bayofquinteconference.cabayofquinteconference.ca/.../2018/05/MINUTES-OF-94T… · Web viewWanda thanked Chief Maracle and he was given a gift of maple syrup by Helmut Enns,

The Bay of Quinte Conference 94th Annual Meeting – April 27-29, 2018 – Napanee, Ontario__________________________________________________________________________

MINUTES OF 94TH ANNUAL MEETINGBAY OF QUINTE CONFERENCE

Trinity United Church, Napanee, Ontarioand

Grace United Church, Napanee, Ontario

FIRST SESSION – Friday, April 27, 2018

GATHERING AND GREETING FROM FIRST NATIONSPrior to the start of the meeting, President Wanda Stride invited us to come together that we might be welcomed by Chief Don Maracle from Tyendenaga. Chief Maracle welcomed us to the territory and spoke of the pain caused by the residential school system. He concluded by extending the hand of peace and friendship to us.

Wanda thanked Chief Maracle and he was given a gift of maple syrup by Helmut Enns, Chair of the Partnering in Mission Committee.

The President then invited the presbytery representatives to gather at the front in preparation for worship.

The Music Team led the Court in singing several songs as we gathered for the meeting.

WORDS OF CONSTITUTIONThe President then constituted the meeting with the following words: “In the name of Jesus Christ, the Head of the Church. I declare this 94th Annual Meeting of the Bay of Quinte Conference constituted and able to deal with any business that may be brought before it.”

OPENING MOTIONSExecutive Secretary drew the attention of the Court to the Opening Business Resolutions.MOTION 94TH.18.01 Bill Smith/Ryan McNally“That the Opening Business Resolutions and Agenda, as found on Pages 44 and 45 of Volume 1, be approved as printed.” – CARRIED

MOTION 94TH.18.02 Bill Smith/Ryan McNally“That all invited guests be made corresponding members and be allowed to address the Court.”

--- CARRIED

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INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS AND GREETINGS – PART 1The President then welcomed and introduced Marg Isbester, Deputy Mayor of Napanee. Ms. Isbester noted that she had read Volume 1 and congratulated the Court on the work being done in this Conference, commenting that she thought we are far ahead of some other organizations in the work we do through equity, etc. In conclusion, she invited us to take in some of the beauty of Napanee and welcomed us all to the town.

The Music Team led the Court in singing our Conference song, “The Shifting and the Changing”, written by Chris Murphy and Wendy McLean.

Wanda Stride invited Mark Arnill and Elaine Kellogg to bring greetings from their churches. Mark is the minister at Trinity and welcomed everyone on behalf of the congregation. He thanked the congregation for all their work in getting ready for this meeting.Elaine Kellogg, the minister at Grace U.C., welcomed us as well and noted that some of us would be eating our meals at Grace.

Bill Smith then introduced Rosemary Lambie, the Provisional Executive Minister for Regions 11, 12, and 13, noting that she will address the Court later in the meeting.

BEHAVIOURAL COVENANTWanda Stride encouraged the Court to read the Behavioural Covenant found on pages 1 and 2 of Volume 1 and asked us to abide by this covenant.

INTRODUCTION OF GUESTS AND GREETINGS – PART 2Stephen Ambury, Chairperson-Designate of Four Winds Presbytery welcomed the Court to the presbytery.

Bill Smith then noted that Nora Sanders, Executive Secretary of the United Church of Canada is in the Court and will address us later.

NOMINATIONS PROCESSBill Smith referred the Court to the Nominations Report, found on page 46 of Volume 1, noting that there is a change to this report. We will need to elect two Ordered and four Laypersons for General Council. There are two nominations for Ordered – David King and Elaine Kellogg. Nominations will be received until 9:30 a.m. tomorrow morning and should be given to Ryan McNally at the Business Table.Bill also reminded us of the Bay of Quinte policy that at least 10% of GC delegates must be youth(or 3 of the 29 Commissioners) and that we also strive to have our Commissioners represent the diversity within the Conference.

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We will also need to nominate 3 to 5 people for the Denominational Council (equivalent of the current GC Executive). There are Expression of Interest forms in our registrations packs for this. Each conference will nominate up to 5 people and these names will go to a committee and the Denominational Council will be appointed from them. We currently only have one name – Larry Doyle.

OPENING WORSHIPChris Murphy introduced the Worship Band: Michelle Pyatt, Charlie King, Joe Ramsay, Jon McLurg, Marilyn Zehr, Svinda Heinrichs, and Mark Arnill. Wanda Stride and Mary-Margaret Boone are also part of the Worship team.

Worship included music, Scripture (Psalm 78 and Mark 16:1-8) and an extremely powerful message from our President Wanda Stride. An Offering was taken in support of Old Hay Bay Church and Communion was celebrated.

The Four Winds Presbytery song,\, written by Mark Arnill and Michelle Pyatt) entitled “Empty Tomb Promises” was sung.

(The Worship and Music Team is profiled on page 5 of Volume 1.)

ANNOUNCEMENTSWanda Stride reminded us that mileage claims should be submitted by 4:00 p.m. today.There will be a bus to take people to Grace U.C. for meals. The Retirees banquet will be held at Grace as well. Pat Gilmore from the Grand River Bookstore at Five Oaks then briefly reviewed some books from the Book Display.Marilyn Rodger invited everyone to visit her Fair Trade Table in the Book Room, noting that 10% of all sales will go to the Mission and Service Fund.Ryan McNally asked the Candidates to gather immediately after lunch.Peggy Akey from Local Arrangements, reminded us that each person is assigned to one of the churches for meals and asked that we attend our assigned church, as space in each is limited. Those requesting special diets will eat at Trinity.

LUNCHGrace was offered by Peggy Akey and the Court then recessed for lunch.

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SECOND SESSION – Friday, April 27, 2018 – 1:00 p.m.

MUSICThe Music Team called us back singing VU343 and Wanda Stride welcomed us to return to the business of the Court. She also asked that we pray for Nicaragua.The members of Four Rivers Presbytery sang their song, “On the River of the Water of Life” and prayer was offered. The song was written by Wendy MacLean and Tim Hallman.

GENERAL COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVENora Sanders, General Secretary, addressed the Court stating her pleasure at being among us for the weekend.

(A message from Nora Sanders is found on page 6 of Volume 1.)

CANDIDATES – PART 1Sheryl McLeod, Chair of the Conference Candidacy Co-ordinating Committee (4C), then introduced the first group of Candidates to the Court. She then called on each one to speak briefly. After each presentation, we sang the first verse of a hymn chosen by each candidate.

Stephanie Bates, a Candidate from Shining Waters Presbytery and a graduate of Queen’s School of Religion M.Div. program spoke of her experience as a “child of the manse” and said she was excited to be part of the changes taking place in the church at this time. She is a candidate for Ordination. Her chosen hymn was “All Are Welcome”.

Catherine Oxenford-Grant, Four Rivers Presbytery, spoke of her 40 years as a professional church musician before receiving a call to ministry. She thanked those who had taught her and supported her during her time at Queen’s. She is a candidate for Ordination and her chosen hymn was “Be Thou My Vision”.

Lynn Smith-Reeve, Shining Waters Presbytery, spoke of her original call to be a missionary and her later call to service in Diaconal Ministry. She concluded by reminding us that the world is in transition not just our church. Her chosen hymn was “My Soul Cries Out”.

(Profiles of all the Candidates are found on pages 19 to 25 of Volume 1.)

ADDRESS BY PROVISIONAL EXECUTIVE MINISTERBill Smith then introduced Rosemary Lambie, Provisional Executive Minister for Regions 11, 12, and 13. Rosemary then recounted what has led us to this time in the life of the church. She likened the whole process to that of a pregnancy and birthing. She also challenged us to include more French in our proceedings as there is at least one French congregation in Ottawa.

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Rosemary concluded by saying we will need lots of meetings and conversation as the process of transition unfolds and invited the court to approach her with any questions or concerns they may have.

Wanda Stride and Bill Smith both thanked Rosemary in French.

CANDIDATES – PART 2Sheryl McLeod introduced the next candidate.

David Stevens, from Four Rivers Presbytery, recounted how God had offered support and encouragement at a time when he was feeling overwhelmed. He is a candidate for Ordination and attended Queen’s. His chosen hymn was “Will You Come and Follow Me?”

ORDER OF THE DAYAs we had reached the Order of the Day, the President asked for a ten-minute extension in order to hear from the two remaining candidates. The Court agreed to this extension.

CANDIDATES – PART 3Sheryl McLeod introduced Cathy Underhill, a student from the Centre for Christian Studies and a candidate for Commissioning. Cathy spoke of what she called an incredible journey towards ministry. Her chosen hymn was “Behold I Make All Things New”.

Sheryl then introduced the final candidate, Phil Wilson of Kente Presbytery. Phil took the Atlantic School of Theology 5-year program. He talked about his life in this church – Trinity - from his baptism here, to his many years of signing for the deaf, both here and for the Bay of Quinte Conference. Phil’s chosen hymn was “Halle, Halle, Halle”, and he lead the Court in signing as well as singing it.

Bill Smith reported that the Court will be voting on the candidate’s tomorrow afternoon.

ADDRESS BY MICHAEL DOXTATER:Rodney Smith-Merkley, a member of the Dancing the Circle of Right Relations, introduced Michael Doxtater who told of two Indigenous Knowledge Recovery projects in which he is involved. He is the recipient of Queen’s University’s 2018 Principal’s Dream Award.

Michael noted that his full name is Thohahoken Michael Doxtater. He told the Court of a project of building Indigenous Longhouses as part of helping those who have had troubled lives to reclaim them. It is called Kanata College and is a centre of excellence dedicated to recovery and looking after our own. It is an 18-week program and will cost $35 million over seven years to operate.

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The other project is the Firekeepers Project and addresses the families of missing and murdered Indigenous men and women. He told us stories of families who had lost loved ones through suicide or severe illness. Firekeepers is a three-stage project which will bring together people to tell their stories in the different regions of Ontario. He called them the “hurt people” and reminded us that hurt people can hurt more people but healed people can help heal hurt people. He concluded by telling us that the people in his stories were his own family members.

Wanda Stride thanked Michael for his powerful, but hard to hear, presentation.

BREAKThe Court recessed for a brief 15-minute break. It reconvened at 3:20 p.m. We began by singing the Kente Presbytery song, “Winding Waters”, which was written by Stevan Spicer.

FINANCIAL REPORTIn the absence of the Finance Committee Chair, Don Willmer, Bruce Jackson, a member of the committee presented the Financial Statements. He noted that these statements had been reviewed but not audited, an effective but less expensive process. Bruce reported that there would be no budget presentation this year due to the restructuring of the church.

MOTION 94TH.18.03 Bruce Jackson/Christine Kilborn“That we accept the reviewed financial statement for the year ending December 31, 2017.”

-- CARRIED(The reviewed Financial Statement is attached to these minutes as Appendix A. The Finance Committee Report is found on pages 67 to 72 of Volume 1.)

FIVE OAKSYvonne Steward from Five Oaks thanked the Court for the decision last year to return to them the gift of $75,000. It will be used as they move forward in their new ministry.

ANNOUNCEMENTSAnnouncement began with the singing of the Upper Valley Presbytery song. “Little Churches in the Valley”. Wanda Stride then drew the attention of the Court to the artist’s boards being done by Lynn Watson during the meeting.

PANEL DISCUSSIONA panel discussion, chaired by Bill Morrow, our theological reflector for the weekend followed. Panel members were: Nora Sanders, Paul Reed, Ryan McNally and Amy McClelland, a youth delegate. Bill posed three questions to the panel and each member discussed them.

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The questions were:1. What is the greatest challenge the church faces today, either positive or negative?2. How does the proposed new church structure enable or hinder us to be disciples or

evangelists in this world?3. How do you see clustering and networking happening?

Each question was thoughtfully discussed by the panelists. The most frequently named issues were:

We need to find a new way of doing church, perhaps on different days at different times the new church must be relevant to the people and the times in which we live we must lift up the health and strength of the local faith communities this new church calls for a new relationship with Indigenous people It is important that we not lose staff support for youth Realization that some people may opt out of the new structure We can create organic ways of doing church

There followed some time for questions from the members of the Court.This session ended with the singing of “Come to Galilee”.

AFFIRMING MINISTRIESBruce Hutchinson reported that in the past eleven years, this Conference has gone from two Affirming Ministries to 25 with another 12 currently in process.Elizabeth Macdonald reported that this committee has decided to continue its work in the three regions, noting that the work will require administrative and financial support and the hope is that this will come from the regional office.The Affirming Ministries’ song, “We Are a Rainbow”, written by David Kai, was then sung.

INTRODUCTION TO NEW BUSINESS MODELLarry Doyle and Ryan McNally introduced the new business model that will be used by this year’s General Council meeting in dealing with proposals.

The new system is about having conversations. Why was the proposal written in the first place? The General Council will then break into 15 discussion groups of 32 people each and they will discuss the proposal. All the proposal responses will be fed back electronically to a Facilitation Group. This group will take the material and the next day they will present to the Court what they have heard. The Court will test this and it then becomes a motion.

There will be much more discussion at this General Council so less work may be done there and will have to be passed on to the GC Executive/Denominational Council.

It is expected that by the end of June, all proposals will be in and all Commissioners will have been elected. The proposals will be sent out and prioritized early on in the agenda.

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It was initially suggested that we work our way through the proposals coming out of this Annual Meeting but it was agreed that we would wait to hear the feedback from the group sessions.

ANNOUNCEMENTSBill Smith reminded the Court that we must elect two Ordered and four Lay Commissioners to General Council. The deadline for submitting nominations to Ryan McNally at the Business Table is 9:30 a.m. tomorrow.

Wanda Stride reminded us to abide by our Behavioural Covenant and to refrain from talking while others are addressing the Court.

THEOLOGICAL REFLECTIONThe Rev. Dr. Bill Morrow challenged us to think about how we can fit our present experience into some kind of theological context. He asked what tradition does for us and offered that it provides both stability and adaptability. We must balance them in the church. Bill reminded us that the Bible records three attempts to restructure the church and that one is not favoured over another. Today the community is asking itself the question that has been asked many times: How do we in this moment find ourselves living authentically in the story?

The President thanked Bill for his thoughtful and challenging reflection.

ANNOUNCEMENTSThe Parliamentarians were asked to meet briefly before proceeding to dinner.The Retirees Banquet will be held at Grace United Church.We will gather tomorrow at 8:45 a.m.

The meeting recessed at 5:20 p.m.

THIRD SESSION – Friday, April 27, 2018 – 6:30 p.m.

A banquet took place to celebrate the ministries of those retiring from active service this year. The retirees in attendance were: Jackie Harper, Patsy Henry, Rick Hobbs, and Micheline Montreuil. , Lynda Hodgins is also retiring but was not present. The Rev. Jamie York piped the retirees and their guests into the dining room.

Biographies of each of the Retirees are found on pages 12 to 18 of Volume 1.

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FOURTH SESSION – Saturday, April 28, 2018 – 8:45 a.m.

GATHERING AND ANNOUNCEMENTSThe Court reconvened at 9:00 a.m. with music led by the Music Team. Bill Smith then reminded us that nominations will close at 9:30 a.m. this morning.

WORSHIPWorship included the singing of hymns and a reading from Acts 17:24-28, guided meditation and a reflection by Joe Ramsay.The Shining Waters song, “Shining Waters”, was sung. This song was written by Wendy MacLean and Joe Ramsay.Caroline Giesbrecht presented the annual memorials for those in ministry who have died since our last Conference Annual Meeting:

Barry PogueGerald PaulBill BresnahanFred EdmondsonEdward SchamerhornAllen ChurchillErnest ”Al” HaleyDoug CurrieRobert CondieKen CrawfordTimothy HaywardRobert McNaught

Worship concluded with the singing of “Dance with the Spirit”.

(Memorials are found on pages 5 to 11 of Volume 1 and in the Addendum.)

Wanda Stride thanked the worship team.

ANNOUNCEMENTSBefore we moved into groups to discuss and reflect on the proposals, Wanda Stride reminded us to be back for the concert at 11:00 a.m. There will also be a concert by Turpin’s Trail at 8:00

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p.m. tonight. She then apologized that Michelle Pyatt’s biography was accidentally omitted from the songbook and copies of it are being distributed that they may be inserted into it.We were also reminded that Wilson, Sharon Ballantyne’s service dog is in the Court and working. Please check with Sharon before speaking or touching him.Sharon has just been named an Intercultural Visitor to General Council.We were again reminded of our Behavioural Covenant.Today is the National Day of Mourning for workers killed on the job. There were 905 deaths in 2017.

CLOSING OF NOMINATIONSMOTION 94TH.18.04 Bill Smith/Ryan McNally“That Nominations close.” -- CARRIED

PROPOSALS DISCUSSION – PART 1Ryan McNally invited all candidates to come forward to receive instructions for leading the discussion regarding the proposals. The Court then moved into groups to discuss the following questions:

1. What is the issue that the proposal is trying to address:a. What are our thoughts about the issue?b. Can the issue be further clarified?c. What’s missing?

2. Why is this issue important to the church?a. What stories or images from Scripture come to mind?b. How does it connect to the ministry and mission of Pastoral Charges,

Presbyteries, Conferences or the General Council?c. For what other groups would this issue be important?

3. How might the church respond to the issue?a. What are some creative ways to respond to the issue?b. Who should be responsible for responding?c. What partners might be involved?

BREAKA short break was taken before returning to the Court at 11:00 a.m.

VOICES OF VICTORY CONCERT

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Paul Reed introduced and welcomed a group of 23 young people from the Voices of Victory to the Court. The full choir involves close to 100 participants in four vocal choirs, a hand bell choir, and a worship band. It is directed by Erwin Stroobach and accompanied today by Robert Grandy. They offered an uplifting and beautiful program of 12 songs.

The President thanked the choir, commenting that they are a blessing to the church and their community.

EL SALVADOR PRESENTATIONGary McKay presented a slide show of photos from the most recent visit to El Salvador. It took place starting on March 8th when 37 people from this Conference travelled to El Salvador for a learning experienced. At the end of the presentation, Bill Smith was called forward. Bill had been awarded the Maria Cristina Gomez Medal in El Salvador for his 32 years of work there. The medal was again presented to him in front of the Court.This part of the meeting concluded with the singing of the Bay of Quinte “Pilgrim Song”.

LUNCHThe Court recessed for lunch and was called to return at 1:30 p.m.

FIFTH SESSION – Saturday, April 28, 2018 – 1:30 p.m.

WORSHIPThe Court reconvened at 1:15 p.m. Worship included a reading from Acts 2 followed by prayer and the singing of the Lakeridge Presbytery song, “Sacred”, written by Larry Doyle (with Wanda Stride).

NOMINATIONSBill Smith reported that, due to health reasons, Maxine Reid has resigned as Chair of the Nominations Committee. He then reported on her behalf.

MOTION 94TH.18.05 Bill Smith/Ryan McNally“That Conference extend the term of office for its officers and the members of the Executive, Sub-Executive, committees and commissions until

a) December 31, 2018 if the three-council restructuring remit is enacted by the 43rd General Council

or

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b) the next Conference Annual Meeting if the three-council restructuring remit is not enacted. -- CARRIED

MOTION 94TH.18.06 Bill Smith/Ryan McNally“That one member be appointed to the Transition Commission from each presbytery along with a representative from the churches coming into Region 11 from Living Waters Presbytery and the Past-President.

President Wanda Stride then asked Past President, Don Stiles to assume the Chair for the vote on this motion.

Don Stiles called for the vote and Motion 94th.18.06 was CARRIED

MOTION 94TH.18.07 Bill Smith/Judith Evenden“That at least one member be appointed to the Transition Commission from each Presbytery in Region 12 as well as the President of Bay of Quinte Conference.” – CARRIED

VOTING ON CANDIDATESBallots were distributed and motions were presented. We were asked to vote on each person only after the motion has been made.

MOTION 94TH.18.08 Sheryl McLeod/Ron Carter“That David Stevens be Ordained to the Ministry of Word, Sacrament and Pastoral Care in the United Church of Canada at the Annual Meeting of the Bay of Quinte Conference at Trinity United Church, Napanee on April 29th, 2018, all conditions of The Manual 2016 having been met.”

MOTION 94TH.18.09 Sheryl McLeod/Ron Carter“That Philip Wilson be Ordained to the Ministry of Word, Sacrament and Pastoral Care in the United Church of Canada at the Annual Meeting of the Bay of Quinte Conference at Trinity United Church, Napanee on April 29th, 2018, all conditions of The Manual 2016 having been met.”

MOTION 94TH.18.10 Sheryl McLeod/Ron Carter“That Catherine Oxenford-Grant be Ordained to the Ministry of Word, Sacrament and Pastoral Care in the United Church of Canada at the Annual Meeting of the Bay of Quinte Conference at Trinity United Church, Napanee on April 29th, 2018, all conditions of The Manual 2016 having been met.”

MOTION 94TH.18.11 Sheryl McLeod/Ron Carter“That Stephanie Bates be Ordained to the Ministry of Word, Sacrament and Pastoral Care in the United Church of Canada at the Annual Meeting of the Bay of Quinte Conference at Trinity

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United Church, Napanee on April 29th, 2018, all conditions of The Manual 2016 having been met.”

MOTION 94th.18.12 Sheryl McLeod/Ron Carter“That Cathy Underhill be Commissioned to the Diaconal Ministry of Education, Service and Pastoral Care in the United Church of Canada at the Annual Meeting of the Bay of Quinte Conference at Trinity United Church, Napanee, on April 29, 2018, all conditions of The Manual 2016 having been met.”

MOTION 94th.18.13 Sheryl McLeod/Ron Carter“That Lynn Smith be Commissioned to the Diaconal Ministry of Education, Service and Pastoral Care in the United Church of Canada at the Annual Meeting of the Bay of Quinte Conference at Trinity United Church, Napanee, on April 29, 2018, all conditions of The Manual 2016 having been met.”

VOTING ON GENERAL COUNCIL COMMISSIONERSBill Smith reminded us that we are to elect four Lay Commissioners and two Ordered. The following have been duly nominated:

Lay Sharon MacDonald JoAnne FletcherLarry BreakenridgeRachel Vollmer (youth) Daniel MacDonald (youth)

Ordered Gerald KerrDorinda VollmerDeborah ElliottDavid KingElaine Kellogg

Ballots were distributed, marked, and then collected.

VOTING ON DENOMINATIONAL COUNCILPresident Wanda Stride announced that only three persons had been nominated so no ballot is necessary. Those names going forward are: Steve Coles, Larry Doyle and Ryan McNally.

UNITED CHURCH WOMENBarb de Jeet, UCW President led several members of the UCW in singing their song, “Kindred Sisters”, written by Wendy MacLean and Wanda Stride.The report of the United Church Women is found on page 77 of Volume 1.

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PROPOSALS – PART 1 – FURTHER DISCUSSIONRyan McNally then invited the members of the Court to return to their groups for another 30-minute discussion of the proposals.

BREAKA brief 10-minute break was taken before the business of the Court resumed.

The Hills and Shores song, “Come and See” was sung following the break. This song was written by Wendy MacLean and Wanda Stride.

ANNOUNCEMENT – RESULTS OF VOTINGa) Candidates - Wanda Stride announced that 166 ballots had been cast and all

Candidates had been approved. This was followed by the Court singing “Halle, Halle, Halle” with great enthusiasm.

MOTION 94TH.18.14 Bill Smith/Lynne Gardiner“That the ballots be destroyed.” -- CARRIED

b) General Council Commissioners – Wanda Stride announced that 169 ballots had been cast. Those elected as General Council commissioners are:

Lay Sharon MacDonaldJoAnne FletcherRachel Vollmer (youth)Daniel MacDonald (youth)

Ordered David KingElaine Kellogg

MOTION 94TH.18.15 Bill Smith/David Moore“That the ballots be destroyed.” – CARRIED

SETTLEMENT COMMITTEE REPORTBonnie Davidson, Chair of the Settlement Committee, then reported to the Court.

(A copy of the Settlement Committee report is attached to these minutes as Appendix B.)

CLUSTERING AND NETWORKINGRyan McNally offered the following definitions for clustering and networking:

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Clustering – groups of communities of faith providing support to one another. No oversight, pastoral relations, finances or education of students is included in a clusterNetworking – linking people working on a specific ministry.

After some further discussion of clustering and networking, Ryan offered the following questions for consideration:

What is your passion? What is the passion of the congregation? Would you live out that passion as a network across the country or as part of a local

cluster? What support would you need and from whom?

We were then invited to have discussion around these questions.

Ryan then invited those with a passion for something to tell us what it is. The following were mentioned:

Equity network Affirming Ministries action group Camping Those interested in repurposing their facilities Lifting up Licensed Lay Worship Leaders and walking with candidates Developing arts in worship, using technology, etc. Bridges out of Poverty – looking at going beyond Food Banks Church in the wild/forest – finding ways to worship outdoors and creating sacred space

there New models of church – moving beyond buildings, house churches, etc. Multiple churches sharing a minister but not amalgamating Creating community for people in high density populations, the homeless, etc. Interfaith/Intercultural work while retaining our Christian identity Dancing the Circle of Right Relations – Truth and Reconciliation recommendations

Ryan then gave the Court 15 minutes for people to gather with like-minded folk and talk with those who had named their passion. Lively discussion followed as the beginning of clusters and networks took place.

ANNOUNCEMENTSWanda Stride invited us to take time to look at the artwork that Lynn Watson has produced throughout this meeting.

INDIGENOUS KNOWLEDGE RECOVERY In response to Dr. Thohahoken (to-ha-ho-ken) Michael Doxtater’s presentation to the Bay of Quinte Conference Annual Meeting regarding Kanata College (Centre of Excellence Dedicated

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to Indigenous Recovery) and The Firekeeper’s Project (an action response to suicide among Indigenous young people in Ontario), the following was offered to the Court:

MOTION 94TH.18.16 Bronwen Harman/Nan Hudson“That the Bay of Quinte Conference send letters of support to Queen’s University, The United Church Aboriginal Ministry Circle, and to appropriate federal and provincial government ministers; and encourage presbyteries, pastoral charges and individuals to send letters of support to appropriate federal and provincial government ministers. Project descriptions (with data) and sample letters to governments will be on the Conference website”. -- CARRIED

PROPOSALS – PART 3a) BQ 1 – Maintaining the Name, “General Council”

MOTION 94TH.18.17 Ryan McNally/Karen McLean“That the Bay of Quinte Conference forward BQ 1 to General Council for its consideration and attach the wisdom generated by the Court to the proposal in Section 4.”

Discussion followed and it was agreed that we would not vote on any proposals until the members of the Court have had an opportunity to read the Proposal Response Sheets. Ryan McNally agreed to provide the full document of responses later this evening. We will return to the Proposals tomorrow.

FRIENDS OF THE COURT – PRESENTATION OF SERVICE CERTIFICATESBonnie Davidson and Bronwen Harman presented the following service certificates:

25 years Mark ArnillSheila Firth-WarlundDarlene KeddyElaine KelloggJanet LoughrenAlistair RoseChristopher Ryan

40 years Eric BarrGlen BrownIan McAvoyPaul PutmanBill ServiceDavid ShepherdRev Dr. William Smith

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Rev. Dr. John YoungPamela Dickey-Young

50 years Neil Owen MacPhersonJohn PetersJames PhelpsRon PierceEarl Taft

55 years James AllmanAudrey FisherBrian GeeFred LoveWalter MurrayEleanor RushJohn SullivanJames WardenBurry Wiseman

60 years Edith BoltonEdgar FileGlen MadisonDavid ReidTheodore Snelgrove

65 years Lorne DorschMargaret Quigley

STAFFING COMMITTEEMary Smiley, Chair of the Staffing Committee, called on the staff to come forward, noting that it is a pleasure to express gratitude for the work of the staff.Mary introduced the other members of the Staffing committee: Norma Thompson, Bonnie Davidson, and Wanda Stride. They have served as a sounding board for Bill Smith during the challenging changes over the past year. Mary then invited the Court to express their appreciation for the staff and they responded with a rousing “Thank You”.

Bill Smith, Executive Secretary, then reported that they have gone from six full-time to 4.5 and some part-time staff. He expressed his gratitude for the willingness of staff members to shoulder additional duties. Bill noted that Judy Ormshaw is in her 20th year on the staff. The future for all staff members rests in the hands of the region and staff members have no guarantee about their future employment.

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Bill then invited all former staff to join them on the stage and invited the members of the Court to join in singing the staff song.

There will be a final Bay of Quinte Conference worship service on Saturday, October 20 at 1:00 p.m. at Emmanuel United Church in Peterborough. Emmanuel was formerly George St. U.C. and is the site of the very first Bay of Quinte Conference Annual Meeting. Some of the content of that first service will be included.

This portion of the meeting concluded with all singing “Don’t be Afraid.”

(The Staffing Committee report is found on page 74 of Volume 1.)

THEOLOGICAL REFLECTIONBill Morrow began by reminding us that one of the goals of theological reflection is to come to something that fits into the larger story, to discern the Divine – where is God in what is happening now? Bill found God in this meeting in the good relationships we have – relationships with Indigenous peoples, with Affirming congregations, and our work with the LGBTQ community. He hears apprehension and a sense of excitement, both grief and joy. He reminded us that we live most of our lives between Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Bill concluded by saying, “My prayer, my hope, my plea is that in this time of momentous change that you will take hold of the vocation of ministry and help each other in this time of change.

WORSHIPThe Court was led in worship by the youth. Cathy Duggan-Russell, Conference Youth Worker reported that there are two youth groups at Conference this year: 4-10 years of age, and 11-18 years. They have had a lot of energy around the theme, “This Much We Know”. Youth are currently involved in Bay of Quinte through camping, Kids at Conference, and Youth Forum. They have a concern about how this ministry will continue and be supported in the future. She noted that the three church camps in our Conference (Quin Mo Lac, Golden Lake and Camp Lau ‘Ren) hosted over 2500 campers last year.

The youth then led us through Scripture, telling the story of the feeding of the multitudes through a guided meditation. They then distributed Goldfish crackers (a favourite treat of the youth) to all in the Court. There was a closing prayer and worship concluded with the singing of “Let Us Talents and Tongues Employ”.

Wanda Stride thanked the children and youth for their worship service.

ANNOUNCEMENTSThe President made the following announcements:

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There will be a rehearsal for the Celebration of Ministry service at 6:30 tonight in the sanctuary.

A rehearsal for the massed choir will take place at the same time in another part of the building.

8:00 p.m. tonight will be the Turpin’s Trail concert in the sanctuary. We will reconvene at 8:45 a.m. tomorrow.

Wanda then offered grace before dinner.

ADJOURNMENTThe court recessed for dinner at 5:45 p.m.

SIXTH SESSION – Sunday, April 29, 2018 – 8:45 a.m.

GATHERING MUSICThrough music and song, the Worship Team called us to gather again to continue our work.

WORSHIPSvinda Heinrichs announced that the Stewards were passing out slips of paper and she asked that we write on them something we want to say to or about the Conference. They will be collected and used later. She noted that we are in the in-between times. Like the disciples we are in that space where Jesus has ascended into heaven and we are asking ourselves; Do we continue this ministry or do we not? Worship concluded with singing “We Are Pilgrims”.

PROPOSALS – PART 4Having had an opportunity to read all the responses to the proposals, the Court now returned to consider and vote on each one.

(The Proposals Response Sheets are attached to these minutes as Appendix C.)a) BQ 1 – Maintaining the Name “General Council” – Ryan McNally reported that the

majority of the responses agreed with the proposal, and a slightly amended motion was presented.MOTION 94TH.18.17.a Ryan McNally/Karen McLean“That the Bay of Quinte Conference forward proposal BQ 1 to the General Council, with approval, and that the wisdom generated by the court be appended to the proposal, in Section 4.” -- CARRIED

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(A copy of BQ 1 is attached to these minutes as Appendix D.)

b) BQ 2 – Steps Towards Reconciliation – There was a question raised regarding the meaning of the word, “indigenization”. Rodney Smith-Merkley offered that it describes living in right relations with the land. MOTION 94TH.18.18 Ryan McNally/Karen McLean“That the Bay of Quinte Conference forward proposal BQ 2 to the General Council, with approval, and that the wisdom generated by the court be appended to the proposal, in Section 4. “

-- CARRIED(A copy of BQ 2 is attached to these minutes as Appendix E.)

c) BQ 3 – Equity Monitor MOTION 94TH.18.19 Ryan McNally/Karen McLean“That the Bay of Quinte Conference forward proposal BQ 3 to the General Council, with approval, and that the wisdom generated by the court be appended to the proposal, in Section 4. “ -- CARRIED(A copy of BQ 3 is attached to these minutes as Appendix F.)

d) BQ 4 – Descriptive VideoMOTION 94TH.18.20 Ryan McNally/Karen McLean“That the Bay of Quinte Conference forward proposal BQ 4 to the General Council, with approval, and that the wisdom generated by the court be appended to the proposal, in Section 4. “ -- CARRIED(A copy of BQ 4 is attached to these minutes as Appendix G.)

e) BQ 5 – Integrated accessibility/Equitable StandardsMOTION 94TH.18.21 Ryan McNally/Karen McLean

f) “That the Bay of Quinte Conference forward proposal BQ 5 to the General Council, with approval. -- CARRIED(A copy of BQ 5 is attached to these minutes as Appendix H.)

g) BQ 6 – Alternative Relationships and Governance Structures – Discussion on this proposal included the question of why congregations would share a minister but not amalgamate. It was noted that this has been done before and been successful. Other concerns and suggestions were raised. It was agreed by consensus to leave BQ 6 for a time to allow for some reworking of it. We will return to this proposal later in the meeting.

h) BQ 7 – Fairness in the New Funding Assessment Model for Communities of Faith Who Have Raised Funds for Significant Capital Investments – Discussion followed and some changes were made to this proposal.MOTION 94th.18.22 Ryan McNally/Karen McLean

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“That the Bay of Quinte Conference forward proposal BQ 7 to the General Council, with approval, and that the wisdom generated by the court be appended to the proposal, in Section 4. “ -- CARRIED(A copy of BQ 7 is attached to these minutes as Appendix I.)

i) BQ 9 A – Proposal for Bay of Quinte Conference to Work With UNESCO’s Canadian Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination – In response to a question, it was reported that the Inter-Faith/Inter-Church Committee will prepare and provide resources for this.MOTION 94th.18.23 Karen McLean/Ryan McNally“That the Bay of Quinte Conference receive proposal BQ 9A, and direct that the Conference encourage its Pastoral Charges to work with their local Municipalities toward joining UNESCO’s Canadian Coalition of Municipalities Against Racism and Discrimination (CCMARD) program and that the InterFaith/InterChurch Action Team will provide resources. “ -- CARRIED(A copy of Proposal BQ 9 A is attached to these minutes as Appendix J)

j) BQ 9 B - Proposal for the United Church of Canada To Work With UNESCO’s Canadian Coalition Of Municipalities Against Racism And Discrimination – A small change was suggested to make it fit the proposal template. It was agreed by consensus that we move on to another proposal while some work is done on this one.

k) BQ 8 – Updating Our Theological Language – There was no support for this proposal which had come from a member of Northminster United Church in Lakeridge Presbytery.MOTION 94TH.18.24 Ryan McNally/Karen McLean“That the Bay of Quinte Conference receive proposal BQ 8 for information and take no action and not transmit. “ -- CARRIED

It was agreed that the originator of this proposal would be contacted to convey the results of our deliberations on it.(A copy of BQ 8 is attached to these minutes as Appendix K.)

l) BQ 10 - Proposal for Consideration by the 94th Annual Meeting of the Bay of Quinte Conference MOTION 94TH.18.25 Ryan McNally/Karen McLean“That the Bay of Quinte Conference forward proposal BQ 10 to the General Council, with approval, and that the wisdom generated by the court be appended to the proposal, in Section 4. “ -- CARRIED(A copy of Proposal BQ 10 is attached to these minutes as Appendix L.)

ANNOUNCEMENT

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The Court took a brief break from the Proposals to hear from a representative of the youth. Allison Cooke announced that the youth had formed an Executive and wish to work with staff to plan future youth events.

PROPOSALS – PART 5a) BQ 6 – Alternative Relationships and Governance Structures – The Court returned to

consider the revised proposal.MOTION 94TH.18.26 Karen McLean/Ryan McNally“That the Bay of Quinte Conference forward proposal BQ 6 to the General Council, with approval, and that the wisdom generated by the court be appended to the proposal, in Section 4. “ -- CARRIED(A copy of Proposal BQ 6 is attached to these minutes as Appendix M.)

ANNOUNCEMENTSBill Smith announced to the Court the death yesterday of Lynne Shorey, the former Chair of Kente Presbytery. Lynne was a dedicated member of the church and will be greatly missed.Bill also noted that Maxine Reid, former President of Conference and Chair of Nominations has been very ill and would appreciate hearing from people.Bill’s final announcement was one of celebration as the Court sang “Happy Birthday” to Ryan McNally.We were asked to keep the people of Fredericton and other parts of New Brunswick because of the current flooding there.

COURTESIESWhile we waited for the rewording of BQ 9B, Wanda Stride thanked all who had contributed in any way to the success of this meeting, highlighting the people of Trinity and Grace United Churches and Four Winds Presbytery for hosting the meeting; the sound and video team of Sean and Charlie; the members of the Conference Executive; the Recording Secretary (Lynda Price); the Music and Worship team; Local Arrangements (led by Freda Burns); Lynne Watson (artist for the weekend); Bill Morrow (theological reflector); all the guests and all who work for the Conference throughout the year; the Secretaries and Chairs of the eight presbyteries; the youth and St. Mary Magdalene Anglican Church for hosting the youth.

Ryan McNally thanked the members of the tech team who have worked so hard and so well all weekend.

Wanda then thanked Bill Smith, calling him a true gift to the church. Wanda was then thanked for her leadership this past year.

PROPOSALS – PART 6

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a) BQ 9 B - - Proposal for the United Church of Canada To Work With UNESCO’s Canadian Coalition Of Municipalities Against Racism And DiscriminationMOTION 94TH.18.27 Karen McLean/Ryan McNally“That the Bay of Quinte Conference forward proposal BQ 6 to the General Council, with approval, and that the wisdom generated by the court be appended to the proposal, in Section 4. “ -- CARRIED(A copy of Proposal BQ 9 B is attached to these minutes as Appendix N.)

ANNOUNCEMENTSLarry Doyle reminded the Court that Bay of Quinte is hosting GC43 this summer in Oshawa. Sandra Farrell is looking for plenty of volunteers. If you can help, please contact Sandra.

Mark Arnill asked for some volunteers to help take down chairs after the Service of Celebration and prior to the reception that will follow.

CLOSING MOTIONSMOTION 94TH.18.28 Bill Smith/Judith Evendena) That all reports, as presented, be received for information.b) that Bay of Quinte Conference Executive be empowered to act on all routine and emergent matters which may arise between the close of this meeting and the next Annual Meeting of Bay of Quinte Conference or until the inauguration of Regions 11 and 12.c) That the 94th Annual Meeting of Bay of Quinte Conference be adjourned following the Celebration of Ministry Service. -- CARRIED

SEVENTH SESSION – Sunday, April 29, 2018 – 11:00 a.m.

The Celebration of Ministry Service, including the ordination of Stephanie Bates, Catherine Oxenford-Grant, David Stevens, and Phillip Wilson, and the commissioning of Lynn Smith-Reeve and Cathy Underhill took place in the Sanctuary of Trinity United Church, Napanee. The Youth at Conference provided the sermon portion of the service and Communion was celebrated. Kimberly Heath was installed as the new President.

A reception for the newly-ordained and commissioned ministers was held following the service.

_________________________________ __________________________

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Wanda Stride, President Bill Smith, Executive Secretary

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Documents

bayofquinteconference.cabayofquinteconference.ca/.../2018/05/MINUTES-OF-94T… · Web viewWanda thanked Chief Maracle and he was given a gift of maple syrup by Helmut Enns,