EMMANUEL EPISCOPAL CHURCH

ANNUAL PARISH MEETINGDECEMBER 11, 2016

Minutes of the 2015 Annual MeetingEmmanuel Episcopal Church

December 13, 2015

Father Robert Salamone called the meeting to order at 10:20 a.m.Nomination and Election of SecretaryFr. Robert nominated Sue Boatright to be the recording secretary for the annual meeting. The motion was seconded from the floor and approved. Approval of Minutes from 2014 Annual MeetingFr. Robert noted that he did not get the minutes from the last annual meeting printed to be available. These minutes were approved last year by the vestry but are not fully approved until those in attendance at the next annual meeting have validated them. The 2014 minutes will be printed in the upcoming January 2016 News from the Narthex.Introduction of Vestry NomineesAs one of the outgoing vestry, Erik Wells chaired the Vestry Nominating Committee. Erik explained that the committee is formed by the four outgoing vestry members plus two ad hoc members. The committee this year consisted of Erik, Sarah Ehlers, Shooter Roberts, Clara Herrin, Sandy Jarret, and Jay Shinn.The proposed vestry slate for 2016 is comprised of Terrie Seward, Rob Hoyt, Ellen Cowne, and Bill Fox.Fr. Robert appreciates the hard work of the committee and those in the community who have offered to serve for the next three years helping the parish grow into its future. These are very fine individuals who bring special gifts to what we are.Rector’s ReflectionsThis meeting is a time for us to come together and say “thanks” to one another, truly celebrating who we are as a parish. We should take stock of where we’ve been and who we would like to become in our service to each other and in our service to the community at large.Fr. Robert referenced the Old Testament reading today from the Book of Zephaniah. The time then was described as devastation, calamity, and ruin. Many of those words can possibly be applied to the world today. But, the Book of Zephaniah takes a dramatic turn later with strong words of encouragement. Those words can be taken to heart and we can realize that there is no one outside of us who can make us afraid. Fear is the absence of love, and God is love. Those who live in love live in God, and God lives in them. Each day we are on a journey to grow closer to the Lord.The Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, recently said that reconciliation is about our relationship with God and with each other. It’s about people, communities, and nations learning to live together with deeply held differences but in a spirit of love and respect. It’s the very heart of the gospel and what we are called to do as followers of Jesus. Live Christ’s life as best we can and when there are discouragements, have the courage to seek reconciliation.Fr. Robert took time to remember those in our parish who left us this year to share in the fullness of God’s peace: Bill Connerat, Jones Drewry, Daniel White, Marion Rice, Keith Cowne, Harry Yates, Dev Weeks, Patricia Cooper, Jim Jacobson, and Bob Bowen. They clearly have given their all for the common good of Emmanuel parish. We thank God for the gifts they were to us.Recognition of Outgoing Vestry ClassFr. Robert is indebted to each member of the outgoing vestry for their dedication and service to the parish. Aside from ministry, the most important things they bring are their advice, counsel, wisdom, and spirituality, helping the vestry reach decisions that are made.

Sarah Ehlers has such a wonderful passion for the poor and has represented us so well, reaching

out to those in Athens, traveling to Haiti several times, seeking engagement with Hispanic ministries, feeding needy children, partnering with the Salvation Army—she has been a part of our collective social consciousness and we are very grateful. Erik Wells has worked hard and has been a catalyst for growth of our Adult Formation program offerings. We have grown in any number of ways during this time and he deserves much thanks. Clara Herrin has served the parish in various ways. In addition to being a wonderful role model to her children, she has served the youth and its families assisting Fr. Chris in determining how to best serve them and hear what it is they need. Shooter Roberts, Senior Warden, has been a fine example of truth and speaking the truth in love. He truly listens to the concerns of all, helping discern their needs and trying to make everything work as it should for the common good. Shooter has spent very much time and effort, along with a busy life as a young man with a career and young family, giving of himself to Fr. Robert and the whole parish. Many thanks for your efforts!

Senior WardenShooter Roberts thanked Fr. Robert and spoke about his three years on the vestry. The first was a year of learning as he started to grow, learning what it meant to be a truly participatory member of this great church. When asked to be Senior Warden, he had no idea of the amount of work it would take. As the Growing Blessings Campaign was undertaken during the past 18 months, he has realized what it takes to make the church “tick.” His eyes were opened to how passionately parishioners that he did now even know care about our home and how generously they give to support the work Fr. Robert does. Shooter has seen firsthand what a rector has to do day-to-day and his eyes have been opened to a more fulfilled life. He knows we are very lucky to have Fr. Robert!A page inserted in recent bulletins shows progress on the stewardship and capital campaigns. The stewardship numbers show $541,000 pledged from 65% of recordable pledging units. The capital campaign has pledges from 55% of the pledging units at $1.3 million. The response has been tremendous. Shooter thanked all and pledged to press forward with both campaigns.Renovation of the “540” building was completed this year and the Thrift House has been up and running there since early March with Leah Goodwin hired as manager. She and the volunteers have been doing well with cash flow and it’s holding its own. Everyone needs to visit!Shooter thanked everyone for their support. Fr. Robert added to Shooter’s thoughts that God continues to bless our parish.Emmanuel’s Finances – 2015 and TomorrowPhil Bettendorf quickly summarized the finances of the church by saying, “All is well.” We build our budget based on pledges we receive from our parish. The 2016 budget is being finalized and will be voted upon during the vestry retreat in January. Please get pledges in now so the church can keep functioning, and for those who have turned theirs in already, “Thank You!” Phil spoke of the good work that Treasurer Betty Varnadore, Finance Director Karen Holland, and the finance committee are doing. Our CPA, James Jordan, is very familiar with Episcopal churches and stated that we have controls in place for doing things correctly. Mr. Jordan also stated that this last audit is one of the better ones he has seen in some time including all the churches he audits. Another suggested giving opportunity would be to honor or memorialize loved ones by purchasing engraved pavers located on both sides of the church.Phil opened the floor to those present and responded to the question of how many pledging units were used to calculate the percentages for the stewardship/capital campaigns participation. Phil responded that the 2015 number is 226 units.A Few Highlights from 2015Betsy Respess reported briefly about the Thrift House. Former customers are excited to still come in and find great items at low prices. Some furniture has also been accepted and doesn’t stay much longer than a day. She urged everyone to stop by and do some Christmas shopping.Fr. Robert thanked Ralph Stephens for spending much time organizing the parish library, categorizing and making the library functional. Fr. Chris Cole reported that 14 high school students were confirmed this year by Bishop Whitmore. This 18-week journey culminated with a pilgrimage to El Camino de Santiago in Spain, the way of St. James the Apostle. Fr. Chris, student intern Kim Bice, and Dr. Anna Alexander led them on this 150-mile, 10-day trek. Fr. Chris thanked the parish for making this happen through fund raisers and donations. This sets the bar high for the next group!Fr. Chris also commented on the second annual Great Pancake on Shrove Tuesday with seven teams competing to make the best pancakes voted on by the parish. Small gifts were presented to the winning team of Phyllis and Trey Niolon, Mary Morgan Collier, and Mary Palmer Roberts. Sam Polk informed everyone that CDs are available with the October 4, 2015, choral presentation of the combined choirs of Emmanuel, First Baptist, and First Presbyterian. Contact Sam to reserve a copy.Fr. Robert described three paintings that formerly hung in the parlor, now the library, before renovation. Several years ago Carol Winthrop indicated that she would like to manage the restoration and renewal of some of Emmanuel’s artwork. Carol has spent many hours in this ministry working with the restorationist at UGA. Fr. Robert unveiled one painting which has now been beautifully restored.

Annual Faithful Servant AwardAnne Brightwell presented the Faithful Servant couple winners, Bob and Blue Wood. They have been the epitome of steadfast and profound servanthood and part of the living heart of our parish for over 45 years. Anne welcomed the Wood’s children and families and presented highlights of the many ways Blue and Bob have served the parish of Emmanuel. With love and in honor of the Wood’s involvement with Episcopal Relief and Development, the parish has purchased a goat in their names! May the family who receives this much needed animal prosper and be fed not only with milk, but be comforted by the Holy Spirit. The Wood’s son, Rob, honored his parents and related several memorable stories from his childhood at Emmanuel where he was baptized and confirmed. Presentation and Approval of Vestry SlateErik Wells moved that the proposed vestry slate be approved: Rob Hoyt, Terrie Seward, Ellen Cowne, and Bill Fox. Phyllis Niolon seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.Thanks to Crysty and Tom Odom who supplied the “energy” for the meeting.Fr. Robert adjourned the meeting at 11:20 with a prayer.Approved by: Phil Bettendorf, Clara Herrin, Weyman Johnson, Roger Lange, Naomi Norman, Crysty Odom, Shooter Roberts, Brooke Stortz, Erik WellsAbstained (absent): Sarah Ehlers, Weyman Johnson, Diane WahlersRespectfully submitted,Sue Boatright,Recording Secretary

WorshipRoger Lange (rdrsl13@gmail.com)Vestry Liaison for Worship and Liturgy

The Worship and Liturgy group at Emmanuel is made up of many different committees and guilds. Each of these groups is made up of dedicated and caring members of our congregation who make sure our worship experiences go smoothly and that we get the most from them. These groups include Altar Guild, Flower Guild, Acolytes, Lay Eucharistic Ministers, Readers, Ushers, and music ministry. This year has been especially challenging as our worship space has been under its renovation. Everyone has come together and made the transition into the Common Room and Chapel for weekly worship go as smoothly as possible. At this writing we are all eagerly awaiting training for the move back into our beautiful worship space. We are always looking for newcomers to join the various groups and participate in the preparation for and celebration of our liturgies. If you would like to be a part of any of these groups, please contact the church office or any of the chairs directly at the following: Ushers (8:30) Gus Backelant – gus@backelant.com, Ushers (10:30) Curt Collier – c.harris.collier.iii@gmail.com, Lectors/Eucharistic Ministers – Ellen Cowne at ecowne@charter.net, Flower Guild – Beverly Sligh at beverlysligh@gmail.com, Altar Guild – Naomi Norman at nnorman@uga.edu, Acolytes – Fr. Chris at associaterector@emmanuelathens.org, Vergers – Roger Lange at rdrsl13@gmail.com, Music – Sam Polk at music @emmanuelathens.org.

Altar GuildNaomi Norman (nnorman@uga.edu)

The duties of the Altar Guild are simple and joyous: we prepare every Wednesday for the healing service, every Saturday for the evening Eucharist in the chapel and every Sunday for the 8:30 and 10:30 Eucharist. This year the faithful women and men of the guild did all of that and more—we all had the fun of setting up for services in the Common Room. We are looking forward to being back in the church and figuring out new routines for setting up for services there. One huge bonus: we will never have to deal with the tiny, narrow passageway between the sacristy and the church and will never again have to fight with the lock on that gate between the two. Oh, joy!For me personally, working with the Altar Guild is one of the most meaningful things I do for the parish. I love being alone in the church or the chapel and setting up for communion. It is a very special time for reflection and, on occasion, for private prayer and meditation. If you are interested in joining the Altar Guild and in learning how to set the Lord’s table, contact me at nnorman@uga.edu. There’s always room in the Altar Guild for more faithful servants.

Flower GuildBeverly Sligh (beverlysligh@gmail.com)

The Flower Guild is comprised of many dedicated and talented volunteers who work together weekly throughout the year. Each month a different team creates beautiful arrangements for each Sunday including weddings, funerals, and receptions. We have extraordinary teams for Christmas and Easter that turn our sanctuary into an even more beautiful place to worship. The Guild consists of 31 extremely talented members dedicated to creating beauty for our worship environment. If you are interested in joining the Flower Guild please contact Beverly Sligh at beverlysligh@gmail.com.

Music MinistrySam Polk – Director of Music (music@emmanuelathens.org)

Everyone is thrilled to be back in our beautifully renovated church for the Advent season! The side-to-side seating arrangement in the Common Room offered a different perspective, and many of us were pleasantly surprised that the Common Room worked out so well. Seating for the choir on the stage was less comfortable than seating on the floor, and I would like to express my appreciation to the choir for making the best of a cramped space with precarious risers. I am grateful to Walker Technical Company for moving the organ to the Common Room during our renovation. This helped our worship services continue with a semblance of normality. I would also like to express my appreciation to Mackenzie Marr for accompanying the choir while we worshipped in the Common Room. Mackenzie has been a member of the choir during her undergraduate years at UGA and is now a first-year graduate student in piano. Her talent and willingness to help allowed me to conduct standing up, which made things easier for the choir.

Emmanuel will have held its 8th annual service of Advent Lessons & Carols by the time the congregation receives the 2016 Annual Parish Report. When planning this years’ service, I made a list of the readings used over the past eight years and selected readings for this years’ service that were infrequently used or had never been used. The service this year also featured more choral music rather than singing a congregational hymn between each reading. Traditional choir dress in the Anglican tradition consists of a cassock…usually black, blue, red, or purple for cathedral choirs…and a white surplice which is worn over the cassock. The blue cassocks were purchased for the Emmanuel Choir in 2009, but we did not replace the white surplices. After 15-20 years of use the surplices have become dingy and were showing signs of wear. My goal was to replace them by the time we moved back into the church. The choir is now wearing new surplices made by Watts & Co. in London which are fully gathered around the neck with long pointed sleeves. The children who make up our St. Cecilia Choir have been rehearsing this fall under the direction of Hannah Tilden, a senior music education major at UGA who is in her second year with us. I would like to express my appreciation to both Hannah and Georgia Collier for their help and dedication. In closing, I would like to thank the clergy, staff, vestry, and congregation for their support of the Music Ministry. CDs of the combined choir concert with First Baptist and First Presbyterian are still available. They are $15 each and checks made payable to Emmanuel. Soli Deo Gloria!

UshersCurt Collier - 10:30 chair (curtcollier3@gmail.com)

The ministry of an usher is one of welcome and hospitality. The usher is usually the first person a parishioner sees when arriving for worship, and the usher sets the tone for each person’s godly experience for that day. Whether meeting someone new or welcoming a regular parishioner, we strive to greet all in the name of the Lord and extend a hand or offer a smile and welcome to Emmanuel.

10:30 UshersWe are thankful to have 40 men who volunteer as ushers for the 10:30 Rite II service. Ushers also support special services for Holy Days or funerals. We are honored to minister to the parish of Emmanuel in this way. We are always open to receive both ladies and gentlemen as new volunteer ushers. If interested in serving Emmanuel in this capacity, please contact Curt Collier at 706.540.9062 or curtcollier3@gmail.com.

Wedding CommitteeWeddings are both a joyous occasion and a sacrament of the church. Members of the Wedding Committee assist the couples and their families in preparing for the celebration of marriage in the Episcopal community of faith at Emmanuel. Wedding directors are assigned (usually with two or three of the committee members serving for each wedding) to go through the details, expectations, and organization of this important day with the bride and groom and to provide assistance to the clergy for the rehearsal and the ceremony. There have been 2 weddings at Emmanuel during 2016, and 4 are on the books between now and May. We are enjoying the beautiful expanded spaces of our new building which facilitates this most special occasion for the brides, grooms, their families and guests. We are anxiously awaiting the completion of the sanctuary and the expanded space for the wedding party in the nave and sanctuary and a better line of sight for the families of the bride and groom.

Pastoral CareDiane Wahlers, Vestry Liaison (dlwahlers@gmail.com)

“Life is short and we have little time to gladden the hearts of others.So be swift to love,Make haste to do kindnessShower blessing on friend and stranger alike…” Henri AmielThe Pastoral Care Commission is an umbrella for several ministries that actively serve the needs of parishioners and friends in a variety of ways. The following reports by ministry chairs explain their

missions as well as 2016 statistics. The more active these ministries are, the stronger the Emmanuel community grows. Every ministry looks to you to serve or make referrals for service!

Agape MealsA wide network of parishioners is ready to assemble and deliver meals to those who are recovering from illness, homebound, celebrating a new baby….or a variety of other life challenges. This year Agape Meals officially served seven parish families. Referrals can be made to the Agape Meals chair or to the parish office.

Caregivers Support GroupKaren Salamone, Chair (ksalamone8@yahoo.com)

The Caregivers’ Fellowship and Grief Support Group focuses on assisting individuals who are caring for others by providing information and support. Recently the group was expanded to include grief support for those who have lost someone they cared for. The group, consisting of church members and friends, is open to all. It meets once a month for 1-1 ½ hours. Confidentiality is maintained. In addition to three guest speakers this year, we made a field trip to the Oconee County Senior Center.

Daughters of the KingThe Emmanuel Chapter of the Daughters of the King (DOK) meets twice monthly, normally the first and third Saturdays, for a prayer service before the 5:30 Eucharist. This prayer service, held in the chapel, is open to everyone and includes intercessory prayers for those who have requested them as well as individual remembrance of members of Emmanuel.The Emmanuel Daughters also meet as a chapter once a month on Sunday afternoons. In the past year, we read a new book together, What the Mystics Know by Fr. Richard Rohr. In April, three of us attended the diocesan DOK retreat at Camp Mikell for the day and received both ideas of how to serve our congregation as well as news of other chapters. Bishop Skilton, International Chaplain of DOK, lead the retreat and gave his perspective of DOK in other countries, especially the Dominican Republic.On Sunday, September 18, Emmanuel Daughters met with the Brotherhood of St. Andrew at our third annual joint social event, a covered dish supper held at Sara Baldwin’s home. Our number of Daughters has remained stable this year. Current officers are Sara Baldwin (President) and Betty Varnadore (Secretary/Treasurer).

Elder ConnectionGwen Bottoms (gbottoms@depauw.edu) and Dee Forester (deliahf@bellsouth.net) Co-chairs

The Elder Connection strives to build fellowship among Emmanuelites by offering a variety of programs and outings approximately six times a year. The 2016 programs included a February coffee/book review of Toward Holy Ground led by Blue Wood, an April luncheon on “The Spirituality of Decluttering”, a June play reading of Neil Simon’s comedy, “God’s Chosen”, led by Ralph Stephens, an August Dutch Treat dinner at the Hilltop Grille, an October trip to The Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Conyers and a November tour of “The Sacred in Art” led by Sam Carleton at the Georgia Museum of Art. Attendance varied from 15-50 people; the committee prepared food for the luncheon and served cookies, lemonade and coffee at the other events.Programs planned for 2017 include a January program on preparing and keeping a record of personal medical information, a May Lunch and Learn on the Spiritual Power of Humor, a July group play reading led by Ralph Stephens, a September Dutch Treat Dinner, and an event to b determined in November. We welcome new committee members and program suggestions.

Health and Wellness MinistryRobin Johnson, Chair (rbewley54@gmail.com)

Emmanuel’s Health Ministry tries to assist parishioners with health needs: provide support and information to those who are working with health issues; check on those who do not have family close by or who may be isolated in other ways; provide information/programs; send cards and information to people who are ill or in transition; connect parishioners with outside resources or other Pastoral Care Services when appropriate; and provide gentle and chair yoga courses.

Our committee is composed of Blue Wood; Diane Wahlers, Vestry; Anne Brightwell; Katherine Byrne; Sara Baldwin; Bette McNeely, Kimberly Tomlinson and Robin Johnson, Chair.  We meet monthly. Much of our work needs to remain confidential.  We rely on word of mouth, calls to the Vestry member who coordinates Pastoral Care, and referrals.  Please do not hesitate to call Robin Johnson (706-255-8452) to let us know if you have questions or need support. We are currently working on a program to be conducted in January for the Elder Connection on creating a personal health record.  This year, we have conducted 8 yoga courses.  Four have been gentle yoga for strength, maintaining function and relaxation; the other four have been chair courses for people with mobility or balance struggles.  Chair Class Gentle Class

Winter 5 12Spring 3 13Summer 3 8Fall 2 11Some participants came to all 4 courses, but 28 people attended over the entire year.

Intercessory PrayerElaine Carleton, Chair (sbcarleton270@charter.net)

When the Intercessory Prayer Ministry receives a name that is in need of prayer, the 25 members become a prayer chain; each prays in his/her own way and time of day. The church office obtains the names and contacts the Ministry Chair who then notifies the members of the Ministry. No time limit is set on prayers and confidentiality is observed if requested. We all know how important prayer is to each of us and how much comfort it gives. Please contact Elaine Carleton to join with the Prayer Group or to offer names to be prayed for.

Prayer ShawlPat Hall, chair (pathall@yahoo.com)

The making of a prayer shawl is a meditative practice which embodies our thoughts and prayers for the receiver. We knit, crochet or weave God’s love into shawls for people who need healing, are grieving, or going on a journey. We also knit small baby squares for infants in the ARMC Neonatal unit.Our meetings are opened and closed with prayer, and our shawls are blessed by our members before they are given out. A prayer that fits the need is always attached to the shawl. It is so rewarding to be able to give these “wearable prayers.” The Prayer Shawl Ministry was started in 2007. We meet once a month on Sunday afternoons from September through June in the Old Music Building. Upcoming meetings are announced in the E letter and the bulletin. We would love to have anyone join us. Come and we will help you get started!If you know of anyone who might need a shawl, please contact Pat Hall or Melissa in the church office.

Stephen MinistrySue Holt (sholt721@gmail.com) and Debra Harden (debro48@bellsouth.net), Co-Chairs

Stephen Ministry is thriving at Emmanuel Episcopal Church! Stephen Ministry has been an active part of Pastoral Care at Emmanuel for over 20 years. Stephen Ministers are fellow Emmanuelites who are trained and supervised in confidential, one-to-one care. Happy events (weddings, a new baby, a new job) can sometimes be as stressful as the sadder times (illness, loss of a loved one, financial struggles, being forced to move or downsize.) At all these challenging times, a Stephen Minster can offer the listening attention, care and support that makes all the difference. The Stephen Minister meets with his/her Care Receiver on a regular schedule, usually once a week, as long as there is a need. The identity of those receiving care and what takes place in each caring relationship remain private. Emmanuel Stephen Ministers are currently ministering to six Care Receivers. Care Receivers don’t have to be members of Emmanuel. We have recently joined with Tuckston United Methodist Stephen Ministers to extend our care giving to those in need. Stephen Ministers meet twice a month for peer supervision and continuing education. These meetings help Stephen Ministers provide quality care for their care recivers and grow personally as caregivers. Recent continuing education topics have included: “ministry to the Dying and Their Family and Friends,” “Caring for People Before, During, and After Hospitalization,” and “Ministering to Those experiencing Losses Related to Aging.”

Stephen Ministers continue to expand their ministry of listening and offering prayers by visiting Episcopalians who are hospitalized on weekends at both Athens’ hospitals. We have found that these visits are meaningful, spiritual experiences for both the patients and the Stephen Ministers. Father Robert is notified of all visits.In October, an Adult Formation class on Christian Caregiving was facilitated by Stephen Ministers Sue Holt, Brian Freese and Debra Harden.Sue Holt and Debra Harden are co-leaders of Stephen Ministry at Emmanuel. Polly Connerat, Jan Wheeler, LaBau Bryan, Sondra Lange, Clairelis Baxter, Mary-Jeanbne Bouton, Br. Brian Frees, Betsy Respess, and Lane Stewart serve as Stephen Ministers. We strive to keep Stephen Ministry a vital part of Emmanuel Episcopal Church and welcome and encourage Care Receiver referrals from the clergy, vestry members and Emmanuel parishioners.

Spiritual FormationAdult Faith FormationFriar Brian Paul Freese, OP – friarbrianpaul@gmail.comCommittee Members:  Bob Bottoms, Ellen Cowne, Jim Davis, Brian Freese, Merry Reetz-Stoval, and Erik Wells with our clergy Fr. Robert Salamone

The Faith Formation Committee (Adult Faith Formation) offers programs that explore Holy Scripture, Anglican tradition, and Church history to deepen personal faith, strengthen community, and share the Gospel with each other.  Christian formation is a lifelong process of growing in our relationship with God, self, others, and all creation.  Every experience in our lives can provide us with the opportunity to express our faith; the challenge we face is recognizing these opportunities and learning ways to live a sometimes countercultural life in a secular world.  Adult Faith Formation meets in the Westminster room, downstairs in the Formation Building each Sunday morning between worship services.  A great variety of subjects and topics have been offered in 2016 by a variety of well qualified facilitators and presenters.  Topics have included Embracing a Life of Meaning, Women in the New Testament, The Enneagram in Personal Spirituality, Instructed Eucharist, DVD presentations on Christian and church history, Christian Decision-Making, a variety of presentations about our life in the community and within the parish, and much more.  Those who serve on the committee constantly seek input from others about what interests them in their faith and spirituality, and this input is invaluable to the committee.  Additional programs beyond Sunday morning are also supported, and in Spring 2017 the committee is working to offer another Steeple and Sidewalk Lecture for the parish and greater Athens community.  There is much to be done, but by the Holy Spirit we’ll continue our good work in service to God through Jesus Christ.

CHILDREN’S PROGRAMSGeorgia Collier (georgiacollier50@yahoo.com

NurseryThe loving arms of our Nursery Staff are trained and prepared to care for your children 3-years-old and under. Our staff is comprised of six ladies who work on a rotating basis. They are Laura Beth Simmons, Beegee Elder, Zoe Cown, Mary Smith, Reilly Hanlin and Jordan Miceli. Each staff member is trained through the Episcopal program, ‘Safeguarding God’s Children.’ They come to work each Sunday morning with big smiles and warm hugs for the children.We invite you to stop by our Nursery and see all of the goodness the environment offers our youngest parishioners. Conveniently located across Pope Street, our dedicated space makes it simple for parents to bring their children to the Eucharistic table if they choose. We have brought in some of the basic Catechesis elements such as The Good Shepherd parable work and a prayer table.

Catechesis of the Good ShepherdThe young children of Emmanuel continue to flock to their respective atria each week to learn what mysteries from God will be revealed to them next. We typically serve 60 children who range in ages from 3 years – 6th grade.Fellow parishioners ask us often about the Catechesis program.The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd website explains it this way: “The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is an approach to the religious formation of children. It is rooted in the Bible, the liturgy of the Church, and the educational principles of Maria Montessori. Children gather in an “atrium”, a room prepared for them, which contains simple yet beautiful materials that they use.”

“You may be wondering how these materials help the religious life of children. If an adult hears a beautiful passage from the Bible, the adult might take a Bible, find the passage, and read it slowly again and again. He or she may think deeply about the words and perhaps speak to God in a thankful or hopeful prayer. But a little child, too young to read, needs another way. In an atrium the child can ponder a biblical passage or a prayer from the liturgy by taking the material for that text and working with it – placing wood figures of sheep in a sheepfold of the Good Shepherd, setting sculpted apostles around a Last Supper table, or preparing a small altar with the furnishings used for the Eucharist. Older children who do read often copy parables from the Bible, lay in order written prayers from the rite of baptism, or label a long time line showing the history of the kingdom of God.”We thank the faithful servants who continue to share the Word with our young children every week. Serving is the Atrium is a commitment. It begins with a certified training process. The process to becoming a Catechist involves approximately 100 hours of training for each level, as well as continued study and research, creating materials for the children’s use, and consistent hands-on experience. Those who are certified include: Ellen Dolphus, Bobbi Brandenburg, Erika Greene, Kerry Hogan, Cindy Sullivan, Georgia Collier, Brooke Stortz, Mary Morgan Collier and Ralph Stephens. We are not able to offer Catechesis without the weekly support of dedicated Shepherds, including Tiffany Greene, Mary Eberhard, Sara Baldwin, Janet Robertson, Harris Collier, and many parent helpers and additional volunteers. We are also excited that Bobbi has completed her discernment process and is patiently awaiting confirmation of her Formation Leader certification. This means that she will soon be certified to train Level I Catechists. The church is also looking to send an interested person to the brand new Infant/Toddler Catechesis training. Catechesis is the foundational ministry for the children of Emmanuel, and as such, our church invests heavily in the training of the program leaders. We bring a trainer with immense experience and talent to our campus each summer. Participants always rave that the workshops are a blessing for their own spiritual growth and education. The training for the upcoming summer has been scheduled for June 25 – July 1, 2017. You are invited! To learn more about our Training Retreat, contact Georgia at georgiacollier50@yahoo.com.A blessing that continues to be enjoyed to the fullest is the gift of our space. The third floor is completely dedicated to the spiritual development of our children. Six classrooms, or Atria, are designed for our different age groups. The space also gives us the opportunity to enjoy special celebrations together, such as our Liturgy of the Light or our Pentecost celebration. We invite every Emmanuelite to become more familiar and involved with The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program. Our greatest need is more volunteers. A volunteer may serve as an assistant to our lead Catechist, read a book one-on-one with a child, or even help us in preparing our materials. The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is a sensorially rich experience for our children. And it gives both the child and the leaders the opportunity to grow in their love and knowledge of God through the Christian tradition. We would love to have you join our flock!

Vacation Bible SchoolOver seventy children, youth and adults came together for a week of fun, fellowship and love at this year's Vacation Bible School. The theme was 'Cave Quest', and we emphasized that Jesus is our light even in darkness. The kids enjoyed music & movement, played team-building games, nibbled on cavern crunch treats, collected Bible Memory Buddies, created crafts and were reminded to look for God's Love in everything they did. When asked where they saw God's love, children responded with answers such as: 'I saw a pretty flower today', 'My cat's foot has healed', and 'I feel God's love when I get to come to VBS everyday.'The daily activities centered around a focal point of each day, including:'Jesus gives us hope''Jesus gives us courage''Jesus gives us direction''Jesus gives us love''Jesus give us His power'

In addition to the fun, the children worked together to create a marketing strategy to encourage parish members to donate school supplies to students in our community. Our Youth members were invaluable in supporting the work. Teenagers led crews of kids, taught stations, prepared slideshows, and served snacks. Thank you to our team of youth and adult volunteers for creating a warm, loving, safe and happy environment.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back next summer for 'Maker Fun Factory, Created by God & Built for a Purpose'!

The Epiphany Celebration of LightYou are Invited to Join us for our second annual Epiphany Celebration! A child-led commemoration of this special Feast will take place in the Sanctuary prior to an Epiphany Party on Friday, January 6, 2017. ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’!

Young AdultsFr. Chris (associaterector@emmanuelathens.org)

The Young Adults Ministry within Emmanuel is a diverse collection of people in their 20’s and 30’s, some are single others married, some students others professionals, some parent others role models.  This group of individuals faithfully gathers outside of Sunday Worship to share and grow in their faith through conversation and study of articles pulled from an array of scholastic and spiritual sources.  You can always anticipate the group to be asking and engaging in the challenging questions that fill in the gaps of one’s life of faith.  These questions are shared on the second Tuesday of each month from 6:30pm to 8:30pm over a simple meal and cold beverage at the gathering known as Beer, Burgers, and Bibles.  Members from this group also partnered with students from the EYC to participate this past Lent in the Great Pancake Fundraiser.  Perhaps most importantly, this ministry continues to welcome friends of parishioner who are not yet ready to enter the church but nonetheless feel God’s pull in their life.

YouthThe youth programming experienced some incredible strides this year in fulfilling long term goals. Foremost, we solidified our presence in Diocesan Activities as students participated in a week long mission trip to Birmingham, Alabama over the summer.  Prior to this experience students participated in a Diocesan Tubing trip that saw participation from over 125 students.  To begin the school year students gathered in Atlanta at All Saints for a day long retreat exploring the place of service in the life of faith.  Later on in the fall students participated in the Happening 66 Retreat that took place over the course of a weekend at Camp Mikell.  Each of these opportunities allowed students to make new friends across the Diocese while expanding their understanding of the Episcopal Church. Following considerations of a timing change, The Sunday Rise continued each Sunday morning from 9:15am-10:15am.  New to this experience was an opportunity for students on the third Sunday of each month to serve the poor in our community by helping to prepare meals for distribution.  While The Sunday Rise filled Sunday Mornings, for the second consecutive year Sunday Evening Live built momentum in the evening by taking place on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month typically between 5:30pm – 7:30 pm. Students experienced a wide array of actives during this time including kayaking, downtown scavenger hunts, and painting just a few to name.  Jack Byrne faithfully served this year as the Youth Vestry Liaison. There were increasing opportunities for intergenerational activities between youth and adults.  For instance, the 3rd Annual Great Pancake saw students and adults working together to comprise seven teams that created an assortment of delicious pancakes.  The energy, creativity and event was sensational.  Congratulations to Will Herrin and Emma Clarke, for their efforts that led to celebrating this year’s Championship with Ms. Martha and Ms. Pascale from the Day School. For 2017 we are hoping to begin a new incentive focused on prayer that would pair students with adults for the entirety of the students high school experience.  If you feel called to serve and help our youth in the community to grow in their sense of identity and in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus, please consider volunteering.

 

FacilitiesBill Fox, Chair (billdawg81@gmail.com)

As my first year on the vestry comes to an end, I would say it was fairly routine. Outside of the renovation, we had one ac unit above the youth connection replaced, an exhaust fan in the kitchen replaced, completely new water and sewer lines plus a new restroom in the Thrift store. These were all due to age. These types of repairs and expense will continue, but with the renovations and other maintenance done these should minimize over the years. I did build and replace the vanity base in the Day School boy’s room with the help of Jack Byrne.As for the grounds, we did a pre-Easter pine straw spreading which was well attended. I later planned two liriope plantings in the Butler str. parking islands, to reduce future mulching needs. Thanks to Patti Hoyt the only volunteer. Have plans in the works for an Urban Orchard as an Eagle Scout project of Jack Byrne. Have met with the Athens Land Trust and have their commitment to create some raised gardens between them and our Pope Street lot. The Orchard and gardens are examples of the Vestry motto of putting the poor in front of all we do. So I suggest future trees planting be of the fruit bearing variety. I have noticed more than once a random poor person picking up the pecans in the Pope Street lot.

ColumbariumA columbarium is an arrangement of spaces or niches within a wall into which an urn containing cremains is placed for permanent memorial. Emmanuel’s columbarium contains 460 separate niches within its oval shaped wall and courtyard setting. Here, parishioners have the opportunity to purchase a memorial space within the beauty of plantings and sound of dripping water. Those interested may contact Melissa in the church office or Fr. Robert.

Extended MinistryMission and Extended Ministries Committee (MEMC)

Weyman JohnsonWeymanjohnson@icloud.com

Missions and outreach into our communities remained a focus of our parish in 2016. Our efforts together included our Missions and Extended Ministries Committee (MEMC), the Interfaith Hospitality

Network (IHN), and general missions work undertaken by groups and individuals at Emmanuel.

Missions and Extended Ministries CommitteeThe MEMC made numerous grants both to local missions recipients and to global recipients in 2016. Local grant recipients included Our Daily Bread, The Ark, Samaritan Counseling Center, Stonehenge Youth Association, Clarke County Mentor Program, Open Hearts Center, YWCO, YMCA, Jubilee Partners, Cancer Foundation of NE Georgia, Friends of Advantage, Citizen Advocacy, Extra Special People, and Bigger Vision. The MEMC continues its long efforts to fund work in greater Athens benefiting poor and needy persons. MEMC in 2016 comprised Chris Evans, chair, Ben Ehlers, Diane Wahlers, and Ken Drescher. At the close of 2016 Ben Ehlers assumed the chair’s role. Our parish owes a debt of gratitude to Chris Evans for his lengthy and effective service as MEMC chair.

Cornerstone SocietyThe Minister of the Congregation is directed to instruct the people, from time to time, about the duty of Christian parents to make prudent provision for the well-being of their families, and of all persons to make wills, while they are in health, arranging for the disposal of their temporal goods, not neglecting if they are able, to leave bequests for religious and charitable uses. BCP p.445Emmanuel’s Legacy Society known as “CORNERSTONE” honors individuals who invest in future ministry of Emmanuel by providing for the Church in their Wills or Estate Planning.Cornerstone enrollment forms can be found throughout the Church and in Melissa and Karen’s office. If you have already made provision for Emmanuel in your planning, please let us know so that we may enroll you in the Cornerstone Society. These stones are a sure foundation for the future mission of Emmanuel where many lives will be changed. Are you willing?Cornerstone Roll: Gillian and Jeff Ball, Gwen and Robert Bottoms, Ann Cabaniss, Susan Dukes, Dee and Randy Forester, Brian Freese, Ralph Stephens Jr., Jan and Mark Wheeler, Andy and Heidi Simmonds, Hoyt and Sally Bonynge

Cornerstone Committee: Susan Dukes, Ellisa Garrett, Dee ForesterHaitiMEMC established in 2016 a Haiti subcommittee to focus on our continuing efforts to undergird the Limonade St. Etienne School in Haiti. Through discussions with Episcopal leaders in Haiti and in the US, MEMC sought this year to move toward helping leaders in Haiti to develop structures so that they could more effectively support themselves. These included discussions about school officials starting a chicken production business in Limonade. Emmanuel’s support of this initiative is on hold pending the development in Haiti of a more detailed business plan regarding chicken production. We continue to support the school, however. The Haiti subcommittee comprises Sarah Ehlers, Chris Evans, and Ben Ehlers.

Interfaith Hospitality NetworkEmmanuel in 2016 completed its twelfth year of participation in IHN-Athens, hosting homeless families in our church buildings, providing food, shelter, companionship, and transportation to our neighbors. Our 2016 hostings covered the weeks of February 8, April 18, June 27, and September 5. More than 60 Emmanuel parishioners volunteered this year. We again enjoyed a partnership with the Catholic Centre, who provided leadership and more than 20 volunteers. Together we hosted more than ten homeless families this year. During one hosting, ten individuals—parents and children—lived in our youth center for a week. A notable development this year saw the youth of Emmanuel join forces with adult volunteers in setting up and taking down bedding and other equipment for our hosting-- adding enthusiasm, muscle, and cross-generational socialization to our effort. Also notable, parishioner Alex McQueen serves as chair of IHN-Athens and Father Chris Cole serves on its board, evidencing Emmanuel’s leadership in this city-wide mission.Erin Wallace and Weyman Johnson served as IHN coordinators for Emmanuel this year, and Ginny Lynch was coordinator for the Catholic Centre. The coordinators warmly thank our volunteers for their service.

Parish MissionsNumerous parishioners quietly serve throughout the year in providing food and assistance to our poor neighbors. These include our efforts at Bigger Vision, at Athens Area Homeless Shelter, Our Daily Bread at the Homeless Day Services Center, and at Advantage Behavioral Health. Several groups in our parish—including the Brotherhood of St. Andrew—and individual leaders—especially Merry Stovall and Sarah Ehlers—make this happen. But most of the hands on work is done by unsung heroes in our parish, steadily pursuing the gospel’s call. The Missions Commission thanks them all.Thanks go to Father Robert, for his vocal support and leadership of our missions work, both in the pulpit and elsewhere.

Thrift StoreThe store is in its first full year after a two year hiatus. We had a good spring with several profitable months for the first time. Then as the heat of summer hit and an unforeseen water leak issue and a sewer failure, the utility bills erased the previous gains but the fall is stronger than ever. There have been and continue to be too many changes, additions, and modifications to mention that are improving the work flow in the store. Leah and the volunteers are doing a great job. This has been a great experience for me and I recommend everyone to participate in the operation. Thanks for all the donations, sale are gaining traction. The Customers love us so tell your friend.

Parish LifeParish Life Commission includes Newcomers Welcome and Coffee, Lemonade, Receptions and Funerals, Women’s Book Club, and the Ministry Fair. Our goal is to make Emmanuel a more welcoming ministry

and find effective ways to reach out to all.

Crysty Odom and Ellen Cowne, Chairs (cmodom55@gmail.com and ecowne@charter.net)

Faithful Servant AwardEach year the rector calls together a committee made of vestry persons and parishioners to discern if we as a parish can honor and hold up as an example for all of our members the life and ministry of any parishioner who has served us the community faithfully and lovingly over an extended period of time. This recognition takes place at the Annual Parish Meeting where we come to celebrate the many gifts God gives to us as a parish.

FoyersFoyers groups were started back up this fall and there are 3 Foyer groups of 6 people each. Two groups are a mixture of couples and singles and one is comprised of only singles.  We hope this will continue to grow and more parishioners join a Foyers group.

Funeral ReceptionsJody Vrana leads this ministry along with Jeannette Bowers. A set reception style and menu have been established for all funeral receptions so each reception has exactly the same set up. This is working very well. Linens are available at the church. Additional volunteers to this ministry would be welcome! We did not have a Bishops Reception this year but will have one on February 26, 2017 for the newly renovated and restored Sanctuary.

Ministry FairMini Ministry Fairs were added in 2015 and have continued until we began meeting in the Common Room. The "mini Ministry Fairs" is where 2 ministries are present at the Saturday night service and Sunday services several times a year with the goal to have all represented within a 12 month period. These will start back up when we move back into the Church.

Newcomers Welcome and CoffeeThe purpose is to find ways to welcome new members and involve them with Emmanuel by providing a welcoming environment. Katherine Byrne continues to lead the newcomers’ welcome coffee. We reached out via printed invite, email, e-letter, weekly church bulletin, website and Facebook. These events have been a great success and the Narthex is much more inviting than the Common Room. Personal notes were sent to newcomers inviting them. In addition, all Newcomers will be invited as our guests to the Emmanuel Holiday meal.

Office VolunteersMelissa Fulcher (administration@emmanuelathens.org)

Office volunteers are led by our administrator Melissa Fulcher. Our volunteers help by answering the telephone at the Church and by performing tasks for the office staff. We thank everyone who has taken the time to commit to this ministry and hope others will do so. For further information call Melissa at the parish office.

Thanksgiving 2016Lindsey Payne and Dee Forester, Chairs (deliahf@bellsouth.net

Thank you to all who cooked and delivered hams and turkeys, those who carved them, those who made monetary contributions, the early cooking crew on Thanksgiving morning, the Lange and Tiller families who brought breakfast to the early crew, those who assembled meals and delivered meals and the clean-up crew. Thank you to Thornton Brothers for the paper products and the Food Bank of N.E. Georgia for the desserts. This year in partnering with 5 Bar/Restaurant Emmanuel delivered 284+ meals and 5 Restaurant served 650 sit down diners and collected $4,500.00 in donations for Project Safe. Thank you to Dane Henderson, General Manager and Chef Joe and all Emmanuel volunteers and community wide volunteers. Thank you, Melissa for fielding the phone calls. Thank you, Marilyn Appleby, Housing Authority, for providing us a list of those in need of a delivered meal. Lindsey and I had very full and grateful hearts Thanksgiving afternoon and feel very blessed to have such tremendous support for this outreach ministry.

Women's' Book ClubThe Women's Book Club meets on Sunday mornings in the Library during the Sunday School hour. This group is well attended and provides enlightened reading, conversation and fellowship. Please contact Phyllis Niolon for more information if you are interested in being a part of this ministry.

Administration Support Commission

(Finance/Administrative Committee)The Finance/Administrative committee meets on a monthly basis to review the Church’s finances and make recommendations to the Vestry as needed. We represent the finance, cornerstone, stewardship and endowment areas of the Church. The committee also handles various other responsibilities related to the financial health of the Church and assists in developing the annual budget.Our approved annual operating budget for 2016 is $910,813 in revenues and $956,464 in expenses leaving an approximate $45,651 deficit. Through September 30th, revenues are slightly behind to budget and expenses less than budget so we hope to finish the year in a good position. Although approving a deficit budget is not something we tend to encourage, we try to be open and honest in projecting realistic numbers to be better prepared for less than favorable circumstances. We are truly blessed that things have turned out better than planned these last few years. We are currently working on the 2017 budget. Several other things accomplished by the Finance committee include the following:

In addition to reviewing the Church financial numbers each month, we also review anything that

impacts the finances of the Parish including the Phase 2 capital campaign, Day School and Thrift

House. Our review is summarized and then presented to the Vestry so that we can continue to be

good stewards of our resources. We are a tithing Parish which means that our budget is based mainly on pledges made through

our stewardship campaign. Our Parish continues to meet the obligations made and allow us to grow slightly most years. We do have one main fundraiser to supplement the budget this year,

the Sneak Peek, which was scheduled for November 17th.

We reviewed the audit from 2014 and 2015 and the recommendations made by the auditor. We

implemented many of the recommendations and submitted to the Vestry for approval. Our 2015

audit was very favorable We met with representatives of the stewardship, cornerstone and endowment committees to work

towards supporting each other and looking for ways to increase funds for the Church. The cornerstone committee works to promote giving to the Church through bequests and gifts

honoring others. The endowment committee helps to manage the money given to the Church and

investing it to help promote the Church and outreach. The stewardship committee helps to reach out and

communicate to the Parish on the need of tithing to the Church as well as volunteering time and

talent.

The work of this committee, as well as so many others in the Church, is made up of dedicated Christians who volunteer their time and talents to support our Parish and our community. These faithful members include our Church treasurer, Betty Varnadore, Frank Christa, Rob Hoyt, Dee Forrester, Terrie Seward, Weyman Johnson, Ken Dresher and Karen Holland.

Stewardship Rob Hoyt (rhoyt@uga.edu)

The 2017 Emmanuel Stewardship Campaign commenced in early October 2016. Below are the key activities and results as of the November 11 report date, as well as activities that will continue through the end of the campaign.

1. The Stewardship Committee members are Don Walton, Jay Shinn, Katherine Barrow, Dee Forester, and Rob Hoyt (chair) and the campaign theme for 2017 is Celebrating Renewal, Building Mission (the campaign letter and messaging made the connection with “celebrating” the return to our “renewed” church space and emphasized the importance of pledging v. giving to the ability for Emmanuel to “build” mission).

2. We reached our goal of 100% pledging participation by members of the Vestry, the Stewardship Committee, and the Finance Committee, and the total pledge from this group was 10% higher than for 2016.

3. Rob Hoyt spoke to the three weekend services on October 8 and 9 to announce the 2017 Stewardship Campaign.

4. A pledge card and a letter, along with a return envelope, were mailed on October 14 to approximately 420 pledging units at Emmanuel. The mailing should have arrived at most parishioners homes on Monday, October 17, and parishioners were asked to return their completed pledge cards by mail or at an upcoming service. A response by Thanksgiving was requested.

5. At services on October 23, Rob Hoyt (8:30 service) and Bill Fox (10:30 service) reminded parishioners that they should have received their pledge cards and spoke on our request for their pledge of time and talent in support of Emmanuel and mission.

6. Don Walton made stewardship presentations at the 5:30 service on Nov. 5 and at the 8:30 service on Nov. 6. Katherine Barrow made a stewardship presentation at the 10:30 service on Nov. 6.

7. As of December 7, 2016, 140 pledges had been received totaling $548,416.8. Jay Shinn made a stewardship presentations at the 8:30 and 10:30 services on Nov.

13.9. Pledge cards and a reminder will be provided at the Sneak Peek on Nov. 17.10. The Stewardship committee will be continuing to follow up with parishioners to

encourage them to complete and return their pledge cards.

Emmanuel Day SchoolSince our opening in 1982, we have touched the lives of thousands of children and families in Athens. We have grown from two classes to nine classes bustling with preschool activity. With our low child teacher ratio we are able to truly nurture and stimulate each child to develop socially, emotionally, intellectually, physically and spiritually. We follow the Creative Curriculum model which emphasizes learning through play. On Fridays children participate in a music and yoga class. On Wednesday mornings our 3 and 4 year olds participate in chapel led by Father Chris. The support of the church staff and church members allows us to continue our ministry of teaching children in an Episcopal setting. Our director, Amy Wraga, has assembled an outstanding, highly qualified and loving staff. All our teachers have bachelor degrees and many have a Master’s degree. The teachers attend state conferences and take continuing education courses each year. Amy stays informed about the latest developments in early childhood education through several volunteer positions. She is the coordinator of the Athens Area Directors Group and the co-President of the Nancy Travis House Childcare Project. We are very proud that our three’s teacher Jennifer Taylor was named the GPA Distinguished Teacher of the Year for 2015. Our parents participate in school activities through PTO projects, serving on the advisory board or leading a special event in the classroom. Parents visit the classroom to read, lead an art project, or teach the class about their occupations or cultural backgrounds. Parents serve on the advisory board which meets several times per year to assist with major projects and policy improvements. We have an active PTO which raises money for scholarships and teacher appreciation events. Our PTO coordinates fundraisers, hosts teacher luncheons, and helps with community projects. Their assistance makes our fall and spring family nights a special evening of community and fun. Parents also provide us with many recycled items that the children turn in to art projects. These opportunities allow parents to be part of our school community.

Thanks to all who contribute to this ministry for God’s precious children. We are grateful to be entering our 34th year of providing excellence in early childhood education.Amy Wraga, director (dayschool@emmanuelathens.org)

Natural Spirituality Emmanuel’s Natural Spirituality program began in 1991 and provides a context for exploring inner work by working with dreams and synchronicity. While this is relatively new for our time, it is not new for Christianity. People of the old and new testaments were led and enriched by their dreams, as we are today. The program is based on Jungian concepts of the unconscious in a Christian framework and explores the images and metaphors that come to us in our dreams. The Natural Spirituality Program is made up of several parts: Dream Groups: Emmanuel currently offers two dream groups: one on Sunday after the 10:30 service from 12:00-2:00 (light lunch served), and Tuesday from 10:00-12:00. Another group meets at St. Gregory the Great on Wednesday mornings from 10:00-12:00. Journey Group members help each other gain insight into their individual lives by unfolding the symbolic language of their dreams. The Journey Groups provide a rich experience of Christian community as their members undergo gradual transformation and healing and grow into an ever-deepening relationship to God. Seminar: This past spring the seminar had 19 register and 16 who attended one or more of the three sessions. The purpose of the seminar is to introduce dream work and give some of the historical background of dreams and discuss some of the primary Jungian concepts and terminology. While the seminar is not required to attend dream group, it is a good introduction and helps a newcomer feel comfortable with territory that may feel unfamiliar. Weekend Workshop: A Natural Spirituality Regional Gathering convenes each year over the second weekend in February.  The conference takes place at Mikell Conference Center in Toccoa, GA and will be held February 10-12, 2017. A Registration Form can be downloaded from this website before each conference and are also available in the church vestibule .The Gathering contains a one-day conference embedded in the weekend event (Feb. 11, 2017).  Its purpose is to offer the gifts and tools for the inner journey to those who may not have the time or the funds to attend a longer conference.  Our goal is to keep the conference affordable.  To that end keynote speakers offer their services at no charge, and the workshops are led from within our regional area. The Rose In The World: Many of you are familiar with The Rose, a publication that began at Emmanuel, and enjoyed circulation. It continues in its new clothing: The Rose In The World and is edited by Sarah Norton. Check out its website: www.roseintheworld.org. We are excited to announce that we now have a website for our conference that has been developed by Sarah Norton. You can download a registration form and see other information about the conference. Check it out at naturalspiritualityregionalgathering.com. For questions and more information call Heidi Simmonds H 706-353-3422 or C 706-254-4848.

ALL SAINTS TERRACE STONE

The All Saints Terrace is located on the Pope Street side of Emmanuel Episcopal Church.

The engraved stones outline the terrace and walkway. The stone is 33” x 12” and is engraved with only the last name in all capital letters.

The cost of an All Saints Terrace Stone is $1,000.00.

If you would like an All Saints Terrace Stone please fill out below, attach your $1,000.00 check made payable to Emmanuel Church and bring or send to the office.

___________________________________________________________________________Please print Last Name to be engraved on All Saints Terrace Stone

Contact Information:

Name________________________________________________________

Phone_________________________________

Address_______________________________________________________

Email Address_________________________________________________

EMMANUEL EPISCOPAL CHURCHPAVER DEDICATION PROGRAM

These pavers will be installed in the new plaza outside the main entrance to the Formation Building. Each granite paver will measure 12 inches by 24 inches and will cost $500.00. Each paver can accommodate two lines of inscription (al caps) with a maximum of 20 characters per line, including spaces and punctuation. Please write the text for each line below.

1st line of paver inscription (chose one):___In memory of___In honor of___In thanksgiving for

2nd line of paver inscription (20 characters max):____________________________________________________________

We would be happy to send a letter of acknowledgment to the honoree or the family of the person being remembered. Please tell us where to send the

letter.Make your check out to Emmanuel Church and mail it to

Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 498 Prince AvenueAthens, Georgia 30601

Thank you for helping pave the way for Emmanuel’s vital programs of ministry, service, education and outreach.

EMMANUEL EPISCOPAL CHURCHPAVER DEDICATION PROGRAM