PASTOR’S ANNUAL REPORT - St. Peter Lutheran …€™s Annual Report ... Youth Committee Report...

_ _ _ INDEX _ _ _ Page Church Council Members & Staff ................................................................... 2 Pastor’s Annual Report ............................................................................... 3-5 Membership Report ....................................................................................... 6 Nominating Committee Report ....................................................................... 6 President’s Message...................................................................................... 7 St. Peter Mission Endowment Fund ............................................................... 7 Vice President Report .................................................................................... 8 Buildings & Grounds Committee Report ........................................................ 9 Evangelism Committee Report ................................................................. 9-10 Finance Committee Report ..................................................................... 10-11 Parish Education Committee Report ....................................................... 11-12 Stewardship Committee Report .............................................................. 12-13 Worship Committee Report ..................................................................... 13-14 Youth Committee Report ............................................................................. 14 WELCA Annual Report ........................................................................... 14-16 Social Action Committee Report .................................................................. 16 Memorial Committee & Financial Reports ............................................... 17-19 Memorial List Ideas Treasurer’s Report .................................................................................. 20-24 “Raise the Roof” Financial Report ....................................................... 24 Letter from Sugar Creek Director ................................................................. 25 Letter from Bishop Froiland ......................................................................... 26 Membership Directory ............................................................................. 27-40

2

_ _ _ ANNUAL REPORT _ _ _ JANUARY 26,2014 CHURCH COUNCIL: President………………………………………… Aaron Peterson (2012- 2015) Vice President ..................................................... Rich Neisius (2014-2017) Secretary ............................................................... Becky Trefz (2009-2015) Treasurer .............................................................. .Phil Nelson (2013-2016) Buildings & Grounds ................................ David Cauffman, Jr. (2013-2016) Evangelism………………………………………. Tammy Nelson (2013-2016) Finance ............................................................ Renee Friesen (2014- 2017) Parish Education ........................................ Brandee Lendosky (2011-2017) Social Action .................................................... .Clara Peterson (2012-2015) Stewardship………………………………..Bethany Baumgartner (2012-2015) Worship & Music ........................................... Ingeborg Froiland (2013-2017) Youth ..................................................................... . Tony Bunn (2009-2015) A special thank-you to Bill Wood and Nancy Vogel for their dedication during their terms of service on the Church Council. STAFF:

Charles W. Miller, Pastor

Merry Cooley, Parish Office Manager Steve Cooley, Custodian Musical Leadership: Pat Larson, Carol Stolte, Lyssa Stolte

3

PASTOR’S ANNUAL REPORT

Grace to you and peace from God, our Father and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

Another year has come and gone. We've been in your midst for 18 years. We are now embarking on year 19 if that be God’s good and gracious will. This year started out with an ice storm at annual meeting. While the weather was icy that day, we were a congregation alive with the Spirit! We approved the work of the Foundation which will be for years to come.an important part of the life and mission of our congregation. We considered our communion participation policy. I am particularly proud of the Church Council's patience wisdom and leadership as we discerned how best to implement the 18 year old approved practice and policy of the ELCA. The practice and policy is that all baptized are welcome to partake of the Lord's Supper. The council chose to frame the issue as one of respecting the decision of parents in regard to their children. That means that a family may wait until after confirmation or at fifth grade or from baptism. It also steered clear of the Scylla and Charybdis of using the criteria of who understands and who does not understand as the way to determine eligibility to receive God’s pure free and unmerited grace. One footnote to the annual meeting is that we allowed “absentee” ballots which were in direct conflict with our constitution. However as we heard this Advent in the story of how Jesus birth happened from Matthew’s Gospels where Joseph determines to the righteous thing and put Mary away quietly but ended up following the message from an angel in his dream not to do the good thing but rather to do the better thing of following God’s will.: ' We followed Joseph to refrain from acting in accordance with the constitution but rather as moved prayerfully by God’s spirit and Grace! This year was a difficult one in which our Bishop Bruce Burnside was arrested for driving drunk and vehicular homicide. He still is awaiting trial. In September we elected Pastor Mary Froiland as our next bishop. Attending the election from our congregation was Brenda Bunn, Tammy Nelson and myself. This year we were not as active in the teaching and learning through the Unbinding project. We however were awesome and inspirational as we lived what we had learned! We will be picking up the last book Study, Unbinding our Soul”, beginning this year under the leadership of Tammy Nelson.

In February we met as a congregation to look at our outreach possibilities and opportunities. Among the things we talked of that day and followed through on was a pool party for the community, continued development on our web and Facebook sites, Marketplace Fennimore, painting of the fellowship hall and North entry, Random act kindness cards which were

4

attached to a local business gift, card and hid somewhere in the community, were some of the things we accomplished. The most inspiring things that happened in our parish were the outreach and love to people caught in the turmoil of tragedy. At the time of death we always roll up our sleeves "and get 'er done". But this year we came together in the face of true tragedy with our faith unfurled! Our Christ care continues. I know that God will do powerful things touched most deeply by tragedy because that is who God is and that is what faith unfurled does! One last matter that I would like weigh in on is capital improvements to our facilities. These projects are coordinated by the Building and Grounds chair and the church council. We have sort of forgotten that protocol in recent memory. At the present time we have the "God's house" initiative developed by then chair of Building and Grounds, George Gunderson, to renovate our facilities. As a congregation we voted to undertake that project. We still have $180,000.00 left to pay. We also have an ongoing commitment to keep up the parsonage. Much has been done to keep that house well-kept yet there always parsonage projects that need attention. Currently the next project discussed in Church Council will be to reside the parsonage. Besides these there has also been conversation about including other renovation and upkeep to the mix. Some want to repair the storm over the Gethsemane window. Others suggest we improve the entrance to the south on 11th Street. I have also heard talk of a complete renovation of the "blue" room, janitor room and adding a handicap accessible rest room on the main level. There is also talk of renovating the kitchen. It is good to have people interested in the ministry of our congregation to envision ways our facilities may better serve to feed the hungry clothe the naked, befriend those who mourn, tell the good news of God’s free grace. It also makes me think of how we commit ourselves to the time talents and money needed for our mission. We also then need to consider our whole budget including salaries and benevolence. That is why we filter these capital improvement projects through the building and grounds and church council so that as we make plans to go forward as a congregation we look at the big picture. That is why I still find George's work nearly 20 years ago as a excellent model. Do any of you remember George’s speech that annual meeting? It was a dandy! We continue to have a dedicated and active church council that oversee our life and mission. In my tenure here we have always had dedicated and wise leadership on the church council. What a blessing. This past year was no different. This council has also developed an excellent chemistry. Thank you to and God's richest blessings to Bill Wood and Nancy Vogel who complete their service on the church council! Thank you!

A special thank you to Ingeborg Froiland for stepping up to serve as interim worship chair as appointed by the council. She is up for election this year I want to thank the staff for their level of dedication and friendship this past year. What else can you say about Merry Brechler-Cooley, our parish office manager? She is a tremendous asset but more than that she is a beautiful person with a soulful disposition. I like to tease

5

her that she is the boss. While it is true she does it in such a way that I am always grateful to her for guiding me. I deeply appreciate her insights, wit and wisdom! Thank you Merry!

That goes ditto for Steve Cooley, our custodian. Steve is a jack of all trades and master of most. We have been together here at St. Peter since I came. He has a mystic spirit and a mechanical aptitude. I have come to calling him Magic because he seems to walk near computers and printers and sound system and ... suddenly they work! In fact as I type this it is because he resurrected my office computer one more time! I continue to be inspired by his loving dedication that shines through all he does. Thank you Steve for all you do! I want to thank all who volunteer their time by serving on committees or leading task forces or doing the many, many things that need to be done in the life of our congregation. Thanks to those who help teach the faith through Vacation Bible School and Sunday School! Thank you to all those who do participate in Sunday School. Thank you to all who assist in worship: Lectors and greeters and ushers and communion assistants and directors and choirs and accompanists and guitarists and soloists and organists. Thank you to this year's nominating for their work on finding good candidates for the council and other positions that needed to be filled! They completed their task with dispatch! Kudos! I continue give thanks for the number of young families that have become so integral to our congregational life. They give this old dog a new bounce in my step. I thank God as I thank you! This January begins my 19th year in your midst. I pray God will continue to challenge us and mark us with the cross as well as make us alive in the Spirit and image of our Lord and Savior Jesus. I want to say Thank you to you all for the many ways your stories of faith have inspired me. And as Sophie Moen, my patron saint, put it, "Most of all I give thanks for Jesus our Lord and Savior, our dearest friend, our blessed brother!" I look forward to what our Lord has in store for us this year. This past year I performed the following pastoral acts: Baptisms 11 Confirmations 2 Weddings 10 Funerals 13

6

MEMBERSHIP REPORT 2013 Submitted by Merry Cooley, Office Manager

Baptisms: 11 (10 youth, 1 adult) Funerals: 13 (-9 Baptized Members, -8 Confirmed Members) Marriages: 4 Members Confirmation: 3 (+3 Confirmed Members) New Members joining congregation: 10 (+10 Baptized Members, + 10 Confirmed Member) Members transferred out of congregation: 10 (-10 Baptized Members, -10 Confirmed Members) Beginning – January 1, 2013 Baptized Members: 842 Confirmed Members: 629 Baptized Members: 837 Confirmed Members: 629

+21 +13 858 642 - 19 -18 839 624 Ending – December 31, 2013 Baptized Members: 839 Confirmed Members: 624

NOMINATING COMMITTEE REPORT

Ballot for 2014 Vice President- Richard Neisius Finance- Renee Friesen Parish Education - Brandee Lendosky Worship/Music - Ingeborg Froiland Nominations committee for 2014: Eric Nelson Jessica Peterson Sara Peterson Synod Assembly Delegates: Byron & Jackie Reeves

7

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Respectfully submitted by Bill Wood, President

As I prepare the final annual report as President of St. Peter church council, it is 25 below zero and I am thinking moving south. I can hear the furnaces and boilers running and the fuel bills ku-chinking. The Packers were just got beat by the 49rs again. My dog is 14 and going blind. My business is slow due to weather. My health insurance premiums are up. All kinds of reasons to be depressed. However, our faith and love continue to give us reasons for being in a good mood, or at least not depressed. Our faith and love has always made things better…..always. My compassion for faith and St. Peter go hand in hand. I would not have St. Peter if not for my faith and I would not have faith if not for St. Peter. Thank you Pastor Chuck, Merry, Steve and all council and committee people. Thank you all members of the congregation and you’re friends and families for allowing me to “keep the faith”. I believe that 2013 was a good year for our church in many ways. We done some evangelism, serviced debt, and done some benevolence. We will continue to work in these areas, as well as grow and nurture our individual faith journeys. As usual, we have lost some loved ones, but have gained some as well. Let us focus on the positive side of things at all times to avoid negative feelings and make sure we “keep the faith”. It has been a pleasure to serve and I ain’t done yet. Bless You All……Sincerely, Bill Wood.

St. Peter Mission Endowment Fund Respectfully submitted by Bill Wood

I am pleased to report that our St. Peter Mission Endowment Fund has performed quite well as part of the pooled Fund A of the ELCA. Briefly, we started the fund with low performing memorial funds of $32,000 back in late 2011. Our minimum required amount $25,000 which our committee, consisting of myself, Louis Ketterer, Phil Nelson, Patti Wells, and Byron Reeves agreed would be our endowed amount. At the end of 3 quarter of 2013 our endowment fund was just under $40,000. With this is in mind, the committee agreed to request a withdrawal of $2000 (the minimum) and put directly toward our benevolence budget. We did this before the end of the year. We are proud to help with benevolence and keep some of the burden off the regular church budget. Respectfully submitted, Bill Wood. Chair of St. Peter MEF.

8

VICE PRESIDENT REPORT Respectfully submitted by Aaron Peterson

Happy New Year and God's blessings! As I sit here at my desk and reflect on what was

2013, I am overcome by a whirlwind of emotions. For myself and my family 2013, as most

years, was filled with highs and lows. Prayers were answered and in some cases, our worst

fears were realized. I know this though, because of everything, good and bad, we are

stronger individuals but more importantly, we are a stronger family.

The same could be said for St. Peter. I think of all the great things that we, as a

congregation, were able to accomplish last year. A short list of accomplishments could

include St. Peter's Marketplace event, the pool party, successful sessions of Unbinding and

Bible study, and St. Peter's cookbook. I also think of the hard times we went through

together. The conflicts, the financial struggles of keeping the ship upright and on our plotted

course, and the loss of loved ones to name a few. When you take all the good and bad that

we, as a whole, went through together I know we are a stronger force. When the smoke

cleared and the dust settled on January 1st, our church was still standing with the doors

wide open full of strong and loving people ready for the joys and challenges that 2014 will

inevitably throw our way!

As my second year of serving you on Church Council comes to an end, I am proud of our

accomplishments and excited for what the future holds. As I look forward to 2014, there will

be new challenges for me as I continue to serve our beloved church. Challenges that I not

only welcome, but am anxious to tackle. One of these challenges is a project that I have

long envisioned and believe that I am ready to roll out in 2014. I am hesitant to release

details at this point as my vision is still in its infancy but here is why I bring it up. I am

looking for a person who feels they are being called to do more. An individual who not only

has some ample time to commit to this project as it will be a rather large undertaking, but

also an individual with strong organizational skills. I encourage you to come speak with me

or give me a call if you're looking for your first challenge of 2014.

As I close, I just want to say Thank You! Thank you all for being who you are. Thank you

for trusting in me and allowing me to serve you and our Lord. Thank you for your

contributions whether it be time, talents, or financial. Most importantly, thank you for being

my family.

God's Love, Aaron

9

BUILDING AND GROUND COMMITTEE REPORT David Cauffman, Jr.

It was a busy year with Building and Grounds. First of all the balcony storage area received new shelving, then the fellowship hall was painted by a group of eager individuals and I might add it looks great! The east end of the sanctuary wall was painted the same contrast color as in the fellowship hall and new lighting added to the balcony. Then the trees and shrubs around the church received a trimming in the fall. Thank you to all who helped this year with these various projects around the church. Thank you! We wish to express our gratitude to Steve Cooley, our custodian who continually helps behind the scenes. Know that I will continue to work on the master plan for renovation and improving of this facility. God’s richest blessings to you!

EVANGELISM COMMITTEE REPORT Respectfully submitted Tammy Nelson , Chair

Where has the year gone? Sounds so cliché, but it is true. I took over the Evangelism Chair from Aaron Peterson in 2013. It has been quite an experience. One I am truly thankful for. In January 2013 we began the first 4 weeks of Unbinding Your Soul. It was offered to individuals that would lead it in the fall when offered to the whole congregation. It, once again, was a great opportunity to delve deeper into our faith while creating bonds with fellow Christians. On February 9th, we held our Raise the Roof and Open the Doors Grand Opening at St Peter. We may not have had the numbers we had hoped for, but the event was a success. The day was spent conversing, eating, planning and receiving door prizes. Many wonderful ideas came to fruition that would not only benefit our church, but our community. The Focus Group comprised of Tammy Nelson, Aaron Peterson, Eric Nelson, Sally Rosemeyer, Pauline Boebel, Pattie Wells, and Sandy Stender; continued to meet during the winter and spring. The group challenged the Confirmands in May to spread God’s light into the surrounding community. I am sure you are wondering how the kids were supposed to do this. The Focus Group supplied St Peter business cards and gift cards for the kids. The Confirmands were then to go around town and leave these where other people would find them. On the back of the business cards was a note that said, “From your friends at St Peter.” It was a way to brighten someone’s day. The hope was through these small acts of kindness individuals would feel God’s love and go about their day with Jesus alongside them. Sandy Stender continues to reach out to others by writing. She has blessed so many in our congregation through cards or letters. It is such a wonderful way to brighten someone’s day. We cannot thank her enough for sharing God’s love.

10

In April we finished the last 4 weeks of Unbinding Your Soul. In the fall it was offered to the whole congregation. Unfortunately, we did not have enough interest so it was postponed until January 2014. In July there were a few outreach events that were held as part of The Year of Invitation. On July 21st there was a pool party at Fennimore Pool. Despite the rain, it was a great success. So much fun was had by all. On July 27th St Peter Market Place was held. It was quite chilly but that did not stop the kids and some adults from participating in the dunk tank. Many people in the community either had a booth set up or stopped by. There was a church service that followed. It was a wonderful day filled with many blessings. In August, as our momentum was building, our congregation suffered a significant loss. One that tested the bonds that we had been building during our Unbinding experience. So many individuals were left reeling and at a loss of what to do. I believe God’s love was never seen so brightly as it was then in our community. People from all walks of life and denominations evangelized. They reached out to comfort a family, a friend, a loved one and in doing so brought Christ into the heart of the situation. There were other events throughout the year that have tested our faith. Many of us have lost loved ones, experienced health issues, etc. During those times our family in Christ stepped forward with open arms offering comfort. We may not be in the same place that we were when our experiment with the Unbinding series began, but I feel we are on our way to a better place. Through these times that we were brought to our knees, God has truly shown us His grace and will strengthen our bonds in a way that only He can. I came across a saying “Live in such a way that those who know you, but don’t know God, will come to know God because they know you.” As being the Evangelism chair, I have had the great honor of experiencing God in so many different ways, in different people in our congregation and community. We all evangelize and do not even realize it. My goal for 2014 is to live by that saying. And I challenge you to do the same. Thank you for the amazing experience and I look forward to 2014. God Bless, Tammy Nelson

FINANCE COMMITTEE REPORT Respectfully submitted by Nancy Vogel, Chairman

First of all, I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, the Congregation, for your loyal support over the last five years while I have had the privilege to serve as your Finance Committee Chair. It is you who keep St. Peter going and we need the support of each and every one of you to accomplish this. Next, I would like to thank Mary Bass for all of her dedicated help. She has allowed Dean and I to spend our summers at the lake in Eagle River. Also thanks to all the others that assist us in any way and you know who you are.

11

This is my last opportunity to encourage members to enroll in the Simply Giving program and encourage all of you to consider joining this program. This is a wonderful way to make sure your financial support to St. Peter goes on even when you are unable to attend church. Because as you already know, whether we are here or not, the expenses of the church always are. It is really a simple procedure to sign up. Your money is automatically taken out of your bank account and deposited directly into our church's account. If this is of any interest to you at all, please contact the church office and Merry will be happy to get you set up. You set the time or times a month you want this to happen. With us being gone so much this has been a wonderful way to get our funds to St. Peter in a timely manner. Every year it is the responsibility of the Finance Committee to prepare a new budget for the up-coming year. Once again we have done this and presented it to the Church Council at the December meeting. We have made very few changes to the budget this year thanks to the committees doing such a wonderful job of working within their individual budgets. This budget was approved by the council and is now submitted to you, the congregation, for your approval. Once again, my sincere thanks to all of you for your support as well as to all of the individuals who helped us on the committee. We sincerely appreciate it. I take this opportunity to wish the new council member well and ask for your continued support.

PARISH EDUCATION COMMITTEE REPORT Respectfully submitted by Brandee Lendosky

Early in 2013 we began wrapping up Sunday School working with Group’s “Living Inside Out” curriculum and ended the Sunday School year with a fantastic church service run completely by the children. This year the children brought over 300 food items for the food pantry and they raised over $750 that went to the God’s Global Barnyard project! Summer brought on another fantastic Vacation Bible School theme called “Kingdom Rock” which hosted between 85-90 kids. It would not have been the huge success it was if it weren’t for the over 40 volunteers of all ages who helped make it run so smoothly. They make it a joy to come every morning and watch the church transform into something new. Once again the kids got to learn how to believe and know God through lots of hands on activities, stories, reenactments and games. They learned all kinds of fun new songs, made strong relationships and laughed a lot! To celebrate the end of the week we had an ice cream social run with the help of the Luther League families. This is always such a glorious, evangelical week for us as we welcome so many children from the community and show them the excitement of God’s love, no matter where they are on their own journey. Many of our kids spent time this summer as campers at Sugar Creek Bible Camp in Ferryville. There was also a day spent there in July for kids not quite old enough to go overnight. Thank you to anyone who drove as we had a very large group of kids who went. The experiences at Sugar Creek included horseback riding, prayer time, arts and crafts, swimming and social time. I think all the kids are looking forward to their chance to be campers sometime soon at Sugar Creek.

12

At the beginning of fall Sunday School began with Rally Day, and we had a lot of fun again with games, songs, socializing and more. We were introduced to a new curriculum, “Heaven is for Real”. With the truth of loss in this world, it was interesting and fun to teach the children that there is eternal life after our earthly lives are done. They did very well with the lessons. Now we are on to Group’s “Buzz” program, which looks to be the most entertaining curriculum to date! If you haven’t joined us for Sunday School yet, the door is open! The Christmas Program this year was developed by Sara Peterson and Jenna Govier called “Follow That Star”. It was a retelling of the nativity with some speakers and of course the classic Christmas Carols we all know and love. Please thank these ladies if you see them, it was an awesome time to watch it all come together and the children did a fabulous job. I want to thank the teachers who are so incredibly dedicated to the children of this congregation, and are just the nicest, most wonderful group of people I’ve met. I am truly touched for their time, energy, strength, love and compassion toward the children. Thank you especially to Brenda Bunn for taking over the entire organization of Sunday School while I focused on family. With everything that has happened this year, we have had one constant…God is glorious! He knows how to hold our hearts and hands even when we aren’t sure He does. It is the congregation, and the children who help us most remember the beauty of this life, and of the promise of an amazing eternal life yet to come. I look forward to the coming year with a joyful, thankful heart.

STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT Respectfully submitted by Bethany Baumgartner, Chairperson

Stewardship has lots of different things we are responsible for in the life of the congregation. What follows is a listing and narrative of what we do. Building Fund Each year we seek to encourage people to continue to support our ongoing commitment to pay for our renovation project. The stain-glass windows posted in the fellowship hall serve as a reminder to continue or increase your commitment. Please help color in the empty spaces. I want to personally thank all who continue to support this "Raise the Roof" project! St. Peter Endowment Fund Bill Wood has been working tirelessly to make this a reality in our congregation. Thank you Bill for all your hard work! We can receive gifts to this fund. The interest from this fund will be used according to the Endowment fund by law to enhance our mission and ministry. Seminarian Assistance Fund This fund has been administered by St. Peter for many years. It was started by Doug Daechsel as a way of supporting seminary students from our synod. Each year the appeal goes out in November to congregations, WELCA units in congregations and foundations in our synod as well as to many individual members, including all from our congregation. Every year thousands of dollars are distributed to thankful seminarians of our synod! Thank you Doug and your team for your vision, dedication and determination in this endeavor!

13

Time and Talents Remember that money is not the only way to give to your church. Please help out and fill in the worship duties for each month. If you are unsure of what a position does, please feel free to ask Merry Cooley or Pastor Miller and they will fill you in! Thrivent Choice Dollars Thrivent asks customers who have large enough dollar investments with them to designate where these dollars will go. Each person has a different amount to designate depending on the amount of their investments. They can choose to give it to a seminary or a Bible Camp or any number of places including to their own congregations. Thrivent then deposits the money with the proper institution. This year we were down on our dollars and wish to remind members to prayfully consider seeing if they have dollars to designate.

WORSHIP COMMITTEE REPORT Respectfully submitted by Ingeborg Froiland

I thanked God for his guidance as I took over the chair of Worship & Music in March of 2013. The Worship and Music committee consisting of Lisa Evans, Rhonda Arndt, Linda Nelson, Merry Cooley & Pastor Miller have all been great helpers in our planning and achievements for the past year. Those who assist in so many ways, our organists, choir members, communion assistants, lectors, ushers and greeters, communion prep and cleanup and baking of communion bread also deserve to be thanked. They are appreciated so much especially when they step in at the last minute. I appreciate so much all who donated flowers throughout the year, whether it is for single Sunday services or on our church festival days. Thank you for your contributions of Easter Lilies, Pentecostal Geraniums, and Christmas Poinsettias. They make our church so beautiful at these seasons. Also to any who have helped with decorating throughout the year, I thank you sincerely. We have received several gifts this year for which we are so thankful for. Cindy and Terry Arndt donated a number of smaller angels that belonged to their daughter Vicki. Some of them have appeared in various places in the church during various time of the year. They are a good reminder of Vicki and her hugs and huge smiles. It reminds us that the little things can bring happiness too! During the Christmas and Epiphany season, an angel with her hands outstretched and holding a dove that is ready to fly, has been standing in the balcony, between the organ speakers, waiting to release the dove as a symbol of letting Gods message of forgiveness and love into our hearts and souls each week. This angel was donated by Phil and Linda Nelson in memory of her parents, Leonard and Wilma Kreul. She is a loving addition to our Christmas Season décor. Our altar was graced this Christmas season with three beautiful painted panels of the Nativity that were donated by Al and Jeanne Frey in memory of their son Kerry (Kip). They were

14

painted by Jeanne over a five year period, while in between health issues. As you studied the pictures, you thought of God’s gift to us through the Baby Jesus and how he showed us the way through prayer. It brings both the poor and the rich from the darkness of the world to the light of God, and as we looked upward towards our Gethsemane window, we see the power of prayer over the darkest of times, just as Jesus did at Gethsemane before his crucifixion. We thank Terry and Cindy, Philip and Linda, Al and Jeanne for these gifts of the heart and for remembering St. Peter with them. Please continue to pray for our family at St. Peter and also for Pastor Chuck, Merry and Steve as they bless us with their work and kindnesses. Our church is blessed by their presence and assistance. Yours in God’s Service, Ingeborg

YOUTH COMMITTEE REPORT Respectfully submitted by Tony Bunn, Youth Coordinator

As I complete another year as chair for the youth committee, I would say it has been a truly enjoyable adventure. The youth group has been periodically meeting where there have been one word topics chosen by a youth for discussion and have started the video series “Not a Fan”. Some of the fun activities for this past year were the Sugar Creek retreat and bowling. The youth have continued to serve coffee hour during the school year. The youth has also maintained most of the fund raising events they have had in the past (examples: 50/50 raffle, yard raking, Ash Wednesday supper and Easter breakfast). We look forward to an exciting year in 2014 which will many of the same activities as in the past. Thank you for all the congregational help in the past and into the future.

WELCA COMMITTEE REPORT Respectfully submitted by Martha Hestad, President

I would like to thank the WELCA Executive Board who worked with me this past year. These women continue to be so helpful and supportive in making sure all the projects get completed. The 2013 Executive Board were: Vice President – Jessica Peterson, Secretary – Sharon Beer, Treasurer – Bonnie Gilbertson, Chair of Justice – Jan Fitzsimons & Vice Chair Karen Campbell; Chair of Stewardship – Loretta Kephart & Vice Chair Jane Soman; Chair of Discipleship – Lisa Riley & Vice Chair Gail Friesen so a special thanks goes to these very dedicated women. A special thank you to Jane Soman and Ingeborg Froiland for coordinating the funeral lunches as well as the women and men who help out by bringing food and help with the preparing and serving the meal and cleaning up the kitchen. WELCA also sponsors the Good Samaritan Center birthday party in February, WELCA also helps prepare, serve and organize along with the Kiwanis Club the Senior Recognition Banquet in May. Again this year a representative of the WELCA Executive Board participated as a non-voting member of the church council. Our participation has continued to strengthen communication

15

between all the entities of the church. On a personal note I feel this has been helpful for all participants.

2013 has been a very busy year for WELCA. In the spring we purchased a new refrigerator. Thanks to Dave Cauffman, Rich Neisius and Pastor Chuck for helping to get it in the building and set up. Because of the size of the refrigerator we had to move it to a different spot in the kitchen, which turned out to be a more convenient spot. It was brought to the attention of the WELCA Board that St. Peter had never put together a cookbook. After many weeks, days and hours of work we were very proud to have the cookbook available for purchase before Christmas. We still have copies of Treasured Recipes available. Thank to the many members of the St. Peter Family who contributed all these great recipes. A special thanks to Lisa Riley, Sharon Beer, Karen Campbell, Christy Cooley, Bonnie Gilbertson and Jane Soman who helped so much in completing this project. Proceeds from cookbook sales will be added to the kitchen- remodeling fund. In the fall of the year WELCA does a major fundraiser, which is the quilt raffle and silent auction. In December we have a Christmas candy/cookie sale. These funds are used to support various mission and community projects. Attached to this report is a list of our Mission Projects. The Sew & Sews meet the 1st and 3rd Tuesday’s mornings, 8:30-12:00 again this as a great opportunity for fellowship. This year WELCA shipped 147 quilts for Lutheran World Relief. This congregation also shipped 72 School Kits, 10 Fabric Kits, 30 Baby Care Kits and 30 Personal Care Kits. The Sew & Sews also makes quilts for the senior students from the congregation. Additional quilts are given to local community organizations. WELCA continues to have two circles that meet throughout the year for Bible Study and fellowship. Love Circle meet the 2nd Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. from September to May. Chocolate Boutique meets six times per year. God’s blessings to you and yours for 2014 The money that WELCA raises during the year is distributed at our December Executive Board meeting to a number of causes. Below is the list of organization that we were able to donate too:

2013

MARSDEN PARK $ 50.00

GRANT CO HOSPICE $ 75.00

LWR PROJECT COMFORT $ 100.00

FAMILY ADVOCATES PLATTEVILLE $ 100.00

OPERATION BOOTSTRAP $ 25.00

LUTHERN MINISTRY PLATTEVILLE $ 75.00

SUGAR CREEK BIBLE CAMP $ 150.00

BREAD FOR THE WORLD $ 50.00

16

LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICE $ 150.00

SEMINARIAN ASSISTANCE FUND $ 100.00

PROJECT SELF HELP $ 50.00

GLOBAL HEALTH $ 25.00

LUTHERAN ASSOCIATION OF MISSIONARIES & PILOTS ( LAMP) $ 50.00

TRANSITIONAL HOUSING PORCHLIGHT $ 100.00

OAKS INDIAN CENTER $ 50.00

DEPOT FOOD PANTRY $ 200.00

FENNIMORE MINISTORIAL FUND (HELPING HAND ) $ 75.00

GRANT CO SALVATION ARMY $ 75.00

FENNIMORE BLOODMOBILE KITCHEN $ 100.00

INHEALTH WELLNESS FREE CLINIC $ 200.00

FENNIMORE COMMUNITY SCHOOLS $ 100.00

WELCA KATIES FUND $ 50.00

WELCA NAVAJO EVAN LUTHERAN $ 50.00

GOOD SAMARITAN (VAN) $ 200.00

FENNIMORE POST PROM $ 100.00

FEED MY STARVING CHILDREN

TOTAL $ 2,300.00

Thank you to everyone in our congregation who supports WELCA by donating food, money, and time to make the year one of sharing and caring. God Bless you all.

SOCIAL ACTION COMMITTEE REPORT

Respectfully submitted by Clara Peterson, Chairperson

Thank You to all who have given to the food donations. It is greatly used by those who are in need. During Lent we had a “Fill Our Ham” fund drive and collected over $600.00. Fennimore Food Depot distributed this through vouchers. The Jesse tree was very successful and thanks go out to Marilyn Ketterer, Ingeborg and Merry for taking items down to Social Services. They took 7 bags of items! With monies that were left over from the Ham Fund we were able to help two needy families at Christmas time. We thank Sara & Aaron Peterson for handling this project. We continue to collect money for World Hunger through Keith’s Quarters and ELCA World Hunger envelopes.

17

MEMORIAL COMMITTEE REPORT

Respectfully submitted by Pastor Chuck Miller

A special thank you to everyone who has remembered loved ones with a memorial or honorary gift to

our congregation this year. Your gifts are greatly appreciated.

Special thanks to Merry Cooley who keeps track of memorials income and disbursement as well as

sending thank you notes out!

A memorial wish list does exist, and if anyone would like a copy, please contact the church office or

talk with Pastor Chuck. We are also always open to suggestions for items to include on this list. Gifts

may also be made in commemoration of special events such as anniversaries or birthdays,

retirements, etc.

Two of the projects that you may wish to contribute to are the kitchen renovation project and

parsonage upkeep and renovation project.

You may also consider the Raise the Roof (Building fund) or the St. Peter Endowment fund as good

places to remember a loved one or to celebrate a birthday or anniversary with a memorial gift.

A special thank you for the generosity of those this year who contribute to the work of our Lord

through the Memorial fund! God bless you! Pastor Chuck * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Memorial Fund Income 2013

Date Amount Designated for

1/27/2013 $ 25.00 Raise the Roof

2/3/2013 $ 25.00 World Hunger

2/3/2013 $ 50.00 Raise the Roof

2/17/2013 $ 20.00 World Hunger

3/17/2013 $ 10.00 Raise the Roof

3/17/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

3/17/2013 $ 20.00 undesignated

3/17/2013 $ 20.00 World Hunger

3/24/2013 $ 100.00 Raise the Roof

3/31/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

3/31/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

3/31/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 15.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 15.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 50.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 15.00 Raise the Roof

18

4/14/2013 $ 25.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 25.00 Vacation Bible School



4/28/2013 $ 50.00 Raise the Roof

5/12/2013 $ 5.00 Raise the Roof


6/2/2013 $ 3,805.60 undesignated



9/8/2013 $ 25.00 World Hunger

10/13/2013 $ 50.00 undesignated

10/20/2013 $ 20.00 World Hunger

10/20/2013 $ 20.00 World Hunger

10/27/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

10/27/2013 $ 15.00 Raise the Roof

10/31/2013 $ 300.00 Sugar Creek Camping fund

11/3/2013 $ 600.00 undesignated

11/24/2013 $ 1,712.50 Stitzer Cemetery Fencing Project


12/1/2013 $ 751.12 undesignated





12/8/2013 $ 50.00 Purchase Christmas Candles

12/8/2013 $ 770.00 tables

Total $ 11,443.10

Memorial Fund Disbursed Amounts 2013 Date Amount Designated for

1/27/2013 $ 25.00 Raise the Roof

2/3/2013 $ 25.00 World Hunger

2/3/2013 $ 50.00 Raise the Roof

2/17/2013 $ 20.00 World Hunger

3/17/2013 $ 10.00 Raise the Roof

3/17/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof


3/17/2013 $ 20.00 World Hunger

3/24/2013 $ 100.00 Raise the Roof

3/31/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

3/31/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

3/31/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

19

4/14/2013 $ 707.00 refrigerator

4/14/2013 $ 1,597.00 bathroom renovation

4/14/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 15.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 15.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 50.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 15.00 Raise the Roof

4/14/2013 $ 25.00 Raise the Roof




4/28/2013 $ 50.00 Raise the Roof

5/12/2013 $ 5.00 Raise the Roof



9/8/2013 $ 25.00 World Hunger

10/20/2013 $ 20.00 World Hunger

10/20/2013 $ 20.00 World Hunger

10/27/2013 $ 20.00 Raise the Roof

10/27/2013 $ 15.00 Raise the Roof

10/31/2013 $ 300.00 Sugar Creek Camping fund 11/24/2013 $ 1,712.50 Stitzer Cemetery Fencing Project


12/8/2013 $ 50.00 Purchase Christmas Candles

12/8/2013 $ 770.00 SS and Fellowship Tables

Total $ 8,440.38

MEMORIAL LIST IDEAS If you would like to mark a special event in your life, such as an anniversary or birthday, or give a memorial, you may refer to this list for suggestions.

CHARITABLE CONTRIBUTIONS

ELCA Benevolence

ELCA World Hunger

Gideon’s International

Lutheran Social Services

Fennimore Helping Hands Fund

Seminarian Assistance Fund

Sugar Creek Bible Camp

Sugar Creek Campership Fund (principle is maintained, w/ interest used to assist youth attending)

St. Peter Endowment Fund (principle is maintained and only interest is used)

20

BUILDING AND GROUNDS

“Raise the Roof”/Debt Retirement Fund

Parsonage Maintenance & Improvements

South entrance canopy renovation

Chancel renovation

‘Storm Window’ for Gethsemane Window

2-tiered folding cart dolly – chair storage

Any needed building improvements

Any needed furniture

KITCHEN LIBRARY- AUDIO/VISULA

Shelving under the island Books

Countertops Tapes/CDs/DVDs

Any needed kitchen accessories LANDSCAPING PARISH EDUCATION

Shrubs Scholarships for National Youth Gathering

Trees Vacation Bible School SEASONAL ITEMS WORSHIP

Banners or Tapestries Choir Music

Christmas or other seasonal decorations OFFICE

Any needed office equipment or software

2013 TREASURER’S REPORT Respectfully submitted by Phil Nelson , Treasurer

GENERAL FUND Receipts

General Offering $ 112,135.22

Simply Giving $ 28,305.00

Sunday School $ 626.34

Sunday School Pizza Sales $ 1,617.00

Parish Ed $ 598.56

VBS $ 610.19

World Hunger/Relief $ 1,079.34

Rent $ 699.00

Checkbook Interest $ 1.96

Mission Investment Interest $ 179.31

21

Marketplace Proceeds $ 1,919.55

Benevolence $ 266.00

Flowers $ 915.00

Coffee Donations $ 24.00

Paint Project $ 595.00

Prayer Group Lenten Supper $ 132.00

Evangelism $ 284.78

Sugar Creek Retreat (Luther League) $ 440.00

Creative Memories $ 25.00

Fill the Ham Project $ 650.00

Bible Purchases $ 120.00

Thrivent Choice $ 2,520.00

Toy and Doll Museum $ 50.00

Cemetery Fund $ 50.00

Keith’s Quarters (World Hunger) $ 267.00

Confirmation $ 25.00

Barnyard Project $ 1,154.93

Endowment Fund $ 2,000.00

Livingston State Bank $ 50.00

Miscellaneous $ 25.00

Total Receipts $ 157,365.18

Transfers

Memorial Fund $ 5,315.00

Transfer to Luther League- Deposit Error $ (300.00)

Building Fund (RtR)- Simply Giving $ (1,890.00)

Future Needs Savings $ 7,800.00

Total Transfers $ 10,925.00

Balance Dec 31, 2012 $ 1,389.06

Receipts & Transfers $ 168,290.18

Disbursements $ 165,448.14

Balance Dec 31, 2013 $ 4,231.10

Disbursements/Budgets

2013 Budget 2013 Disbursed 2014 Budget

Church Budget Items

Benevolence

ELCA $ 10,000.00 $ 4,000.00 $ 10,000.00

LSS $ 2,000.00 $ 550.00 $ 2,000.00

Sugar Creek Camp $ 2,700.00 $ 770.00 $ 2,700.00

Ministry

Pastor's Salary $ 46,968.00 $ 46,968.00 $ 46,968.00

Pension/Medical $ 18,970.00 $ 16,872.58 $ 18,970.00

22

Utilities $ 4,000.00 $ 4,000.08 $ 4,000.00

Furnishings $ 1,000.00 $ 1,000.08 $ 1,000.00

Cont'd Educ/Media $ 1,000.00 $ 2,119.85 $ 1,000.00

Mileage $ 4,000.00 $ 2,260.99 $ 4,000.00

Pastor's Supplies $ 600.00 $ 150.00 $ 600.00

Conferences/Conventions $ 1,000.00 $ 584.00 $ 1,000.00

Religious/Devotional Material $ 1,000.00 $ 1,662.11 $ 1,500.00

Evangelism $ 500.00 $ 252.47 $ 500.00

Parish Education $ 4,500.00 $ 1,646.66 $ 4,500.00

Social Action $ 300.00 $ - $ 300.00

Stewardship $ 1,800.00 $ 159.52 $ 1,800.00

Worship & Music $ 3,700.00 $ 2,812.60 $ 3,700.00

Youth $ 500.00 $ 493.74 $ 500.00

Music Salaries $ 3,500.00 $ - $ 3,500.00

Administration

Secretary Wages $ 12,675.00 $ 10,310.64 $ 12,675.00

Withholding

$ 1,129.44

Postage $ 4,000.00 2,308.33 $ 4,000.00

Equipment Repair $ 400.00 - $ 500.00

Office Supplies $ 4,000.00 4,115.18 $ 4,000.00

Telephone/Internet $ 1,800.00 1,568.36 $ 1,800.00

Social Security $ 5,000.00 2,074.12 $ 5,200.00

Miscellaneous $ 2,500.00 805.14 $ 2,500.00

Building & Grounds

Custodian Wages $ 15,685.00 $ 13,481.31 $ 16,020.00

Withholding

$ 2,429.80

Insurance $ 5,800.00 $ 5,756.00 $ 6,100.00

Fuel $ 13,000.00 $ 7,453.88 $ 13,000.00

Utilities $ 6,000.00 $ 4,575.18 $ 5,500.00

Church Repair & Maintenance $ 10,000.00 $ 8,528.24 $ 10,000.00

Parsonage Repair & Maint. $ 6,000.00 $ 583.13 $ 6,000.00

Cemetery Mowing $ 1,600.00 $ 1,470.00 $ 1,600.00

Budget Items Totals $ 196,498.00 $ 152,891.43 $ 197,433.00

Off-Budget Disbursements

World Hunger (Including Keith’s quarters) $ 1,336.34

Flowers

$ 761.54

Fill the Ham

$ 244.61

Sunday School Pizza

$ 980.00

WELCA

$ 28.00

Global Barnyard

$ 1,155.00

Toy & Doll Musem

$ 50.00

Paint Project

$ 591.85

23

Marketplace

Hotdogs etc

$ 411.40

Fennimore Memorial Park Fund

$ 1,493.00

Memorial Expenditures

Refrigerator

$ 1,010.00

Cemetery Fence

$ 3,425.00

Bulletin Boards

$ 299.97

Tables

$ 770.00

Total Disbursements

$ 165,448.14

ST. PETER TRUST ACCOUNTS

Certificates of Deposit Number Amount Date Comments

First Merit Bank 4520842693 $ 11,000.00

Bernice Woll- Int. to Scholarship Savings

Livingston State Bank 44381 $ 5,000.00 12/17/2014 Myrtle Nodolf - Interest to Needy

44380 $ 2,500.00 12/17/2014 Ford Miles - Interest for Improvements

44051 $ 100,000.00 5/29/2015 Nelda Brechler - Interest for Improvements

44379 $ 12,500.00 12/17/2014 D. & V. Eisele - Interest for Camperships

$ 120,000.00

Mission Investment 20000003205 $ 5,020.08 2/15/2014 Luther League

20000003573 $ 10,073.83 3/22/2014 Ella Heberlein - Interest to World Hunger

$ 15,093.91

Savings Account First Merit Bank 4534306727 $ 4,050.71

Faith Development

4520820335 $ 2,289.92

Scholarship Fund (Woll)

4520819998 $ 3,908.75

Stitzer Cemetery

4520972250 $ 7,760.12

Future Needs

4520820053 $ 21,156.71

Memorials (Bill Wood)

4520820764 $ 3,997.91

Seminary Assistance

$ 43,164.12

Livingston State Bank 2108-556 $ 3,737.34

Sugar Creek Camperships

24

Endowment Fund Evangelical Lutheran Church of America

E271736 $ 39,000.00

Proceeds to Mission Outreach

Total Assets $ 231,995.37

RAISE THE ROOF DEBT ACCOUNT

Account Balance Jan 1, 2013

$ 17,179.00

Contributions $ 20,671.00

Simply Giving Transfers $ 1,830.00

Memorials $ 500.00

Total Deposits

$ 23,001.00

Payments

$ 31,600.00

Account Balance Dec 31, 2013

$ 8,580.00

2012 Payment Breakdown

Principal $ 21,339.63

Interest $ 10,260.37

Total $ 31,600.00

Debt Balance Status:

Principal

Date Remaining

5/14/2004 $ 397,000.00

12/31/2009 $ 261,780.51

12/31/2010 $ 244,547.50

12/31/2011 $ 226,234.44

12/31/2012 $ 204,431.92

12/31/2013 $ 183,092.29

25

SUGAR CREEK Letter from Executive Director

Dear Member Congregations, Greetings from Sugar Creek Bible Camp! My name is Don Shunkwiler and as many of you know, I took over as Executive Director of Sugar Creek Bible Camp in Ferryville, WI this past April 1, 2013. I know that most, if not all of you are at least acquainted with Sugar Creek, and before anything else, I want to THANK-YOU for your past and current support of this ministry! I have answered God's call to come here as a second career, after completing a 31 year career in the U.S. Navy. This is my dream job and I am loving every minute of it! I believe that this camp is THE LORD'S CAMP! This camp is ALSO your camp as well, as stewards of His ministry. We want to complement your congregation's ministry and to do so in ways that will TRULY HELP YOUR congregations bring the message of Jesus' love and grace to those we come into contact with. PLEASE USE SUGAR CREEK! Send us your youth, use us for Church Council planning retreats or off-sites; to use it for your own Men's and Women's groups for meaningful , spiritual retreats as well as the myriad of other retreats we sponsor here. Let's continue to do shared ministry where our people can truly grow in their faith. We have had a great year. We had nearly 1200 on-site campers, over 1000 day-campers, and over 250 family and grandparent/grandchild campers. We are making upgrades to our facilities and putting a halt to the time being for big new buildings. I know that many of our member churches have been extremely generous and again we want to THANK-YOU. Please prayerfully consider how you can continue to maintain or increase your support of our shared ministry. How can you help? Pray for us; Use us; Support Sugar Creek in your budget; Help us with sponsorships for those less fortunate; and, consider volunteering! God bless you in your ministry and let me know how we can help. Don Shunkwiler, Executive Director, Sugar Creek Bible Camp, Ferryville, WI 54628

PASTOR’S ANNUAL REPORT - St. Peter Lutheran …€™s Annual Report ... Youth Committee Report...

Documents

Transcript of PASTOR’S ANNUAL REPORT - St. Peter Lutheran …€™s Annual Report ... Youth Committee Report...