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The purpose of this Council is to respond to the movement of the Spirit in the People of God, to work for a unified mission among its members, and to plan, coordinate, and implement the pastoral goals and vision of the parish and the Church. The Council serves as consultative and advisory group to the Pastor. Parish Council meetings are usually held the third Wednesday of each month or as needed (September-May) at 7:00 p.m. in the Parish Center. The meetings are based upon the consensus process and open to the parish. Past meeting minutes are posted on this site (click on Minutes link above or scroll down to view). Any parishioner may bring a matter to the attention of the Council through a Council member or by contacting the chairperson at least two weeks prior to a meeting. Faith Formation occurs at every meeting and is an important aspect of the council process. MEMBERSHIP PARISH
COUNCIL BY-LAWS Article 1: Name Article 2: Purpose Article 3: Objectives
Article 4: Membership
and Terms
Article 5: Council
Make-Up
Article 6: Eligibility
Article 7: Selection
to the Council Article 8: Responsibilities
of Members Article 9: Officers
of the Parish Council Article 10: Appointment
and Duties of Officers of the Parish Council Duties of Chairperson: The duties of the Chairperson shall be:
Duties of the Vice-Chairperson: The duties of the Vice-Chairperson shall be:
Duties of the Secretary: The duties of the Secretary shall be:
Article 11: Council
Meetings and Consensus Model of Decision-Making
Business of the Council: Any business conducted by the Council must take place at a meeting where all members have been notified and a quorum of members is present. A quorum shall be a simple majority of members. Consensus Model of Decision Making: "Robert's Rules of Order" shall preside at all procedures not outlined in these By-Laws of Parish Council. However, all decisions will be formed as recommendations to the Pastor for implementation using the Consensus Model of Decision-Making. The Council will strive for the greatest degree of consensus on all its recommendations. Consensus is a group process in which each Council member can and should express their opinion on the matter under discussion. The process is characterized by each member of the Council listening carefully to all the other members with an attitude of openness to each member's unique perspective on the matter. Consensus is not necessarily total agreement, but it is a decision which everyone can gracefully accept and support. After discussion, a recommendation of consensus will be offered to the Pastor for implementation. The Pastor reserves the right to either accept or reject any recommendations made by the Council. In the event that the Pastor would reject a recommendation made by Council, the Pastor must provide good reason to the Council for the rejection and allow for further discussion. Article 12: Amendments
to By-Laws
PARISH
COUNCIL PRESENT:
Fr. Michael Garvey, Beth Frank, Sr. Rose Anne Krantz, Mac Clapp, Joe Daczko,
Jan Huter, Greg Pastor, Maria Krause, Camille Bichsel, Brian Hirsch, Marie
Minard, Dave O'Donnell, Phyllis Fussaro, Kathi Trares Meeting opened at
7:05 p.m. with prayer led by Fr. Garvey; Bishop Murry's letter concerning
Haiti earthquake & work of CRS shared (link on diocesan website: http://cathdoy.org/files/scroller/haiti1.pdf) MINISTRY/ORGANIZATION
REPORTS Home & School Association (Beth Frank) - Upcoming Events briefly noted: Chinese Auction (2/7), Movie Night (2/19), Malley's Candy Sale (2/19-3/5), St. Patrick Scotch Doubles (3/13), Pancake Breakfast (3/28), Cruise In beverage booth (5/8), Flower Sale (5/?), Trunk & Treasure (TBD). St. Joseph Cares (Marie Minard) - Thanks given to parishioners, Garden Club, Women's Auxiliary, Boy Scouts, K of C for their help with seven families at Christmas; additional five families helped in Dec. & eleven so far in Jan.; volunteering & support at County Clothing Center continues; next meeting is Feb. 2nd. Stewardship Way of Life Committee - Next meeting 1/28; question/concern was raised about holding Parish Appreciation Dinner in light of serious financial concerns; discussion led to decision to skip this year and possibly hold a picnic/pot-luck style event in the spring or summer instead. Worship Committee (Gary Keefer-absent) - Camille noted Christmas environment went very well.
Sr. Rose Anne Krantz (Pastoral Minister) - RCIA process continues with six people on their faith journey; Bible Study has two sessions continuing into beginning of Lent; Baptismal Preparation Session held Jan.17th; Baptism of Lord (Jan.10th) four young people were baptized by Deacon Gary (included grandson!); Bereavement Session to take place Jan. 26th; Sr. has received certification as FOCCUS Facilitator for Marriage Prep.; Homebound parishioners continue to be visited and kept in contact with; Anointing of the Sick planned for Feb. 28th at 11:15 liturgy (bulletin registration form; Reception Comm. prepared); Catholic Charities of Portage County will hold its Men Who Cook event on Feb. 13th (tickets available through Sr.); Sister is one of presenters at Diocesan Liturgy Day scheduled for Feb. 6th. Mac Clapp (DRE) - PSR classes reaching out to homebound with cards & visits; New 4th grade team of Sue & Rob Emens (taking over for Nicki Klonaris-Rushnok who was unable to continue); Classmates attending Jan. 17th Baptisms (teachable moment); Six catechists applying for Rel. Ed. Cert. from DOY; Palm Burning Ritual scheduled for Feb.7th. Confirmation Program continues with preparation sessions, reconciliation service, and retreat day with OLPH candidates. Celebrations and preparations continue for First Reconciliation (Jan. 16th) and First Communion (Jan. 24th & 31st). Dinner & Doctrine Jan. 12th very enjoyable with final presentation in series set for Feb. 9th; PSR attendance figures also shared. Beth Frank (Principal) - Catholic Schools Week (Jan. 31st - Feb. 7th ) plans include Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser, Bingo, All-School Mass & luncheon, Blessing of Throats, shadowing opportunities, Open House and classroom performances, Student Appreciation Day, and Chinese Auction. Marketing continues with DVD presentations to area pre-schools and publicity in newspapers and churches. K of C Drug/Alcohol Poster Contest saw four winners receiving savings bonds and go to diocesan level. Bingo Committee, in-charge and cashiers met and made decision to discontinue Bingo due to attendance and lack of income (last night will be Jan. 23rd); additional fundraiser ideas being brainstormed. Jan Huter (Administrative Secretary) - Support Our Schools envelope included in Jan./Feb. contribution envelope packet has resulted in $394.00 going toward school expenses. Worship Committee and Music Ministry plan to coordinate a memorial Mass for Shelley Craine (died in car accident 12/13/09); Sr. Rose Anne has been in contact with her parents. Soup Suppers and speakers planned for Tuesdays of Lent (groups were assigned to help ensure enough soup is available on designated weeks - refer to bulletin). Kathi Trares (Parish Secretary) - Nothing to report. OLD BUSINESS - None. NEW BUSINESS Money Saving Solutions - As requested at 11/18/09 meeting, Jan submitted to Fr. Garvey and then presented to Council members her suggestion of forming a small committee to closely review practices and procedures of St. Joe's in order to explore practical areas where viable money saving solutions can be made; members felt any brainstorming or sharing of ideas and solutions would be good to offer help in any way possible; example of two Finance Committee members, two Parish Council members, Beth Frank as Principal, Jan Huter as person intimately involved with parish finances, and Fr. Garvey was presented; proposal will be taken to Finance Committee by Fr. Garvey. Meeting adjourned at 9:02 p.m. with prayer led by Fr. Garvey. NEXT MEETING: February 24th [moved from February 17th due to Ash Wednesday]
PARISH
COUNCIL PRESENT:
Fr. Michael Garvey, Beth Frank, Sr. Rose Anne Krantz, Mac Clapp, Joe Daczko,
Jan Huter, Greg Pastor, Maria Krause, Kathi Trares Meeting opened at 7:10 p.m. with prayer led by Fr. Garvey; last month's minutes approved as submitted. MINISTRY/ORGANIZATION
REPORTS Garden Club (Phyllis Fussaro-absent) - Mac mentioned that Christmas Boutique 11/8 a success (Jan noted that $1,000 was made from raffles); 11/11 meeting had money saving ideas speaker, Jay D'Aurelio highlighting Life Teen, and election of officers; annual Christmas party to be held in Garrettsville 12/9. Home & School Association (Beth Frank) - Trunk & Treat event (10/30) nice turn out for this community-building event; Upcoming events include St. Nicholas Prayer Service & visit (12/3), Secret Santa Shop & Movie with Santa (12/4), Chinese Auction (2/7); Night at the Races fundraiser to be replaced with Scotch Doubles Bowling Night in Garrettsville (tentatively 3/6). Group purchasing projector as 2008/09 school gift. St. Joseph Cares
(Marie Minard-absent) - Report submitted and read by Kathi Stewardship Way of Life Committee - No meeting in October; next meeting 11/19. Worship Committee (Gary Keefer-absent) - Jan noted theme for Advent is "Find Us Ready"; Advent candle will be processed in by parishioners each week (individuals or families to sign-up); Thanksgiving Day liturgy has been changed from a Mass to a Liturgy of the Word with Communion with Deacon Gary presiding (Fr. Garvey traveling to relatives). PASTOR'S REPORT Help To Needy
- Knights of Columbus 4th Degree have donated $200.00 for needy families;
Fr. Garvey to distribute to four parishes within their district; 3rd degree
K of C membership also donates to 4C's. PARISH STAFF REPORTS Sr. Rose Anne Krantz (Pastoral Minister) - Sunday RCIA Sessions have 1 Catechuman and 3 Candidates participating (possibly 2 new people with 2 interviews coming up). Adult Bible Study series to begin next week with "The Lamb & The Beasts" in the morning and "The Names of Jesus" in the evening. Sacrament Preparation for grades 3-6 students being offered Dec. 9 & 16 for those who missed First Eucharist and Confirmation at regular time; need to schedule Confirmation classes for high school students after first of year (Fr. Garvey said that this will be offered through Life Teen). Homebound Visitations continue with two new names, Marie Emerick and Virginia Nelson, recently added; PSR classes sending cards; hospital visits when notified. Bereavement Sessions being well attended with next one set for 11/24; possibility of inviting others to Dec. meeting or doing a special service at that time. Religious Retirement Fund reflection at upcoming weekend liturgies. 4C's Collection of canned fruit for holiday baskets huge success (help from students appreciated). Mac Clapp (DRE) - PSR Program numbers effected by flu season for a short time; PSR classes participated in 4C's collection efforts; homebound person adopted by classes with prayers, notes & cards sent; PSR staff meeting planned for 11/22 to review Advent resources and work on diocesan certification forms; no PSR schedule for Thanksgiving weekend; Barb Kasubick has agreed to make a cope and miter for our own St. Nicholas costume allowing our 12/6 prayer service and visit to happen without borrowing outfit. Confirmation Program met on 11/1 for lunch, prayer and helping seven residents in area with leaf raking; journal work with sponsors to take place during December; next session is 1/17 and will focus on reconciliation. First Reconciliation parent meetings on 10/25 & 11/1 saw 32 parents attending (28 candidates with two older than 2nd grade); parents are working with children with good deeds project to be brought to 1/16 celebration. Dinner & Doctrine events changed venue to Rusty Nail due to Twin Lakes Country Club closing as of 10/31; Sr. Mary Ann Wiesemann's presented "Morality-It's Not Just What We Do, It's Who We Are" on 11/10; program continues 1/12 with Msgr. Peter Plando, whose topic is "So, You Want to Be a Saint" The Process of Canonization"; tickets are available from Sr. Rose Anne or Mac; final date for series is 2/9. Child Protection Policy Training offered 12/7 at KSU Newman Center; Diocesan of Youngstown Logo Contest open to everyone of diocese (details in bulletin). Beth Frank (Principal) - Marketing Efforts include school profile photo being recently taken to update for diocesan website and our marketing purposes and DVD's being offered to area pre-schools. Diocesan Restructuring Plan progress to be included in school's December Family Packet (summary of previously report given). H1N1 Vaccination offered to students at no charge from health department with about half participating (2nd round for younger students later). Thanksgiving placemats from the school that were designed by Ken Zander made for K of C's Senior Citizens' dinner. Bill Kulla funeral included students from 4th-8th grade and proved to be a valuable life experience. Paper needed with blank side (that does not include personal or sensitive material) to be used by the school; businesses and individuals to be solicited through bulletin announcement. Jan Huter (Administrative Secretary) - Parish Appreciation Dinner is set for 3/20 at the K of C Hall (offered at no charge with wash provided). Quick Books can generate many reports in addition to Profit & Loss statements; St. Joseph's has 190 different accounts in its chart of accounts and 10 checking or savings accounts; unique perspective has been gained from 6-7 years experience with program enabling her to have a good understanding of parish's financial picture and to see areas that appear to be able to be cut; recommendation proposal was turned down for presentation at this time (Fr. Garvey asked that it should be brought to him & Finance Committee with a 2 week prior notice). Kathi Trares (Parish Secretary) - Parish Cookbook a huge success with well received premiere tasting event, Christmas Boutique table, sales after Mass in offices and through newspaper articles and word-of-mouth (proceeds benefitting Appalachian Experience group) OLD BUSINESS NEW BUSINESS Meeting adjourned at 8:25 p.m. with prayer led by Fr. Garvey. NEXT MEETING:
January 20th (No Meeting in December)
PARISH
COUNCIL PRESENT:
Fr. Michael Garvey, Beth Frank, Sr. Rose Anne Krantz, Mac Clapp, Brian
Hirsch, Don Engelhart, Dave O'Donnell, Gary Keefer, Joe Daczko, Camille
Bichsel, Phyllis Fussaro, Sue Rooth, Marie Minard, Greg Pastor, Jan Huter,
Maria Krause, Kathi Trares Meeting opened at 7:05 p.m. with prayer led by Fr. Garvey; minutes were approved as submitted. MINISTRY/ORGANIZATION
REPORTS PASTOR'S REPORT PARISH STAFF REPORTS Sr. Rose Anne Krantz (Pastoral Minister) - RCIA Sessions taking place on Sundays; Baptism Preparation Session scheduled for 11/15; Adult Bible Study series begins 11/9 with "The Lamb & The Beasts" in the morning session and "The Names of Jesus" in the evening; Sacrament Preparation with several children catching up on First Eucharist and Confirmation celebration; Bereavement Sessions being well attended with next one set for 11/24. Mac Clapp (DRE) - PSR Program is in full swing with 166 students enrolled according to last year's attendance & 130 students who have come to class at least once (attendance statistics report shared); Confirmation Program has begun with 29 Candidates enrolled in process participating in two sessions and Rite of Enrollment thus far (leaf raking service project scheduled for 11/1 helping seven residents in area); First Reconciliation preparation for 2nd graders has begun for 27 registered Candidates (parent meetings held 10/25 & 11/1); Dinner & Doctrine events changing venues due to Twin Lakes Country Club closing as of 10/31 (Sr. Mary Ann Wiesemann's presentation on 11/10 moved to Rusty Nail on S.R. 43; remaining two nights to be determined); Diocesan Evangelization & Catechetical Conference on 11/14 at NEOUCOM Center in Rootstown had four people attending from parish. Beth Frank
(Principal) - Preliminary report shared from Sr. Regina Rogers (head of
diocesan restructuring of schools) which was presented at Diocesan Principals'
Conference (10/21-23) . . . Parish Studies data has been collected with
three options: 1. Stay the same; 2. Cluster (come together to do things),
3. Merge (parishes form new parish with one parish council, one finance
committee, etc.). It was stated that there will be no closures in Round
I even though five diocesan elementary schools have already closed or
merged. Schools' major issue is enrollment (diocesan down 6%, lost 514
students this year) followed by finances, decline of parish income, the
attitude of Catholics toward their faith, parochialism (restricted in
scope to personal parish/school), and moving away from schools for the
poor (making Catholic education available only for elite). The planning
process study shows: Ashtabula County is isolated area; Columbiana County
has one school near another that could combine but another by itself;
Portage County's three schools are separated by distance; Mahoning County
has been meeting for past five years and met with Bishop Murry with plans
to hire strategic leadership and form team to study their county during
the next 14 months; Austintown Schools have merged with students doing
well but parents having difficulties letting go of traditions; Stark County
decision yet to be made (their discussions include regionalizing, putting
Jr. High in High School, but no decision is close to being made); Trumbull
County has Fr. Richard Murphy & Sr. Regina working with both parishes. Sr. Regina's recommendations
to the Bishop include: Also, work that has been done should continue with proactive stance instead of reactive. Parishes are finding that a big push to solve financial troubles only fix for a year. Concerns include people feeling insulted that meetings about school planning process have not happened, decisions about finances are not known, what the next step is (talked about for years, diocese should hire a strategic planner, must be layered approach). Sr. Regina will put all recommendations in writing and send to superintendent, Dr. Skube and then to the principals. Both will pass them on to us. Again, none of this information is confirmed. It was given as a preliminary report only. Fr. Garvey assured everyone that if enrollment decline puts parish in major deficit, he'll go to Bishop about this "red flag" & ask for school help or closing; he promises to do everything possible so that St. Joseph School remains open. Jan Huter (Administrative Secretary) - Parish Financial Obligations being met as far as payroll for Church, School & Food Service personnel and general bills being paid although it is rough keeping up (members are aware of decreased Sunday collections and other concerns mentioned in Finance Committee report); QuickBooks Course at Maplewood proving to be helpful learning tricks with reporting features (Jan realizing she knows a lot more about program than she thought); Liturgical Ministers Schedule ready for coming weekend with several new servers added & instructions on new procedures regarding preventive measures to ensure sanitary distribution of the Body and Blood of Christ. Kathi Trares (Parish Secretary) - Parish Cookbook Premiere plans well-underway with excitement building for 11/1 kick-off with sampling of various recipes & cookbooks being available for the first time (proceeds benefitting Appalachian Experience group); Stewardship Resource & Bulletin Building Blocks publications from bulletin company, J.S. Paluch, very well done; plans to use weekly stewardship reflection corresponding to Sunday readings and Living Stewardship Now feature in bulletin throughout coming year; new liturgical year clipart and resource book great aid. OLD BUSINESS CAMILLE BICHSEL, At Large (Term Expires: May, 2010), JOE DACZKO, At-Large (Term Expires: May, 2010), PHYLLIS FUSSARO, Garden Club (Term Expires: May, 2010), BRIAN HIRSCH, Appointed (Term Expires: May, 2012), MARIA KRAUSE, Appointed (Term Expires: May, 2011), MARIE MINARD, St. Joseph Cares (Term Expires: May, 2010), DAVE O'DONNELL, Appointed (Term Expires: May, 2012), GREG PASTOR, At-Large (Term Expires: May, 2011) [Staff members serve as Ex Officio members] Fr. Garvey thanked everyone for all that they have done and the time contributed. St. Joseph School Educational Trust Fund - Fr. Garvey shared the Trust Fund agreement and most recent report from Wells Fargo (Trust fund investment company) then summarized his earlier proposal for permission to use Trust Fund principal when needed for the school (Finance Committee/Trust Fund Committee members approved at 9/10 meeting & September's Parish Council meeting attendance was not have enough to have required 75%); current school enrollment of 89 students (down from 110 for 2008/09 school year), budget deficit despite cost cutting measures & increased parish subsidy, and concerns about keeping current with health care coverage & pension payments were sited as reasons to take this step; members discussed ideas of using funds for school while it is accessible (may be frozen if school would close), planning process to support school in future, and buying time until diocesan planning process gives direction; question as to whether formal written request should be submitted was raised (Finance Committee already approved using meeting minutes as write up); motion was made (by Don Engelhart) to give Fr. Garvey permission to use the principal of the St. Joseph Educational Trust Fund for school use when needed with the stipulation that Finance Committee/Trust Fund Committee members be consulted (motion was seconded by Dave O'Donnell & then approved unanimously) NEW BUSINESS - None Meeting closed with prayer led by Don Engelhart and was adjourned at 8:40 p.m. NEXT MEETING: November
18th
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