currie and Jennifer Tait – leaders
Grades Three and Four Walter Scott and Stephen Davidson – story tellers
Ida Whitehouse, Isabel MacKay, Neil and Sally Fraser, and Warwick White – leaders
KidVenture/HiVenture Con’t
Grades Five and Six Bernie Levy, Stephen Rand, David McCurdy and Heather Cox – leaders, craft, Bible study
Ronzo Mantley and Randy Murphy - Gym Leaders
Wendy Levy and Juli Melanson Craft Leaders Sasha Hubley and Bryanna Kilgor – helpers
Singing Time Heather Cox and Sasha Hubley
Kitchen/Snack Help Angela Tait, Brianna Bates and Breanna Kilgor
Cookie Suppliers Annie Pierce, Joanne Hall, Elaine Melanson, Dianne Cox and Michelle Vekeman
Special thanks to Nancy Ohsberg, Ivan MacPhee, Ralph Miller, Maurice Witherall, Dorothy Hughes, and others for contributions to Christmas event. Also to Nancy Ohsberg, Krista-Lee Bates and Joan Nickerson for Global Ventures (missionary month). Kevin Haggarty jumps in for Power Point and emergency story teller – thank-you!
Respectively submitted
Andrea McCurdy (Coordinator)
Wendy Levy and Dr. Ida Whitehouse (Executive Counsel)
“See that you do not look down on one of these little ones.
For I tell you that their angels in heaven
always see the face of my Father in heaven.”
Matthew 18:10 NIV
Report of the Ladies Alive Bible Study
The Bible Study group, Ladies Alive, continues to meet in the Heffler Room on Tuesday mornings from 9:15 to 11:30 am for Bible Study, fellowship and coffee. In the fall, we finished a study book called, "Too Busy Not to Pray". We are now discussing the book, "Having a Mary Spirit" by Joanna Weaver, and attempting to apply what we learn to our daily lives.
We are very thankful for the privilege of studying God's Word together.
Respectfully submitted,
Marguerite MacPhee
“Open my eyes that I may see wondrous things from your Word.”
Psalm 119:18 (TLB)
Report on Intergenerational
There are two intergenerational sessions each year, one before Easter and another before Christmas.
The 2009 Easter Intergenerational was held on Palm Sunday with approximately 70 attending the Intergenerational. The theme this year was, “New Life in Christ”. A variety of interesting crafts were created. Following this, the Deacons coordinated our Seder meal and the Social Committee prepared a delicious supper with 100 people in attendance. This is always a meaningful time together.
The Advent Intergenerational was held on December 7th, with over 100 people in attendance with 18 first timers at the Intergenerational and the Hanging of the Greens service. Our Advent theme was, “Bethlehem Star”. Many interesting crafts were created around this theme. Again we enjoyed supper prepared by the Social Committee. Following the meal we all joined together in the sanctuary for the “Hanging of the Greens” service. A great way to begin the Christmas Season!
Everyone is more than welcome to come and join us in 2010.
_____________________________
Respectfully submitted,
Beryl MacKinnon,
Andrea McCurdy,
Dr. Ida,
Craft Coordinators
“Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name;
make known among the people what he has done.
Sing to him, sing praise to him;
tell of all his wonderful acts.”
Psalm 105:1-2 NIV.
Report of the Summer Ministry 2009
An Unconventional (yet un-boring) Report
Meet New Co-Workers
CPA Graduation Letting Go
Pass Out Ice Cream in Parking Lot
Youth Group Closing
Fireworks Patience
Painting Party
Painting Party
Painting Party
Trust Painting Party Planning
VBS Set Up
Laughter VBS
Love Kids
VBS Lunch with parents
New Experience Love Beach Day (x3)
VBS Closing
Tidal Impact
Faith VBS Set Up
Sharing Faith VBS
Fellowship Volunteer Mystery Day of Fun Auction
Picnic
Zoo Trip!
Tears Mount Uniacke VBS Set Up Grace
Mount Uniacke VBS
Arts Camp Set Up Peace Hard Work
Arts Camp
Arts Camp Performance
Spiritual Week Joy
Day of Spiteful Fun
Drive In Movie (x5)
Smiles Drop In (x 10) Discipleship
Fireside (x10)
Ice Cream Trips (x4)
Faith Hospital Trips (x3)
New Friends Baseball Games (x5)
Uncontrollable laughter (x100)
Chairs Stacked
Chairs Unstacked
Popcorn Popped
Hide and Seek
Acceptance of Jesus Christ (x4)
God’s Blessing (x Infinity)
Thank you for all your support and love this summer! Praise God once again.
In Christ’s name, Alex, Heather and Stefan
Report of the Missions Committee
2009 has quickly past. It has been an interesting year, and our meetings have been very enjoyable and rewarding. Our committee has worked well together and I would like to thank them all for their contribution and fellowship.
As a committee, our responsibility is, on behalf of the church, to be involved in matters related to mission both locally and globally. As well, we are charged with managing the funds for the United in Mission portion of the Missionary and Extension section of our church budget.
Our monthly meetings cover many topics and we in turn communicate to the congregation about our activities and interests related to missions in a variety of ways, including;
Mission Minutes, where we provide brief updates on our missionary partners abroad.
Invite speakers like Dr. Harry Gardner President of Acadia Divinity College to speak on Missions.
Financial support of $500.00 was given to the Mayich family ministry in Mongolia and to Miro and Christy Rak for their Czech Republic ministry.
Support Solidarity Sunday, on Mother’s Day in an effort to make known the needs of and provide financial support for churches in far off places.
As a real part of our church's mission outreach, folks in our congregation took the opportunity to give great gifts through Canadian Baptist Ministries' “Gifts for Change”! The gifts that were filtered through the church represent $3880.00.
Through the support of our congregation -12 children will go to school; 7 families will have health insurance; 1 pastor will have a bicycle; 2 pastors will be supplied with books and resources; 1 National field staff worker will be supported; 11 Guardians of Hope will be supported; 8 people will receive Chagas testing and treatment; 1 child freed to be a child; 7 pastors supported, 5 gifts to provide access to HIV and AIDS testing and treatment; 13 gifts of 3 trees and supplies; 8 gifts of seeds, tools and training; 23 pairs of chicks or rabbits; 15 pigs, cows or goats; 10 water filters provided; 4 gifts to use where most needed, I gift for training/resources for a youth worker, 1 gift to print and distribute 5 books; 1 gift to renovate a school and 1 gift to start a new business.
Our committee continues to explore ways to reach out globally and locally and share our efforts with the congregation.
Perhaps the one mission effort that exemplifies the spirit of missions is the application to co-sponsor Fasil Salom, an Ethiopian refugee living in the Sudan. Here is an excerpt of recent e-mails exchanged between him and the Missions Committee:
“To you who have been called by God and who live in the love of God the protection of Christ, may Gods love and peace stay with you.
Dear friend I have been hesitating very much prior to write to you, I am still waiting for interview, I do not know the reason for the delay I know you are one of those who are helping me. Thank you, Thank you.
To him who is able to keep you from falling, and to bring you joyful before his glorious presence-to the only God our saviour through Jesus Christ our lord, be glory majesty, might and authority from all ages past and now for ever and ever; Amen, I love you.
Greeting to the brothers and sisters,”
Fasil
Dear Fasil:
Thank you for your e-mail. I contacted Immigration Canada recently. Your file is in good order, so your interview is the next thing. It is only a matter of time. Be patient brother, it won’t ’be long now. It has been a long time for you. We have faith that you will be with us soon and we will pray for you. I am certain that God has a plan for your life and confident that we will meet soon, if it is God’s will. Thank you for your pictures. I will be sure to send them to the members of my Missions Committee.
Through God’s amazing grace we are able to share our faith with those who are thousands of miles away!
Respectfully submitted,
Graham C. Starratt,
Chair
“Send us around the world with the news of your saving power
and your eternal plan for all mankind”….”
Psalm 67:2 LB
Report of the Jean Rushton WMS
We are a mission-focused society, thankful for all our blessings. We meet nine times a year and strive to learn the most up-to-date news from around the world and here at home with regard to the spreading of the gospel. This might mean reading an email from the Carters in Prague or bringing in a food donation for Phoenix House in Halifax for their after school program.
In addition to having a monthly business meeting we have a devotional, a program featuring different aspects of missions, and hear how women around the globe cope with the most difficult circumstances.
Every year we try to read 2 books of the Bible as well as the 3 new books purchased by the society. We participate in such things as the Baptist World Day of Prayer, the World Day of Prayer, the Great Canadian Bible Study and our Spring and Fall WMS Association meetings. The WMS/ABW yearly convention in May is the highlight of our year. In December we send cards and pack a Christmas Goodie Bag for those in our congregation and community who might be sick or shut-in.
Please join us for an afternoon of tea and fellowship. We meet on the first Thursday of the month at 2:00 pm and would give you the warmest welcome.
Respectfully Submitted,
Nancy Duffy,
Secretary
“Go into all the world and proclaim the good news to the whole creation.”
Mark 16:15 (NRSV)
Jean Rushton Women’s Missionary Society
Statement of Receipts and Disbursements
Year Ending December 31, 2009
Brought Forward |
| $ 114.10 |
|
|
|
Receipts: |
|
|
Missions | $2,932.00 |
|
Toonies for Tuni | 80.00 |
|
Dominion Life Fund | 42.00 |
|
Work Fund | 197.00 |
|
| $3,251.00 | $3,251.00 |
|
| $3,365.10 |
|
|
|
Disbursements: |
|
|
UBWMU | $3,012.00 |
|
Phoenix Food Program | 50.00 |
|
Regional Association Dues | 5.00 |
|
Books | 49.85 |
|
Cheques | 25.88 |
|
| $3,142.73 | $3,142.73 |
Balance on Hand Dec. 31, 2009 |
| $ 222.37 |
|
|
|
Respectfully submitted,
Audrey Currie,
Treasurer
Report of the Muriel Bent WMS
The Muriel Bent Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) hold meetings each month with the exception of July and August, and are open to women of all ages of Bedford Baptist Church. A warm greeting awaits you.
During the year 2009, several guests were warmly introduced to those attending. The first guest was Rev. Marlene Knowles who journeyed on a Mission Tour to Brazil in 2008. Marlene visited with Missionary, Joyce Hancock, who is working in Angus Lingus in a Free Flight School.
Food for Phoenix Program - donations of money and goods were collected and distributed to Phoenix House by Arlene Metcalfe and Sandra MacKenzie.
Louise Archibald kept the group up-to-date with readings of “The Fellowship of the Least Coin”, while pennies are collected.
On March 9th, 2009, a number of the Muriel Bent WMS attended the World Day of Prayer service at St. Ignatius Church. The program was written by the ladies of Papua, New Guinea.
In April, the Spring Rally was well attended and held at Faith Baptist Church with speaker, Marilyn Steeves.
In May, 7 people attended the Atlantic Baptist UBWMU/ABW Conference in Moncton. Both Arlene Metcalfe and Sandra MacKenzie serve on the Convention Executive.
Guest speaker in May was Carole Anne Conrad, N.S. Provincial Secretary, ABU, along with a member of HRUBA Council. Carole Anne spoke to the ladies of her trip to Kenya.
At the opening of the Fall Season (September) guest speaker, Muriel Bent, (for whom our group is names) was introduced. Muriel spoke of her time in Kenya and Nairobi, as a missionary.
At the October meeting we were privileged to hear from Krista Lee Bates and her experiences as a DVBS Summer Co-ordinator for the Atlantic Baptist Women.
Muriel Bent WMS ladies are actively involved with the continuing support of Phoenix House and their programs, in supplying food and nutritious snacks and drinks to inner-city children. Nancy Ohsberg is the Baptist representative for this program.
In November, Baptist World Day of Prayer was held at Birch Cove church. Marilyn Steeves was guest speaker and spoke of her life as a Missionary in Kenya.
The closing meeting of the year was held at President, Sandra MacKenzie’s home, which was beautifully decorated by the many Christmas and Nativity scenes. A cookie exchange was held as in previous years.
We have, once again, enjoyed being with each other in fellowship during the year of 2009. We look forward to the next twelve months and would encourage other like-minded ladies to join us
on the second Tuesday of each month in the Heffler Room, at 7:30 p.m. Presently there are 21 women who attend.
Respectfully Submitted
Beverly Giffin,
Secretary
“Whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all,
and especially for those of the family of faith.”
Galatians 6:10
Muriel Bent Women’s Missionary Society
Statement of Receipts and Disbursements
Year Ending December 31, 2009
Balance on Hand | $ 333.55 | |
|
|
|
Revenue: |
|
|
Offering: |
|
|
Missions | $3,072.50 |
|
Work Fund | 123.00 |
|
Special Fund | 151.00 |
|
Life | 30.00 |
|
Miscellaneous | 73.65 |
|
| $3,450.15 | $3,450.15 |
|
| $3,783.70 |
Disbursements: |
|
|
U.B.W.M.U. | $3.072.50 |
|
C.B.M. for needy | 75.00 |
|
Samaria House | 100.00 |
|
Phoenix House | 60.00 |
|
Books | 48.00 |
|
Speaker | 25.00 |
|
Registration | 5.00 |
|
Mission (vaccination) | 18.00 |
|
Service charges | 18.00 |
|
| $3,421.50 | $3,421.50 |
Balance on Hand Dec. 31, 2009 |
| $ 362.20 |
|
|
|
Respectfully submitted,
Beryl MacKinnon, Treasurer
Report of Senior’s Outreach Ministry
During 2009 three main events took place to provide opportunities for our seniors to get together for fellowship and inspiration. These included two bus trips and a Christmas celebration.
May 22 was the occasion of our spring bus trip with a total of 32 seniors. We traveled to Truro where we enjoyed a great meal at the Glengarry restaurant. The trip took us on to Victoria Park and Masstown Market. The ice cream was great as well as the shopping.
The fall bus trip with 34 seniors was to the beautiful Annapolis Valley. There we enjoyed lunch at Old Orchard Inn. The trip included a stop at Acadia University where we visited the Botanical Gardens. From there we travelled to the Fox Hill Cheese Market near the village of Port Williams. After our regular stop at Hennigar’s Market we made our way back to Bedford. It was a great day!
The bus rental for these trips was with White’s Transit at a cost of $875.00 (tax incl.) for each trip. Seniors were asked to make a contribution of $15.00 each to help defray the cost of the bus rental.
On December 5th we joined with Faith Baptist Church in Lower Sackville for our Christmas celebration which was hosted by the folks at Faith Baptist. It included a turkey dinner with all the trimmings, along with carol singing and devotional. There were 85 seniors in attendance. We are grateful to Borden and Amy Scott and Faith Baptist for their contribution to a great evening.
Marion Grant resigned from the coordinating team during the year after five years of faithful service. We are grateful to Marion for her contribution to this ministry. Miriam MacDonald’s husband, George, has been assisting us through the years and this year will continue to work as a member of the team.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ron McLean,
on behalf of the Coordinating Team
Miriam MacDonald and Norma Mclean
“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved,
clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, kindness, and patience.
Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another.
Forgive as God forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love,
which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
(Colossians 3:12-14, NIV)
Report of Beacon House Representative
Our mission through Bedford Baptist to support Beacon House continues to provide volunteers for the operation of our retail and food bank. The amount of food collected each month, on the third Sunday, continues to increase. The items needed each month are listed in the Sunday bulletin.
Regular volunteers are: Lynda Mitchell, Nancy Ohsberg, Dorothy Hughes, Kathryn Cochrane, and Jean Woodworth. Our drivers who deliver food to Beacon House are: Webster Sweet, Ralph Miller, Hattie Nickerson and April Barrett.
Our church staffed the retail outlet two Saturdays in the past year and there are always many willing volunteers to do the work.
The Youth Group, through “Harvest for the Hungry”, were able to help stock the shelves. On Thanksgiving the church held a large food donation and Ralph Miller delivered his truck load of food, which shows how compassionate we are in making these donations.
We continue to be in need of volunteers and the hours worked are very flexible and up to the individual.
Included with my report is the Beacon House Interfaith Society report which has been submitted to all fifteen supporting churches.
Respectfully submitted,
Jean Woodworth,
Beacon House Board Member
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat,
I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink,
I needed clothes and you clothed me....”
Matthew 25:35-36
Beacon House Interfaith Society
The mission of Beacon House is to work in a caring and compassionate manner to provide food, clothing and programs for those in need in our community.
The catchment area which Beacon House serves is a large one, covering all the communities that lie between Mount Uniacke and Bedford, and from Pockwock Road to Fall River, Wellington and Grand Lake. Thirteen churches in the catchment area of Beacon House are represented regularly at monthly Board meetings. The Executive of the Board is elected by these church representatives. Each member of the Board/Executive serves on various committees such as Property, Human Resources, Food Distribution, Special Events, and ad hoc committees deemed necessary. These committees report regularly to the Board regarding the needs and progress of their activities.
Each month our Food Bank and Retail Outlet Managers present detailed reports to the Board outlining the operations data compiled throughout the month. These records, along with the Manager’s recommendations, enable our Board to make decisions that benefit our clients.
The Food Bank Hunger Count for the 2009 calendar year was 14058. In addition, approximately 380 Christmas food boxes were distributed to families in December. This past year we have been able to keep the food orders our clients receive to a substantial, nutritious, five day order, taking into account their family size, ages and circumstances.
Our Retail outlet of good used clothing and household items is open to the general public. We use the income generated from this outlet to purchase food for the Food Bank. The food we purchase supplements the amount of food we receive in our allotment from Feed Nova Scotia and donations from the community. Beacon House also has a system of vouchers of cash value available to our food bank clients, so that they may shop in the store for necessary items. In addition, we support many other Outreach organizations with donations of clothing and household items. Some of these organizations are the Canadian Diabetes Association, Red Cross, Mission to Seafarers, Fourth Floor Transitional Care Unit at the QEII, Phoenix House, Metro Turning Point, refugee families adopted by our churches, and victims of fires. It is estimated that in excess of $141,000 worth of retail product has been given out to our clients and other outreach organizations in 2009.
The heart of Beacon House lies in our dedicated volunteers. Approximately 5080 volunteer hours were recorded this year in the food bank area. The recorded volunteer hours worked in the retail side for 2009 reached more than 23,250 hours. On June 3, 2009 the Board and Managers hosted an evening of celebration and appreciation to acknowledge our dedicated volunteers. Approximately one hundred and forty volunteers were in attendance at the dinner which was catered by the Lion’s Club of Sackville.
Thank you to our churches and congregations for their continued support through contributions of food, volunteer time, money and donations of clothing and small household items.
Thank you to our staff: April Henebury, Marilyn Dickinson, Barry Wood and Nancy Madill-Perry. Thank you also to our summer student employees.
The success of Beacon House depends on our collective community efforts. Volunteers are our life line, and we are continually seeking out new volunteers with willing hearts. Thank you for your ongoing support and prayers.
Report of the Music Committee
Your Music Committee has certainly been hard at work this past year!
Committee members have worked tirelessly to find a new, permanent Director of Music for our church. The position was advertised for a number of months during 2009, and we received several applications. The Committee then prayerfully selected those candidates we wished to interview. Those interviews were held in the fall and, as of the writing of this report, the Committee is in the final stages of preparing to finally hire someone to fill this position permanently.
During the past year, both Lynn Sharam and Christine Cole served as Interim Organist/Choir Director. Lynn was with us from August 2008 to June 2009 and Christine took over in August 2009. She stayed until the end of December, at which time Lynn returned to resume the interim position in 2010. Both of these ladies are very gifted and have done a wonderful job to provide us with high quality leadership in our music ministry. We are so grateful to them for their hard work and dedication!
Bedford Baptist is blessed with a number of talented folk who are willing to share their musical gifts with us in a variety of ways. The Committee wishes to thank all those who have participated in the music ministry in 2009 as soloists, duets, trios, quartets, vocal ensembles, instrumentalists or accompanists. We particularly thank Jane MacLaren, who is always willing to use her amazing skills as a pianist for our worship services and to Wendy Levy, who willing stepped in on several occasions to use her talents as a director and capably lead the Sanctuary Choir through some challenging anthems.
Thanks also to those dedicated members of the Sanctuary Choir and the Worship Team whose smiling faces you see in the choir loft and on the front platform week after week on Sunday mornings. These two groups seek first and foremost to worship God through their musical offerings to Him and also strive to enhance our worship services. The ministry of both these groups is much appreciated!
The Music Committee also works in conjunction with the Trustees concerning the upkeep of the organ and pianos in the church. A tip of the hat to Ted Keddy and his crew for their hard work and quick response to our requests for help!
We would welcome any members of our congregation who feel led to serve in some area of the musical life of our church. If you have any questions about our music ministry, please feel free to contact me at 864-4189.
The Music Committee is looking forward to a year of change and renewal in 2010. We offer thanks to our Lord and Saviour, the Source and the Inspiration of all of our worship through music, for the many ways He has blessed us in 2009. We pray for His continuing guidance and blessing in the upcoming year.
Respectfully submitted,
Elaine Melanson, Co-chairperson
“Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day.” Psalm 96:2 NIV
Report of the Sanctuary Choir
The Sanctuary Choir enjoyed another fulfilling year singing God’s praises. The choir participated vocally, in 25 morning services, as well as leading in the congregational singing on many other Sundays. Special music was provided by invited guests or church members during the year and the choir enjoyed these presentations very much.
The choir also participated in the Maundy Thursday and Good Friday services.
This year the choir presented their Christmas Cantata “Mary, Did You Know” on December 20th at the morning service. We would like to thank the volunteers who came out to augment the choir for the cantata. We were also pleased to have other members of the congregation participate in additional musical numbers, and narration.
The choir has continued to minister with the help of leadership from Lynn Sharam, from Sept 7th through to June 21st, and Christine Cole, from August 2nd to December 27th. Under both interim choir directors, the choir has been able to continue improving our given talents and share God’s word through music.
We would also like to express our appreciation to Jane MacLaren who also accompanied the choir on many occasions during the year. We express appreciation to Wendy Levy as well for guest directing on occasion. Their talents are gratefully received.
We would like to thank Lynn Sharam for agreeing to return for a short time as Interim Organist and hope that the position of Music Director will be filled soon. The choir would like to thank the congregation for your support through the years and hope that our ministry continues to speak to you of God’s Word.
We would like to invite any church members who enjoy singing to join the choir and the music ministry of Bedford Baptist. We meet on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. and have a great time in fellowship and singing together.
May God continue to bless us and our music ministry in 2010.
Respectfully Submitted,
Juli Melanson,
Sanctuary Choir President
“Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens.
Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness.
Praise him with the sounding of trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre,
praise him with tambourine and dancing, praise him with string and flute,
praise him with clash of cymbals. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord.”
Psalm 150 NIV
Report of The Constitution Review Task Force
At the end of our third year of meetings it is a pleasure to report that significant progress has been made. The format for the Constitution has been revised and now it is proposed that the Constitution be a Stand Alone document that should require little if any change in the future. This is consistent with current thinking across the Convention that the Constitution document should be kept to a brief statement of purpose and organization for a given congregation. A Policy Addendum would be a separate reference document outlining the accepted major Policies of the local Church. A separate Operations Manual would also be prepared to outline the detailed operating procedures of the major Boards and Committees. The Policy and Operations manual would be kept in a binder with the Constitution for ease of reference as required
As of the end of 2009 eight drafts of the proposed Constitution have been prepared, reviewed, changed and redrafted. The time has come when it is anticipated that a finalized draft will be presented to the Executive Committee later this year. It is proposed that the document would then be reviewed by the Church Council and subsequently be presented to a Special Business meeting of the Church for adoption. Hopefully this may occur during the coming year but likely will depend on reaction from the Executive and Council.
On behalf of the Task Force members I wish to thank all the organizations within the church who all have cooperated fully with our efforts. Task Force members are; Bob Short, Keith Roberts, Melanie McGrath, Debbie Thomas, Nelson Metcalfe, Ian McKinnon (Deacons liaison), Bev Giffin (Moderator) and Al Ingram (Chair)
Respectfully submitted,
Alastair Ingram,
Chairperson
“…all things should be done decently and in order.”
I Corinthians 14:40 NRSV
Report of the Decorating Committee
The Decorating Committee of 2009 consisted of Debbie Thomas, Ed Conway, Irwin Barrett and Suzanne Baker with extra help from Murray Thomas and Bob Baker. Along with participating in the anniversary celebration for Rev. Ida, decorations for the Thanksgiving season, Hanging of the Greens and the Christmas season were added to the sanctuary for all to enjoy. We would like to thank the congregation for their kind support and encouragement throughout the year.
Respectfully submitted,
Suzanne Baker, Chairperson
“Honor and majesty are before him, strength and beauty are in his sanctuary.”
Psalm 96:6 NSRV
Report of the Floral Committee
Members of the Floral Committee for 2009 were: Janice Burke, Cheryl Hartlen, Miriam MacDonald, Sandra MacKenzie, Sandra MacKinnon, Catherine MacMullin, Norma McLean, Susan Scott, George MacDonald.
The committee has continued to have floral arrangements placed in the sanctuary and foyer throughout the year. Flowers left from weddings and funerals were much appreciated as well as the poinsettias donated at Christmas.
In May, a very successful Plant Sale was held in the gymnasium. This was a first endeavor by the committee and we were pleased to have raised $951.00. First Baptist Church, Halifax, held a sale the previous week and were so kind to donate some plants for our sale. Thank you to Nelson Metcalfe for delivering them. The committee also thanks Alana Foster and our husbands for all their help the day of the sale. We look forward to our next sale in the spring. As a result of the Plant Sale the committee was able to purchase many new floral arrangements.
A new garden section, just to the left of the lower entrance, was started in the spring. Thanks to Randy Murphy for donating the soil. Hosta and Sedum were planted in this garden along with a cedar tree at each end.
The outdoor gardens are doing very well. They are always a challenge with much weeding and rearranging.
Many thanks to all who assisted this past year.
_____________________
Respectfully submitted,
Sandra MacKenzie, Chair
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener." John 15:1
Report of the Friendship circle
The Friendship Circle is just that: a group of members with the same interest and concerns for the church. We count our blessings as we share conversation, afternoon tea and new ideas for our up-coming fund raisers. We welcome new members both from within the Church and in the general community to join us each Tuesday from approximately 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. in the Heffler Room. So let’s welcome 2010 with as much enthusiasm and grace in doing God’s work as we’ve done in the past.
In 2009 we accomplished the following:
- January – Christmas stockings (to collect dimes totaling $7.80 for the year). We knit mittens for The Mitten Tree, and knit Fanny Packs (chemo carriers) for the Sunshine Room, V.G. We knit blankets for the homeless.
- February – $200 was given towards expenses for Dr. Ida’s 20th Anniversary Celebration. Also a beautiful painting was donated by Jean Woodworth on behalf of the Circle.
- March & April – Plans were made for the Penny Auction in May.
- May - Money raised was a total of $694.02 with Gordon Irving as our Auctioneer!
- Summer closing luncheon held at Swiss Chalet with 22 members.
- September. - Plans started for our Christmas Sale November 14th. The sale would include crafts, baked goods and new-to-you. We were encouraged to bring in used stamps for another church fund raiser as La Bonne Nouvelle no longer collects stamps.
- October – Work continued on accumulating goods for the sale
- November – New guidelines for room use from the Church Trustees were posted in the Heffler Room. Sanitizers were bought and distributed by the Circle throughout the church because of the H1N1 flu pandemic. We contributed $62.00 towards the Remembrance Day Wreath. Our Christmas sale took in over $1,390.00.
- We contributed $100 to Cathy MacMullin for her work in restoring the cloth for the communion table.
- December – Planned for a new Executive for 2010. Closing lunch held at Swiss Chalet with 21 members and 2 guests. $2,000 was given towards the church budget and $1,000 given to the Benevolent Fund. Also during the year many “thinking of you” cards were sent out & over 170 Chemo Carriers were delivered to the Cancer Society.
Executive for 2009: Executive for 2010
President: Nancy Duffy Co-Presidents: Nancy Duffy, Jean Woodworth,
Vice Pres.: Lynda Mitchell and Beryl MacKinnon
Treasurer: Hattie Nickerson Treasurer: Hattie Nickerson
Secretary: Lillian Drysdale Secretary: Janice Burke
Nominating Committee: Betty Short
“No love, no friendship, can cross the path of our destiny
without leaving some mark on it foreve.r”
Respectfully Submitted,
Lillian Drysdale,
Secretary
Ladies Friendship Circle
Statement of Receipts and Disbursements
Year Ending December 31, 2009
Balance on Hand from December 2008 | $ 413.42 | |
|
|
|
Revenue: |
|
|
Offering | 936.69 |
|
Christmas Gifts | 80.00 |
|
Sale of cookbooks & Auction | 802.37 |
|
Refund unused amount Dr. Ida Celebration | 68.70 |
|
Christmas Stocking Offerings | 175.50 |
|
Fall sale | 1,498.26 |
|
Interest | .36 |
|
| $3,561.88 | $3,561.88 |
|
| $3,975.30 |
|
|
|
Disbursements: |
|
|
Church Benevolent Fund | 80.00 |
|
Dr. Ida Celebration | 200.00 |
|
Gift | 45.72 |
|
Sanitizers | 40.55 |
|
Communion Cloth | 100.00 |
|
General Fund | 2,000.00 |
|
Benevolent Fund | 1,000.00 |
|
Bank Service Charges | 1.50 |
|
| $3,467.77 | $3,467.77 |
Balance on Hand Dec. 31, 2009 |
| $ 507.33 |
|
|
|
Respectfully submitted,
Hattie Nickerson,
Treasurer
Report of the Historical Records Clerk
Materials deposited with the Atlantic Baptist Archives at Acadia University:
- church bulletins
- annual reports
- minutes: Council Meeting
Executive Committee meetings
Deacons meetings
Finance Committee meetings
Christian Education Committee meetings
Music Committee meetings
Stewardship Committee meetings
Visitation Committee meetings
- newspaper clippings
- certificates honouring Dr. George McNeill
1) as Pastor Emeritus
2) for 50 years of ordination
3) as composer of the Centennial Anthem
Although these items will be at the Acadia University Archives we retain the copyright and they cannot be loaned out or destroyed without written authorization from the church.
Archives of the Convention of Atlantic Baptist Churches can be searched on the internet at www.acadiau.ca then click on the Vaughan Memorial Library picture block and then pick the Esther Clark Wright Archives which can then be searched.
Thank you to Sharon for collecting materials and storing them over the year.
Respectfully Submitted,
Wayne Nickerson,
Church Historical Records Clerk
“But the plans of the Lord stands firm forever,
the purpose of his heart through all generations.”
Psalm 33:11
Report of the Library Committee
The Library Committee generally met once a month except during the summer. Most of the meetings entailed entering the generous donations into the library. We have struggled to keep up with the large volume of donations. Due to the limited shelf space we have tried to curtail the number of duplicates we have. Recently we have set up a moveable shelf with extra copies which can be read outside the library system or taken with a small monetary donation in support of the library.
Thank you to everyone who has donated materials to the Church Library over the past year.
Due to the tireless efforts of Wanda Tingley we held a very successful Summer Reading Program. Wanda gave a mascot owl whooo received the name “Winky Specs” after the kick-off naming contest. Wanda canvassed near and far and received many gifts which became prizes (incentives) for reading. A concluding Celebration Event took place after church on September 27th. There were a large number of prizes left, so a new reading program was instituted for November to February 2010 to give the winter readers an opportunity to take part.
Most recently the Committee spent a Saturday to organize the room and dispose of accumulated boxes and bags which mysteriously show up and to rearrange the shelves to make a little more room. We wish to thank the Trustees for getting the carpet cleaned and Joel for taking away the garbage.
This year, most of our purchases were child and youth items since they were the biggest users. We have been trying to expand the Large Print section of the Library but these are not readily available. This coming year we plan to continue work in this area.
Presently, the Church Library is open before and after the Sunday morning worship service and we encourage all members of the congregation to come in and browse through the many resources we have available. The Library has books, magazines, videos, and music available for all ages.
When you are doing your spring cleaning please keep your eyes open for books that belong in the Library and return them. There is no fine for late returns but a missing book makes it difficult if someone is looking for the book or if we get a duplicate donation and have to decide if we have a copy or if it is permanently lost.
If there is any material that you feel should be available in the Library, please let us know. You may put a note in our suggestion box or talk to one of the committee members who include: Susan Scott, Wanda Tingley, Karen Ouellet, Betty MacLeod, Carolyn Murphy, Krista Lee Bates, Donna Peverill, Kim McLean, and Wayne Nickerson.
We thank Priscella Matheson for her service and wish her family well in their new location.
Respectfully submitted,
Wayne Nickerson
Chair
“Open my eyes to see the wonderful things in your Word.”
Psalm 119:18.TLB
Report of the Social Committee Team A
Team A of the Social Committee had a good year. Lynda and I would like to thank all those who helped us. We are grateful for your willingness to serve others.
This year we provided funeral receptions for the families of:
Norina MacLeod, January 11, 2009
Bertha Joudrey, January 24, 2009
Sherman Craig, September 17, 2009
It is an honor to serve and support bereaved families in their time of loss.
We also had a fun baking day in January. Approximately 40 dozen squares/cookies were baked and stored in the freezer. This helped us to be prepared ahead of time for funeral receptions.
The Committee was pleased to cater to Dr. Ida’s reception held in honor of her 20th Anniversary with us here at Bedford Baptist Church.
Also, we did a partial reorganization and cleaning of the kitchen.
Serving on the Social Committee is fun and a great opportunity to get to know other folks in the church.
Thanks again to all who helped.
Respectively submitted,
Lois Long and Lynda Mitchell,
Coordinators
“Day by day as they spent much time together in the temple,
they…ate their food with glad and generous hearts.”
Acts 2:46 NSRV
Report of the Social Committee Team B
We were provided several opportunities for service during 2009 and, as usual, many people helped and much fellowship was had, both in and out of the kitchen. My thanks to all the faithful Social Committee members who answered the call and to those in the congregation who provided food when it was needed! A special thank you to Sandra MacKinnon who oversaw the
Rapha event.
This year we hosted the Easter Intergenerational (April); a surprise lunch in honour of Kevin’s graduation from Acadia Divinity College (May); and the Anniversary dessert pot-luck
Report of the Social Committee Con’t
(September). We provided lunch and snacks for the Rapha workshop on mental health; cookies for the United in Missions evening (October); and prepared the Advent intergenerational meal (November).
Respectfully submitted,
Dianne Cox, Chair
Report of the Prayer Chain
The time seems to have come to pass the leadership of the Prayer Chain Ministry to someone else. This has been on my mind and in our prayers for quite awhile so you can imagine my joy and relief when Doug and Donna Peverill said they would be willing to take on this vital ministry.
The years which I have had the privilege of leading the prayer chain have been ones of joy and fellowship. In this position we rejoice with those who rejoice but it also brings sharing tears with those who have heavy burdens. It is a sense of relief to bring all of our concerns to the Lord and to feel the burden lifted.
Over the next few months we will be evaluating changes which will see emails for those who cannot always be available to answer the phone as well as maintaining one ‘chain’ of telephone people. I may be giving up the leadership but I am thankful to still be a member of the telephone chain.
In closing I must thank everyone who has trusted me with all their personal and private requests. It has been my honour to pray for you and to ask others to do the same.
Respectfully Submitted,
Erna Rand,
Prayer Chain Coordinator
“And pray in the Spirit on all occasions,
with all kinds of prayers and requests.”
Eph 6:18
Report of the Visiting Committee
The Visiting Committee held meetings on February 4th and September 23rd, 2009, at which time members accepted responsibility for various types of visitation ministry including home, hospital and nursing home visits. Committee members also express the care and concern of the church family at Bedford Baptist through cards, emails and phone calls to those who are sick, shut-in, bereaved or experiencing difficulties in various other ways.
The extent of the activities of the Committee is demonstrated in the following figures for the period January through March, 2009: 36 home and 14 hospital visits, 73 ++ phone calls and 63 ++ cards and/or emails. These figures are the minimum as often more than one visit or contact is made to an individual through any given month.
With the advent of the Church radio station the number of people needing the CD ministry has decreased. There are those who are outside the range of the radio station or who are not able to access it for other reasons, however, and for these people the CD ministry remains an important link to the Church.
“When we bring some pleasure to another human heart,
We have followed in His footsteps and we’ve had a little part
In serving God who loves us – for I’m very sure it’s true
That in serving those around us, we serve and please God, too.”
Helen Steiner Rice
Respectfully submitted,
Miriam MacDonald,
Coordinator
“I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.”
Matthew 25:36b, NRSV
Report of the P. A. System
The management group of the P.A. System Committee communicates and meets as required to address issues related to the church’s sound system. The integration of the sound system and the computer and radio station systems is now complete and fully functional. Sunday morning services are now fed to the radio station for “live” broadcast and recorded digitally on the computer. Recording of services has switched from cassette tape to compact disc and services are also available on the church web site for listening or down loading purposes.
The pulpit microphone was replaced because of interference with the radio station signal
and two new microphones were purchased for general use. This has been a blessing since many Sundays there were not enough microphones to meet all of the requirements of the service.
A small but faithful group operated the sound system on Sunday mornings and Sunday evenings (summer only) throughout the year. Two new operators have been trained and we are looking forward to some new operators in 2010.
Respectfully submitted,
Phillip Cox, Sound System Operator
“The unfolding of your word gives light; it gives understanding.”
Psalm 119:130
CHSB 99.3 FM Radio Station Committee
We have now been on the air for one year and are encouraged by the feedback from listeners, including those who are not connected to our Church. We have some who let us know that they tune in on Sunday morning; others who have indicated how they appreciate our programming. It is good to get this feedback and know that the “WORD” is getting out there. Amen.
We are presently looking into adding a new piece of equipment that will improve the quality of our receptions and are working on some new features to add to our line up. So stay tuned.
Thanks to all who have supported the Radio Ministry in time, financially and in prayer through the past year.
Turn your RADIO on!
Respectively submitted,
Ian Haggarty, Chair
“The word of the Lord spread though the whole region.”
Acts 13:49
Report of the Technology Committee
2009 has been a busy year for the Technology Committee. The Committee (consisting of Adam Wambolt, Kevin Haggarty and Nathaniel Rand) held 3 meetings. This committee was newly formed in early 2009 in response to the growing need to manage computer systems in the church. These systems include:
· The Projection system in the Sanctuary
· The Radio Station Computer System
· The Main Office Computer system
· The Church’s internal computer network
· Support for the Pastoral Staff and Church Committees
The Committee makes every effort to insure that all computer systems at the church ran as smoothly as possible. As such, we completed regular security updates, backups and preventative maintenance to prevent failure.
The following projects were completed by the Technology Committee in 2009:
· Email addresses were assigned to all Pastoral Staff. The main email address for the church was also changed. (See the front page of the bulletin for the new address.)
· A Summer Student, Alex Ewing, was hired. He helped us in our continuing effort to catalogue new music for our radio station, as well as setup the computer lab in the Metcalfe room and optimize our sound system in the Sanctuary.
· A Backup System and Power Protection were installed for all Church Computers.
· A new remote access system was deployed which allows church staff to complete CHSB 99.3 related work from Home.
We continue to strive to implement technology that makes communication and collaboration easier for both the congregation and the church staff.
We would like to express our sincere appreciation to Ivan MacPhee, Phillip Cox and the Pastoral Staff for their continued support in the work of this committee.
May God continue to bless our Ministry as we work to glorify His Kingdom.
Respectfully Submitted,
Nathaniel Rand & Co-Chairs
“How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds?
I will show you my faith by my good deeds.”
James 2:18
Report of the Stewardship Committee
Christian Stewardship can be defined as someone who uses every talent and repeatedly sacrifices to do the right thing all the time not just on Sunday morning.
Our priorities should be:
“How Time is Spent”
“How Relationships are Retained”
“How Money is Used”
The Stewardship Committee comes under the direction of the Finance Committee. We take on the responsibility for the implementation and development of financial education and occasional fund raising for the church.
Members for the 2009 committee were: Keith Roberts, Don Bowlby, Ed Conway, Ronzo Mantley, Barry Matthews and Cathy MacMullin.
Our advisors were Rev. Dr. Ida Armstrong-Whitehouse and Rev Robert Ohsberg.
The committee organized and held a Bean Luncheon in April. Approximately 200 people attended (this was up from last year) giving a free will offering of over $1,300. The proceeds were used to help defray the fuel cost of the church.
In June, the Youth held an Auction on our behalf and raised $848. which also went towards the fuel cost of the church.
These two events were very significant and a great outreach ministry.
The Youth approached us about having an Auction on our behalf. Although there may be a large age gap between the two committees, it proves we can all work together to further God’s work. The Stewardship Committee sincerely appreciated all their hard work.
We are still busy planning for the upcoming year. There is going to be another Bean Luncheon March 14, 2010. Plans are being made to hold a Golf Tournament this spring and a musical event to take place early fall.
Keith, Don and I have served our three year term on the Stewardship Committee. We would like to say a sincere Thank You to the other members and everyone who has been so helpful to us over the past few years. We have often commented on what an outstanding committee it is
and we were pleased to have been able to serve on it. THANK YOU
“You must give some time to your fellow men. Even if it’s a little thing, do something for others – something for which you get no pay but the privilege of doing it.”…Albert Schweitzer
“Freely you have received, freely give.” Matthew 10:8
Respectively submitted,
Catherine MacMullin,
Chairperson
Report of the Finance Committee
The Finance Committee met 9 times in 2009. Most notably, meeting agendas included:
1. Consideration of budget requests from the various Church Boards and Committees and preparation of budget recommendations for approval by the Church at its Annual Meeting.
2. Review of monthly financial statements with the Treasurer, to monitor cash flow and expenditures versus budget.
3. Regular updates from the Stewardship and Investment Committees.
4. Consideration of other potential means of regular giving including; on-line banking, PAYPAL and debit/credit card - with a view to providing possible alternatives to the envelope and automatic withdrawal methods already in-place.
5. Work on a set of fund-raising guidelines for future inclusion in the policies and procedures section of the Church Constitution. This process is still on-going.
Thank you to Finance Committee members and members of the Stewardship and Investment Committees for their commitment and hard work in 2009.
2009 was another year of fiscal restraint for Bedford Baptist Church. At its Annual Meeting in February, the Church approved a budget of $377,008. This budget was considerably less than the 2008 budget. As such, it was considered to be achievable based on actual 2008 receipts. Due to a strong year-end finish, together we were able to achieve this budget - with about $500 to spare. Thank you. Furthermore; as a result of fairly consistent oil prices throughout the year, some good fortune with the weather (over which we had no control) and prudent control of discretionary spending by our various Boards and Committees we were able to significantly increase our cash position between year-end 2008 and year-end 2009. Once again, thank you.
In addition to contributing to its budgeted operational requirements; the Church supported several special appeals and fund-raisers in 2009, as well as, contributed to several of our reserve accounts.
Again this year, we would like to make special mention of the financial contributions made by the ladies of the Friendship Circle. In 2009, they made 2 significant contributions (totaling $3,000) to our Operating Account and Benevolent Fund respectively.
Turning our attention to 2010, the Finance Committee wishes to recognize the work of the members of all Boards and Committees in submitting their budget requests for 2010 and thank them for their efforts to minimize budget increases over 2009.
At the Annual Business Meeting, the Finance Committee will be presenting to the Church a budget for 2010 of $390,500. This budget will be a fairly significant increase over the budget approved by the Church for 2009. Once again, the Church will be challenged to achieve it. Once again, the various Boards and Committees will be presented with a significant challenge to manage within its limits. Breaking it down, budget increases are generally in the following areas:
- Salary increases for all staff. It is important to note that there were no salary increases for staff in 2009. Further, our senior pastors did not receive salary increases in 2008 while other staff received only nominal increases.
- In anticipation of the hiring of a regular-staff Organist and Music Director, the budget has been increased to reflect this eventuality.
- Nominal increases in the Christian Education and Special Ministries sections of the budget. (After a few years absence, we will again be participating in Acadia Divinity College’s Supervised Field Education program.)
In consideration of the proposed increases, the Finance Committee considers it to be a realistic budget and will recommend its approval by the Church at the annual meeting.
Keith Roberts will not be returning to Finance in 2010. We thank Keith for his participation at Finance Committee over the past 6 years and for his commitment to dealing with the financial challenges of our Church during that time. Thank you to April Barrett for her hard work and dedication as our Treasurer and to Tim McLean and Rebecca Forbes for their assistance to April in the preparation of monthly financial statements. Thank you to Marion Grant for her commitment as Envelope Secretary in keeping contribution records and issuing receipts and again to Tim, in assisting Marion with monthly electronic transfers to the bank for the Automatic Withdrawal Program. Thank you to Mel Fiander for his note-taking and preparation of meeting minutes.
We will be challenged by our budget for 2010. Please give prayerful consideration to your part in meeting this challenge. If you are not already doing so, commit to giving 52 weeks of the year. This is best facilitated by requesting weekly envelopes or by participating in the Automatic Withdrawal Program. Envelopes are available from the Envelope Secretary or by requesting them through the church office. With God’s help and by working together, we can accomplish great things.
Respectfully submitted,
Doug Burke,
Chair
Report of the Investment Committee
Bedford Baptist Church endowment Fund
The Church Endowment Fund represents bequests and contributions which honour God’s work at Bedford Baptist and remembers the following individuals; Rev. Dr. Tom and Irene McDormand, Melda Chute, Elizabeth Pulsifer, Lilian Fox, Lester Blakeney, William Dawson, Edwarina Adlington, Glendon Brewster, Chipman family, Greta Wood, Rev. Dr. George and Margaret McNeill, Austin and May MacDougall, Carl Moore, Bea Chute and Nelson Kennedy.
The Investment Committee is charged with overseeing and administering the investment portfolio of the Fund. Guidelines for the management of the Fund are set out in the Endowment Fund Investment Policy, as formalized and periodically amended by the Church. During the year, the Investment Committee reports to the Finance Committee on its activity.
The Endowment Fund is currently invested with BMO Nesbitt Burns. BMO acts in an investment advisory capacity and provides the committee with monthly financial statements.
The Investment Committee met twice in 2009, with all four committee members in attendance. One of these meetings was with BMO and included an annual review of the Fund’s performance. As part of this review, our policy to invest in ethical-only funds was discussed. BMO and committee members were agreed that there was no concern with any of the funds currently held in our portfolio with respect to this proviso. As a further test that this condition is being met, the Finance Committee has suggested that the Investment Committee publish annually, for Church scrutiny, a list of the funds in which we are invested. Church members can then ask the Investment Committee to investigate a specific fund with which they may have a concern. As at December 31, 2009, the Endowment Fund was invested in the following equity stocks and investment trusts:
- Bank of Montreal
- Bank of Nova Scotia
- Husky Energy Inc.
- Rogers Communications Inc.
- Royal Bank of Canada
- Toronto Dominion Bank
- TransCanada Corporation
- Penn West Energy Trust
- Yellow Pages Income Fund
All other monies are invested in Fixed Income funds, i.e. Guaranteed Investment Certificates, except for monies ($100,000) borrowed from the Endowment Fund to pay-down the Church mortgage with the Baptist Foundation. This $100,000 was the upper limit of borrowing approved by the Church at its Annual Meeting in February, 2007. As a condition of borrowing from the Endowment Fund, it was agreed at that meeting that monies borrowed from the Fund are to be paid back into the Fund with interest.
Notable events during 2009 included:
- Distribution in January, 2009 of 2008 Fund earnings, in accordance with the requirements of the Investment Policy.
- Setting aside (for payment to the Fund) 2009 interest owed on monies borrowed from the Fund. This interest payment is in accordance with what was agreed at the Annual Meeting in February, 2007. (See calculation following.)
- Calculation of 2009 Fund earnings available for distribution in January, 2010. (See calculation following.)
Calculation of 2009 Interest Payable to Endowment Fund and
Distribution of 2009 Income from the Endowment Fund
Income from Endowment (2009) $ 8,076
Interest Income (2009) payable from Operating Account
for monies borrowed for mortgage pay-down $ 5,6251
Total Income available for Distribution $ 13,701
The 2009 Income will be allocated in accordance with Church Policy and the wishes of those donors who have put stipulations on earnings of their bequests to the Church, as follows:
- The dividend earnings from the TransCanada Corporation shares and 470 Penn West shares ($2926)2 are designated for the Chipman C.E. /Youth Fund.
- Interest earnings from Carl Moore and Nelson Kennedy Bequests ($878) are designated for C.E. Programs.
- The dividend earnings from the TD Bank shares ($652) are designated for the McNeill Bursary Fund.
- Of the balance ($9245); 25% is allocated to each of Special Missions Projects, the Trustees Repair and Replacement Fund, the Church Operating Account and Re-investment in the Endowment Fund to grow the capital.
Chipman C.E./Youth Fund $ 2,9262
C.E. Programs $ 878
McNeill Bursary Fund $ 652
Special Missions Projects $ 2,311
Trustees Repair and Replacement Fund $ 2,311
Re-Investment in the Endowment Fund $ 2,312
Operating Account $ 2,311
$ 13,701
Payable from Operating Account for Monies borrowed $ 5,625
Monies payable from Distribution to Operating Account $ 2,311
Monies Owing from Operating Account to Earnings for Distribution $ 3,3143
Note1: Interest to be paid as per varying interest rates and terms, as set out on the latest schedule of interest payments - dated September 1, 2008.
Note2: Dividends of $2,926 from the TransCanada Corp shares and 470 Penn West shares, payable to Chipman C.E./Youth Fund includes $1,278 in 2008 earnings that should have been allocated to this Fund in 2008 but rather was included in the 4-way 25% distribution. (400 TransCanada shares were sold and 470 Penn West shares were subsequently purchased on April 21, 2008. $1,278 was the dividend payout on these 470 Penn West shares for the remainder of 2008.)
Note3: $3,314 is payable from the operating account which, added to the Operating Account’s share of earned income, constitutes the required interest payment. ($2,700 was allocated in the 2009 Church budget, for this purpose.)
Analysis of Endowment Fund, December 31, 2009
January 1, 2009 Market Value (after 2008 Distribution) $195,343
January 1 to December 31, 2009 Net Change $ 23,693
December 31, 2009 Market Value $219,036
Less 2009 Income $ 8,076
$210,960
Add Re-investment Monies $ 2,312
January 1, 2010 Market Value (after 2009 Distribution) $213,272
It must be noted that the investment value of the Fund for purposes of generating income as at January 1, 2010 (after 2009 distribution) is $313,272 since the Church has committed to paying interest on the $100,000 it has borrowed from the Fund – until such time as it is repaid.
Respectfully submitted,
Investment Committee members,
Doug Burke (Chairman)
April Barrett (Treasurer)
Bob Short
Ian McKinnon
“Honor the Lord with your wealth.”
Proverbs 3:9
Analysis of Offerings
Amount | 2005 | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | |
$ .00 - | 10.00 | 80 | ||||