2015 CHR Annual Report

2014 ANNUAL REPORT

Care. Share. Create. Serve.

The Episcopal Church of the

Heavenly Rest

Vision Statement:

As a community of faith centered in God through liturgy and Christian practice, the Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest exists to:

CARE for members of all ages and stages of life.

SHARE God’s inclusive and healing love with all people.

CREATE opportunities to grow in Christ.

SERVE the church, the community, and the world.

Vision Statement:

Mission Statement:

Diocese of Northwest Texas

Church of the Heavenly Rest

The Mission of the Episcopal Church Is the Mission of Christ

• To proclaim the good news of the kingdom

• To teach, baptize and nurture new believers

• To respond to human needs by loving service

• To seek to transform unjust structures of society

• To strive to safeguard the integrity of creation and sustain and renew the life of the earth

We recognize with gratitude that the Five Marks (‘Five Marks of Mis-sion’ as developed by the Anglican Consultative Council between 1984 and 1990) have won wide acceptance among Anglicans, and have giv-en parishes and dioceses around the world a practical and memorable “checklist” for mission activities.

The Episcopal Church of the Heavenly Rest is a Christian community of faith rooted in the Anglican tradition. Empowered by the Holy Spirit through Word and Sacrament, we seek to know the reconciling love of God and to share that love with others.

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Care. Share. Create. Serve. • 2014 Annual Report

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It has been a privilege to serve the Church of the Heavenly Rest as the Senior Warden this last year.

We concluded our Stewardship Campaign in December. John Stowe and Rachel Anderson led this effort and, along with the work of their committee, we have been able to increase our pledge amount by 4%. We were able to increase salaries and add additional staff that will allow us to grow, includ-ing a new Parish Administrator, a fulltime Youth and Chris-

tian Education Director and a fulltime Communications Coordinator. The budget for direct Outreach was increased from $40,000 to $50,000. Our Outreach committee, led by Doug Thomas, decides how to disperse these funds. Thank you for your contribution to the mission and work here at Heavenly Rest. With the Vestry approval, the Discernment and Feasibility Study was completed with the guidance of the Episcopal Church Foundation. We give thanks to Mike Denny, Nancy Estes, Tom Choate and many others for their leadership and work to make this a success. The parish identified priorities from which the following solutions were prepared:• To preserve and adapt the historic Parish House by renovating the existing structure to

address In-Reach and fellowship opportunities as well as children’s and youth issues by renovating the nursery and youth space

• To repurpose the upper level of the existing Parish Hall for our Music Ministry and provide space on the lower level of the Parish Hall for Hands-On Ministry, pre-K classrooms and children’s craft lab

• To build a Great Hall and courtyard area to address In-Reach and fellowship opportunities

The addition of an east parking lot is planned to meet specifications required by addi-tional building on our campus as well as improve traffic flow.

A very successful Capital Campaign was conducted over the last six months, led by Mike and Julie Denny and the efforts of the Capital Campaign committee. Please see Mike Denny, chair of the Capital Campaign and chair of the Building Report for details. The Vestry unanimously named the following parishioners to chair the various building committees: Mike Denny, the Building committee; Nolan Kelley, the Great Hall com-mittee; Kim Snyder, the Parish House committee; Judy Godfrey, the Sacred Music Hall (Parish Hall) committee, and Jill Bishop, the Furnishings committee. During the summer, the Abilene Planning and Zoning committee ap-proved, and subsequently the Abilene City Council gave final approval, for the Church of the Heavenly Rest to purchase Meander Street from South 6th to 7th. This will allow us to realign the street and east side parking to accom-

Warden’s MessageSOLUTIONS TO SATISFY

PARISH NEEDS

1To preserve and

adapt the historic Parish House by renovating the

existing structure to address In-Reach and fellowship opportunities

and address children & youth issues

by renovating the nursery and youth

space.

2To repurpose

the upper level of the existing

Parish Hall for our Music Ministry and provide space on the lower level Parish Hall for

Hands-on Ministry, Pre-K classrooms,

and children’s craft lab.

3 To build a Great

Hall and courtyard area to address In-Reach and

fellowship opportunities.

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www.heavenlyrestabilene.org

2014VESTRYYvonne Batts, Senior

[email protected]

Kim Snyder, Junior Warden

[email protected]

Tom Choatetomchoate@

choatelawoffice.com

Geanna [email protected]

Kathy Diamonddiamond-kathy@aramark.

com

Dickson [email protected]

Paul [email protected]

Bob [email protected]

Angela [email protected]

Jay [email protected]

Chris Rockettcrockett@rentechboilers.

com

Rosemary [email protected]

modate any buildings and parking lots planned for that area in the future. The new design also will improve traffic flow. Please see Mike Denny’s report for more details.

We continue to have beautiful music under the direction of Dr. Wes Gomer and Susie Rockett. Thanks to Dr. Gomer, we continue to see new faces visiting the church at the Second Sunday Music Series, along with the many other music functions the church hosts.

Each of us should give thanks to others on our staff: Lt. Col. (Ret.) Peter Kent, Par-ish Administrator; April Powers, Finance Director; Katie Young, Youth and Christian Education Coordinator; Laura Wright, Communications Coordinator; Arnold Guerra, Sexton; Dorothy Guerra, Housekeeper; Shelly Reed, Children’s Music Coordinator; Barbradon Brooks, Harpist, and Lucy Marak, Nursery Assistant.

Father Luke Back, Mother Susanna Cates and Deacon Amanda Watson continue to lead this parish as we move forward into the future. Through their loving and careful direction we all enjoy the many blessings that we share at Heavenly Rest. We continue to see growth, not only in numbers, but, more importantly, in spirit.

We look forward to 2015 and the many opportunities that are before us. Yvonne Batts, Senior Warden

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WORSHIPSERVICES

Sundays

8:00 a.m.Worship Service, Holy Eucharist

in the Nave

9:15 a.m. Sunday School

10:30 a.m.Worship Service, Holy Eucharist

in the Nave

1:00 p.m.Worship Service

Morning Prayer in Swahili

Weekdays

8:00 a.m. Morning Prayerin the Chapel

Wednesdays

5:30 p.m. Healing Service, Holy Eucharistin the Chapel

Service liturgy, The Book of

Common Prayer

TA B L E O F C O N T E N T SWarden’s Message..........................2-3

Rector’s Message................................5

Minutes from 2014 Annual Parish Meeting/Elections..................6-7

PARISH LIFE

Parish Committee Roster.....................9

Morning Prayer.................................10

Thursday Bible Study.........................10

Junior Warden Report......................11

Newcomer Ministry..........................12

Brotherhood of St. Andrew................12

Christian Education..........................13

Youth Ministry..................................14

Curate’s Report.................................15

Heavenly Rest Music...................16-17

Music Outside of Worship..........18-19

Sound Guild.....................................19

Deacon’s Report...............................20

Altar Guild.......................................21

Acolyte Corps..................................22

Eucharistic Ministers/Eucharistic Visiting Ministers.............23

Ushers.............................................24

Parish Medical Committee...............24

Columbarium Committee.................25

The Faithfully Departed....................26

WOMEN’S YEARBOOK

St. Margaret’s Guild.........................28

Daughters of the King......................28

Parish Hostesses, St. Martha’s Guild...29-30

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Neighborhood Committee................32

Breakfast on Beech Street.................33

Visitation Ministries - Hospital & Nursing Home Visitors......................34

Soup Sisters......................................35

ECW & Thrift House....................36-37

Outreach Committee - Hands Onand Refugee Committee.............38-39

ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE

Office Administration.......................41

Stewardship Report..........................42

Statement of Receipts and Disbursements.................................43

Trust Balance Sheet..........................44

Foundation Report............................45

Foundation Investment Returnsand Fund Balances/Grants andExpenditures....................................46

Altar Guild Financials......................47

Capital Campaign Report............48-49

Operating Budget.............................50

Heavenly Restby the Numbers................................52


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From the RectorDear Friends,

“What is possible?” You were asked this question throughout 2014. Your answer has enabled immense possibilities to become anticipated blessings.

“Building on our Heritage of Faith, Hope and Love” is now being fulfilled. Over $5.9 million in gifts and pledges has been offered. We are willing and able to preserve, improve and expand our facilities

to meet today’s needs and tomorrow’s opportunities.

The “Celebrating our Heritage” dinner in August abides as one of the great memories of our parish life together. At this event, we felt the vision, courage and confidence that we could meet the challenge of our mission in this time and place.

Often people appear on our doorstep asking, ‘Is it possible for you to help?’ You made it clear that the answer must be ‘Yes.’ Outreach ministries gave, give and will give again. When hungry lips pray to God “Give us today our daily bread,” we abide as part of God’s way to answer that prayer. Generous hearts working together in Vestry, Foundation, Outreach Committee, Hands On, Thrift House, Swahili Committee, BOB’S, and numerous other ways provide much labor and nearly half a million dollars in outreach support.

African refugees sought out the possibility of finding a spiritual home and a supportive community as they settled in a new homeland. You embraced and included them, making a hoped for possibility a present reality. The Swahili Committee and Fr. Romanik brought this ministry a second mile, helping with material, employment and educational needs.

At St. John’s Episcopal School, we have made it possible to provide a safer, more secure campus by donating funds needed for an attractive perimeter fence and gates. The School’s enrollment is at a ten-year high of 237 students. St. John’s has reached maximum capacity and the Board of Trustees has begun a strategic planning process to study the possibility of expansion.

It is impossible to thank adequately everyone that enabled our present blessings to become so real and tangible. I am grateful for our parish staff and clergy, our dedicated lay leadership, wardens, Vestry, our faithful volunteers in so many areas of service to God, for our church and our community. May God continue to uphold and bless you!

Faithfully,

“The Celebrating our Heritage”dinner in August abides as one of the great memories of our parish life together. At this event, we felt the vision, courage and confidence that we could meet the challenge of our mission in this time and this place.”


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Vestry MembersTerm Ends

January 2014Mike Denny

Blake FulenwiderJohn D. Stowe

Courtney Vletas

Term Ends January 2015Kim Snyder

Angela Hamil-WillisGeanna CutbirthRosemary Suttle

Term Ends January 2016Chris Rockett

Dickson FergusonJay HardawayYvonne Batts

Newly Elected Vestry Members:

Term Ends January 2017Tom Choate

Kathy DiamondPaul Fulham

Bob Hale

Junior Warden Kim Snyder

Senior Warden: Yvonne Batts

Annual Parish MeetingSunday, February 23, 2014:

M I N U T E S CALL TO ORDER:Senior Warden, Mike Denny called the meet-ing to order at 12:45 p.m.

PRAYER AND INVOCATION:The Rev. N. Luke Back, Rector, gave the prayer and invocation. He thanked the Brotherhood and Soup Sisters for help with the lunch. Rev. Back then offered a prayer of remembrance for those who have died this past year.

APPROVAL OF LAST MEETING’S MINUTES:A motion was made by Billy Edwards to ac-cept the last meeting’s minutes as written. The motion was seconded by John Stowe. Motion passed with no opposition.

REPORT OF THE NOMINATING COMMITTEE:Senior Warden Mike Denny introduced the cur-rent Vestry and Delegates to the Diocesan Con-vention. He expressed appreciation for those leaving as Vestry members and Delegates.

NOMINATIONS AND ELECTIONS:Ballots were distributed for the election of new Vestry members and Diocesan Conven-tion Delegates. Nominees were introduced by Mike Denny. There were no nominations from the floor. A motion was made by Charles Scar-borough to elect all of the Vestry nominees by acclamation. The motion was seconded by Jim Snyder. Motion passed with no opposi-tion. Vestry nominees were Tom Choate, Bob Hale, Paul Fulham, and Kathy Diamond. Mike asked that everyone vote for three Delegates to Convention for one year term. Mike explained that the first vote was by 50% majority and the second vote, if needed, by plurality. Those not elected will be alternates. A motion was made by John Stowe that the motions cease. The motion was seconded by Lew Carter. Motion passed with no opposition. The first vote had no majority. A motion to elect by plurality was made by John Estes and Tiffany Wagstaff sec-onded. Ballots were again distributed.

STATE OF THE PARISH AND APPRECIATIONS:The Rev. Back gave the Rector’s Report. He noted several highlights from this past year that were particular blessings such as the morning prayer service in Swahili; the confirmation of many, including Frances Gordon who is age 99; and the addition of Rev. Susanna Brosseau as Curate. Rev. Back asked her to say a few words. Susanna said that she listed in her report that one year ago today she interviewed with Heavenly Rest. The experience has been more joyous than she could have imagined, and she thanked everyone for everything. Rev. Back continued with other highlights such as the addition of Katie Young; she and Susanna have brought energy and life to the youth program; the expansion of the Columbarium was quite an accomplishment; the expansion of our Hands On Outreach facility; they provided assistance to 5,000 people; the thrift house had a successful year and a much needed overhaul of the facility; St. John’s Episcopal School now has a student body of 209 students. Rev. Back expressed appreciation to the staff: Mary J. Renfro, Dr. Wes, and Lauren Kimble our communications consultant who put the annual report together; Lynsi Musselman and Lauren are working on a new website to be launched soon. Rev. Back then recognized the clergy: Rev. Amanda Watson, Susanna, Father David and Sarah Beth, his wife. David and Sarah are expecting and there will be a baby shower on May 4th. He also mentioned other upcoming events such as the Alleluia Evensong, a shrimp boil and Ash Wednesday services. Rev. Back stated that it is traditional that we give a token of appreciation for those who have

given of their time. He started with those going off Vestry: John Stowe, Blake Fulenwider, and Courtney Vletas. Other volunteers recognized were Patty Collier, Nolan Kelley, Josh Stearns, Nancy Estes, John Hill, Dorothy Thompson, Becky McDonald, Susie Ramsey, Billy Edwards, Pat Garren, Cindy McCarty, Meredith Back, Diane Stearns, Martha Ferguson, and Candy Scarborough. He then gave special recognition of Mike Denny as our outgoing Vestry Chair and his wife, Julie. He thanked Julie for all she has done and presented her with flowers. Rev. Back presented Mike with a saved piece from the Columbarium expansion that was inscribed in his honor.

ANNUAL REPORTS:The Annual Parish Reports were given. A motion was made by Nolan Kelley for the reports to be accepted by title. The motion was seconded by Kim Snyder. Motion passed with no opposition.

STEWARDSHIP REPORT:The Stewardship Chair, Kim Snyder gave the Stewardship Report. She started by thanking the committee members. She announced that there was an increase in pledges by $45,000 and that the average gift had increased tremendously. She thanked everyone for their generosity.

FOUNDATION REPORT:Mike Denny gave the Foundation Report as Lee Hampton was not able to attend. Mike recog-nized Foundation members for their work. Mike summarized the information in the Annual Re-port regarding the Foundation Funds. All funds added together equates to four million dollars.

2013 FINANCIAL SUMMARY: Annabel House, Treasurer, gave the Financial Summary. She presented an overview of 2013. Some highlights were an increase in pledges and that all pledges have been collected; we didn’t have to borrow from the operating fund reserve for the first time ever; we had a negative balance previously, but now we are in the positive with $105,000. $55,000 was added this year rather than borrowed. In regard to our income and total expenses, we spent less and collected more. John Stowe mentioned that plate collections were up by $15,000. Annabel reviewed the Trust Funds which are monies given for particular program. The Trust Funds have a total of $434,000. She


Delegates to Annual Diocesan

Convention

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explained that advanced pledge payments go into a special trust fund and move into the budget in January.

2014 BUDGET:Mike Denny reviewed the 2014 budget. We have had an amazing increase with a high pri-ority for outreach. Last year, we gave away $30,000 and we budgeted $40,000 this year. Mike noted that we plan to increase our out-reach amount each year. Insurance cost was reduced quite a bit. A motion was made by Yvonne Batts to accept the 2014 budget. The motion was seconded by Billy Edwards. The motion passed with no opposition.

SPECIAL PRESENTATION – EPIS-COPAL CHURCH FOUNDATION:Nancy Estes thanked and introduced Ralph Cousins of the Episcopal Church Foundation who gave a special presentation on the results of the feasibility study regarding a capital campaign. Last year, we initiated a discern-ment process for what God intends for Heav-enly Rest. 150 people participated and 50% of the households participated. There was a common thread in all the responses which were more youth and children activities, in-reach, outreach, music, and more space. He explained that the purpose of the study is to determine what the parish wants to see. At the end of the process, the ECF will come back and tell Heavenly Rest what is feasible for us to do. He said we should thank each other for our stewardship increases and that something exciting is happening at Heavenly Rest. There were 362 surveys and 35% re-sponded. There were also 21 interviews. He said that he can’t give the results today. John Stowe asked why 35% was a good response. Ralph said that they frequently see less, where the energy level is not as high as at Heavenly Rest. Mike Denny said that Ralph will be coming back to the Vestry with recommen-dations and as soon as we have results, they will be put out to the Parish.

ELECTION RESULTS:The election results were announced by Mike Denny. Delegates to the Convention will be Nolan Kelley, Sharon Kelley, and Charles Scarborough.

APPOINTMENTS AND INSTALLATION OF PARISH OFFICERS AND LEADERS FOR 2014:The Rev. Back asked for approval of appointments: Patty Collier as secretary for today, Annabel House, treasurer for 2014; Yvonne Batts as next senior warden. Nolan Kelley made a motion to accept the appointments and Angela Hamil-Willis seconded. Motion passed with no opposition. New Officers and Leaders for 2014 were installed.

BENEDICTION & ADJOURNMENT:The Rev. Back gave the benediction and Mike Denny adjourned the meeting at 2:04 p.m.

Nancy EstesNolan KelleyJosh Stearns

Annabel HouseCindy McCartyNewly Elected:Sharon KelleyNolan Kelley

Charles Scarborough

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PARISH LIFE


Parish Committees

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ALTAR GUILDSharon Kelley, Co-chairSuzie Ramsey, Co-chair

ACOLYTESNolan Kelley, Acolyte Master

Russell Dickerson, Parent CaptainJohn Hill, Parent Captain

Mark Puckett, Parent CaptainCharles Scarborough, Parent CaptainBREAKFAST ON BEECH STREET

Jody DePriest, CHR CoordinatorBROTHERHOOD OF ST. ANDREWS

Bill Young, ChairDick Veigel, Treasurer

BUILDING AND GROUNDS Linda Taubert, Chair

Junior WardenCHRISTIAN EDUCATION

Katie Young, Christian Education CoordinatorCONSTRUCTION COMMITTEE

Mike Denny, ChairYvonne Batts, Senior Warden

Jill Bishop, FurnishingsJudy Godfrey, Music HallNolan Kelley, Parish HallKim Snyder, Parish HouseRev. N. Luke Back, Rector

COLUMBARIUM COMMITTEERosemary Suttle, Chair

DAUGHTERS OF THE KINGRev. Susanna Cates, Interim Chair

ECW/THRIFT HOUSE COMMITTEESuzie Ramsey, Chair

EUCHARISTIC MINISTERSTerry Young, Layreader/Lector Chair

Karen Boyd, Eucharistic Visitation ChairFINANCE COMMITTEE

TreasurerRector

Senior WardenFoundation Chair

Parish AdministratorFinancial Manager

Junior WardenCurate

FLOWER GUILDJackie Batjer, Chair

FRIENDS OF MUSICSusie Rockett, Chair

FURNISHINGS COMMITTEEJill Bishop, Chair

GREETERS COMMITTEEMaggy Morford, Chair

HEAVENLY REST MUSICDr. Wes Gomer, Organist and

Director of Music MinistriesSusie Rockett, Music AssistantShelly Reed, Children’s Music

Barbradon Brooks, HarpistCharles Shelton, Rehearsal Accompanist

Robert Partin, Tower Captain, Change Ringers

Lynn Blair, Carillon MaintenanceHOSPITAL & NURSING HOME VISITATION COMMITTEE

Rita Turkett, Hospital Visitation ChairSharon Rathbun, Nursing Home

Visitation ChairLIBRARY COMMITTEE

Eleanor Hoppe, ChairMEDICAL COMMITTEE

Gay Ann Walts, ChairMORNING PRAYER

Rev. Amanda Watson, DeaconJackie Batjer

Billy EdwardsJeff Goolsby

Annabel HouseCharlotte PasselDoug Thomas

Courtney VletasNEIGHBORHOOD COMMITTEE

Rev. Amanda Watson, ChairNEWCOMER MINISTRY

Lynsi MusselmanOUTREACH COMMITTEE

Doug Thomas, Chair

HANDS ON OUTREACHBilly Edwards, Co-chair

Sue Ivey, Co-chair

SWAHILI OUTREACH COMMITTEEPeter Kent, Parish Administrator, Chair

Sue IveyAngela Hamil Willis

Kim SnyderRev. Amanda Watson

Bikoli MulandaDavid Ekombe

Regina KosongoPaul Kosongo

SOUND GUILDBob Hale, Chair

SOUP SISTERSSue McWilliams, Chair

Becky McDonaldST. MARGARET’S GUILD

Terry Young, ChairST. MARTHA’S GUILD

Suzie Ramsey, ChairTHURSDAY BIBLE STUDY

Pat Garren, LeaderUSHERS

Mike Denny, Chair

VERGER’S GUILDNolan Kelley, Verger

CHANCELLORScott Bishop

TREASURERAnnabel HouseFOUNDATION

Lee Hampton, ChairASSOC. OF CONGREGATIONS AND

INTERFAITH COUNCILRepresentatives

Rector and Linda Goolsbee

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Morning Prayer Each weekday morning at 8:00am, liturgy of Morning Prayer is said in the Chapel at the Church of the Heavenly Rest. The Episcopal Church is a church that prays, which means the church traditionally sets aside certain times of the day for prayer. As early as the second century, there have been places where Christians marked each day liturgically with morning and evening services. The morning service consists of a psalm, a canticle, prayers and scripture readings. Saying Morning Prayer provides an opportunity to read most of the Bible in the two year cycle.

Interestingly, to emphasize that we are a people that prays, the liturgy of Morning Prayer does not conclude with a blessing because this is the beginning, not the end, of our day of prayer. Saying Morning Prayer is a reminder for each of us that we offer this day to the glory of God and to the service of God, and in saying Morning Prayer with others we are reminded that we serve and love together in community. The concluding prayer is the prayer of St. Chrysostom which says, “when two or three are gathered together in his name, God will be in the midst of them.”

Come gather together and set aside 30 minutes at the beginning of your day for prayer and scripture with these people who graciously love and serve the Lord each week day morn-ing: Annabel House, Courtney Vletas, Billy Edwards, Charlotte Passel, Jeff Goolsby, Jackie Batjer and Doug Thomas. Amanda Watson, Deacon

Thursday Bible StudyThe Heavenly Rest Thursday Bible Study has been a part of our church’s history for almost 40 years! The group is ecumenical in nature, covering scripture, theology, and spiritual practice. It meets every Thursday, from 9:30am through 11:00am in the Bishop Garrett Room at the church. Pat Garren is the current leader of the group, facilitating discussion as members journey through God’s Word. Bible study participants enhance the knowledge and insight they receive by offering loving support to one another, and discovering new ways to connect with their communities and the world.

If you have an interest in joining the Thursday Bible Study, please contact the church office for more information... or you are welcome to drop by any Thursday morning and “come and see!”

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Junior Warden ReportAs Junior Warden this year, I’ve had the privilege of working with the church staff on several maintenance and repair projects for our gorgeous facility. Allow me to provide you an update on upcoming projects and items that are in progress or have been recently repaired. Please feel free to contact me if you have questions on any of these activities.

At the first of the year, you will see much activity in our Chapel! After many decades of use, our beautifully crafted wooden chapel pews, kneelers and cushions, which came from the original church located downtown, are in need of major refurbishing to return them to pristine condition. All the pews will be removed at one time and gently stripped, sanded, repaired and restained by a local company. Removing all pews at once will allow for thorough cleaning of the floor as well. Cushions will be replaced as needed or reupholstered. We will continue to use the Chapel during this time by setting folding chairs in place until the pews are reinstalled. This process will most likely take about two months. We will also have a new cover created for the piano to provide protection.

Additionally, we have recently replaced the burned out candle lights in the Chapel and Sanctuary chandeliers. With the height of these fixtures, this project required professional electricians.

In the fall, our hot water heater in the kitchen went out and was replaced. To the de-light of all those who help hostess events in the church, our dishwasher was repaired during the summer and is now functioning well. Unfortunately, our ice machine was not repairable. With the upcoming plans for a new Parish Hall with new appli-ances, we have chosen to use bagged ice in the short term.

The major hailstorm we experienced in June caused some damage to our church structure, though minor compared to what was experienced on the north side of town. We had several broken window panes that have been replaced, and some damage to the roof. Because our roof is slate and the pitch is extremely sharp, repairs must be handled carefully, by a qualified company, and taken care of in favorable weather conditions. Barr Roofing will handle these repairs as soon as slate tiles that properly match our existing roof are secured. Roof and glass repairs together will amount to about $10,000. Seeing the damage to the roofs on the First Baptist facilities, we realize how very fortunate we were!

Several years ago we suffered lightning damage to two of the four pinnacles on the top of the Bell Tower. Yvonne Batts and Mike Denny worked for several months to locate a company that was able to replicate the design of the original pieces. Those pieces have now been recreated and are ready for installation. Scheduling that installation, which involves large cranes, good weather, etc., is in progress. Many thanks to Yvonne and Mike for taking on this somewhat formidable task!

Several other maintenance issues will be discussed as we move into our planning phase for the capital improve-ments and renovations. Some of the items that we hope to address are much needed electrical updates, a new eleva-tor for the Parish House, and repainting (recaulking) all windows throughout the property. May 2015 be a blessed year for all, Kim Snyder, Junior Warden

NEWCOMER COMMITTEEClaire CarlsonLisa GoolsbyJackie BatjerSandra Kent

Julie-Anne StonerNick Shepard

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Newcomer Ministry


Beginning in September 2013, Heavenly Rest put in place a plan to welcome visitors and connect new members into the life of the congregation. The plan was developed by a committee and patterned after the Newcomer Ministry developed by Mary Palmer from the Episcopal Diocese Project.

A training was held at Heavenly Rest by Mary Palmer for various groups which resulted in a committee formed and a plan for Heavenly Rest. The model plan calls for three phases: Welcome, Invitation, and Connection.

The “Welcome” includes weekly greeters, website communication, personal referral, visitor cards, bags with welcome notes, and a follow up personalized note to the visitor. Name tags are offered by the church office to all members in an attempt to make identification easier. Clergy welcomes visitors at the end of the service and invites all of the congregation to an informal coffee time.

Those who want to learn further and be confirmed will be invited to a confirmation class beginning in January and ending after confirmation in May.

“Connection” is the final phase. It is a time of connecting newcomers with the people and ministry that matches his/her particular life phase, gifts, talents, and passion. Through rally day presentations and conversations with newcomers, pathways to discipleship and belonging open doors of opportunity. Lynsi Musselman

The Brotherhood has had a quiet year this year. We hosted a great Shrove Tuesday sea-food cook out with lots of good fellowship with all the men of the church. On Senior Sunday we presented the 40th annual Dan Abbott Scholarship to Chuck Gilliard. We host-ed the Third Sunday in Advent Wednesday Night Dinner.

We have been meeting informally at the Dixie Pig at 6:15 on Tuesday mornings. All men and boys of the church are welcome to join us.

We wish to hold our Brother Dick Orsini in special prayers as he recently entered Hos-pice Care. Bill Young

Brotherhood of Saint AndrewBROTHERHOODBill Young, Director

Dick Veigel, TreasurerWayne Jepson

Rick WillisLee HamptonNorm French

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Christian Education The past year was filled with numerous programs in addition to the regularly scheduled Sunday School classes for the children of Heavenly Rest. Our first main events of 2014 were the Lenten programs on Wednesday nights that coincided with the Adult Lenten Se-ries. During those evenings the children learned about Easter traditions in various countries around the world.

This year we tried something a little different with Vacation Bible School. For three evenings in August we met at Joe Galloway’s house, the Tan-glewood Pool, and the Church for swimming, games, and Bible study. It was great fun, and parents appreciated being included!

For Halloween, we held our Annual Trunk-or-Treat in the Heavenly Rest parking lot. For the event we had 13 trunks participating. There was a competition for the best decorated trunk. Karen Boyd’s family was the first place winner and Aimee and Robert Powell won second place. The Youth received an honorable mention for their outstanding pirate ship that was orchestrated by Jessica Millsap. The entire evening was a huge success!

Wednesday night Advent programs kicked off the first week of Advent. The evenings were filled with practicing songs for the Christmas pageant and learning about the mean-ing of the Advent wreath. The Christmas Pageant was a great hit with Meredith Back resuming the role as our wonderful director. She really out did herself and the kids had a great time playing their parts.

Thank you to all of you who helped create this wonderful year for our children! Katie Young

SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS(as of September 2014)

Terry Young& Sarah Driskelltwo and three year olds

Meredith Back& Jay Hardawaypre-kindergarten and kindergarten

Courtney Bryant& Diane Stearnsfirst and second grade

Gretchen Henson& Susie Rockettthird and fourth grade

Heather & Russell Manion, Sherry & Jed Martin and Katie Young middle school and high school students

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This past year, the youth groups have been led by the dynamic duo of Mtr. Susanna Cates and Katie Young. We met on Sunday evenings in the spring, alternating between EYC (high school youth) and JEYPs (middle school youth). Feeling the need to meet weekly with each group, we came up with a new schedule for the fall– EYC met on Wednesday nights, 6:30-8:00pm, while JEYPs met on Sunday nights, 5:15-6:45pm.

EYC started 2014 with a trip to the Sonora Caverns. Nine high schoolers from Heavenly Rest met with members of Emmanuel’s youth group in San Angelo for this adventure. It was nice to get out and meet other youth in the Diocese. In February Jerry and Jody Depriest were kind enough to open their house to all of our youth for a Super Bowl watching party. We ended the year with a barbeque at Candy and Charles Scarborough’s house. It was complete with lawn games, ukulele serenades by our talented youth, and delicious food!

During the summer we had diocesan camps at Cathedral Ridge in Colorado and Ceta Glen just south of Amarillo. Camp was a blast! I hope that this year we can have even more youth attending. In August we had Pools & Paul, combining swimming fun with Bible studies of Paul’s letters. These events were hosted by Annabel House, Sandra and Peter Kent, and Mike and Julie Denny.

School year activities began with a trip to New Braunfels, Texas. Annabel House, Jessica Millsap, Mtr. Susanna and Katie Young joined 14 members of the youth group at a river cabin just outside of New Braunfels. We had a great time jumping off a rope swing into the river, floating in the river, playing games, telling ghost stories, and just getting to hang out before the school year began. The last day we were there, we celebrated Holy Eucharist... it was truly a wonderful thing to break bread with these wonderful teens.

Katie Young

Youth Ministry

f a m i l y and youth m i n i s t r y

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This has been a year of amazing hospitality, given and received! I give thanks for the open hearts and loving hands that make so many events at Heavenly Rest possible. We kicked off a year of celebrations last year with a beautiful Epiphany Feast, and we’re well on our way to making that a tradition of this beautiful place. We continued our festivities with a wonderful Mardi Gras festival, where a great group of men fired up their propane burners and cooked a Low

Country Shrimp Boil—let’s keep this tradition going, too! And we ushered in Holy Week with a lovely community celebration of Passover; people from all over Abilene came to see and celebrate with us. None of this could have happened without the amazing support of the men and women here. I take such delight in opening up our doors and our hearts to this congregation and to this community.

It’s also been a great year of teaching and learning. I happily took on the coordination of our Confirmation program and the Curate’s Study in the fall, and have been so grateful to see how our parishioners love to learn and ask questions. It’s one of the chief joys of my life to be able to teach about God’s word, God’s church, and God’s creation to the adults that, regardless of age or experience in the church, are hungry for more knowledge. Thank you for giving me the opportunity, and for your enthusiasm.

We are all looking forward to the process of growth and change that lies ahead– not only in our campus and its structures, but also the growth that awaits each one of us in our spirits and our minds. I pray that we continue to grow and learn together, as we have always done—that we support and teach one another in love and grace.

Susanna+


Curate’s Report

“I give thanks for the open hearts and loving hands that make so many events at Heavenly Rest possible.”


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Music at Heavenly RestHEAVENLY REST MUSICDr. Wes Gomer – Organist/Director of Music MinistriesSusie Rockett – Music AssistantShelly Reed – Children’s MusicBarbradon Brooks – Harpist (8:00 AM service)Charles Shelton – Rehearsal Accompanist for Adult ChoirRobert Partin – Tower Captain, All Saints Tower Change-ringing Guild/Piano Mainte-nanceLynn Blair – Carillon Maintenance

Providing musical leadership for Sunday worship services and other special worship services throughout the year is a calling that our volunteer church musicians take quite seriously. During 2014, our musicians of the Adult Choir, Canterbury Handbell Choir, and Junior Choir/Junior Ringers and Singers provided music for all 10:30 Sun-day worship services throughout the year, as well as several additional services. Be-sides the standard Holy Week services, the Adult Choir sang a very moving service on Palm/Passion Sunday afternoon, the Charles Wood “Passion According to St. Mark,” with guest soloists Dr. Rick Piersall and Travis Lowery, and guest-conducted by Jeff Goolsby. On Easter Sunday, Dr. Steven Ward conducted the offertory anthem which was sung by the Adult Choir, Junior Ringers and Singers, organ, and members of the Key City Brass.

Heavenly Rest musicians were saddened in June by the death of Conrad Bratton, who spent nearly forty years establishing and maintaining the music ministry of Heavenly Rest. Our Adult Choir, many former choir members, and area church musicians con-

“We strive to carry on Conrad’s love of Heavenly Rest

and the music which enriches

our worship experience.”

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ducted by Bobbie Sumerlin, joined their voices in singing for his memorial service. It was some of the most magnificent hymn singing that has been heard within the walls of our nave. We strive to carry on Conrad’s love of Heavenly Rest and the music which enriches our worship experience.

Our church musician volunteers – the individual members of choirs and ensembles, and especially the members of the Adult Choir – spend a lot of time and energy each week, each month, and throughout the year not only in singing in service, but in learning and rehearsing the music which is sung. It doesn’t happen by accident. No matter how talented our staff leadership may be, that talent is useless without the work of these fantastic (and pretty fun) parishioners who desire to use their God-given musical talent in a meaningful way. It is significant that not a week has gone by in the past year without at least two mentions of appreciation and thanks coming from members of the parish! We appreciate your support and participation! Wes Gomer

“No matter how talented our staff leadership may be, that talent is use-less without the work of these fan-tastic (and pretty fun) parishioners who desire to use their God-given musical talent in a meaningful way.”

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Music Outside of WorshipThe splendid acoustics of our Nave combined with the beauty of architectural details and stained glass provide an atmosphere for music quite unlike many other sites in Abilene. With the support and encouragement from congregational leaders and our parishioners as a whole, the Heavenly Rest Chamber Music Series continues to attract both performers and listeners from the area to enjoy unique, high quality, and very well performed music in our Nave.

The Heavenly Rest Chamber Music Concert Series continues to grow in popularity, pros-perity and prestige. This year, we began our sixth season and will present 8 performances from local and area professionals. So far, we have had more than 40 contributors and we have received many requests from performers who wish to be included in our series. The Friends of Music program has not only increased our budget, but has also helped build a strong and supportive audience base.

One of the highlights new to our concert series is the Tri-Collegiate Scholarship and Honors Recital. This concert was developed to focus on the very talented music students from our three local universities (Abilene Christian University, McMurry University, and Hardin-Simmons University). Each performer auditioned and was unanimously chosen by an esteemed panel of judges. The top three performers were given scholarships. All three universities were well represented and the outcome was delightful! There was a lovely celebratory reception following the concert and it was a splendid and festive way

“This year, the Chamber Music

Series began our sixth season and

will present 8 per-formances from local and area professionals.

So far, we have had more than 40 con-

tributors and we have received many

requests from performers who

wish to be included in our series.”

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to end the concert season. This concert was hugely successful and we will continue to offer this event as long as possible. This year it will be held on Thursday, May 7 at 7:00pm. If you wish to contribute to the scholarship fund, please contact the par-ish office.

This concert series not only gives our congregation, community and contribu-tors a chance to hear beautiful music in our wonderful Nave, but it also invites people into our space who might not otherwise have a reason to enter. This is yet another way we can share this glori-ous church with others.

The Sound Guild is a dedicated group of Ves-try members and parishioners who work the sound system on Sundays and any other ser-vices in order to make certain that the spoken word is heard clearly by all. Heavenly Rest’s Sound Guild has 10 members representing a broad range of ages, high school and up. Members are scheduled to work sound about once per month. I am very

grateful for the way our members pitch in when needed, sometimes on short notice, when illness prevents the scheduled person from handling the sound.

We can always use more help with this ministry, so please contact me if you are interested in joining our group. It is not necessary to be an expert on sound equipment to join the Sound Guild. We will provide training to familiarize you with the equipment and its operation.

If you are interested in helping with this very important ministry, please join us!

Bob Hale, [email protected]

Sound Guild“It is not necessary to be an expert on sound equipment to join the Sound Guild. We will provide training to familiarize you with the equipment and its operation.”

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servingthe churchand thecommunity

“Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received. Whoever speaks must do so as one speaking the very words of God; whoever serves must do so with the strength that God supplies, so that God may be glorified in all things through Jesus Christ. To him belong the glory and the power forever and ever.” 1Peter 4:10-11.

It is the responsibility of the Deacon to remind the people that we are all called to be servants as “the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve” Mark 10:45. Therefore, in the liturgy, the Deacon serves at the altar, setting the table for the Great Thanksgiving, reading the Gospel, opening the Prayers of the People and dismissing the people who have just experienced communion with God and all the saints “to go in peace to love and serve the Lord.”

Serving on the Outreach Committee, in the Hands-On Ministry, with the weekday morning prayer officiants, on the Neighborhood Committee and on the Swahili Committee allows me the privilege to serve with and to support the many generous, giving members of this parish who live as “good stewards of the manifold grace of God and in service to one another.” In serving one another– specifically in serving the children in our neighborhood– the Episcopal Church Women have begun a partnership with Bowie Elementary to support the children in the fourth grade.

“Glorify God in all things,” as in the opening of our doors and welcoming the stranger. The Neighborhood Committee sponsored an Open House at Heavenly Rest in December and the people came and saw the glory of God that shone through the history and beauty of this incredible Gothic building. This committee will continue to open our doors and welcome our neighbors with a Frito Pie Dinner on February 22, 2015.

I continue to be in thanksgiving for the people of Heavenly Rest as you have extended to me and have supported me, both financially and spiritually, in my opportunity to attend the Diocese of Northwest Texas School of Ministry in order that I might better serve both this parish and this community.

In His Service, Amanda Watson

Deacon’s Report

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Altar Guild

TEAM 1: Kathy Balch, leader, 698-4490; Kathy Diamond, Cindy McCarty, Suzie RamseyTEAM 2: Candy Scarborough, leader, 677-4237; Jackie Batjer, Claire Carlson, Amy Edington , Judy Deaton TEAM 3: Bea Garner, leader, 672-1010; Gail Kaiser, Sharon Kelley, Lauren Puckett, Suzie Ramsey, Gay Ann WaltsTEAM 4: Connie Collier, leader, 721-4376; Lynn Boyd, Norene Mansell, Jennifer Nichols, Patti Jones All Around Substitutes: Franklynn Hall, Mary Reyes, Cindy Strain

ALTAR GUILD MEMBERSHIP January 2015

CHAIRPERSONSSuzie Ramsey (692-7492)Sharon Kelley (698-1513)

COMMITTEES:

FUNERALS Suzie Ramsey, Sharon Kelley

FLOWERS Jackie Batjer

WEDDINGS Franklynn Hall, Suzie Ramsey

FINANCE & ACKNOWLEDGMENTS Sharon Kelley, Franklynn Hall

CALENDAR/SUPPLIES Kathy Diamond

ST. JOHN’S SCHOOL Martha Ferguson

LINEN COMMITTEE

Week 1, Cindy McCartyWeek 2, Mary Reyes Week 3, Linda Taubert Week 4, Evelyn Bein Week 5, Dixie Bassett Linen Repair, Linda Taubert Substitutes, Evelyn Bein Mary Reyes

The Altar Guild is currently composed of a group of 20 trained parishioners (and sometimes drafted family members) who love the ritual and order of the Episcopal church. As a service ministry the guild is responsible for the mindful preparations for all services. It is our opportunity to do our work in the quietness and awesome beauty of our Nave. As we set the altar for each service and altar adornments for Epiphany, Lent, Palm Sunday, Good Friday, Easter, Pentecost, All Saints, Thanksgiving, the four Sundays of Advent, and Christmas, we are actively reminded of the reasons and the seasons of our church calendar. The Festival Altar Committee delights everyone with creative visual expressions. The guild meets occasionally for training, special cleaning, and re-connection with all four teams. This year we also prepared and served one of the summer parish breakfasts and the second Advent supper which were fun ways to extend our ministry and friendship.

Anyone who is interested in being

a part of this active group is

encouraged to talk with the clergy

about training and involvement.

Responsibilities of the Altar Guild: • Set-up, care and cleaning of the altar and its appointments• Preparation of the Nave and Chapel for all weekly services as well as baptisms, weddings, burials, confirmations, memorial services and other services as needed • Organization and direction of procedures for weddings and funerals• Delivering of flowers from the altar and ac-knowledging flower memorials and gifts• Care and repair of altar linens• Overseeing of altar needs and procurement of any needed itemsOrganization: • Four teams involving 19 current active members and 3 substitutes who rotate and meet every four weeks on Saturday at 9:00 to prepare for the Sunday services • Linen committee with 5 members who rotate the care of linens each week2014 Services:• Weekly Sunday Services—two morning services of Holy Communion and Swahili Morning Prayer

• Wednesday Healing Services • Special Services such as Epiphany, special noon services during Lent, Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, Easter Vigil, Easter Day, Confirmation, All Saints Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Day• 2 Weddings• 9 Baptism services which included 20 baptisms• 30 funerals, memorial services, burials and intermentsAltar Flowers and Gifts: When considering a contribution in memory of someone or in thanksgiving, please remember the Altar Guild memorial fund and the altar flower fund. Altar flow-ers presently cost $100 per Sunday but a check in any amount may be made out to the Altar Guild and sent to the office with the name of the honored individual(s) or a special occasion and the date. Memorials are used to purchase linens and hardware for our altars.


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Acolyte CorpsACOLYTE ROSTER 2014-2015

Junior Torch/Gospel Book

Austin Beckham Reagan Fulenwider

Ruth Hill Colin Kent

Senior TorchAshton Hankins

Jane Hill Rachel Kent

Sam Mehaffey Katherine Morris

Jack PhelanMichael Scarborough

Joshua Ward Kate Yost

Crucifer/Senior TorchJulia Dickerson Parker Edington

Lauren Fulenwider Eliana Pigott

Nick Procopio

ServerMaya Millar Alix Phelan

Nathaniel Pigott Halle Puckett

Senior ServerAlex Beckham

Russell Dickerson, Jr.Katy Powell

Nick Yost

Parent Acolyte CaptainsRussell Dickerson

John HillMark Puckett

Charles Scarborough

Our corps of twenty-six faithful acolytes at the Church of the Heavenly Rest includes an Eagle Scout, a Community Foundation of Abilene Future Philanthropist, a concert pianist, a number of other accomplished musicians, and numerous acolytes who are recog-nized in their schools for academic excellence and/or athletic abilities. This listing is only a sample of the talent that can be found in this group of outstand-ing young people. Acolytes serve on Sundays, High Holy Days and at other times as requested. Their commitment to excellence, reverence and dignity ensures that our An-glican traditions and local customs are honored. We are deeply grateful for their service to our parish.

In addition to our acolytes, there are four adults who serve as Acolyte Captains. Our captains receive acolyte training and serve on a rotating schedule. They are scheduled to serve with their children, sit with the acolytes in the Sanctuary during services, know

the various responsibilities of each acolyte and pro-vide any needed assistance. We are thankful for our captains and their willingness to commit their time and energy to this service. Our current captains are Russell Dickerson, Sr., John Hill, Mark Puckett and Charles Scarborough. Our substitute captain is Mark Phelan.

It is a distinct honor to serve as Acolyte Master and Verger for the Church of the Heavenly Rest with this group of remarkable young people and committed adults. Nolan Kelley, Verger/Acolyte Master


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Eucharistic MinistersEUCHARISTIC MINISTERS & EUCHARISTIC VISITING MINISTERS

Eucharistic Ministers (also known as layreaders and lectors) read the lessons and prayers as well as serve the chalice during church services and special events. The following individuals are to be commended for dedicating their time and talents to the members of this Parish this past year.

Jackie Batjer Yvonne Batts Josh Black Mary Buzan Don Bridges Lew Carter Tom Choate Connie Collier Bart Cox

Ann Danehower Judy Deaton Pat Garren John Hill Ann Hollandsworth Annabel House Wayne Jepson Rebecca Kello Peter Kent

Mark McCarty Letha Morris Paul Potter India Reynolds Chris Rockett Susie Rockett Julie Stoner John Stowe Doug Thomas

Many thanks go to all of our layreaders for their patience with the scheduler and with Mary Renfro and Laura Wright who dealt with our schedule changes. It’s been a busy year. Wayne Jepson rejoined the ranks. Mary Buzan and Colby Walker Strong moved to Austin. Ann Danehower, Julie Stoner, Paul Potter are on sabbatical. Five new layreaders have joined us: Josh Black, James Wagstaff, Peter Kent, Kristen Ward and Steven Ward. If you are interested in serving or would like more information, please let me or one of our priests know. Terry Young, LEM Coordinator

James Wagstaff Colby Walker Strong Kristen Ward Steven Ward Bill Young Katie Young Terry Young

EUCHARISTIC VISITING MINISTERS

The Eucharistic Visiting Ministers have been blessed this year to bring Holy Communion to those unable to attend services. We administer to any Christian who requests our visit. We most often visit on Sunday afternoons, but we are available to bring communion as the needs arise.

The nine members of the LEV team have had the pleasure of ministering to as many as 25 people. At this time we have nine people on our list to visit once a month. Some of those we have visited have recovered enough to return to join us at the altar and some have moved. Most of those we no longer visit have gone home to God.

We are very fortunate to be able to visit these people. They are special individuals who have led long and full lives and, as we share the Eucharist with them, they in turn share their wisdom and stories with us. The LEV team members are the ones most blessed!

VISITING MINISTER

TEAM MEMBERS

Jackie Batjer

Barbradon Brooks

Martha Ferguson

Rebecca Kello

Mark McCarty

Suzie Ramsey

Sharon Rathbun

Bill Young

“...as we share the Eucharist with them, they in turn share their wisdom and stories with us.”

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UshersThe ushers for Heavenly Rest are a group of men and women that assist at the main services each Sunday, the special services that take place during the year, and memo-rial services. The ushers work with the clergy to insure that all phases of the service go smoothly. They also help the congregation with anything they may need during the ser-vice. They act as greeters to the people that enter the church for any worship service that takes place. At the end of each service they insure that the church is cleaned and prepared for the next service.

We ask that anyone interested in serving as an usher contact the church office to add your name to the list.

USHER ROSTER

Scott BishopJoseph CroweSam CutbirthRobin DennisMike DennyJerry DepriestJim FitzhughJoe Galloway

Dru HallLee HamptonJay HardawayJay HensonJohn Hill

Tim LillickDonald McDonald

Cindy MooreAlexander Morotini

Bill NorthRobert PetersonMark PuckettBud Ramsey

Charles ScarboroughNick Shepherd

Steve Strain

Parish Medical CommitteeThe Parish Medical Committee was asked by the vestry to purchase an additional AED (automated external defibrillator) to be placed in the Parish Hall. With this additional AED, the church has available lifesaving equipment at each end of the building - one in the east wall cabinet of the Narthex and one in the Parish Hall.

First aid kits are available in various locations in the church (kitchen, Narthex, nursery, second floor hallway and Sacristy). These supplies are made available for anyone in need of basic first aid. The Parish Medical Committee will continue to monitor the supplies in these kits. Please notify a committee member if you notice that any supplies need to be replenished.

The committee is open to providing any medical education needs that would benefit par-ish members. Email topic suggestions to Gay Ann Walts at [email protected] and

the committee will work on providing the training.

Wishing you a healthy 2015! Gay Ann Walts, Chair

Parish Medical Committee Jon Anderson

Pat Arth

Dickson Ferguson

John Gassler

Rob Patton

Dorothy Thompson

Willys Treanor

Gay Ann Walts

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Columbarium Committee Report

In 2014, six niches were purchased, and five inter-ments occurred. All 108 niches in the original sec-

tion, “All Saints” (Center Section) have been sold and are paid in full.

Linda Taubert worked tirelessly, as she has for many years, planting and tending to seasonal plants in the Columbarium. We have hired a grounds maintenance person, who will clean the Columbarium, trim plants and trees, and install new plants at the appropri-ate time. An engraver was located to replace the company which had been engraving our niche plaques since 1997.

Our goal is to maintain your Columbarium as a reverent, peaceful and beautiful place.

The Columbarium Committee members, as determined by the Rules and Regulations of the Columbarium are:

Luke Back (Rector)Yvonne Batts (Senior Warden)Kim Snyder (Junior Warden)Peter Kent (Parish Administrator)Lee Hampton (Foundation Chair)Annabel House (Treasurer)Linda Taubert (Grounds Committee)Sharon Kelley (Furnishings Committee)Rosemary Suttle, Chairman

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Mae Aromme Fletcher

Shelba Hollingshead

Ann Herman

Hazel Lindley

Patty Taliaferro

Leland Samuel Stranathan Jr.

William Rush Allison Jr.

Harwell Barber

Dorothy Ashton Chick

Robert J. Wright

Anne Eugenie Gillespie

St. Claire Whitten Ziegler

Odis A. Claxton

Catherine McAhorn

Conrad C. Bratton

Thomas Joseph Taylor

Robert H. “Bob” Kuzma

Dorothy Mae Harper

Ruth Ann Choate

David Allan Kraly

Melvin Layne

Martha Jane Rhodes

Lee Anderson

Leroy Earle Powell

Justine Digby Roberts Grisham

Jack R. James

Leon Ravinoch

Dorothea Ravinoch

Mary Alice Murphey

Mary Booth Steward

2014The Faithfully Departed,

WOMEN’S YEARBOOK

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St. Margaret’s GuildSt. Margaret’s Guild is one of the oldest guilds in our parish. We meet on the first and third Tuesdays of the month at 6:30pm for fellowship and study, usually in the Library. The first Tuesday we bring sack suppers, and say Compline. The 3rd Tuesdays we bring sack suppers (once in a while someone cooks) and study different subjects. During the summer months we eat out at least once a month. Our Christmas dinner this year included soup, bread and lots of dessert!

We will miss long time member Dorothy Chick who passed away in February. We were pleased to welcome Malinda Kraly into St. Margaret’s Guild this year.

Please join us for any or all meetings. Terry Young

ST. MARGARET’SGUILD

Barbara Beasley

Coletta Clermont

Mary Crymes

Blanche Jerige

Malinda Kraly

Maureen McCormick

Betty Parsley

Kathy Wolaver

Terry Young

INACTIVE MEMBERS

Christine Cooper

Froncie Foote

Elsie Norwood

Ann Phipps

Daughters of the King


The Daughters of the King is a national service organization of the Episcopal Church. Centered around the practices of daily prayer for people both near and dear to us, and to those whom we do not know, the Daughters are committed to sustaining the life of the church through intentional prayer and service. The Heavenly Rest Daughters of the King group meets once a month, generally the first Sunday, to discuss prayer concerns, strengthen one another and our community, and plan service activities for the church and community.

In the past year, the Daughters have:• held a successful workshop on prayer for women• conducted several worship services• accepted countless requests for prayers of healing

For more information, or to inquire about membership, please contact the church office.

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Parish Hostesses, St. Martha’s Guild2015 HostessesFebruary 1st Rachel Anderson Pat Arth Kathy BalchFebruary 8th Carolyn Barnett Susan Bartlett Dixie BassettFebruary 15th Jackie Batjer Yvonne Batts Barbara BeasleyFebruary 22nd Peggy Beckham Evelyn Bein Jill Bishop

March 1st Ariel Boggess Karen Boyd Lynn BoydMarch 8th Connie Boyd Becky Brame Sandy BridgesMarch 15th Betsy Bryant Courtney Bryant Claire CarlsonMarch 22nd Tracy Choate Connie Collier Patty Collier

Chair: Suzie Ramsey (call regarding changes)

March 29th Mary Lou Conley Terri Cress Susan Crowder

April 5th Becky Crowe Mary Crymes Geanna CutbirthApril 12th Nancy Davenport Judy Deaton Robin DennisApril 19th Julie Denny Jody Depriest Kathy DiamondApril 26th Sarah Driskell Jamie Dunn Amy Edington

May 3rd Barbara Edwards Nancy Estes April EwingMay 10th Weezie Fitzhugh Martha Ferguson Sarah Ferguson

May 17th Jane Guitar Evelyn French Holly FrizzellMay 24th Dulcey Fulenwider Rolanda Fulham Jan FunkeyMay 31st Melinda Galloway Bea Garner Pat Garren

June 7th Dorothy Thompson Christine Gilliard Judy GodfreyJune 14th Linda Goolsbee Kathy Hale Franklynn HallJune 21st Carol Hall Callie Hampton Lindsay HardawayJune 28th Gretchen Henson Laura Hendson Molly Hill

July 5th Margaret Hollowell Marta Hollowell Carolyn HolmesJuly 12th Eleanor Hoppe Annabel House Sue IveyJuly 19th Patti Jones Gail Kaiser Sharon KelleyJuly 26th Sandra Kent Paula Klingler Malinda Kraly

August 2nd Vicki Kuzma Vicki Lessing Debbie LillickAugust 9th JDana Lindley Dolores Lovvorn Norene MansellAugust 16th Cindy McCarty Margaret McCarty Melinda McCartyAugust 23rd Maureen McCormick Becky McDonald Sue McWilliamsAugust 30th Ember Miller-Thompson Kathie Millar Maggy Morford


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September 6th Debra Morotini Dianne Morphew Robyn MorrisSeptember 13th Jennifer Nichols Sally Orsini Susie OwenSeptember 20th Lindsay Perry Kim Phelan Anne PowersSeptember 27th Lauren Puckett Sharon Rathbun Suzie Ramsey

October 4th Joy Ramsey Shelly Reed Karen RenickOctober 11th Mary Reyes Susie Rockett Candy ScarboroughOctober 18th Linda Scarborough Debbie Sherman Kim SnyderOctober 25th Diane Stearns Cyndi Stockstill Suzanne Stowe

November 1st Cindy Strain Rosemary Suttle Linda TaubertNovember 8th Linda Taylor Deanna Thomas Kitty ThomasNovember 15th Gaile Thompson Helen Tindell Willys TreanorNovember 22nd Rita Turkett Courtney Vletas Tiffany WagstaffNovember 29th Gay Ann Walts Angela Willis Jane Yost

December 6th Terry Young Rachel Anderson Pat ArthDecember 13th Kathy Balch Carolyn Barnett Susan BartlettDecember 20th Dixie Bassett Jackie Batjer Yvonne Batts

December 27th Barbara Beasley Peggy Beckham Evelyn Bein

January 3rd (2016) Jill Bishop Ariel Boggess Karen BoydJanuary 10th Lynn Boyd Connie Boyd Becky Brame January 17th Sandy Bridges Betsy Bryant Courtney BryantJanuary 24th Claire Carlson Tracy Choate Connie CollierJanuary 31st Patty Collier Mary Lou Conley Terri Cress

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

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Neighborhood Committee

The Mission Statement of the Neighborhood Committee is to be committed to establish-ing partnerships with all who live in our community, believing that it is only through partnerships that opportunities to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ are provided.

The Neighborhood Committee is committed to “opening doors and tearing down walls” that separate us from the community that surrounds us. This committee strives to wel-come the stranger just as Christ welcomes us into God’s kingdom. The committee began with a hot dog dinner in a community park. Next the committee sponsored the Open House held at Heavenly Rest in December, 2014. Over a hundred people from our im-mediate neighborhood and the larger Abilene community attended. Many expressed the opinion that they had always wanted to enter this church and were pleased to be invited. It was a wonderful opportunity for this parish to share our story as a long time member

of this community. And it was also a wonderful opportunity for our parish to hear our visitors’ stories. It was an opportunity to truly open doors– both in our buildings and our hearts.

Our next event is February 22, 2015 when we will again open our doors and invite the neighbors to a neighborhood dinner of frito pie with music and games for the children– a time to gather together. We will need cooks, people to plan games, people to plan the music and people to meet and get to know our neigh-bors. The first step in welcoming our neighbor is to invite our neighbor into our home. Let’s make this church on the hill the church in the center of the life of

our neighborhood.

Come join us as we shine God’s love to all who live in our midst: Bill and Terry Young, Lisa Goolsby, Karen Boyd, Russell Sanders, Nolan and Sharon Kelley and Chris Cornell and you. Amanda Watson, Deacon


“This committee strives to welcome

the stranger just as Christ

welcomes us into God’s kingdom.”

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2014 BOBS TEAMS

Breakfast on Beech StreetIn May 2014, Breakfast on Beech Street (BOBS) completed 18 years serving hungry folks hot breakfasts and sack lunches each weekday, including holidays. Heavenly Rest is pleased to be a partner in this ministry to reduce hunger in Abilene. BOBS is com-prised of five churches - First Central Presbyterian, First Christian, First United Method-ist, Heavenly Rest, Highland Church of Christ, plus one Tuesday team from Holy Family Catholic Church.

In 2014, BOBS served an average of 1,350 breakfasts and 2,000 lunches per month. BOBS is operated by an average of 167 volunteers per month. BOBS has no paid staff, relying on one buyer who is compensated for gas and time for purchasing food. Anyone, regardless of age or circumstances, may receive a meal. Each church provides two mem-bers to serve on the BOBS Board which meets monthly.

Heavenly Rest continues to serve with five rotating teams on Mondays. Volunteers arrive at 5:30am and leave by 7:30am. Breakfast is served to 40-80 guests from 6:30-7:15am.

To volunteer, contact Jody DePriest at [email protected] or call/text 669-3312. Volunteers serve two hours every five weeks at First Christian Church’s Perry Center.

Many thanks to our 35+ Heavenly Rest volunteers who served on BOBS teams in 2014.

Jody DePriest, CHR BOBS Coordinator

TEAM 1Lee Hampton, leaderJim SnyderKim SnyderRosemary SuttleWillys Treanor

TEAM 2Scott Bishop, leaderClaire CarlsonBart CoxMike DennyJohn HillCharles ScarboroughSteve Strain

TEAM 3Jody DePriest, leaderKarrie PartinJane YostNick YostSue IveyMark PuckettLauren PuckettHalle PuckettSteve Burgh

TEAM 4Dick Veigel, leaderPeter KentLinda TaubertTerry YoungMarta Hollowell

TEAM 5Connie Hilliard, leaderRobin DennisLisa JonesDebbie LillickTim LillickTom Watson

SubstitutesSuzie RamseyJim HatchettScott Taliaferro

“Heavenly Rest is pleased to be a partner in this ministry to reduce hunger in Abilene.

BOBS is comprised of five churches–First Central Presbyterian, First Christian, First United Meth-odist, Church of the Heavenly Rest, Highland Church of Christ, plus one Tuesday team from Holy Family Catholic Church.”

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Visitation MinistriesHOSPITAL AND NURSING HOME VISITATION & SCHEDULES

We are convinced that this ministry brings special joy to both the visitor and those visited. If you have thought about joining, now is a good time! New skills and ideas are always welcome.

Rita Turkett and Sharon Rathbun

Hospital Visitation GuidelinesScheduled visitors call the Parish Office at 677-2091 after 9:30 a.m. on their appointed day to obtain the names and room numbers of our hospitalized members. Their visits are short: • they introduce themselves• they then ask how they can be of help• an offer of the support of prayer is given to those present• a card is left in the room with the visitor’s name and Parish information if the patient is asleep or out of the room.

If you would like to know more about our ministry, please call or [email protected] – 793-9005, or [email protected] – 677-7835.

Hospital Visitation ScheduleWeek 1 Barbara Beasley (TH)Week 2 Rita Turkett (W), Terry Young (TH)Week 3 Barbara Beasley (T), Becky Brame (W)Week 4 Rita Turkett (W)Week 5 Terry Young (TH)

Retirement and Nursing Home ScheduleThe Retirement/Nursing Home list is updated and mailed out as needed. The schedule for nursing home visits is determined by each of our visitors.Week 1 Dolores LovvornWeek 2 Deanna Thomas, Sharon RathbunWeek 3 Carolyn Barber – sends birthday cards to residentsWeek 4 Lorri Lantz-Profit, Sharon RathbunWeek 5 Virginia Wright– notes & pew sheets to residents

“...this ministry brings special joy to both the visitor

and those visited.”

35


Soup SistersThe Soup Sisters begin our eleventh year of min-istry in January, 2015. We are a very loosely orga-nized group of approxi-mately 35 women and one very brave man, our first and dearly beloved “Soup Mister.” So far, he has not donned a pink apron, but he has arrived promptly and delivered soup cheerfully. We meet in the Parish Hall kitchen on the second Monday of each month from Septem-ber through May. Some of us are talented cooks; some are efficient organizers. One of our Sisters bakes a variety of homemade cookies for our recipients. Some of us like to divide the cook-ies into sacks with hopes of finding a few broken cookies that must be consumed on the spot. Another member keeps us well-supplied with containers, sacks, and other items. One hard-working Soup Sister maintains the list of recipients and writes the name and addresses on the labels. Sisters take turns volunteering to cook the soup. Along the way, we help out when we are asked to prepare a meal for a church event in the Parish Hall.

In August, we saw the advent of yet another “franchise” of Soup Sisters. This time, the Baptist Church in Hamlin began their own form of our ministry. Several of our Sisters went to Hamlin to help with the first soup day. Our Soup Sisters had a great time and a delicious meal as they helped launch the Hamlin Soup Sisters.

The Heavenly Rest Soup Sisters take a bowl of soup, a corn muffin, and a cookie or two to our precious church members or friends who need a little tender loving care and a mo-ment of personal contact with someone from our church family.

If you are interested in joining Soup Sis-ters, please contact Sue McWilliams at 325.698-1009 ([email protected]) or Becky McDonald at 325.698-3228 ([email protected])

“We meet in the Parish Hall kitchen on the second Monday of each month, September through May. Some are talented cooks; some are efficient organizers.”

36


ECW and Thrift HouseEPISCOPAL CHURCH WOMEN (ECW)

“Maintain constant love for one another, for love covers a multitude of sins. Be hospitable to one an-other without complaining. Like good stewards of the manifold grace of God, serve one another with whatever gift each of you has received.” 1Peter 4:7-10

All women who are members of the Episco-pal Church are members of the ECW–Episcopal

Church Women. As members of the ECW at Heavenly Rest, we meet for fellowship...simply gathering together to maintain, restore, and create relationships with women of all ages– to maintain constant love in relationship with another. Most recently, we have worked to serve one another and our community through:• the collection and donation of diapers for the Baby Room at our sister church, St. Mark’s Episcopal Church,• the collection and distribution of school supplies to the refugee community in Abilene associated with the International Rescue Committee,• the adoption of the fourth grade students at our neighborhood’s elementary school, Bowie Elementary.

The ECW’s current project associated with the adoption of these classrooms of fourth graders at Bowie Elementary School are end-of-term celebration parties every six weeks. Bowie Elementary students come from predominantly low income families and the ECW strongly believes that these children are important. As mothers, sisters, aunts, friends and neighbors, the ECW is motivated to support and care for all children, and especially those vulnerable and at-risk children like many who attend Bowie Elementary.

If you are interested in becoming an active participant in the ECW, please contact the church office. The ECW will meet again as a group on Sunday afternoon, April 19, 2015.

37


THRIFT HOUSE - Greetings from the Thrift House in the name of all that is good and holy!

We hope you were able to be a part of the exciting year had at the Episcopal Church Women’s THRIFT HOUSE. So many things to do– such as celebrating with us at the Customer Ap-preciation Event, helping Abilene and the surrounding areas get

children ready for back to school or the Thrift House Fashion Show. All of these events help us to come together as Christians to enjoy fellowship in the name of the Lord.

The Thrift House was started by the Episcopal Church Women (ECW) over 45 years ago. Any and all surplus at the end of a fiscal year has always been given back to the com-munity in various ways. During the last four years, we have seen the economy change drastically. More and more people are coming to shop at the Thrift House, but less and less are donating their house wares and clothing– they are putting them on Consignment. With that change, we have also seen a dramatic decline in volunteers.

What does that mean for Thrift House? It means we have paid out over $44,000 in con-signments and we have seven employees. Our payroll is at an all-time high at $60,000 for 2014. Yes, that seems like a very high number for a thrift store, but when you con-sider we do $117,000 worth of business a year, that’s a lot of clothes, shoes, kitchen items and other miscellaneous used goods.

We have had to invest more than $20,000 in the last three years for roof repairs and upkeep to the building. If you haven’t been by lately, please go see Shirlene Plocheck, our Manager, and the other ladies at the Thrift House at 761 Walnut Street and enjoy the warm atmosphere and all the friendly faces. Thanks to all of our employees, each is a blessing and a wonderful part of the Thrift House.

THRIFT HOUSE BOARD MEMBERS

Suzie Ramsey, Chair

Coletta Clermont

Geanna Cutbirth

Gretchen Henson

Shirlene Plocheck

Mary J. Renfro

Jean Seymore

Amanda Watson

THRIFT HOUSE EMPLOYEES

Shirlene Plocheck, Manager

Malinda Kraly, Asst Mgr.

Mary J. Renfro, Bookkeeper

Mary Crymes

Maureen McCormick

Martha Schwartz

Jackie Walters

38

Outreach CommitteeOUTREACH • HANDS ON OUTREACH • SWAHILI COMMITTEE

For 2014, the Outreach Committee received $8,000 from the Foundation and $40,000 from the church operating budget, providing us with a total of $48,000 of unallocated funding to be used in ministries designed to relieve human suffering and empower individuals for success.

This generous budget allowed us to provide substantial assistance to members of our local refugee community. In fact, we established and funded a sub-committee to assess, prioritize and respond to the needs of that community, with the goal of helping them successfully transition to life in, what is to them, a foreign culture. Specific areas of assistance included housing, transportation, utility bills, and school clothes for 31 children.

Also on a local level, we were able to support human service agencies in Abilene that help teens and adults to procure employment by completing their education and/or learning specific job skills. These agencies focus their efforts on helping their clients to become self-sustaining, contributing members of society, and include: Abilene Transition Center/Our House, Faith Works, and Hope Haven.

We addressed needs of children in our community by focusing on three organizations:• With Deacon Amanda Watson serving as our liaison, we provided funds for the school

counselor at Bowie Elementary to buy clothing and school supplies for children from impoverished families.

• We supported the equestrian program at Ben Richey Boy’s Ranch. This program teaches empathy and responsibility through the care of horses.

• We contributed to the Baby Room at Saint Mark’s Episcopal, our sister church in Abilene. They “provide basic needs for children, ages newborn to four, of parents who cannot provide the items necessary for the safety and development of their children” such as; diapers, clothing, car seats, cribs, and strollers.

At the international level, we made another donation to the Haitian housing project sponsored by Food for the Poor. Our own Pete Renick has “adopted” a village in Haiti and uses the funds raised to build small, but secure houses for every family in that village. We also made a contribution to Episcopal Relief and Development for medical assistance to those African nations besieged by Ebola.

We could not respond to the needs mentioned above without your generous giving. I hope that this report has helped you experience some of the blessing of being a participant in “God’s kingdom come.”

COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Julie BeckhamPeggy Beckham

Gail KaiserKathy ProcopioSue McWilliams

Suzie RamseySteve Strain

Doug Thomas, Chair

EX-OFFICIO MEMBERS

Luke BackYvonne BattsSusanna CatesKim Snyder

Amanda Watson


Page 5Last paragraph of the Rector’s report:It is impossible to thank adequately everyone that enabled our present blessings to become so real and tangible. I am grateful for our parish staff and clergy, our dedicated lay leadership, wardens, Vestry, our faithful volunteers in so many areas of service to God, for our church and our community. May God continue to uphold and bless you!

“...the Outreach Committee received

$8,000 from the Foundation

and $40,000 from the church

operating budget, providing $48,000

of unallocated funding to be

used in ministries designed to relieve

human suffering and empower individuals

for success.”

39


HANDS-ON OUTREACHThe year 2014 continued to be a busy year for the Hands-On ministry. The most requested assistance is help with utility bills and food. Also, particularly in the winter months, clothing is needed and the Thrift House is really a blessing to those in need.

Hands On is not funded through the church operating budget, but is funded by individual donations. Heavenly Rest parish members have been very supportive.

According to the United Way Basic Needs Network, Heavenly Rest has furnished services valued at $45,873 for the first 9 months of 2014 (fourth quarter information was not yet available at the date of this report).

The Hands-On Outreach hours are 9:30-11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Everyone is invited to stop by to see what takes place.

Billy Edwards and Sue Ivey, Co-chairs

Our volunteer participation has been outstanding and we want to give recognition to these individuals:

Dick VeigelCindy TaliaferroWeezie FitzhughPaige ParkerAriel BoggessLinda TaubertDoug ThomasJack WoodsJamie DunnDianne MorphewBilly EdwardsSue IveyAmanda WatsonBishop Claude PayneGail KaiserMargaret HollowellMarta HollowellMary CrymesSuzie RamseySharon KelleyChris CornellJane YostMadison GoldstonJohn StoweJulie Ann StonerKatie Young

SWAHILI OUTREACH COMMITTEE

The Swahili Outreach Committee was established in September with a mission to minis-ter to the needs of refugees, many of whom are at Heavenly Rest as fellow Christians and share a continuity of faith in the Episcopal tradition.

The committee is dedicated to:• Providing a spiritual home to these refugees as they resettle• Working with other organizations who assist refugees• Welcoming the positive contributions of these refugees to our church life

The Swahili Committee assists in providing resources that stabilize, teach self-sufficien-cy, and develop a thriving new community. Seeing this as a long term investment and focusing on the needs of the African congregation, the Swahili Committee provides on-going pastoral and financial support on a regular basis.

Committee members follow a patient, sustainable approach to empowering and equip-ping refugee women and men to succeed, and they look for ways to provide positive outcomes for refugee children. This ministry has responded to material needs, provided emergency funds for housing, transportation and utilities as well as worked to educate and connect the refugee community with the many assistance resources available in the community. Committee mem-bers have also assisted in finding employment opportunities for refugees.The committee is comprised of representatives from both the local African refugee community and members of the Heavenly Rest congregation. The current committee members are: Bikole Mulanda (Swahili Minister), David Ekombe (translator), Shine Attipoe, Regina Kosonga, Paul Kasonga, Peter Kent (Parish Administrator), Kim Snyder (Junior Warden), Angela Willis (Vestry), and Sue Ivey (Outreach), Ann Hollandsworth, and Suzie Ramsey. Clancy Hart and Kathy Diamond have also been instrumental in connecting with and assisting the refugee community.

The Swahili Committee meets every Wednesday from 3:30-5:00pm to discuss issues, needs or ideas, and may meet with guests and visitors to provide pastoral care and finan-cial assistance.

ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE

41


Office AdministrationDiocese of Northwest TexasThe Right Reverend J. Scott Mayer, Bishop1802 Broadway, Lubbock, TX 79401 Diocese Office (806) 763-1370 Fax (806)472-0621

Church of the Heavenly Rest602 Meander Street Parish Office (325) 677-2091

The Reverend N. Luke Back, Rector [email protected] Reverend Susanna Cates, Curate [email protected] The Reverend Amanda Watson, Deacon [email protected] Bikole Mulanda, Swahili MinisterPeter Kent, Parish Administrator [email protected] Dr. Wes Gomer, Organist and Choirmaster [email protected]

April Powers, Financial Manager [email protected] Katie Young, Office Assistant, Youth & Christian Education [email protected] Laura Wright, Communications Coordinator [email protected] Susetta Rockett, Music Assistant srockett@ heavenlyrestabilene.orgCourtney Bryant, Christian Education Assistant [email protected] Kelley, VergerBarbradon Brooks, HarpistArnold Guerra, SextonDorothy Guerra, Housekeeper

George Scott Bishop, Chancellor [email protected] Annabel House, Treasurer [email protected]

42


Stewardship Report

Thanks to the generosity and vision of the congrega-tion and your commitment to continuing to expand our outreach ministries, our 2014 stewardship effort resulted in an increase in pledged commitments of ap-proximately $37,315 over the previous year. The total amount pledged to our 2015 budget was $918,119. The Vestry and Stewardship Committee deeply appreciate your generous response to this campaign.

I would like to recognize and thank those who served on the 2014 Stewardship Committee: Co-chair Rachel Anderson, Yvonne Batts, Tom Choate, Nancy Estes, Judy Godfrey, Steve Strain, Pat Garren, Sam Cutbirth, Charles Scarborough, Doug Thomas, Lee Hampton, Paul Fulham and Steve Suttle. I also want to give special thanks to Kim Snyder who faithfully and with great patience made a huge difference.

If you would like to make a pledge to help support the missions of Heavenly Rest in 2015, you may certainly still participate by calling the church office and speaking with April Powers or Peter Kent. John D. Stowe Stewardship Chair

PLEDGE REPORT FOR 2014

21 NEW:$56,407.95

73 INCREASED: (by a difference of)

$77,309.2120 DECREASED:

(by a difference of)$28,490.00

92 STAYED THE SAME:$272,360.04

206 PLEDGES:TOTAL: $813,494.20

AVERAGE:$3,949.00

PLEDGE REPORT FOR 2015

30 NEW:$45,910.00

87 INCREASED: (by a difference of)

$63,390.5329 DECREASED:

(by a difference of)$50,019.49

75 STAYED THE SAME:$211,835.00

221 PLEDGES:TOTAL: $850,809.20

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CHURCH OF THE HEAVENLY REST - Statement of Receipts & Disbursements, 2014

43

44


Trust Balance

Sheet

ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS CASH: 1st Financial Trust Chkg $500,177.26 RECEIVABLES: Back Loan.........................................10,650.00 Brosseau Loan........................................350.00 Subtotal Receivables.......................................11,000.00 TOTAL ASSETS $511,177.26

LIABILITIES CURRENT LIABILITIES Clergy Housing Fund......................$53,094.12 Capital Campaign Fund....................94,737.36 Auto Rental.........................................1,465.12 Dan Abbott Scholarshp Fnd....................246.32 E.F.M......................................................125.00 Library.................................................8,574.24 Rector’s Con’t Ed Holding....................8,626.80 Assoc. Rec. Con’t Ed Hold......................397.44 Birthday Thank Offering.......................1,025.00 EYC - JEYP...........................................2,254.21 Youth Christian Education....................1,245.14 Jane Breed Memorial.........................23,307.49 Soldier’s Angels......................................506.18 Soup Sisters.........................................5,443.62 Facility Outreach Support.........................30.10 Financial Peace Univ................................75.94 Episcopal Relief & Develo......................250.00 Rector’s Discretionary Fund....................755.83 Ferguson/Armstrong Outreach...........28,396.13 Carillon Maint. (Music)........................2,288.68 Music Director’s Choir Fund..............15,796.47 Organ Fund (Music)............................5,191.77 General Convention Fund.....................-768.94 Dio. Conv. Delegate Fund......................768.94 Insurance Deductible.............................646.87 Staff Christmas Fund...........................1,696.00 Special Clearing Projects........................350.00 Concert Series...................................11,994.40 Canterbury College.............................2,106.49 M Heidebrecht Columbarium...........20,583.82 La Grande Familia Gregory.................3,000.00 Subtotal Liabilities........................................294,210.54

VESTRY DISCRETIONARY FUND Interest/Dividends..................................128.00 Operating Fund Reserve..................104,170.68 Advance Pledge Payments...............103,865.00 Undesignated Memorials....................7,203.04 Subtotal Vestry Discretionary Fund...............215,366.72

PAYABLES Due To Other Funds............................1,600.00

TOTAL LIABILITIES 511,177.26

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND FUND BALANCE.....................................................$511,177.26

45

The Church of the Heavenly Rest Foundation was founded December 7, 1981

TRUSTEES: Five trustees serve staggered terms of five years with the Senior Warden of the Vestry as the sixth trustee. No trustee shall serve more than two terms or ten years in succession. Non-voting members: Rector (Chairman of the Board) and Chancellor. Successor trustees are elected in December by the Vestry upon recommendation of the Foundation.

ALLOCATION OF FUNDS: Passed April 21, 1998: 65% Stock, 30% Bond, 5% Cash. Spend Rate of 5% passed on June 15, 1999. Spend Rate percentage to be reassessed at the September Trustee meeting each year and passed on December 17, 2002.

FOUNDATION OBJECTIVES• Provide a ready and acceptable means for the Church to receive major gifts,

and to use those gifts for the greatest benefit to the mission of the church.• Provide a ready and steady source of income for Episcopal-sponsored char-

ities and outreach programs.• Provide a ready and steady source of funds for capital projects.• Provide parish wide program of stewardship education in estate planning

and deferred giving.

The Foundation is empowered to accept gifts, bequest or devise of property, or any other form of charitable gift for which a deduction is permitted under the Internal Revenue Code of the United States of America. The affairs of the Foundation are conducted by an independent Board of Trustees appointed by the Vestry. Its incomes are subject to accep-tance by its Board and its expenditures of income are governed by the Vestry.

ESTATE PLANNINGYou may include the Church of the Heavenly Rest Foundation in your estate planning by simply calling the Foundation chair, Senior Warden or Parish Administrator. As you have questions and interest, any member of the Board of Trustees would be more than happy to help you and respond to your inquiries. You may also make memorial gifts

and remembrances to the Foundation. Appropri-ate acknowledgements will be mailed. For further information contact the Foundation chair or Par-ish Administrator. Lee Hampton


Foundation Report CURRENT FOUNDATIONTRUSTEES

Lee Hampton, Chair

Bart Cox

Sam Cutbirth

Nancy Estes

Sue McWilliams

FOUNDATION MISSION

STATEMENT

Acknowledging that all that we are and have comes from God, our mission is to provide

stewardship education, and to accumulate,

manage, and distribute financial resources for the long term

benefits of the Church of the Heavenly Rest’s

ministries.

46


Foundation Funds

TOTALS

Breakdown of Foundation Expenses, 2014 St. John’s: Scholarships from St. John’s restricted funds 17,171.06 Clergy scholarships from unrestricted funds 18,962.50 Monthly budget support from unrestricted funds 24,000.00 60,133.56 Seminarians and Seminaries: Amanda Watson and Doug Thomas - from Walker Seminary Fund 2,612.94 Amanda Watson and Doug Thomas - from unrestricted funds 3,377.38 5,990.32 Seminary Support from unrestricted funds (Seminary of the Southwest) 6,000.00 6,000.00 Church Music Programs: Choir scholarships for college students from Boykin Choir Scholarship Fund 1,460.14 Special music program support from Gerhart Music Fund 1,439.15 2,899.29 Outreach Building Facilities Support from unrestricted funds 40,299.96 40,299.96 Other Outreach Concerns: Support for Hands-On Outreach from Allen & Lucyle Heidebrecht Fund 1,255.01 Support for clergy discretionary funds from unrestricted funds 5,333.12 Support for BOBS from unrestricted funds 2,400.00 Support for Church of the Good Shepherd, San Angelo, TX, from Richard Johnson Fund 10,000.00 Support for neighborhood outreach (Amanda Watson) from unrestricted funds 1,900.00 Support for Bowie Elementary from unrestricted funds 3,000.00 Support for refugee families from unrestricted funds 4,000.00 27,888.13 Columbarium and Other Expenses: Transfer to Trust for Columbarium Maintenance from Mary Heidebrecht Fund 3,000.00 Consortium of Endowed Episcopal Parishes 8,550.00 11,550.00 Administrative Expenses 8,960.34 8,960.34 163,721.60

47


Altar Guild Financials

ALTAR GUILD STATEMENT OF RECEIPTS AND DISBURSEMENTS December 31, 2014

Altar Guild Operating Account TOTALS

Balance December 31, 2013 $5115.97

RECEIPTS

Sunday Flowers 2650.00Easter Flowers 2895.00Christmas Flowers 3335.00Gifts/Memorials/Donations/Dues 200.00 Reimbursements 1049.20

Total Receipts $10129.20

DISBURSEMENTS

Sunday Flowers 2424.00Easter Flowers 2000.00Christmas Flowers 1600.00Special Services/Flowers 467.21Expenses for CHR--some to be reimbursed 1120.90Altar Needs/Linens/Hardware 1241.01

Total Disbursements $8853.07

Balance December 31, 2014 $6392.10 Altar Guild Savings Account

Balance December 31, 2013 $673.09Interest Earned .19

Balance December 31, 2014 $673.28

48


Capital Campaign ReportIt has been a privilege and an honor for us to serve as the chairpersons for the Capital Campaign, 2014. After completing the discernment and feasibility study in May, assisted by the Episcopal Church Foundation, the vestry approved a campaign bud-get of 3.5 million dollars to be raised for the expan-sion project.

A steering committee was formed and the follow-ing agreed to serve on that committee:

Jackie BatjerDixie BassettYvonne and Ron BattsThe Right Reverend J. Scott Mayer and Kathy MayerThe Right Reverend Claude Payne (retired) and Barbara PayneThe Reverend N. Luke Back and Meredith BackThe Reverend David Romanik and Sara Beth RomanikThe Reverend Susanna CatesThe Reverend Amanda Watson and Tom WatsonRuth Ann and Tom ChoateJackie and Bart CoxNancy and John EstesRolanda and Paul FulhamLinda GoolsbeeCallie and Lee HamptonLindsay and Jay HardawayAnnabel HouseSharon and Nolan KelleyCindy and Steve Strain

Many thanks to all who served on this committee. We would like to give spe-cial thanks to Tom Choate, Dixie Bassett, Bishop Claude Payne, and Nancy Estes for their leadership and work that they gave, insuring that this campaign would be successful.

Paul Fulham and his firm, Zachry Associates, led our efforts and gave us the time line and tools to complete our mission. We were all impressed with the wonderful brochures and print materials which were produced by his talented group. Paul and his team spent countless hours working to make sure that this design was very special for this undertaking.

In August, we held a Capital Campaign dinner at the Abilene Country Club, inviting the entire parish to attend what turned out to be a really wonderful and memorable evening

“One hundred ninety-one families

and individuals have contributed to this effort. We

are very excited as we move forward now with the con-struction phase of

this project.”

49


for the members of Heavenly Rest. The entire second floor dining room was full as we learned more about how we could all participate to reach our goal. A special video included the history of Heavenly Rest, acknowledging the challenges and accomplishments of those who came before us, and empha-sizing our own vision for the future of our church.

We are pleased to report that as of December 31, 2014, the campaign has raised $5,971,000 in pledges, cash gifts and in-kind gifts. One hundred nine-ty-one families and individuals have contributed to this effort. We are very excited as we move forward now with the construction phase of this project.

Thank you for all of your sacrificial giving to this endeavor and putting your faith in our Parish family. Yours truly,

Julie and Mike Denny

Proposed Operating Budget - 2015

50

51


Heavenly Rest by the Numbers

52

20infant baptisms took place at the Heavenly Rest baptismal font

191families and individuals pledged to the 2014 Capital Campaign

375,000dollars helped those in need through Outreach

132years as an Episcopal parish established in Abilene, Texas

445people have “friended” Heavenly Rest on our Facebook page

276inches added to the original 108 in the expanded Columbarium

28,159visits to the Church of the Heavenly Rest website

The Church of the Heavenly Rest 602 Meander

Abilene, TX 79602 (325) 677-2091


Documents

2015 CHR Annual Report