Laidlaw Memorial United Church Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

2019 Annual Report (Final Revision)

Celebrating our 107th Year

Our Mission: With respect, cooperation and joy, through acts of love that build each other up,

we seek to share the light of Christ as a Beacon on our corner in East Hamilton

2019 Annual Report

Laidlaw Memorial United Church

TABLE OF CONTENTS

In Memoriam ....................................................................................................1

Minutes from 2018 Annual Meeting .................................................................2

Church Council Chair’s Report ........................................................................3

Financial Reports ..............................................................................................3-10

Finance Committee Report ..........................................................................3

Envelope Secretary’s Report ........................................................................4

Annual Review of the Church Books ..........................................................4

Finance Report 2019, Budget for 2020 ........................................................5-6

Trustee Chair Funds Report .........................................................................7-9

Summary of Investment Activity………………………………………….10

Christian Development Committee Report .......................................................11

Sunday School Financial Report .......................................................................11

Communication and Outreach Committee Report ............................................ 12

Summary of Donations to Outreach Projects in 2019 ...................................... 12

Pastoral Care and Membership Committee Report ..........................................13

Pastoral Care and Membership Statistics ..........................................................13

Statistics: Baptisms, New Members, Weddings, and Funerals .........................13-14

Ministry to Shut-in People Report .................................................................... 14

Ministry and Personnel Committee Report.......................................................15

Property Committee Report ..............................................................................15

Wednesday Gathering Report ...........................................................................16

Worship Committee Report ..............................................................................16

Access Report ...................................................................................................17

Partners In Learning Report ..............................................................................18

U.C.W. President’s Report................................................................................18

U.C.W. Cards and Greetings Report………………………………………….18

Statement of Receipts & Disbursements for 2019 ....................................... 19

Estimated Budget for 2020 .......................................................................... 19

Minister’s Report .............................................................................................. 20

Nominating Committee’s Proposed Slate of Officers ...................................... 21

In Memoriam 2019

Wayne (Wally) Allen Nichols – Died December 29, 2018, age 59

Daniel James Beattie – Died December 30, 2018, age 22

Leonard John Ferguson – Died January 1, 2019, age 89

Hazel Eileen Johnstone (nee Wishart) – Died January 11, 2019, age 78

Michael Boyd Scott Johnston – Died March 8, 2019, age 54

Anton ‘Slim’ Paver – Died March 19, 2019, age 78

Darlene Ann Jackson – Died April 7, 2019, age 41

Ruth Furry (nee Randazzo) – Died March 18, 2019, age 78

Donald Wesley Mansell – Died April 7, 2019, age 76

Dr. John Roque Fernandes – Died April 18, 2029, age 62

Michael Daniel Godin – Died May 7, 2019, age 34

Deborah Ann Hobbins – Died May 16, 2019, age 64

Barbara Ruth McManus – Died May 27 2019, age 85

John Hutchison Daly – Died May 31, 2019, age 77

Idaline Adassa Edwards – Died June 24, 2019, age 96

Bernice Eleanor Johnson (nee Shaughnessy) – Died July 20, 2019, age 97

Lillian Gertrude Tye (nee McDonald) – Died July 20, 2019, age 89

Brian Edward Oates – Died July 6, 2019, age 63

William Christopher Tapley – Died July 24, 2019, age 25

Patricia Irene Cassel – Died August 14, 2019, age 84

Dorothy Alice Biegun (nee Patrick) – Died September 26, 2019, age 88

Karen Audrey McDougall (nee Biggley) – Died October 1, 2019, age 78

Alexander Mackenzie McLeod – Died October 9, 2019, age 94

Laura Olive Lowe (formerly Hager, nee Salsby) – Died October 13, 2019, age 95

Albert ‘Al’ Lawrence Gill – Died September 21, 2019, age 86

Shawn Edward O’Halloran – Died October 24, 2019, age 66

Charlene Gail Crawford (nee Lucy) – Died November 1, 2019, age 76

Owen Griffith Daniel – Died November 3, 2019, age 91

Allan Taylor ‘Big Al’ Thompson – Died November 18, 2019, age 67

Peggy Lynn Blakeney – Died December 17, 2019, age 61

…………………….

Barbara Anne Belliveau (nee Grimshaw) – Died December 30, 2019, age 81

Karen Anne Winchar (nee Murray) – Died January 7, 2020, age 81

William ‘Harry’ Harris Robins – Died January 14, 2020, age 85

Donald ‘Donny’ Scott Cathcart – Died January 15, 2020, age 60

William ‘Bill’ Edwin Reid – Died January 6, 2020, age 92

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Laidlaw Memorial United Church

Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Congregation

Sunday February 17, 2019 at 1:00 p.m.

Present: A quorum of members and adherents was present (43)

Opening: Shirley Bowers opens the meeting and thanks everyone for the delicious lunch. Rev.

Doug opens in prayer

Moment of Silence: was observed for members and adherents who died during the year 2018

Minutes: Moved by Myrtle DiBartolo, seconded by Janice Ellis to accept the minutes of the

annual meeting February 18, 2018 CARRIED

U.C.W. Report: Motion by Carol Courtney, seconded by Evelyn Folk, to accept the financial

statement of the United Church Women. CARRIED

Financial Report: Motion by Elaine Gillespie, seconded by Carol Courtney, to accept the

financial report for 2018 and the budget for 2019 CARRIED

Report of the Chair of Trustees: by Rev. Doug. Motion to accept the financial report, Kathi

Austin, seconded Donna Hancock. CARRIED. Special thanks go to George Redburn for

auditing the books. Rev. Doug explains a summary of page 10 investment activity at Laidlaw,

fund balances, etc., and answers any questions

Motion to Accept Trustees Report, Myrtle DiBartolo, seconded Henny Vanderzwaag,

CARRIED

Election of Officers for 2019: Shirley Bowers calls for nominations from the floor for Outreach

and Communication. Shirley asks three times. Ben Moore was nominated by Barb Hebert.

Ben accepts the position, stating that he will take on this until such a time that Colleen

McNally is ready to return to the position.

Motion to Accept all new Officers: Elaine Gillespie, seconded by Carol Courtney, CARRIED

Access Fund: Rev. Doug speaks on the Access Fund, which is at $26,000, and that we need to

apply to Rymal Fund and Green Fund. Trillium is best bet, also Mission Council. Rev. Doug

needs permission to pursue funds needed and go ahead with engineering plans

Motion: to authorize Rev. Doug permission to pursue funds; and use funds from Access Fund

and Dorothy McIntyre estate to proceed. Barbara Schuster, seconded Henny Vanderzwaag.

CARRIED

Appreciation: Shirley Bowers. It has been a wonderful two days with the fine weather and the

wedding of Allie and Nick Moore. Beautiful wedding! We made it through the year with a

balanced budget and some leftover. Off we go again on March 1st with the Penny Sale, Bingos,

and movie nights. This is our 106th year and Rev. Doug’s 15th year, exceeding all prior

ministers. There are no words to express our feelings for you Rev. Doug. First and foremost,

as our Minister, our Friend, and our Shepherd leading us through the path of life. Our wish

for you is better health, peace and happiness. Love to you from all of us.

Adjournment: Shirley Bowers.

Prayer to close: Rev. Doug at 2:00 pm.

Shirley Bowers, Chair Wendy Greeniaus, recording secretary

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Church Council Chair’s Report – 2019

We have made great progress this year! The gym is sparkling with new paint. Our bathrooms

are wonderfully refurbished. We have enough electric circuits to accommodate our events without

blowing fuses. The Sound system is working in the church, and the Live Streaming is the best

thing ever, so many people expressing their appreciation.

Allie and Key have kept the social media humming, and we see more and more people,

familiar and new, at our different events, Bingo and Movie Night have never been better attended.

The hosting of Movie Crews this summer allowed funds to make amazing progress in a lot of

areas. Many concerts made our live enriched with amazing music. We are grateful for the

collaboration of the arts and music community with Laidlaw.

We balanced the budget, with a surplus. Thank to everyone who has contributed to our

success in 2019. We are always grateful to all our donors, the people who attend and support our

events, and to our United Church Women, who do so much and contribute tirelessly to our church.

The Church Council has held regular meetings this year. Often, we have invited interested

people to join us for those meetings. Toward the end of the year, we began to experiment with our

meeting time, in order to have the attendance of your younger Council Members.

In 2020, our Church Council will continue to meet regularly. We anticipate a balanced budget.

Work is underway to have building permits in place within the year to build the Accessible

Entrance. No doubt we will meet the challenges of the new year.

Respectfully submitted

Janice Ellis Chair of Council

Finance Committee Report – 2019

On behalf of Church Council, we extend our gratitude and thanks to George Redburn for

once again this year taking the time to thoroughly audit the financial statements for Laidlaw

Memorial United Church.

We are also grateful to Wayne McNally, who has, graciously, taken care of filing the

Charity Report to CRA for this year, along with undergoing a double lung transplant. We are so

grateful for the wonderful success of his surgery, and for his amazing progress in recovery.

We had a healthy surplus in 2019, and project a balanced budget for 2020. We have now

established a significant trend of achieving a balanced budget and financial results each year.

Laidlaw continues to thrive. We are grateful for many hours of volunteer labour, along

with significant donations that have allowed tremendous improvements and repairs to our church;

and made our facilities more and more inviting and safe for all who come to Laidlaw. Our United

Church Women continue to make a significant contribution to our life together spiritually and

financially, as well as all the volunteers and donors who provide for eating together, and

fundraising efforts. We thank our congregation for their generous support this year.

We must also say thank you to the ‘movie people’ and ‘music people’ who have, by their

presence with us, and their contributions, helped us expand our reach and grow in having a positive

impact on our community.

Thank you to everyone for their hard work and support that enables us to continue as a

Beacon on our Corner in East Hamilton, and beyond.

Respectfully submitted, Rev. Doug Moore, on behalf of Church Council

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Envelope Secretary’s Report - 2019 On behalf of the finance committee I would like to thank those who have contributed

financially to Laidlaw during 2019, weekly church envelopes are the churches largest source of

income.

In 2019 there were 70 sets of envelopes in use, including 14 donors on PAR. There were

also 10 non-envelope donors to the general fund. We are grateful for the generosity of everyone

who has contributed to a balanced budget in 2019.

Please remember the Preauthorized Remittance Program (PAR) in which donations are

deducted from the donor’s bank account on the twentieth of each month. The envelope secretary

can make the necessary arrangements. Many regular donors make up offering for Sundays missed,

this is appreciated since church expenses continue every week.

We appreciate getting address changes as soon as possible so that statements can be

properly addressed. Changes may be phoned into the church office at 905-544-6536. Marking the

amount of your donation on the envelope is helpful to those counting and helps to reduce errors.

If you are using an unnumbered envelope, putting your name or number on the envelope allows

us to give credit for income tax purposes

This year has been a transition year. Thank you for all of your generosity and patience this

year. It is with great honor that I announce Wendy and Keith Greeniaus will be taking over as co-

envelope secretaries. Thank you and I look forward to the years to come here at Laidlaw!

If you have any questions about your 2019 income tax receipt please call Matthew. Call

905-379-7912 or (preferably!) email matthewrobertsaunders@outlook.com.

If you are interested in offering envelopes for 2020, or joining or adjusting PAR please

speak to Wendy or Keith Greeniaus

Yours respectfully,

Matthew Saunders, Envelope Secretary

2019 Annual Review of the Church Books

I have reviewed in detail Laidlaw Memorial United Church’s General Fund Ledger for

2019 and Lottery Trust Ledger for 2019, and compared entries made in the ledgers with bank

statements, returned cheques, invoices, reconciliations, and statements from 2019. I have found

them to be accurate and in good order.

George Redburn, Auditor, February 12, 2020

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Chair of Trustees Report 2019 The Trustees elected for Laidlaw Memorial United Church are charged with the duty to

serve in the present with an eye to the future. Your Trustees in 2019 have been Bill McKee

(Representative of Trustees to the Council), Don Wood (Secretary to the Trustees), Henny

Vanderzwaag, Shirley Bowers, Hinson McMillan, and Dorothy Beigun (honourary). Dorothy

passed to her reward in September of 2019. Rev. Doug Moore serves as Chair of the Trustees, ex

officio.

Trustees tend to the Church’s investments, oversee our insurance coverage, and act as

formal legal representatives for the Church, as well as overseeing major building improvements,

meeting often informally and less often formally, with an aim to meet four times a year, often in

the form of a report to the Church Council meetings. The Investment Certificates held by Laidlaw

are held in common, without attaching labels to particular investment certificates.

We have been truly blessed in 2019. Our renovated worship space has attracted not only

music events, but also Town Hall meetings, and a political Nomination meeting. The new

livestreaming adds both to our worship life, and allows other events, including weddings and

funerals, to reach more people. In addition, this year, newcomers have arrived with enthusiasm

for volunteering, and many needed repairs have been accomplished by the cooperation of

newcomers and long time members, and funding has been offered generously. The other blessing

this year has been filming on Ottawa Street that created a need for hospitality at Laidlaw, and we

enjoyed the interaction with the hard working ‘movie people’ and their generosity allowed for a

great many repairs and improvements, not the least of which has been the repair of plumbing,

improvement in the electrical system in the gym, as well as renovations to the washrooms, and

painting in the gym. In addition, generous donations allowed the front steps and railings to be

repaired and improved. After working all year toward the Accessible entrance, in January of 2020,

we were able to contract with McCallum Sather to put in place engineered drawings and building

permits before then end of 2020, or sooner! With a budget surplus in 2019, and a proposed

balanced budget in 2020, we are moving every closer to completing an Accessible Entrance at

Laidlaw.

The Air Conditioning is working very well, and we continue to care for that debt, though

donations to the Air Conditioning fund were short of payments. Nevertheless, we kept a balanced

budget, and we will make the effort this year to cover this cost. We have made 40 of the 70

payments on the lease, and then we can buy the equipment for $10.00.

With open communication around the finances of the church, we are grateful for all those

who have made generous donations, increased their PAR and Envelope Offerings, not to mention

so many good people in our community who support our church with donations and attending

fundraising and other events. All this has come together this year, creating a balanced budget with

a healthy surplus, which we have applied to the 2020 budget. All this along with a substantial list

of improvements and repairs that are helping us catch up with needed maintenance and

improvements. We are happy to report a balanced budget in 2019, with a proposed balanced

budget for 2020. This leaves us with a history now of only one unbalanced budget in the last five

years. Expenses for 2019 were $157,761.66 on a budget of $145,176.88. Income this year was

strong, offerings were steady, and building income was substantially up because of filming in the

church and other events. There were some shifts in income in 2019, but we are happy to report a

total income in 2019 of $163,954.59, leaving us a surplus of $6,192.93. We have proposed a 2020

operating budget that is balanced.

We have received an Estate Gift from the Estate of Shirley Tate for $3,000.00 this year;

and have cashed and repurchased GICs. We end the year with $26,000.00 in GICs and that balance

of funds in the General or Lottery Trust Accounts, no GIC funds were spent in 2019.

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We have reviewed our insurance coverage this year past, and continue to work with a local

company, Dalton Timmis, to ensure the best value and reasonable rates for our insurance. There

is, for the church and all property owners, upward pressure on rates.

This has been an exceptional year for repairs and improvements to our facilities. We are

extremely grateful to those who see something that needs doing; and ask to make arrangements to

see the work done. We are always happy to welcome and coordinate efforts to continue to make

Laidlaw a safe and welcoming place for everyone in our congregation and community. We look

forward to continuing with painting in the gym and mezzanine, as well as lighting and other

improvements. In a few months, we should have permits, and begin the process of seeing the

Accessible Entrance funded and built. We need all the help we can get—don’t be shy to volunteer!

We continue with community events, though this year the change of date to Mother’s Day

weekend for Sew Hungry has forced us to bow out this year. We will seek ways to improve

communication and cooperation. We will continue to cooperate with local Arts and Community

Groups in making Laidlaw a part of the wider community, and we appreciate the cooperative

relationship with L.G. Wallace, sharing our parking with L.G. Wallace, as well as using L.G.

Wallace for overflow parking during our events, and on Sunday morning. We are grateful for this

cooperation, kindness, and joy between us, while keeping within the bylaws.

The pattern of balanced budgets at Laidlaw is a credit to everyone; and all our community

friends and partners. The 2020 budget calls for a balanced budget, and we are confident we can

achieve this. In doing so, we will increase the ability of Trillium and other funders to give us a

positive answer when we seek to secure funds to complete the Access Project.

We take joy this year in the many people who have chosen to be part of Laidlaw Church.

Our great challenge is to work together, keep informed, and act in love, so that we can tackle the

challenges we face together, and find the joy God intends for us all.

We are presenting a balanced Budget for 2020. With confidence, generosity, hard work,

and great fun, welcoming each other and our community partners, we will, I believe, have another

successful and blessed year at Laidlaw. Everyone is encouraged to make the contributions they

can make to our mission and ministry as a Beacon on our corner in East Hamilton.

The operating surplus for 2019 is $6,192.93. Income for 2019 was $163,954.59,

expenses were $157,761.66. The Air Conditioner is leased, with the obligation of monthly

payments of $333.35 per month for a total of 30 more months, with a $10.00 buyout at the

end of those payments.

The Endowment Fund began 2019 at nil, no donations in 2019, ends the year at nil.

The Manse Fund was closed in 2017, by act of Council.

The Bequest Fund began 2019 at $28,910.56. There were no funds withdrawn.

Income to the Fund was $3,000.00 from the Estate of Shirley Tate. This income of $3,000.00

was assigned to the Sound System project through the Miscellaneous fund. The Bequest

Fund ends the year at $28,910.56.

The Reserve Account was nil at the beginning of 2019 and ends the year at nil.

The Monthly Maintenance Fund seeks to accumulate funds toward major building

repairs through weekly offerings. This fund began the year cashed out from 2007, and donations

to this fund in 2019 were $2,173.25. All these funds were transferred to the General Fund this

year to defray the cost of Church repairs; and will be again in 2020.

The Accessibility Fund began the year with $6,595.64. Donations and memorials put a

total of $1,171.00 into the fund this year. Expense to the Fund this year was nil. The

Accessibility Fund has $7,766.64 in it at the end of 2019.

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The Memorial Fund receives memorial donations at funerals and other times, with the

names recorded in the Memorial Book at the back of the Sanctuary. The Memorial Fund also

receives the donations made at the Memorial Candle Stand each week. These funds are used on

the recommendation of the Church Council. The fund began the year with $1,131.81 in it. There

were four Memorial Projects in 2019 at Laidlaw, namely; Boom Whackers and Stands, $352.71;

Sound Equipment, $179.66; Piano Cover, $678.00; Streaming Equipment and installation,

$2,490.92; Votive Box Supplies and Christmas Décor, $537.99, and Front Stair Repairs,

$8,740.73. Purchases totalled $12,980.05. Donations in 2019 were $12,098.94, with the names

and donors recorded in the Memorial Book. The Memorial Fund ends the year with $250.70.

The Miscellaneous Fund began 2019 with $3,842.37, of this total, $178.39 allocated to

plaster repairs, and $3,654.08 to the sound project. The Miscellaneous Fund takes in and

spends out Designated Funds, in 2019, this included: The Sound System Project, totaling

$6,551.72, this included the installation of sound and video in the gym, the Video Streaming

project, $280.75. Income included $3.000.00 from the Estate of Shirley Tate. Total income was

$3,000.00, and expense of $6,832.47, leaving the fund at Nil. The Miscellaneous Fund ends the

year at Nil.

The Easter and Christmas Flower Fund began 2019 at 310.00. Donations to the fund

were $195.00, expenses for Easter Lilies were $343.90 and $157.58 spent on gym equipment.

Total Expenses were 501.48. The Easter and Christmas Flower Fund ends 2019 with a

balance of $3.52.

The Benevolent Fund and Sunday School Fund are reported in the Outreach and

Sunday School Reports. Donations received and disbursed for Outreach Projects, including

Special Appeals, Wesley Urban Ministries, and the Partners in Learning through the General Fund

are reported in the Outreach Committee Report. Mission and Service Fund donations and

disbursements are part of the 2019 Financial Report and 2020 Budget. A Summary at the end of

this report lists all Funds and Monetary Assets and Liabilities of Laidlaw Memorial United Church.

All our Accounts and Investments are held at the Royal Bank of Canada at the Centre Mall.

As we begin our 108th year together, we give thanks to God for the provision that is being

made for ministry in our community, while understanding the real provision for our ministry at

Laidlaw that allows us to be a Beacon of the Light of Christ is the respect and cooperation that

allow us to worship, work and play with each other, and our community, in faith, hope and love,

with joy. “The greatest of these is love!”

Glory to God in the highest!

Rev. Douglas C. Moore, Chair of Trustees

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Christian Development Report- 2019

As the Christian Development chair, I am very pleased and thankful for the steady group

of young people enjoying Sunday School at Laidlaw. In June, we awarded 22 Sunday School Year

Pins, and additional participation certificates. Our average weekly attendance at Sunday school

has been 6 -8 children each week, and we have had a few Sundays with more than twelve children

upstairs at Sunday School.

With the help of Matthew, and Nick Saunders-Finlay, we are able to ensure the children

are well cared for. Our Christmas Pageant this year was well received. We did a play, “First Day

Party” directed by Key Straughan and we want to thank him for his time and thank parents and

grandparents for bringing their children and the Adults that participate for making our Christmas

Celebration enjoyable for all. Our dedicated parents are a great help in making the Christmas

Pageant happen! Again, the new chancel makes a Christmas Pageant a great deal more accessible

for the children and for us all to see their presentation.

We continued to hold Sunday School during the summer months, and summer attendance

is only a bit less than the regular season.

I really appreciate the Thursday Crew and would like to give them my thanks. We find

that the Bible in Felt lessons go very well, Janice Ellis, Swasti Rawana, and Wendy Greeniaus are

able to get them ready for us, which is appreciated. We have found that moving away from the

previous curriculum and working on more in-house curriculum has added to our discussion, and

the children’s ability to relate to the stories. These are prepared on Thursdays, with help from the

Thursday Crew. We are finding that participation in class, reading, and engagement in our

activities is increasing!

Again, this year we will offer opportunities for those who would like to be baptized,

confirmed, or join the church. We are really pleased that adults and youth take an interest in our

church events, such as movie nights, and our outdoor movie nights during the summer.

Thanks to all the parents who bring their children to church every Sunday!

Respectfully Submitted, Drew Walker, Christian Development Chair

Sunday School Fund Financial Report-2019

Balance in Sunday School Funds January 1, 2019 $ 188.59

Income from Sunday School offerings in 2019 $ 0.00

Total Income $ 188.59

2019 Expense: craft supplies, year pins -$180.61

Balance in Sunday School Funds December 31, 2019 $ 7.98

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Outreach and Communications 2019 c

I’d like to begin with a heartfelt thank-you to Colleen McNally, our former Chair of

Outreach and Communication, for her many years of faithful service as Chair---planning,

organizing, preparing, and encouraging volunteers for our events and fundraisers here at Laidlaw.

Thanks, Colleen, for being “The Cog in Our Wheel!”

I have spent this past year better acquainting myself with the role of Outreach Chair and

trying to fill some very big shoes! We certainly could not come anywhere near filling those shoes

without the overwhelming support of all our volunteers! I would like to sincerely thank all those

folks who help before, during, and after events and fundraisers. Whether it’s setting up tables

during the week, working at tables during events, cleaning up afterwards, or donating groceries

for our lunch table---thank you! We are a very easy-going crew of volunteers and are always

looking for more help. If you would like volunteer at an event, please let me, Kathi, or Carol

know! My heartfelt thanks go to Carol and Kathi, my two co-chairs; and Kathy Rodrigue, who

quietly and excellently keeps our penny sale prize paperwork in order, and so much more. They

do all the hard work during the week while I’m at work, and graciously let me take the credit.

In 2019, we raised an incredible $24,015.18 toward the operation of our church. We are

always in need of donations of coffee, tea, sugar, hotdogs, buns, chips, chocolate bars, and other

such items for our lunch tables at Bingos, Penny Sales, Movie Nights, and other fundraisers. If

you don’t have time to shop, but would like to contribute, we have special Fundraising Supply

envelopes available in the narthex.

We have seen attendance at our fundraising events either remain stable; or increase. I’d

like to thank Keith and Wendy for taking on the lion’s share of the planning, paperwork, and

selling of cards at Bingos. (Also, you simply must try one of Wendy’s brownies!) I’d like to thank

Allie, who created and has been monitoring our Facebook and Instagram pages, and I’d like to

thank Key, who has been bolstering our efforts by taking and posting photos and at events; and

promoting us online. We also decided to have a December Bingo in 2019, hoping to keep the

momentum that we build throughout the year, and so far, January and February Bingos have seen

increased attendance and funds raised over this time last year.

Our fundraising space is also receiving a make-over. Cathy and Barb worked tirelessly over

the summer to paint, restore, and spruce up the lady’s washroom. David and Key have been

graciously donating their time and efforts to paint and refresh our gym, stage, and mezzanine, and

everyone who comes to one of our events comments about how lovely the space looks.

Thanks again to everyone for all your support, and thanks to everyone who attends our

events. Let’s keep up the good work!

Sincerely, Ben Moore, Chair of Outreach

Summary of Donations to Outreach Projects in 2019

Outreach Project Bal. Jan 1 Received

Donated Bal. Dec. 31

Wesley Urban Ministries $15.70 $394.25 $409.95 $0.00

United Church Mission and Service Fund $0.00 $60.00 $300.00 $0.00

United Church Appeal - Africa $0.00 $335.00 $325.00 $10.00

Benevolent Fund Donations, Assistance $657.26 $367.55 $714.12 $310.69

Partners in Learning Fund $0.00 $500.00 229.04 $270.96

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Pastoral Care and Membership Committee -2019 Our Committee did not meet this year, we had many informal conversations, as baptism

request seems to come quickly and without time to meet. This year we will try to have more

regular meetings. We enjoyed seven baptisms; and welcomed Swasti Rawana as a new member

and welcomed back Rebecca Parrish. We will again this year offer Membership Classes during

lent. We hope to welcome new members on Pentecost Sunday, May 31.

Some of our older members passed this year, Dorothy Biegun, our faithful rummage sale

captain; Len Ferguson, our long time property chair, always looking for a good deal on repairs;

Shawn O’Halloran, long time choir member who inspired us to bring music and concerts into our

church; Barb Belliveau, who always may sure Darryl got to church in time to play a prelude, and

Bernice Johnson, always friendly, she loved to play cards.

May the Lord be our guiding light for this coming year!

Respectfully submitted

Henny Vanderzwaag, Chair of Pastoral Care and Membership

Pastoral Care and Membership Statistics – 2019

Members as of December 31, 2018 110

(Resident & Non-Resident)

Received by Confirmation and Profession of Faith +0

Received by Transfer +2

112

Removed by Death -5

Removed by Letter/Transfer -0

107

Total Non – Resident Members as of Dec. 31, 2019 -10

Total Resident Members as of Dec. 31, 2019 97

Identifiable Financially Supporting Persons at Laidlaw in 2019: 84

Identifiable Financially Supporting Households at Laidlaw in 2019: 70

Identifiable Contributors to Mission and Service Fund in 2019: 1

Sunday Attendance, Average of October and November Sundays in 2019:

Average Attendance of Adults 55.5

Average Attendance of Children (12 years and younger) 2.3

Total Average Weekly Attendance, October and November 2019 57.8

In 2019, Laidlaw was privileged to be asked to help with: 3 Infant Baptism, and 4 Adult

Baptisms, 7 Weddings, and 30 Funerals.

Respectfully submitted, Bertha Wood, Secretary to the Pastoral Care Committee

3 Infant Baptisms in 2019 Elijah Raymond Matthew Duncan, Born August 22, 2018, Baptized August 22, 2019

Zoe Natasha Ross, Born February 9, 2018, Baptized June 9, 2019 Iain David McRae, Born June 20, 2019, Baptized September 29, 2019

4 Adult Baptisms in 2019 Michelle Ann Hanna, Baptized March 31, 2019 Ryan Tyler French, Baptized October 20, 2019

Katelyn Marie Mae French, Baptized October 20, 2019 Jaclyn Alice French, Baptized October 20, 2019

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2 Members Received in 2019 Swasti Rawana, February 9, 2019, by Transfer from Paulin Presbyterian Church, Windsor

Rebecca Parrish, by letter

5 Member Removed in 2019 Leonard John Ferguson, transferred to heaven Bernice Eleanor Johnson, transferred to heaven

Dorothy Alice Biegun, transferred to heaven Shawn Edward O’Halloran, transferred to heaven

Barbara Anne Belliveau, transferred to heaven

7 Weddings in 2019 Alexandra Pollard and Nicholas Moore, February 16, 2019 at Laidlaw Meagan Gallacher and Daniel Szwed, February 23, 2019 at Laidlaw

Vanessa Thompson and Keven Hordyk, May 4, 2019 at Twin Creeks Farm Natalie Melanson and Maxwell Fortune, June 19, 2019 at Laidlaw

Wendy Slade and Mark Tripp, August 17, 2019 at Laidlaw Brenda Oleskiw and Timothy Marshall, October 5, 2019 at Laidlaw

Krista Clark and Philip Benford, October 31,2019 at Carmen’s

30 Funerals in 2019 Please see the ‘In Memoriam’ on page 1

Ministry to Shut-In People Report – 2019

A United Church Calendar, and a gift is sent to each shut-in at Christmas, and a gift at

Easter. Rev. Doug, along with the pastoral care committee, ensure they get delivered to our shut-

in members.

Sunday Bulletins are sent out to each shut-in every week. This year, we stopped making

DVD’s, and started to Live Stream Sunday Service. This has been well received, as Shut ins cam

join us at the same time as we are all at church.

I have this year, enjoyed a great deal of help with mailings from George, and Wendy

Greeniaus has taken over getting people to read the Scripture Lessons. I enjoy the service on TV

when I can’t come to church!

Many thanks to all who have helped me over the past year.

Respectfully submitted,

Audrey Redburn, Coordinator of Ministry to Shut-ins

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Ministry Personnel Committee - 2019

The Ministry Personnel Committee is in place to ensure proper oversight of our relationship

with each other and with church staff. The committee negotiates, within the standards set by The

United Church of Canada, compensation for staff, and receives any complaints from members of

the church or community.

The minister’s compensation has been moved to the new, mandated, ‘New Compensation

Model’ as of January 1, 2017, and this is running smoothly. The change means that the minister’s

salary and housing allowance are combined, and the rate for housing and salary are now set

nationally, by The United Church of Canada’s Salary and Benefits Board. The increase for the

minister’s salary this year was set at 1.8%.

Steve remains on permanent contract at Laidlaw, and received a 1.8% increase, which is

the same increase as Rev. Doug received through the action of the Salary and Benefits Board.

There were no complaints, at all, filed by or against anyone at Laidlaw in 2019.

Thank you to all the volunteers who help and all those who support and pray for our staff

as they seek to do their work.

Respectfully submitted, Myrtle DiBartolo, Ministry and Personnel Chair

Property Committee Report 2019 The work of the Property Committee is assigned to the Finance Committee for supervision,

with Keith Greeniaus chair of Finance and Property for 2019. Committee meetings are few, with

volunteers doing the work, and the Church Council coordinating that work.

In 2019, we continued the practice of keeping the church clean with volunteers arriving during

office hours on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. We see more and more volunteers each year,

and their help is very much appreciated, and rewarded with all the coffee, tea and cookies that can

be eaten. There is now, a steady crew on Tuesdays, and James Hawkes comes by on Tuesdays,

Wednesdays and Thursdays to help with vacuuming and other needful things. We are grateful his

help, and his sense of humour. There are always volunteers who see something that needs cleaning

or tidying, or fixing, and they are quick to take care of it, or ask for help to get it done. David

Crown has become a great coordinator of painting and repairs; and has recruited Key Straughan

and James and others to help. Kathi Rodrigue and Barbara Hebert took up painting the women’s

washroom. We have, with volunteers, been able to do a lot with a little, and movie crew income

and generosity from newcomers and longtime members has allowed progress to accelerate.

Major progress this year includes the sound system in the sanctuary and gym, along with built

in video in the gym, livestreaming in the sanctuary, new electrical outlets for events, repaired wing

walls and from stairs, and new railings, plumbing repairs to the washrooms, new taps and sinks

and counters, urinals put in perfect working order, as well as the ongoing painting of the gym and

mezzanine. A new upright freezer has improved coordination for events and keeping track of

supplies, and there is both enthusiasm and momentum to update all our spaces. We look forward

to the year 2020, hoping to begin the process of building the Accessible Entrance. There is a

laundry list of things to help with, so don’t be afraid to volunteer!

The relationship with L.G. Wallace in sharing parking is going well. Paul Shedden is now the

new head director at L.G. Wallace, and we continue to enjoy the privilege being welcome to use

the L.G. Wallace lot on Sundays and other occasions when we are not interfering with funerals.

The spirit of volunteering is, now and always will be, the strength of our Congregation and

the best way to care for the wonderful facilities we have inherited. We thank all those who help

out; and those who take on coordinating a project (or two), we appreciate your help!

Rev. Doug Moore, for the Property Committee

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The Wednesday Gathering Report – 2019 The Wednesday Group continues as a less formal gathering of people who enjoy

Wednesday Morning at the Church. There are no ‘dues’, but we have coffee and cookies, and

there is a place to drop coins that are turned over to the ‘Fundraising’ account to help with the cost

of coffee. Usually someone brings a snack. There are ‘regulars’ but we always enjoy when new

people drop in. The gym always there for the tots to play if they come with a parent or guardian.

Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves.

There is knitting, reading, talking, socializing, and we will do pretty much anything we are

asked to try! This year some of us took up quilting, and we’re not finished yet! We took lessons

in how to make Dream Catchers. For the first time this year, the Wednesday Group baked as well

as knitted for the Tinsel Town Sale; and raised close to $500.00 toward Laidlaw’s 2019

Fundraising goal. Our knitters always appreciate donations of wool that they can transform into

crafts for sale at our events.

We sometimes go out for lunch, and often someone brings something for lunch, and enjoy

lunch together at the church on Wednesday. You are welcome to join us Wednesdays at Laidlaw!

Respectfully submitted, Janice Ellis, on behalf the Wednesday Gathering

Worship Committee Report - 2019

The Worship Committee in 2019 held three meetings. We looked over week to week

scheduling, and well as special days. We made some changes to the Easter Schedule, moving to

one Service on Easter Morning. The Summer Schedule of being open and having coffee hour

every week continues, with Rev. Doug taking a staggered holiday. This reduced our annual budget

expenses.

Steve McRae continues as our musician on permanent contract. We appreciate the work

Steve does for us at Laidlaw, and value the wonderful working relationship we enjoy. We are

thrilled for Steve and Catriona at the birth of their son, Iain, who was baptized this year at Laidlaw.

Steve continues to work with the Youth a half hour before choir rehearsal. We encourage young

people to take advantage of this opportunity to learn and grow.

The coffee hour after church is much appreciated and held every Sunday of the year, with

very few exceptions. Children playing in the gym and at the table is also appreciated, with lunch

Sundays becoming an opportunity to stay later and play together. The installation a permanent

sound system and projection system in the gym now allows for the use of the Wii on Sundays.

The painting in the hall has made the space much more inviting. More and more, people are also

‘coming early’ and having a coffee hour before the service at 10 a.m.

We are grateful for all those who fill our choir pews, new people and people who have

been with us many years. It is wonderful to have young people in our choir. Attendance this year

has been lower, but we anticipate that there is no reason that attendance will not improve.

This summer, live streaming of services began, and this is proving to be much appreciated

by those who cannot come to church for health or other reasons, and the Shut-in people can now

join us on Sundays instead of waiting for a DVD. In addition, live streams of weddings and

funerals at the church have been appreciated, as well as community events and concerts.

We are so pleased with all the volunteers who help us; volunteering in our choir, the

Thursday Office Crew, the many volunteers who make coffee hour work; so many people make

our life at Laidlaw enjoyable, safe, and full of welcome for everyone. We thank everyone for their

efforts, and for their participation in Worship. Without you, it would not be the same.

We always welcome suggestions, comments, and attendance at our meetings.

All the Best in 2020, Stella Naves, Chair of Worship

-16-

Access Committee - 2019

In 2019, we worked away at the Accessibly Project. A total of four inquiries were made

toward firms that would be able to produce engineered plans for the Accessible Entrance. It took

most of the year, admitting that twenty-one days of hosting film crews at Laidlaw this year slowed

down that work, as well as, by providing funds for necessary upgrades and repairs, moved us

forward. It is very important that most everything else be in good order when we begin building

the Accessible Entrance. Building the entrance will take a great deal of care, attention, and money,

and if other things are in order, we will not find ourselves distracted.

By the end of 2019, we did not have a contract for engineered plans and permits, but we

had been able to have a very positive meeting with Greg Sather of McCallum Sather Architects,

and early in January, we had a meeting with the Council and Congregation, and have contracted

with McCallum Sather following that meeting.

Work is now underway. Measurements have been taken, and previously drawn plans are

being evaluated, and, perhaps, adjusted and redrawn. We hope permits will be in place around

mid-year, with construction beginning within a year of that. We will pursue funding when we

have plans and permits completed.

We have a significant and growing record of community use of our building upstairs and

down. With balanced budgets in 2015 and 2016, a nearly balanced budget in 2017, and a balanced

budget in 2018 and 2019, we feel confident in making a second application to the Trillium Fund

for assistance to build the accessible entrance.

Nothing worthwhile is easy. We look forward to the day when Estelle, and many others,

are able to part of our gatherings not only upstairs, but on the lower level too.

We are nearer than ever. Your patience, persistence, and help will make the difference!

-17-

Partners in Learning Group Report 2019

Last year, Laidlaw welcomed a community group called ‘Partners In Learning’. The group

is led by Sheila Idoine. Laidlaw has hosted meetings; or been the place to meet up and go for a

visit. This year, Laidlaw has provided bookkeeping service for the group, who are funded, in part,

through a grant from the Hamilton Foundation. The financial report is part of the Outreach Report

above.

The participants at the Partners in Learning gatherings have enjoyed a learning experience,

fellowship and the generous hospitality of Laidlaw Memorial Church for two years.

We have had speakers and discussion on many different topics to date, approximately

fifteen or more! Some topics were, visits to different religions, nutrition, care for the elderly, fire

safety in the home, etc...

Partner in Learning is open to anyone who wishes to join, and we look forward to

welcoming new members. Look for the signs and announcements in the Bulletin; and join us for

a session soon!

Respectfully submitted, Sheila Idoine

U.C.W. President’s Report 2019

The United Church Women are going strong at Laidlaw. We have an average of twenty

members at our meetings, with new people coming all the time. Our United Church Women did

very well this year with the SEW Hungry event, with all the unexpected changes, with bake tables

at our Penny Sales, and our Bazaar. We could never get this done without our congregation.

Nancy, Sharon and I would like to thank everyone for lard, pie fillings, and baked goods to make

this all possible. A very special thanks to Henny for the meat for meat pies, and to our special

dough angel, Colleen, for always making her dough. We appreciate Rev. Doug making lunch for

us before our meetings, and a wonderful Christmas Dinner in December. Thanks to everyone who

purchases and then eats up the meat pies, so we can make more!

I would like to announce that Carol Courtney has agreed to take over as Chair of the United

Church Women at Laidlaw for 2020. We look forward to supporting Carol as our United Church

Women go forward in love and service.

Respectfully submitted, Myrtle DiBartolo

U.C.W. Cards and Greetings Report 2019

A Cheer Card is sent to our shut-ins each month, as well as a card and remembrance at

Easter and Christmas. If you know of someone who should receive a card, please call me at 905

578 0224.

Respectfully submitted, Marjorie Whitehead

-18-

Laidlaw UCW Bank Statement for the Year 2019

Cheques Issued in 2019 Number

140 Cong. Laidlaw $ 2,000.00

141 UCW Expenses $ 1,135.86 142 UCW Expenses $ 100.00 143 UCW Expenses $ 48.73 144 UCW Expenses $ 38.35 145 UCW Expenses $ 43.62 146 Cong. Laidlaw $ 2,000.00

147 UCW Expenses $ 197.47 148 UCW Expenses $ 50.00 149 Cong. Laidlaw $ 1,500.00

150 UCW Expenses $ 100.00 201 UCW Expenses $ 125.00 202 UCW Expenses $ 112.57 203 UCW Expenses $ 150.00 204 UCW Expenses not cashed 205 Cong. Laidlaw $ 4,500.00

Cash $ 200.00

Totals $ 2,301.60 $ 10,000.00

TOTAL EXPENSES $ 12,301.60

OPENING BANK BALANCE 2019 $ 2,622.86

UCW RECEIPTS FOR 2019 $ 10,899.55

EXPENSES $ 12,301.60

CLOSING BANK BALANACE 2019 $ 1,210.81

2019 REVIEW

UCW RECEIPTS IN 2019 OF $10,899 COMPARES TO $10,733 LAST YEAR

HOWEVER, EXPENSES IN 2019 OF $12,301 WERE HIGHER THAN LAST YEAR

ESTIMATED BUDGET 2020

RECEIPTS $ 10,000.00

EXPENSES

CONGREGATIONAL PURPOSES $ 9,000.00

UCW ADMIN. EXPENSES $ 1,000.00

OPENING BANK BALANCE, 2020 $ 1,210.81

CLOSING BANK BALANCE, 2020 $ 1,210.81

R. HOPKINS, FEB 6, 2020

-19-

Minister’s Report to the Annual Meeting - 2019

Then the LORD answered Job out of the whirlwind:

"Who is this that darkens counsel by words without knowledge?

Gird up your loins like a human, I will question you, and you shall declare to me.

"Where were you when I laid the foundation of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding.

Who determined its measurements—surely you know! Or who stretched the line upon it?

On what were its bases sunk, or who laid its cornerstone

when the morning stars sang together; and all the heavenly beings shouted for joy?

Then Job answered the LORD:

"See, I am of small account; what shall I answer you? I lay my hand on my mouth.

I have spoken once, and I will not answer; twice, but will proceed no further." Job 38:1-7; 40:3-5

The trouble with hope is that it leads to predictions. When I read back all our hopes and

plans for Laidlaw, I feel like Job facing the Whirlwind. It has been a whirlwind year. So much

progress, so much that has stood the test of time, and all sorts of new things appearing.

We have enjoyed a very good year together. We have balanced our budget with a surplus,

we have made amazing progress, no matter if we look at the relationships that we enjoy with each

other and our community; or the care and improvement of the building we have inherited from our

ancestors; or working together to find a sustainable ministry in this place at this time. By so many

measures, we have done well, and can be grateful to God and to each other.

We have celebrated with each other the highs and lows of life. We have cared for one

another in sharing our joys and comforting one another in grief. We continue to pray for one

another as the anxieties of life and health press upon us, and we find amazing ways to support each

other as we find our way forward.

God challenges Job, and all of us, when we think we can predict the future. We know so

little about how it all works. When things go well, we imagine we’ve done something to make it

all go so well, though when we falter, someone else seems to be to blame.

Perhaps we should be more like the morning stars singing together, or the heavenly being

shouting for joy. It is a grace to see that we are blessed, without being able to describe the why or

how, without being able to take credit for anything.

We practice a faith that calls us to grace. We share the light of Christ, which has come to

us not because we have earned it; but as an amazing grace that is a sweet sound in our ear, a call

to renew our hopes and strengthen our kindness toward one another.

In this report, we seek to give an account. But my hand covers my mouth. I have spoken

once, maybe twice, but nothing more. I can give this account, but having given it, I can only be

silent and let the Grace of God in the face of Jesus Christ be the source of our joy and gratitude.

Thanks be to God for another year together, 2019. Thanks be to God for the year that

stretches out before us. God is with us, we are not alone, Even in the whirlwind we come to know

the presence of God, who calls us to live together with respect, cooperation, and joy, sharing the

light of Jesus Christ that leads us to acts of love that build each other up. Thanks be to God.

Glory to God in the Highest!

Rev. Doug Moore, Minister

-20-

Proposed Slate of Officers for 2020

-21-

Laidlaw Memorial United Church 155 Ottawa Street North, at Cannon Street,

Hamilton, Ontario L8H 3Z2

Telephone: 905-544-6536

www.laidlawchurch.ca E-mail: laidlawuc@bellnet.ca

Church Officers for 2020

Staff

Rev. Douglas C. Moore, Minister 905 547 2021

Steve McRae, Musician 905 818 5251

Church Office Hours—9 a.m. till Noon, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday

Friday or Saturday by Chance or Appointment!

The Church office is closed on Mondays!

Church Council

Janice Ellis, Chair 289 389 1055

Shirley Bowers, Vice-Chair 905 383 5934

Wendy Greeniaus, Recording Secretary 905 312 4945

Committee Chairs

Henny Vanderzwaag Pastoral Care and Membership 905 662 6043

Keith Greeniaus Finance and Property 905 312 4945

Myrtle DiBartolo Ministry and Personnel 905 572 7016

Andrew Walker Christian Development 905 538 4510

Stella Naves Worship 905 549 0210

Carol Courtney (co-chair) Outreach 905 318 6767

Kathi Austin (co-chair) Outreach 289 639 7039

Representatives

Bertha Wood United Church Women 905 560 6183

Bill McKee Trustees 289 389 7381

Don Wood Regional Representative 905 560 6183

Keith Greeniaus Envelope Secretary 905 312 4945

Carol Courtney U.C.W. President 905 318 6797

Trustees

Bill McKee, Representative to Council 289 389 7381

Don Wood, Secretary 905 560 6183

Shirley Bowers 905 383 5934

Henny Vanderzwaag 905 662 6043

Hinson McMillan 905 545 9617