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Messiah Lutheran Church

Annual Report 2015 – AGM February 28, 2016 Table of Contents …………………………………………………………………………………… Page 1

Agenda ………………………………………………………………………………………………… Page 2

Minutes of the Annual Meeting, February 22, 2015 ……………………….…………………… Pages 3-5

Letter from Saskatchewan Synod Bishop Sid Haugen ……………………………………… Pages 6-8

Reports

Council……….………………………………………………......................................... Page 9

Pastor ……………………………………………………………………………………… Pages 10-13

Education Committee Report

Sunday School Report ……..…………………………….……... Page 14

Youth Coordinator (T4T) Report …………………………..… Page 15

H2H ………………………………………………..……………..… Page 16

Deacon’s Report ………………………………………………………………………… Page 17

Trustee’s Committee Report ……………………………………………..…………… Page 18

Envelope Secretary’s Report ………………………………………….……………… Page 19

Altar Guild Report …………………………………………………………….………… Page 20

Messiah Lutheran Women Report …………………………………………………… Page 21

Men’s Breakfast Group Report ………………………………………..……………… Page 38

Nominating Committee Report …………………………………..…………………… Page 22

Refugee Sponsorship Report ………………………................................................ Page 23

Associated Organizations

Evangelical Lutheran Broadcast Report …………………..…………… Page 24

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Messiah Lutheran Church Annual Meeting Agenda February 28, 2016

1. Call to Order and Introductory Remarks

2. Opening Devotions – Pastor Iris

3. Adoption of Agenda

4. Adoption of Annual Meeting Minutes for 2014 (February 22, 2015)

5. Business arising from 2014 Minutes

6. Financial a. 2015 Financial Statement b. Internal Audit Report c. 2016 Review – motion to proceed with an internal financial review for 2016 d. 2016 Budget

7. Reports a. Council b. Pastor c. Education

i. Sunday School ii. Time for Teen (T4T) iii. H2H

d. Deacon’s e. Trustee’s f. Evangelical Lutheran Broadcast g. Altar Guild h. Evangelical Lutheran Broadcast i. Messiah Lutheran Women (MLW) j. Men’s Breakfast k. Nominating Committee l. Refugee Sponsorship

Associated Organizations Evangelical Lutheran Broadcast

8. Elections a. Church Council members b. Nominating Committee for 2016 c. Delegates (2 lay) for Saskatchewan Synod 16th Biennial Convention

June 3-5, 2016, Saskatoon, SK d. Delegates for Prince Albert Conference

Fall of 2016 (October or November)

9. New Business a. Delegate Nomination for 2017 National Convention b.

10. Closing Devotions – Pastor Iris

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Messiah Lutheran Church ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Minutes

Sunday, February 22, 2015

1. Call to Order and Introductory Remarks Chairperson, Wayne Hyde called the meeting to order at 12:29pm. A total of 32 members signed the attendance sheet and therefore the requirement for quorum was met. He thanked all for attending on such a cold day as well as Pastor Iris and Dolyce Brown (with some help from Donna Deobald) for putting together the annual report.

Wayne also wanted to clarify that Pastor Iris is NOT leaving after three years at Messiah. Her call is open-ended and the three year commitment was for her Visa requirements only. 2. Opening Devotions – Pastor Iris 3. Adoption of Agenda Motion: Moved by Cheryl Bauer-Hyde, seconded by Carl Faber that the agenda be adopted as presented. Carried. 4. Adoption of Annual Meeting Minutes – February 16, 2014 Motion: Moved by Hazel Schultz, seconded by Morris Anderson that the Annual General Meeting Minutes for 2014 be adopted as presented. Carried. 5. Business Arising from Minutes

Church Directory – There has been no formal engagement with IPC (former directory provider). Council has decided that we will assemble our own text version of a directory and arrange for a Messiah member(s) to take family photos for display within the Church. Dates will be announced.

Messiah History Book – Council is currently looking for someone or some company to digitize the existing Little White Church, and then have a member(s) take on the task of updating and expanding the content.

6. Letter from Saskatchewan Synod Bishop Sid Haugen See page seven of the annual report. Further to the Bishop’s letter, his intent is to get around to all of the congregations in the Sask Synod. Wayne indicated that he will try and schedule Bishop Sid’s visit to Messiah in September 2015. 7. Financial a) 2014 Financial Statement Garry Reinhardt reviewed all of the financial statements for 2014. Motion: Moved by Merv Bender, seconded by Robert Bratvold that the 2014 Financial Statement be accepted as presented. Carried.

b) Internal Audit Report Garry Reinhardt read the Report of Financial Review for the Year Ending 2014.

Wayne Hyde indicated that the report will be revised to a “Report of Financial Review” not Financial Audit and the people performing this review would be referred to as “Internal Reviewers” not Auditors. Debbie Honch volunteered to perform a Financial Review for 2015. Tim Leson will also be contacted.

Motion: Moved by Robert Bratvold, seconded by Merv Bender that we accept Debbie Honch as a member to perform a Financial Review Report for 2015. Carried.

Wayne Hyde extended a thank you to Debbie and Tim for their time and commitment to Messiah.

c) Motion: Moved by Cheryl Bauer-Hyde, seconded by Merv Bender to waive an internal audit for 2015. Carried. d) 2015 Budget Garry Reinhardt reviewed the proposed budget for 2015. Motion: Moved by Wilf Litzenberger, seconded by Maureen Frey that the budget for 2015 be approved as presented. Carried.

Wayne Hyde thanked Garry for all his time and hard work.

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8. Reports a) Chairperson / Executive Committee Wayne Hyde reported that he has compiled notes from the Future Planning Sessions and Council is eager to implement suggested changes and new programs soon. We will require 2-3 members to assist Council with prioritization and identifying available resources for these changes and new programs. b) Pastor c) Youth Ministry d) Education i) Sunday School ii) Time for Teens (T4T) iii) H2H (Confirmation) e) Deacons (Outreach, Pastoral Relief) f) Trustees Troy Hufnagel reported on the biggest project Messiah had within the past year – the forced air heating system. Three tenders were received and the furnaces were replaced with a system that was closest to the existing one. Currently there is only $3000 outstanding on the cost. In 2015 Council will be reviewing and installing a new security system and establishing a security policy as well as a process to review the existing insurance policies (specifically the value of the building).

Harvey Jacobsen expressed concern that we do not have an AED in Messiah and said he considered this an investment on Messiah’s personal capital. He urged Council or the Men’s Breakfast Group to consider this expense.

Gisele Neudorf expressed concern that since the dishwasher has been installed, there is now no handwashing sink that is a requirement for safe food handling. The trustees will rectify this.

Morris Anderson expressed his thankfulness for the installation of the dishwasher. g) Altar Guild Hazel Schultz reported that they are always looking for new members. h) Evangelical Lutheran Broadcast i) Messiah Lutheran Women (MLW) j) Men’s Breakfast Merv Bender reported that this group will definitely look into fundraising for an AED

9. Elections a) Church Council Members Wayne Hyde called upon Cheryl Bauer-Hyde to present the Nomination Committee report on behalf of herself, Merv Bender and Elaine Serfas. Cheryl reported that there were three 3-year terms opening up due to the expiring positions of Waynne Cowan, Jennifer Rust and Troy Hufnagel. She further indicated that all three members were willing to let their names stand for re-election. At this point Cheryl called for nominations from the floor. Motion: Moved by Morris Hesje, seconded by Dolyce Brown that nominations cease. Carried. Cheryl declared Waynne Cowan, Jennifer Rust and Troy Hufnagel elected to Church Council for a 3-year term by acclamation.

Those in attendance were also informed that there was one 1-year term available on Council. The Nomination Committee decided to reach out to a different demographic and reported that John Neudorf is willing to accept this vacancy. Cheryl called for nominations from the floor for the 1-year term. Motion: Moved by Morris Anderson, seconded by Merv Bender that nominations cease. Carried. Cheryl declared John Neudorf elected to Church Council for a 1-year term by acclamation.

Wayne Hyde thanked all Council Members for their hard work and participation during the past year. He also congratulated John Neudorf on being elected to Council. The next Council meeting will be Tuesday, March 17, 2015 at 5:00 pm. b) Nominating Committee for 2015 Wayne Hyde indicated that Merv Bender, Cheryl Bauer-Hyde and Elaine Serfas are all willing to continue to service on this Committee. Motion: Moved by Maureen Frey, seconded by Millie Litzenberger that we accept these three people to serve as the Nominating Committee. Carried.

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c) Delegates for ELCIC National Convention, July 9-12, 2015 Edmonton, AB Cheryl Bauer-Hyde reported that she had spoken to Bishop Sid Haugen regarding the fact that Messiah has rostered clergy who are members of our Church but are not Pastors (Pastor Dennis Serfas and Pastor Dan Haugen). This is not uncommon throughout the Saskatchewan Synod and in this instance gives the congregation additional voices that are connected to Messiah. Wayne Hyde stated that Council had discussed this and had no problem endorsing all three Pastors as they would represent the Messiah congregation well.

Randi Arnot asked if the PA Conference would cost share. We were informed that no, the PA Conference does not pay any expenses.

Merv Bender stated that the money for registration has been included in the 2015 budget.

Robert Bratvold asked if all three Pastors have voting rights. Pastor Iris stated that she would be the only person voting as a Messiah member, but that Pastor Dennis and Pastor Dan can vote as PA Conference members.

Motion: Moved by Maureen Frey, seconded by Merv Schneider that Messiah endorse all three Pastors to attend the ELCIC National Convention.

Discussion - Maureen Frey stated that the situation may be different if any one of these Pastors had retired, but all of them are still very busy within the Synod and we are lucky to have them as members of Messiah.

- Randi Arnot stated that lay people have appreciated the spiritual and learning experience by attending these Conventions and hoped that they are not intimidated into not attending because we have three rostered clergy who are attending.

… Carried. d) Delegates for PA Conference Meeting, Fall 2015 Pastor Iris reported that last year the PA Conference members voted to hold the meeting in the fall of each year, not

in the spring as in past years. Last year it was held early in November and although this year’s dates have not been finalized, it will likely be held at the end of October or early November.

Cheryl Bauer-Hyde and Jennifer Rust volunteered to attend as representatives of Messiah. Merv Bender volunteered to be an alternate delegate.

Motion: Moved by Colleen Bowen, seconded by Morris Anderson that we accept these three people as representatives of Messiah at the PA Conference Meeting. Carried.

10. New Business Motion: Moved by Morris Anderson, seconded by Merv Bender to thank Council as well as Garry Reinhardt, Morris Hesje and Harvey Jacobsen for all of their hard work and dedication to Messiah. Carried.

11. Closing Devotions Before leading those in attendance in closing devotions, Pastor Iris thanked everyone for being an awesome congregation and stated that she looks forward to discussing the Planning Session material and setting priorities and direction for our congregation. 12. Adjournment Wayne Hyde adjourned the meeting at 1:37 pm.

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Saskatchewan Synod Insert for

2015 Congregational Annual Reports

Year-end letter from the Bishop

Grace to you and Peace,

As you gather this winter for your annual meeting, with the various reports from rostered leaders, council, treasurer and committees in front of you, let me share just a few words from our synod.

A message for the congregation Remember this? Jesus walked Galilee with a collection of disciples: Pete the fisherman, Martha the caterer, Matt the tax collector and a handful of others. Just a few followers. On one occasion, maybe more than once, he told them this, “A sower goes out to sow. . .” You know the rest of the story. Some seed failed early, some seed failed late, some seed grew and yielded a harvest. What was he saying to his little band? Maybe this. “Do something! Preach the Gospel. Live the Gospel.” Would it work? Not always. But the call was to sow. To fail early. To fail often. And in the process, to learn how to live the Gospel. What happened to this handful of people who followed Jesus? They went sowing. And, inch by inch, the community of Jesus changed the world. What does this mean for you? It is your duty and delight to listen to the Sower as it speaks to you in your particular context. As I travel the Synod and see faith communities struggling with smaller membership, tighter budgets, and, perhaps more so, with the memories of how things were different in the past, I hear this word from the sower: “Don’t waste this life today mourning the passing of the good old days (if they were really as good as we remember them) or trying to hang on to the way we have always done things. No. A sower goes out to sow. Sow something. Preach the Gospel. Give an offering. Take the youth group out bowling. Visit someone in the hospital. Stand up for those who have no voice. Talk to a neighbouring church about sharing resources to better live the Gospel in the community. Try something!” And, do you know what? It might not ‘work’. But hear this -- only in the trying and the sometimes failing does God teach us how to live the gospel out in 2016 where we live today.”

A note on the work of the Synod Synod council has developed a strategic plan, a game plan, for the whole team of 116 congregations and various church related ministries. The focus of the strategic plan is, “Strengthening Faith Communities for Service.” The three main work areas for the synod are:

o Build leadership capacity

o Operate as one team

o Inspire love and service.

Build leadership capacity: No one congregation could train its own pastors and diaconal ministers. Building leadership capacity is perhaps the Synod’s most important work at this time. We continue to need pastors and diaconal ministers for our faith communities. The Synod is collaborating on a program of recognized lay ministers to be directed and mentored by local rostered clergy. In the rural context, in particular, a team of rostered leader(s) and recognized lay minister(s) serving a wider “ministry area” may be a way forward for some of our regions. The Synod is working with the other western synods on plans for a Lay Academy to offer training for recognized lay ministers (and for all interested in a deeper theological understanding) under the umbrella of our seminary in Saskatoon. The Synod has reaffirmed support for Lutheran Theological Seminary. One sign of our support is the Synod signing a lease in December, 2015 to move the office into the Seminary building in the New Year. It is also part of our second focal point: Operate as one team.

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Operate as one team: Synod is working to encourage conversations between neighboring congregations, both with ELCIC sisters and brothers, and ecumenical partners. Practically this might enable sharing resources to call a rostered leader. Or more simply, this might mean sharing resources to support an immigrant family, to do joint youth work, or to do Lent together. Synod is working to support independent initiatives by congregations and ministries. Synod is working to support Youth ministry in the synod, including the National Youth Gathering--an important focus of our Synod. Inspire love and service: The Synod is striving to encourage congregations and ministries in practicing love and service. Bishop’s visits, the Canada Lutheran, National and Synodical conventions, communication in the SaskSynod News, the synod website (www.sasksynod.ca), and National church initiatives— all set out to inspire our people to live out the Gospel in our own time and place. Closing words First, two words about 2015. THANK YOU! I want to thank you for your support and commitment to your local congregation. That truly is where the rubber hits the road for our synod—that is where the Gospel is proclaimed in word and sacrament and in acts of care and compassion. Thank you for your support of the synod over the past year as well. For reading SaskSynod News to understand what is happening beyond your local congregation; for serving on a synod committee; for attending conference convention; for remembering the bishops of the church in your public prayers; and of course for your financial contributions to the synod. Often, it seems to me, your financial support to the Synod resembles public health care--those who are the healthiest at the moment give the most and ‘make the least use of the system’. But that is how we take care of each other in the synod. And it is a beautiful thing, isn’t it? I think that is why we as a church have called that support, “benevolence.” The attached treasurer’s report will summarize how your support has been distributed in the past year. A word for 2016 As you meet at your annual meeting this winter, we do ask you to remember the synod in your continued prayers and in your continued financial support. Take a moment to decide how much your faith community is able to contribute. Decide whether that is a percentage of your general offering, or a set amount given monthly or periodically. Then, prayerfully commit to the whole synod what God has given you the ability and the will to give. And, God willing, we will, all of us, keep on sowing.

Peace,

Bishop Sid

Please visit the Synod website for more information about our Synod -- www.sasksynod.ca

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Use of 2015 Benevolence Analysis

The pie chart illustrates how the Synod has used congregational benevolence during 2015. It shows how the

expenses relate to the goals set by the Synod and parallel’s Bishop Sid’s report. Preliminary/unaudited numbers

indicate:

1. Engage Faith Communities – Priority to Build Leadership Capacity – 20%

• Congregations – funds used by Synod Council, Bishop, Deans and staff to support congregations

• Rostered Ministers – funds used by Synod Council, Bishop, Deans and staff to support rostered

ministers

2. Shared Resources – Priority to Operate as One Team – 59%

• ELCIC National Church - received 25% of congregational benevolence from the Synod.

• Seminary and Specialized Ministries –funds provided to support LTS, Campus Ministry, LuMinHoS

and Regina Lutheran Hospital Chaplaincy, and Prairie Centre for Ecumenism.

• Costs incurred to attend meetings, events and develop relationships

3. Involved Communities – Priority to Inspire Love and Service – 8%

• Funds are used to tell the story of the service congregations are doing in their communities

• Stimulate relationships with the Synod’s companion synod in Argentina

• Programming for Aboriginal Ministry

4. Administration – 13%

• Funds needed to cover office costs, insurance, audit fees, communications and salaries

Engaged Faith Communities 20%

Shared Resources

59 %

Administration

13 %

Involved Communities

8 %

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Council’s Report

For the year ending December 31, 2015 Messiah Lutheran Church

Once again we find ourselves reading this report and/or attending another church Annual Meeting and asking ourselves "where did that year ago, they seem to be going faster with each passing year". You are not alone as Council asks themselves this as well and as is human nature we feel somewhat guilty that we did not accomplish more. What is important to remember is that "Service revives the soul" and that we here at Messiah are very blessed to have such a great place to grow, serve and worship together. We have again finished the year in a strong financial position and all of our members must be truly thanked for their very generous support. Our church remains a very vibrant spiritual home for us all and it is quite uplifting to hear the voices of our members and visitors during Sunday's pre-service coffee and during pot-lucks. Of course we must thank Pastor Iris for her spiritual leadership as well as for her dedication and caring attitude to all she meets. We also extend a large Thank You to: Donna who keeps the office running and a welcome place to visit; Garry Reinhardt, Morris Hesje, Harvey Jacobsen, and Bert and Susie Gordon who all play an important role in our financial affairs, and Belinda Bratvold, John Neudorf and Lori Amyotte for their dedication to the Sunday School and Youth programs. We also extend Thanks to all of our members who tirelessly work behind the scenes on the little things we all take for granted or serve on committees. Strength is in caring, teamwork and cooperation. As has been our practice over the last few years Council has invested considerable time and capital dollars into maintaining the Messiah building and some of its infrastructure. After all it is our other home and we all know too well what is required at our places of residence to keep them in good order. Some of the projects completed this past year are:

Kitchen and Fellowship Hall window replacement

Parking lot dividers installed

Installation of new Sanctuary projectors

Replacement of the Sanctuary Hearing Assist System

Replacement and upgrading the office computers

Purchase of a new front sign (summer replacement)

Complete washroom fixture replacement Council has already begun planning for capital upgrades and repairs to be carried out in 2016 so please watch for news and updates on these required projects. Helping hands are always required for a number of smaller jobs so please considered volunteering as Council cannot do it alone. Over the past year we have also worked on the development of a number of policies for the church and have just about completed a complete rewrite of our constitution which will be rolled out soon for review. We are looking at instituting an approach to take some of the load off the Council members and establish a more of a Team approach. Then I heard the Lord asking, "Whom shall I send as a message to my people? Who will go?" And I said, "Lord, I'll go! Send me." Isaiah 6:8 In Humble Service, Wayne Hyde On behalf of Church Council

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Pastor’s 2015 Annual Report For the year ending December 31, 2015

Messiah Lutheran Church

To The People of Messiah Lutheran:

From 1 John 3:18-24: Little children, let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action. And by this we will know that we are from the truth and will reassure our hearts before him whenever our hearts condemn us; for God is greater than our hearts, and he knows everything. Beloved, if our hearts do not condemn us, we have boldness before God; and we receive from him whatever we ask, because we obey his commandments and do what pleases him. And this is his commandment, that we should believe in the name of his Son Jesus Christ and love one another, just as he has commanded us. All who obey his commandments abide in him, and he abides in them. And by this we know that he abides in us, by the Spirit that he has given us.

Some say that the whole Bible is God’s love letter to us, his creation. And I agree. I also believe, that this love

binds us together, not just as community of faith, but as occupants of this earth. In everything we are connected

to our fellow beings and our love for them should show not only in our words or speech but in truth and action, as

John says in the above scripture reading. I’ve been so fortunate to spend time in this community of faith at

Messiah, to create relationships that will last me a lifetime and to see that God’s commandment of love reaches

out to others. I’m so proud to be a part of our refugee program and to have felt the congregational support for

that program. May God bless us all as we travel together for yet another year in our endeavors to spread this

love in the spirit that God has given us.

Three and half years have passed since I started ministry at Messiah Lutheran in Prince Albert, and

they seem to get better and better. I’m still in the learning process but things are getting to be more familiar as

each month goes by. My tasks stay the same, but somehow new assignments and projects keep being added to

my schedule. I welcome it, but it sometimes means that I have less time for things that I would like to do more of,

such as visiting. I hope to be able to do more of that in the future, and that we all, as a congregation might

combine our efforts in that direction. The following will tell you a little bit about my activities in the year 2015.

I led service in our church on most Sundays from January until December. I was away for 1 Sunday in January

(vacation), 1 in April (CELPIP Test), 2 Sundays in May (vacation in Iceland), 1 in July (National Convention) and

2 Sundays in August (holiday). Various pastors did supply pastoring in my absence. I want to thank them all for

their service for Messiah. All in all I had 46 Sunday services (one of those was at Kinasao Lutheran Bible Camp,

June 21st), 6 Lenten services, 2 services in the Holy Week and 2 Christmas services. The first and second

Wednesday of every month are booked for private communions where I visit members of our congregation in

their homes and also in the hospital. I have also visited many other members of the congregation to get to know

you better and also because I think that is an important role of a pastor. I will continue to visit with people as

much as I can and hopefully more members of our congregation will help me with that. We launched a visitation

program within our church in March. We held two meetings about what that kind of ministry is all about and we

had about 10-12 people who were interested in helping out with visitations. This project has moved slowly and I

hope that it will grow and prosper with more participation and interest.

There were two Bible Study classes in the year 2013. The first was in April and May, where the topic

was The Apostle’s Creed and the second was in October and November, the topic being The Ten

Commandments. About 10-20 people attended the studies. I was very pleased with both of the studies and we

will continue to have Bible study course each semester. In the beginning of the year we started weekly prayer

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meetings on Tuesdays at noon called Moment of Prayer. We’ve had from 2 to 7 people attending the meetings.

Last fall we had our first Healing Service since I’ve been here and we will have another one this spring. It was

very well received by the congregation.

In the summer I attended the National Convention of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada that

took place in Edmonton. This was my first national convention and I really enjoyed it. It was refreshing to meet

people from our church all over Canada and witness and participate in discussions about important matters that

concern our church in wider sense. In the fall I attended for the fourth time the Saskatchewan Synod’s Study

Conference in Manitou Springs where pastors in the synod met and enjoyed three days of interesting

discussions and fellowship. We had our fall Conference Convention in the beginning of November at St. John’s

Lutheran Church in Shellbrook. That was my first conference convention as a dean of our conference. I have

had added duties as a dean for the past year, I attended and participated in two installations of pastors, one in

Shellbrook (at the end of August) and one in Naicam (in December). I also attended two meetings with the

bishop and other deans in our conference, and I have been to meetings with congregations in our conference

concerning various matters. Since 2014 I have been a member of the Synod’s Committee for Theological

Education and Leadership (CTEL). We have two meetings a year and I also serve as a support for a student at

the Lutheran Seminary in Saskatoon. In addition I’m a member of a youth committee within our Synod, led by the

synod’s youth coordinator, Gretchen Peterson, we had two meetings last year. Of other meetings, I have

attended all Prince Albert Conference Cluster meetings, every second Thursday each month, led by myself as

our dean. The Ministerial Association in Prince Albert comes together for lunch every second Wednesday each

month, I have attended most of those meetings. I prepared two services for the Lutheran Broadcast that aired in

the beginning of March. I conducted a staff session with the staff at Kinasao about Lutheranism. Last summer I

joined a group that provides support within the restorative justice program for men and women who have

committed sexual offenses. The group works under an organization called CoSA Canada, the Canadian national

organization for Circles of Support and Accountability.

I have attended various other activities within our wider community. I participated in the preparation for

Women’s World Day of Prayer that took place here at Messiah. Messiah participated in Lenten Lunches at

Calvary United Church by providing soup and sandwiches along with a short service. The Lenten Lunches are

organized by the Ministerial Association. I participate in a Good Friday Service that was also organized by the

Ministerial Association, and a prayer meeting in March. Also in March, I joined students at the Lutheran

Seminary in Saskatoon for their Pastoral Care class where they watched an Icelandic movie that dealt with the

difficulties of trauma and grief in people’s lives. In May Pastor Nora Vedress and I lead an inter-denominational

women’s retreat at St. Michaels Roman Catholic Church in Prince Albert. About once a month I visit Good

Shepherd, home for the elderly, and have service there. I also visit Mont St. Joseph twice a month at the request

of Deacon Eldon Danielson, and sing with the residents in special sing sessions. Every once in a while I also

have services there, about one a month since September. For the past three months I have also visited Green

Hill Lodge and had services there. Once a month I also visit the people of Mak Lodge with singing sessions. I

continued this winter to be a part of an On Call team at The Victoria Hospital.

I have met sporadically with various committees in church, such as the Worship committee and

Deacons committee, also with the Educational committee, Executive committee and of course attended council

meetings. I have enjoyed visiting and participating in Bible studies with Messiah women in Faith Circle and

Naomi Circle. I have also spent time with the youth in church, both in confirmation events every second Sunday

and also in T4T, our youth group. I went with a few youth from our church to visit the Lutheran Campus Ministry

in Saskatoon, spent a night with the youth at Kinasao in June, and also attended various youth activities, such as

a Sleep Over and Christmas Party. The youth prepared and participated in two youth services, one in March

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and one in October. As always I so glad to be able to be with the youth, they are a great source of energy for my

ministry.

The office in church is open Tuesdays to Fridays from 9am to 4pm. I’m at the office most days, except

when I am out visiting or in meetings. It gives me great pleasure to meet all the people who drop by the church

every day, and I wished sometimes that I had more time for that. I provide pastoral care for people within our

church on office hours and also on occasions for other people in our community. I cannot thank Donna Deobald,

my right hand and good friend, enough for all that she does for me and our congregation. We would all be lost

without her! We have also been so blessed with our youth coordinator, Belinda Bratvold, who has done

awesome job with our youth but has now decided to step down after 4 years. I’m so grateful for her hard work

and devotion. She will continue to coordinate and lead our youth group in their preparation for the CLAY

gathering in Prince Edward Island this summer. John Neudorf, who has for the past few months been our youth

coordinator along with Belinda, has now taken on that position until this spring. Welcome aboard, John!

Here is how we have carried out our ministry in the community of Prince Albert in the year 2015. Unless

otherwise mentioned, I officiated at these services.

Baptisms: Emily Renee Walters – February 1, 2015 Rowan Robert Malischewski – May 24, 2015 (Pastor Dennis Serfas) Wyatt William Bernard Wich – June 21, 2015 Connor Ben Walters – August 30, 2015 Confirmation: May 3, 2015 Lochlan Kenneth Amyotte Dylan Mackenzie Remus Cameron Alwin Frederick Schmid Weddings: Meghan Lynn Walters & Andrew Murray William – February 21, 2015 Melissa Emilie Hoehn & Matthew James Brooks – March 2, 2015 Dawn Patricia Myrfield & Glenn Thomas Shore – June 22, 2015 Reanna Marie Gabriel & Jeremy David Hawkins – July 3, 2015 Alexandra Leanne Grant & Kyle Justin Shirley – July 18, 2015 Vicki Maureen Anderson & Brendan Green – July 26, 2015 Jennifer Christine Deobald & Lance Allen Tytula – August 15, 2015 Jessia Brynn Serfas & Brian Grosskleg – August 22, 2015 (Pastor Dennis Serfas – Saskatoon) Ashley Elizabeth Adams & Jesse Joel Grant – September 29, 2015 Renewal of Vows: 1 service Transfer Out: Karen and Ed Lyster, February 18, 2015. Transfer in: Rosemarie Minnie Statz – February 2, 2015

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Funerals: Mary Eleanor Phillips, March 26, 2015 – member Joel Gordon Klarenbach, April 30, 2015 – member – Pastor Dennis Serfas Glenn Harry Olsen, April 30, 2015 – non-member Donald Alexander Robertson – May 27, 2015 – non-member Alexis Marie Fraser, June 27, 2015 – non-member Peter Safruk, September 17, 2015 – non-member Cecil Fjeld, November 2, 2015 – non-member Bertil Erling Hanson, November 9, 2015 – member – Rev. Andrew Hoskin Howard George Dubray, November 9, 2015 – member

Yet again I find myself at loss for words as I try to express in words my thankfulness to all of you,

members of Messiah. I feel so blessed by your support and love towards me. Believe me, I feel the same

towards you! Great thanks to council members, some of whom are stepping down today and I will miss

greatly – many thanks to members of committees and various groups in our church. The greatest thanks

go to God for his presence in our lives, in our church. May we have many more years together as

community of faith, a welcoming community who supports each member and cares for them with the

same love that God has shown us.

One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days

of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the Lord and to seek him in his temple. Psalm 27:4

Íris Kristjánsdóttir

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Sunday School Report For the year ending December 31, 2015 - Messiah Lutheran Church

Sunday school began on Sunday, September 13th with the registration of 18 children from grades Pre K - 6. Regular classes began the following Sunday, September 20th. The bulletin board has continued this year representing a monthly theme for the kids. The hope is to bring awareness, education, some fun and colour for the Sunday school kids and congregation in the fellowship hall. The classrooms have been merged to one classroom which is located in the biggest classroom. The nursery continues to provide a location for parents with small children, the previous grade 1 room has been changed to a movie style room and the 4th room continues as a games room. The hope of having one classroom was to continue to build relationships with the kids, create a community Sunday style classroom every Sunday and also ease the pressure to find teaching volunteers. We have continued to do fun crafts, baking and games with the kids throughout the year to provide extra incentive to attend Sunday school. Last January we started a project called "The Giving Jar". The purpose was to collect offering throughout the year and the kids would make a decision on where they wished the money to be donated to. In December they chose to donate the $65 raised from offering to the Refugee fund. What an amazing contribution when you think the funds came from quarters and loonies. A picture taken by Jerry Jarvis is located on the website. The curriculum was changed this year to accommodate the one style classroom and was purchased through Group for a reasonable price. The teachers this year have been Peyton Rindahl, Lynnae Wagner, Mackenzie Hufnagel and Shannon Pettem. We continue to experience difficulties in volunteers for teaching and have noticed a considerable decline in the attendance of children for Sunday school. On November 29th, bibles were presented to 3 children from the congregation. They were Lacy Kornaga, Neveah Waldner and Isabella Waldner. We know that they will find them to be very useful in their coming years of Christian education. The youth for the 2015 and 2016 class year, have not been involved with the children in the hall as they have been meeting in the loft area of the church during service. They were really good to participate with the Christmas play when requested through John. I very much appreciated them stepping up to help make the Christmas play a success. Once again the Sunday school was involved in the Christmas advent season. The children, with their families, participated in the hanging of the greens; the 2nd advent as part of the Children's story time, decorated their own tree with Stars, and the 3rd Sunday, presented a message in the Stars from a poem read aloud by Reyanna Horner. On December 20th, the Christmas play "Twas the Light Before Christmas" was presented. A cute play about the people and the Star that lead the way to the birth of Jesus. We hope you enjoyed this Christmas season once again and the Sunday School & Youth participation. You will find pictures of the children from the play on the website as well. Thank you to the teachers, parents, and youth as well as the Messiah staff and congregation for your support, snacks and prayers for the Sunday School children. Also a big thank you to Jerry Jarvis for taking photographs when requested. That you to Pastor Iris for the enjoyable children's stories! On January 31st, I have after three years of service, submitted my notice for the end of the teaching season. I would like to extend a huge Thank You to all that have assisted me. It has been a lot of fun, whether we were doing pyjama days, baking brownies or bread in the kitchen, the bulletin boards, and cute crafts, and yes of course, the stress of putting on a Christmas play! Blessings to all, Lori Amyotte

15

T4T Report For the year ending December 31, 2015

Messiah Lutheran Church

Time for Teens (T4T) has had another year of opportunities, serving, and fellowship. We have experienced losing some of our older young adults as they go off to post-secondary education and a couple of other youth to LCBI. It is interesting to see how each absence is noticed and missed in our group. But as with all things, change is inevitable, and we found ourselves excited to welcome a new group of grade 9’s into the group this year! So, all in all, our numbers remain about the same. On average about 11-15 youth attend most events. Another change this year was the addition of John Neudorf as a second youth leader. John helped do some organizing and took on the task of organizing and leading special events for the confirmation group to help foster stronger connections between those younger teens and give them a taste of the community that awaits them in T4T when they are in grade 9. Here is a list of some of the things done through T4T this year:

Parents Night Out and sleepover at the church

2 Youth Services

Mission Impossible afternoon at Parkside with Parkside youth

Attended a Teen Extreme Sleepover in Saskatoon

Served at the Remembrance Day Supper

Samaritans Purse Shoebox collection (done by Peyton Rindal)

Random Acts of Kindness

Sleepover at Kinasao and helped deliver worship service at Kinasao

Travelling supper Christmas Party

Run Power Point on Sunday mornings Many of the T4T youth also did a variety of fundraising events from Chili ‘n Bun to Coffee House and Bottle Drives to help raise money so they can go the CLAY gathering this coming August 2016. There will be 15 youth travelling to CLAY this summer. Thank you to everyone who has generously given their time, talents, prayers and support to the youth to help them reach their goal. There will be some leadership changes in the coming year as I step down from being youth coordinator and John steps in to finish the year as youth coordinator. I have loved working with the youth but I am shifting my responsibilities as is sometimes necessary as life changes! Thank you to all the youth who have given so graciously of their time and talents to contribute to the life of our church here at Messiah Lutheran. Respectfully Submitted, Belinda Bratvold

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H2H – Confirmation Events For the year ending December 31, 2015

Messiah Lutheran Church

Confirmation events take place in our church every second Sunday at 6:45pm to 8:30 pm, from fall to spring. In

the year 2015, 3 youth were confirmed and in the beginning of the year we had 13 participants, (3 from grade 9,

8 from grade 8, and 2 from grade 7). This winter we have 19 participants, (8 from grade 9, 3 from grade 7, and 8

from grade 7). The teaching material is called H2H or Head to Heart, made by Faithinkubators

(www.faithink.com).

In the beginning of the year we studied Luther and the Catechism, and this winter we’ve been studying

the Old Testament. Every class stars with some sort of a warm up where the youth play games. Then we begin

our lessons all together in the sanctuary, using the H2H material. From there we go to smaller groups to discuss

the subject of the session and then we all come together in the sanctuary at the end for “huddle time”, or final

prayer and blessing. Parents are always welcome to join us for all of the events, or at least the huddle in the end.

This winter parents have met a few times in the Peace Chapel while confirmation event takes place at the

initiative of Belinda Bratvold, our youth coordinator.

An important part of confirmation classes is our confirmation retreat at Kinasao Bible Camp for

confirmands in the ELCIC churches in Prince Albert, Saskatoon and other communities nearby. In the year 2015

we went for the retreat in the beginning of February. The confirmation youth also participated partially in youth

services and other activities with our youth in church.

Confirmation teachers are Pastor Iris, Deanna Rindal and John Neudorf.

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Deacon’s Report For the year ending December 31, 2015

Messiah Lutheran Church

“In difficult times it is easy to fall into gloom and despair! But don’t give up. Keep faithful and trust in the power of prayer.”

Icelandic Proverb

How very true: Reading this “the power of prayer” yes! We believe in the power of prayer indeed.

\We pray for many as we reach out in the following ways:

We collected clothes again this year and distributed to the Men’s & Women’s Shelters during the coldest months.

We also volunteered this year ringing the bells for the Salvation Army Kettle at the Gateway mall.

WeCare Bags were collected to be sent through the Canadian Lutheran World Relief to refugees.

Worship planning continues to take place to work towards the creation of meaningful and worshipful services.

The Deacons continue to seek opportunities to integrate ideas from the 2014 planning sessions related to outreach and fellowship as we move ahead. One of the areas that was brought up through the planning sessions and later because of the emerging crisis globally was support to refugee families as part of our outreach. There is a separate short report on this area. Thank you to all in our church family who have participated in outreach and worship opportunities through the last year. I wish you all a Happy 2016. I pray for your health and happiness. On a personal note, I have gone out in the month of November and December to visit our elderly congregation members. I’ll continue making my walking sticks for those who are getting confirmed.

Yours Respectfully Jennifer Rust

18

Trustee’s Report For the year ending December 31, 2015

Messiah Lutheran Church

It has been another busy year at Messiah. Once again Council and Trustees extend their thanks and appreciation to congregation members who so tirelessly support Messiah with both their time and financial resources to assist in maintaining our beautiful facility. Considering the challenges many other congregations have faced in the past year we are truly blessed to have finished this year in a strong financial position which has allowed to us to continue to make capital improvements/maintenance to our aging building. In the past year we have seen a financial benefit as a result of last year’s furnace replacement and we are happy to report a cost savings of almost 3700 dollars in heating costs over the last fiscal year. It is great to report we are not only warmer we are ahead a few dollars. A number of projects have been completed this year:

Washroom Fixture Replacement for the entire facility

Replacement and upgrading of Office Computer Equipment

Installation of New Projectors in the Sanctuary

Replacement of the Sanctuary Hearing Assist System

Purchase of New Front Sign (to be replaced in the Spring)

Parking Lot Dividers

Kitchen Window Replacement

AED (ordered) and to be installed

Regular Maintenance of Fire Systems

Regular Maintenance of Electrical Systems

Messiah Council and Trustees continue to utilize a preventative maintenance system for the entire facility which means that we complete an annual inspection and required maintenance of fire systems and equipment, heating systems, electrical and lighting, plumbing and water systems etc. This practice has been implemented to ensure the facility is maintained properly and to also provide succession planning for committee and council member’s transition at Messiah. This process has resulted in us prioritizing the replacement of heating systems, various windows and plumbing fixtures. This has also assisted Council in generating a list of maintenance items that require attention. Some of these include:

Replacement of lighting fixtures in the sanctuary and the common areas of Messiah

Refurbishing of the front entrance steps into Messiah (has been tendered)

Repair of Asphalt Drive on South Side of Messiah

Reupholstering of the pews in the Sanctuary

There are numerous other items that also require attention, if you know of or can think of a maintenance/

improvement project that you would like to volunteer or assist with please feel free to contact or discuss with any

of the trustees on council.

Troy Hufnagel Trustee Messiah Lutheran Church

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Envelope Secretary Report For the year ending December 31, 2015

Messiah Lutheran Church

2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

ANNUAL CONTRIBUTIONS 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

14 20 18 18 11 $1-$100

16% 11% 14% 10% 8.2%

11 16 10 10 14 $101-$200 10% 7% 11% 7% 10.4%

34 30 34 34 37 $201-$500 17% 23% 20% 24% 27.6%

10 14 13 13 6 $501-$700 11% 7% 9.5% 9% 4.4%

21 18 16 16 15 $701-$1000 7% 14% 12% 11% 11.1%

20 20 22 22 18 $1001-$2000 13% 14% 14% 15% 13.4%

10 10 8 8 10 $2001-$3000 10% 11% 7% 6% 7.4%

11 14 16 16 18 $3001-$5000 11% 7% 9.5% 11% 13.4%

8 5 8 8 5 $5000- 4% 5% 3% 6% 3.7%

137 147 143 143 134 100% 100% 100% 100% 100%

Annual Contributions % of Donors % of Donations

Over $5000 3.7% 18%

Over $3000 17.1% 55%

Over $2000 24.6% 68%

Over $1000 30.5% 83%

Under $1000 69.4% 17%

For 2015 134 sets of envelopes were used. Total offerings were $204,779, of which $184,059 were made by envelope holders. The remainder of offerings was made up of loose offerings and other receipted donations. This is a reduction of approximately $23,000.00 in total offerings. In my opinion, the reduction in offerings is a result of a number of factors including: 1. The completion of fundraising for new furnaces. 2. A change in circumstances among our senior members. 3. A change in accounting practices for use of the facility. In conclusion, I would like to thank Bert and Susie Gordon for faithfully helping me process the offering after every service. On the very rare event they cannot be here I certainly notice their absence. Their efforts are very much appreciated. Harvey Jacobsen Envelope Secretary

20

Alter Guild Report

For the year ending December 31, 2015 Messiah Lutheran Church

The Altar Guild continues to serve the needs of the congregation by looking after the preparation and clean-up for each Communion Sunday. Paraments and banners are changed, as necessary. Anyone wishing to join our group, please see me or Marion Hopkins. We would be more than happy to have your help. Submitted in His Name, Hazel Schultz

Messiah Lutheran Women’s Report (MLW) For the year ending December 31, 2015

Messiah Lutheran Church

Three social events were held for the women of Messiah and their guests. In May a Mother’s Day Banquet, September a luncheon and December a Christmas party. In October we held our Fall Faire. As mentioned in the Sunday School report, we continue to provide a Bible to each chld in Grade 3 in October/November. Through the year we serve at funerals, birthdays and other events. Two groups of ladies meet once a moth September to June for fellowship and Bible Study. Faith Circle meets at the church the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 1:30pm and Naomi Circle meet the 1st Tuesday of the month at 7pm at private homes. All are welcome to attend. Funds on hand at then of 2015 were dispensed at our general meeting December 20 as follows:

Projector Fund $1,000 Lutheran Broadcast $600 Kinasao $400 Kitchen Supplies $700 retained for 2016 expenses.

Submitted by Corrine Amyotte

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Men's Breakfast Group Report For the year ending December 31, 2015

Messiah Lutheran Church

The men’s group continues to be active in the life of the congregation and also active within the community. We continue to have an average monthly attendance of 12 – 16 men at our monthly breakfast meetings. We meet on a monthly basis, other than the summer months, usually the fourth or last Saturday of the month, meeting at 8:00 am for breakfast at the Travelodge followed by some business, Bible study and lots of fellowship and fun! Bible study continues with the use of the study Bible “Master Builders Bible for Men” as well as a book entitled 52 Men of the Bible. This book provides us with some in-depth description of some of the most prominent men in the Bible. As well this year, we have used the Lutheran Broadcast sermons as study material, as the broadcast web site allows the use of these recorded services. They are a wonderful addition to the study material! Men’s group continues to purchase these bibles for distribution within the congregation and community as one way to support the faith life of men in the congregation. In the past year we hosted a Shrove Tuesday supper, the Easter sunrise breakfast and also the eighth annual pancake and sausage luncheon in October. We in partnership with Kinasao hosted another men’s retreat in the latter part of March, with Rev. Dan Haugen, former pastor with us at Messiah Lutheran church as our leader under the theme “Upstream Living in a Downstream World”. As many of you know this theme is the title of Pastor Dan's newly published book. With Pastor Rick serving as our chaplain, we were also blessed to have Bishop Sid Haugen attend the retreat and lead worship Sunday morning. Another retreat is planned again for April 15 – 17, 2016. Thanks to all the men who attend so faithfully and participate in this way in the life of Messiah. You are a blessing to this congregation and its members. Yours in Christ, Merv Bender

Men's Breakfast Treasurer's Report as of December 31, 2015

Bank balance Dec 31, 2014 865.00

Men's retreat balance (part of total balance) 507.45

Pancake revenue (net) 205.30

Monthly offerings 209.41

Bank balance Dec 31, 2015 $1,787.16

22

NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT FOR CHURCH COUNCIL

Terms Expiring - January/February 2016 Wayne Hyde Not eligible for re-election John Neudorf Deanna Rindal Not eligible for re-election One Year left in Terms – expires January/February 2017 Colleen Bowen Robert Bratvold Ron Scansen Two Years left in Terms – January/February 2018

Troy Hufnagel Jennifer Rust

There are three three-year terms and one two-year term open for election as Waynne Cowan resigned during the year. The Nominating Committee will submit names for nomination at the Annual General Meeting. In addition, further nominations may be made from the floor of the Annual General Meeting. The current Nominating Committee members feel that since they have served several years on the Nominating Committee, they will step down at this time and ask that three new committee members be elected at the Annual Meeting. Respectfully submitted by: Cheryl Bauer Hyde Merv Bender Elaine Serfas

23

Refugee Committee Report For the year ending December 31, 2015

Messiah Lutheran Church

In 2015, horrendous world events created a crisis of unimaginable proportions resulting in huge numbers of refugees fleeing their homes looking for safety. In response to this crisis, discussions occurred at Church Council considering how Messiah might respond in Christian love to this crisis. A meeting was held after a Sunday service with excellent attendance. At this meeting, there was overwhelming support to sponsor a refugee family. A committee of volunteers was struck that included Kristi, Linda Clavelle, Merv Bender, Gordon Dixon, Tracy Feher, and Colleen Bowen. Financial support was solicited from the congregation with overwhelming results! In a short time, commitments were made financially that will provide income support to a family of six. Although there are additional costs that are anticipated, these are “softer” costs and will be at least partially managed through in-kind donations (such things as furnishings, kitchen supplies, etc.). There is a possibility that additional funds will be required later in the year, but the decision has been made to sponsor six people as the income requirement has been met. The Canadian Lutheran World Relief provides the function of an umbrella agency under which we will sponsor the family. This is a joint arrangement with CLWR and the Federal Government (which also provides the income support for the family for 6 months). Correspondence has gone at this time to CLWR to advise them that we are prepared to sponsor a family and ready to sign an agreement with them to that effect. We are currently waiting for this agreement from CLWR. We are still unclear as to the time frames, but are hoping a family will be arriving here under our sponsorship in the spring sometime. At that time, we will be looking for more commitments from Messiah members. However, this time, we will be looking for commitments of time and energy to support the family that we sponsor. In the meantime, we do ask all the congregational members to remember in prayer the many refugees who are in terrible circumstances, and to remember especially the family that we will be supporting directly. Respectfully submitted, Colleen Bowen for the Refugee Committee

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Evangelical Lutheran Broadcast For the year ending December 31, 2015

The Evangelical Lutheran Broadcast continues to enjoy great support from Messiah Lutheran Church. The Board is grateful to Messiah for prayer and financial support as well as to the members from Messiah who serve on the Board. In addition, Messiah provides a meeting place for the Board.

The Broadcast is completing is beginning its 82nd year of continuous broadcasting through CKBI Radio. Our contact at the station is Neil Headrick who more than accommodates the recording pastors and the Board.

A visit to our website www.lutheranbroadcast.ca provides a schedule of upcoming broadcasts, archived services, a brief history, a donate button and various links. What started with a limited listening audience in the CKBI listening area, now is available to a global congregation. Dave Scheirer's expertise is a gift to the Board and mission of the Broadcast.

Currently serving Board members include: Pastor Rick Johnson (Chair) Deacon Eldon Danielson, Myrtle Giles, Dave Scheirer, Donna Deobald, Jennifer Rust, Bev Skotheim, Janet Walters and Twylla Wall.

The Board wishes to thank Messiah and its Members for their ongoing support and providing a “home” for the Broadcast.

Twylla Wall

Vice Chair