20172017ANNUAL REPORTANNUAL REPORT

OF THEOF THE

STRATHAM COMMUNITY CHURCH, UCCSTRATHAM COMMUNITY CHURCH, UCC

PRESENTED AT THE ANNUAL MEETING

HELD ON SUNDAY, JANUARY 28, 2018

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ANNUAL REPORT OF THESTRATHAM COMMUNITY CHURCH

FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2017

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Call to Annual Meeting ................................................................................................... 3

Draft Minutes to 2016 Annual Meeting ........................................................................ 4-5

Organization Structure………………………………………………………………………. 6

Report of the Pastor……….. ..................................................................................... 7-13

Report of the Clerk ....................................................................................................... 14

Board Reports

Moderator Report .............................................................................................. 15

Board of Trustees ..........................................................................................16-17

Endowment Policy ........................................................................................ 18-24

Treasurer Report…………………………………………………………………. 25-27

Christian Education Board ............................................................................ 28-29

Diaconate Board ............................................................................................30-31

Committee Reports

Nominating Committee ................................................................................. 32-36

Human Resources…………………………………………………………………. None

Stewardship Committee ...................................................................................... 37

Music Committee .............................................................................................38-39

Pastoral Relations Committee ............................................................................. 40

Historical Committee ............................................................................................41

Mission & Justice Committee ..........................................................................42-43

Property Committee…………………………………………………………………….44

Publicity Committee…………………………………………………………………….45

Stratham Circle Learning Center (SCLC) Report .............................................................46

Clothes Attic By-law Amendment……………………………………………………………...47

Clothes Attic Report .........................................................................................................48

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MINUTES OF THE

ANNUAL MEETING 2016

OF STRATHAM COMMUNITY CHURCH, UCC

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29, 2017The meeting was called to order at 11:12AM by Moderator David Timmerman. A count of members established a quorum present (more than 25 members.) Reverend Jonathan Roach led us in an opening prayer.

Article 1: Minutes of 2015 Annual Meeting.David called for a motion to accept the minutes of last year’s annual meeting. A motion was made to accept the minutes as written by Carol Gulla and seconded by Sue Hunter. The motion was unanimously approved.

Article 2: Annual Committee Reports Carol Gulla proposed a motion, seconded by Sue Hunter, that the Annual Committee Reports be accepted without a formal reading. Vote was passed.

Article 3: Nominating Committee ReportThe Nominating Committee Report was reviewed with a full slate of committee members with Martha Myers as an addition to the Deacons, Steve Chenard was added to Mission and Justice and Allan Lurvey’s term on the Mission and Justice was changed to 2018. Bobbie Timmerman and Liz Chisholm were also added to Clothes Attic. A revised Publicity committee has been formed to assist with our PR through newsletters, Facebook, and local news articles.

A motion was made by Carol Gulla and seconded by Sue Hunter to approve the nominating committee report. Motion passed.

Article 4: 2016 Treasurers Report and 2017 BudgetTreasurer Melissa Vander Woude presented the year-end financial report, stating a $12,000 deficit after a successful $30,000 Spring challenge along with some unexpected expenses. She noted 2016 major unanticipated building expenses including replacement of exterior windows in SCLC, rebuilding the outside stairs by SFP, repaving the front walkway to the church entrance, and the beginning of renovations to the front sill beam of the sanctuary building along with some pest issues. These expenses brought our

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building expenses over budget by $27,000 but it was noted that these were safety issues and not cosmetic upgrades.

Reviewing the 2017 Budget with a $28,744 deficit projected, a Spring Challenge will be needed again this year. Pledges are down from last year and additional expenses are expected for roof replacement and the sill beam repair. A capital campaign will most likely begin this year by the trustees.

A motion to accept the budget as presented was made by Joan Gough and seconded by Martha Myers. The motion to approve the deficit budget was passed unanimously.

Article 5: Transact any other business

Dave Brownell asked those present about interest in having a cell tower placed inside our steeple. After some discussion, there was no objection to having trustees look into this.

Mike Carty was recognized for his behind the scenes work as chairman of the building and property work. Moderator Dave Timmerman thanked the staff of the church and all committees for their support during the past three years of his tenure.

Bob Butcher was introduced as the incoming moderator and he quickly thanked Dave Timmerman for his leadership and support through some major personnel changes this year and helping the church continue to thrive with a smooth transition.

AdjournmentCarol Gulla proposed to adjourn the meeting with Sue Hunter seconding. All approved and the meeting was adjourned at 11:55AM

Connie Abell, Substitute Clerk

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Pastor and Teacher’s Annual Report for 2017Rev. Jonathan C. Roach, Ph.D.

Introduction:

It has been a busy and rewarding year. I feel blessed to be with this amazing community of faith and look forward to experiencing what God is calling us to in 2018. This past year has been a tremendous year, and I have enjoyed our ministry together.

The highlights for me have included the powerful One Heart Mission Trip to Guatemala, making dinner for our friends from Seacoast Family Promise, our Sunday Morning Book and Film & Latte group outings, and working with our very talented committees.

I have appreciated working with our Trustees and Property Committees as they have guided us through reroofing all three of our buildings, the remodeling and transformation of our Clothes Attic, and numerous upgrades and improvements to our physical spaces. I have also worked closely with our Stewardship Committee on our Annual, Spring, and Upcoming Capital Campaigns and feel very positive about what we have accomplished.

In my supporting role, I also want to celebrate the great work of our Music Committee, Christian Education, Mission and Justice, Clothes Attic, Publicity, and Historical Committees. All of our committee are high functioning and have accomplished so much in the past year.

I am looking forward to the rest of 2018 and our future ministries together.

Pastoral Care:

Since out last Annual Meeting, I have had the pleasure of providing the following pastoral care support [This does not include non-pastoral care visits, calls, and e-mails]:

In-Person Visits in Church Office, Hospital, Nursing Home, or Member’s Homes

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E-mails and Text Message Exchanges 40

Telephone Calls 44

Care Packages for College Students 22

Cards, Notes, and Letters 32

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I also provided pastoral care and funeral or memorial services for Robert Van Uden, Pat Ferrelli, Andy Wiggin, Betty Batchelder, Mary Smyk, Bill Halkovitch, Fred England, Jerry Sterritt, and Patty Nerney. In addition, we were blessed to celebrate the baptism of Eva Soler Munck, Lila Elizabeth Cash, Molly Lisa Crow, Colby Flaim, Camden Flaim, Sydney Flaim, and Christian Alan Rice.

I also covered 3 weeks of being on call for emergency pastoral care while clergy at neighboring churches were ill or on vacation. I covered two weeks for North Hampton and one week for Newfields.

I am honored to walk with and support members of Stratham Community Church and residents of the local communities during their times of crisis and uncertainty and will continue to make myself available to those who need and want support.

Christian Formation:

Sunday Morning Book Group: I protracted discussion on the following books over the past year for the Sunday Morning Group:

o Cleveland, Christena. 2015. Disunity in Christ: Uncovering the Hidden Forces that Keep Us Apart. IVP Books.

o Rohr, Richard. 2011. Falling Upward: A Spirituality for the Two Halves of Life. New York: Jossey-Bass.

o Hamilton, Adam. 2016. Half Truths: God Helps Those Who Help Themselves and Other Things the Bible Doesn’t Say. Nashville, TN: Abingdon.

o King, Martin Luther. 1963. Strength to Love. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress Press.o Seibert, Eric. 2012. The Violence of Scripture: Overcoming the Old Testament’s

Troubling Legacy. Minneapolis, MN: Fortress. Film & Latte Group: I attended 10 movies with our Film & Latte group and enjoy lively

discussion. Reformation Class: As we celebrated the 500th Anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, I

offered a four-week class on the history, theology, and importance of the Reformation. Confirmation Class: In support of Christian Education programming, I have taught three

sessions of our Confirmation Class.o November 5th on the Holy Spirit o December 3rd on Ministry o January 7th on Death and Resurrection

Alternative Worship Experiences: I enjoyed organizing and leading the following alternative worship hikes:

o Thursday, July 27th at 6 pm @ Discovery Center, Depot Road

o Saturday, August 12th at 6 pm @ PEA Academy Trails

o Saturday, October 14 at 3 pm @ The Sweet Trail from the Lubberland Creek Preserve in Newmarket

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One Heart Mission Trip: I was blessed to participate with the group that Judy George lead to Guatemala and provide nightly biblical reflections for the group, and I look forward to helping to organize and participate with another One Heart Mission Trip in 2019.

Community Spiritual Leadership:

It has been my pleasure to provide pastoral leadership for the following community events:

May 29 Stratham Memorial Day Service at Stratham Hill Park

May 29 Stratham Fire Department Memorial Day Service

June 4 New Hampshire SPCA Blessing of the Pets at Stratham Hill Park

October 15 Crop Walk Crop Walk in Exeter

November 10 Stratham Fire Department Veterans’ Day Service at Stratham Hill Park

I will continue to make my services and leadership available to community organizations, and I enjoy the responsibilities of being the pastor and teacher for a community church.

Worship and Preaching:

To promote better worship planning and Christian education coordination, I am providing a chart with worship information on scriptures, themes, and special events for the upcoming 6 months of worship services to the Deacons, Church Council, Music Committee, and church staff monthly. I have also developed a shared private website that the entire staff have access to that contains all the materials for “Thought for the Day” and our liturgy worship materials for at least three months in advance.

This past year, I mainly followed the Revised Common Lectionary with special theme approaches for both Lent (Justice Roll Down) and Advent (I Believe Even When). I also enjoyed developing a biographical sermon series on the scriptures that impacted Dorthey Day, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Desmond Tutu, Martin Luther King, Jr., St. Nicholas (Christmas Eve with Lily Nutt), Hildegard of Bingen, and Sojourner Truth, which were scattered throughout the past year.

In the year to come, I plan to follow the Revised Common Lectionary with breaks for a special Lent Series (Gifts of the Dark Wood), a spring worship and preaching series on Celtic Christianity, and a

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series of Christian biographic sermons including: Óscar Romero, Anne Hutchinson, Julian of Norwich, and John Wycliff.

I also thank Rev. Allan Lurvey, Rev. Jihey Esther Roach, Member in Discernment and Minister of Music Sherry Stromski, and Member in Discernment Lily Nutt for their leadership and sermons during the past year. Stratham Community Church is very blessed by their leadership and talents.

Pastoral Leadership:

In 2017, I worked to provided pastoral leadership by attending the following SCC meetings:

Trustees 8

Stewardship Committee 11

Property Committee 1

Pastoral Relation Committee 3

Music Committee 3

Mission and Justice 3

HR Committee 1

Historical Committee 2

Deacons 7

Clothes Attic Committee 4

Church Staff Meeting 7 (and Staff Retreat to Star Island)

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Church Council 9

I also attended one meeting of the Rockingham Association and one meeting of the New Hampshire Conference of United Church Christ.

Continuing Education and Formation:

Over the past year, I participated in the monthly clergy group for pastors in their first two years of a new position. This group is organized by the New Hampshire Conference and is led by a senior clergy person to empower clergy in new positions in systems, leadership, and provide feedback and support to them.

I also completed a full day workshop on Advance Clergy Boundaries sponsored by the New Hampshire Conference. For my standing to remain current, I need to attend boundary training at least once every three years and this workshop fulfilled that required.

Publications and Publicity:

Roach, J. 2017. Review of “Integrating Work in Theological Education.” Reflective Teaching. (Forthcoming).

Roach, J. 2017. Review of “Critical Pedagogy and Marx, Vygotsky and Freire: Phenomenal Forms and Educational Action Research.” Reflective Teaching. (Forthcoming).

Roach, J. 2017. Review of “Religion and the Book Trade.” Journal of Religious and Theological Information, DOI: 10.1080/10477845.2017.1282752.

Roach, J. 2017. Review of “Play and the Human Condition.” Reflective Teaching, Available at: http://www.wabashcenter.wabash.edu/resources/article.aspx?id=29573.

Press Releases that were published:o Roach, J. and Dave Brownell. 2018. “Community Epiphany Service.” Carriage Towne

News, Thursday, January 4, 4.o Roach, J. 2017. “Stratham Community Church to Host Easter Egg Fun.” Exeter News-

Letter, Friday, March 31.

Report on my Objectives from Last Year:

Working with our Deacons, I want to improve our visitor welcome experience and retention rate conversion through best practices and strategic planning.

o I have been able to make that I am present in our Narthex by 9.40 am to greet and welcome people to worship on Sunday.

o Our Publicity Committee has also produced a well designed and written Welcome Brochure that is given out to new visitors.

o I have also been working to improve our website and have contributed 172 Facebook postings for our congregation.

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Working with our Four-way Convent Clergy, Members in Discernment, Mission and Justice Committee, and Christian Education leadership, I want to foster adult spiritual formation and growth through small fellowship group opportunities, workshops, Bible studies, and programming coordination.

o Building upon our Film & Latte group, I lead a new Sunday Morning Book Group that met throughout the year.

o I organized and taught a four-week class on the Protestant Reformation. Working with our Trustees, Stewardship Committee, Clothes Attic Committee, and Publicity

Committee, I want to focus on building capacity in our facilities, funding streams and base, and marketing footprint.

o I have worked closely with our Stewardship Committee as we have planned a wonderful Capital Campaign, and the fruits of this campaign are already being felt in the improvements of our buildings.

o I have also worked with our Publicity Committee to generate two press releases that were published in local newspapers.

Working with our Music Committee, Historical Committee, and Deacons, I want to provide worship enrichment through improved coordination, alternative worship opportunities, retreats, and programming.

o Working with our Deacons, I was able to organize and participate in three Worship in Nature Hikes.

o Working with our Historical Committee, I was able to participate in a 1716 Thanksgiving Dinner and a book talk about author and pastor Rev. Deb Knowlton on her book “Color Me Included.”

o Working with our Christian Education Committee, I provided a worship on the history and theology of Easter Egg Coloring as part of Holy Week Celebration.

Working with our Pastoral Relations Committee, I want to foster continued and vital commutation and support between the congregation and myself.

o I have appreciated meeting with our talented Pastoral Relations Committee and working with them to foster continued feedback and conversation.

My Objectives for 2018:

1. To build capacity in our facilities, funding streams and base, and marketing footprint. a. Working with our Stewardship Committee, I will work to assess and grow our Annual

Campaign. b. Working with our Trustees and Stewardship Committee, I will continue to support and

cultivate our Capital Campaign. c. Working with the Publicity Committee, I will work to increase our positive programming

presence in the local media. d. Working with the Publicity Committee, I will work to continue our social media presence

and update our website. 2. To foster continued and vital commutation and support between the congregation and myself.

a. I will work with the Human Resources Committee, the Moderator, and Pastoral Relations Committee to create a plan for pastoral assessment and evaluation.

b. I will launch and attend Dinners for 4 Families to meet with more church members in an informal setting for conversation.

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3. To improve coordination, communication, and advance planning of our worship experiencesa. I will be ready to participate in worship planning two months before each service. b. I will participate in using the Stratham Church’s staff pdworks website by uploading my

worship materials.c. Working with the Deacons and Music Committee, I will work to expand the input,

feedback (both formal and informal), and use of evaluation into their future planning.d. Working with Church Council, I will participate in continuing education opportunities

and report these CE hours back to their respective committees.4. To expand alternative worship experiences that engage people with different personality and

spiritual types.a. Working with the Deacons, I will participate in the planning and leadership of at least

three alternative worship experiences.b. I will explore the subject of personality and spiritual types in worship and provide a

presentation on my takeaways during a staff meeting to improve our worship planning and approaches.

5. To offer worship resources and experiences to people in our wider community and church community who cannot attend on Sunday mornings.

a. Working with the Deacons, I will investigate and implement at least one technique of connecting our worship experiences with those who cannot attend on Sunday mornings.

b. I will identify one sub-population and develop a plan to improve the worship opportunities for that population.

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STRATHAM COMMUNITY CHURCHREPORT OF THE CLERK

ANNUAL REPORT, 2017

Total Active Members, Estimated as of December 31, 2016: 166

2017 Additions:

CONFIRMATIONS: 0

CONFESSIONS OF FAITH: 0

REAFFIRMATION OF FAITH: 2

CERTIFICATES OF TRANSFER: 2

INACTIVE TO ACTIVE: 0

ORDINATION: 0

INSTALLATION: 1

2017 Losses:

TRANSFERS: 0

DEATHS: 4

INACTIVE: 0

WITHDRAWALS: 0

TOTAL ACTIVE MEMBERSAS OF DECEMBER 31, 2017: 167

2017 BAPTISMS: 7

2017 WEDDINGS: 0

Respectfully submitted,

Jennifer WheelerClerk

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Moderator’s Annual Report 2017

It has truly been a wonderful year in the life of the Stratham Community Church. A year of building, growth, stability and tremendous outreach both locally and world-wide. Thanks to the earnest commitment of Pastor and Teacher Jonathan Roach, and all of our fabulous committees and many volunteer programs offered, we had many ways to enrich our lives and faith.

As a member of this church family for over 20 years I have seen many changes. Reverend Jonathan Roach has added depth to our programs with fresh ideas, commitment and very active positive involvement. He continually finds ways to enhance our church lives with his suggestions and participation in events such as book groups, dinners, film and latte, and mission trips to name but a few.

The church staff is amazing. Our Minister of Music and Member in Discernment, Sherry Stromski, continually enriches our services with her deep faith, talent and love of music. Our Youth and Christian Education Director and Member in Discernment, Lily Nutt, engages the children with her vibrant energy and faith during Sunday services as well as in numerous youth programs during the year. The smile and efficiency of our Office Administrator Katie Brown, helps keep everything running smoothly. We are also truly blessed to have Dr. Allen Lurvey and Reverend Ester Roach as Ministers of Pastoral Counseling and Care. The Stratham Circle Learning Center with Director Christine Vanderslice and the Clothes Attic with Co-Directors Joan Gough and Nancy Singleton are an integral part of our community. Our church suppers, led by Liz Chisholm, brings our church family and neighbors together. Thanks to the dedication and commitment of Marny Keith, our congregation successfully hosts families for the Seacoast Family Promise. I would like to acknowledge every one of the amazing people involved in our committees and thank them for enriching our lives.

As will be apparent in the annual committee reports, we are very fortunate to have so many volunteers who offer freely of their time, talents and resources. Our church family is immeasurably strengthened by their dedicated work. I invite everyone to get involved with a committee or one of the many outreach programs. You will receive much more than you give.

We look forward to a very successful capital campaign and Spring Challenge to have the resources to continue our missions.

Bob ButcherModerator

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2017 TRUSTEE ANNUAL REPORT

The Trustee Board’s primary responsibility is monitoring and strengthening the church’s financial stability and upkeep of the buildings and grounds. This year has been another very active one for the Trustees. These responsibilities are accomplished in coordination with the property, stewardship, clothes attic and SCLC committees/boards.

Many of the specific activities will be recorded in the various other committee/board reports. Some of the larger areas that the Trustees were involved in were:

Sill Beam Replacement – The sill beam on the front of the sanctuary was safely replaced. Thibault Restoration, LLC, with the engineering help of Emanuel Engineering, accomplished the construction work.

Roof Replacement – The shingles on all of our roofs were replaced. Coastal Windows and Siding, Inc. did the work.

SCLC New Classroom – As part of the Clothes Attic renovation, an expanded storage area was built for SCLC, which opened up space for an additional classroom.

Pest Control – We continued with the pest control contract with JP Pest to control the mice and ant populations in the buildings.

New Refrigerator – A new refrigerator was needed in the kitchen, which was accomplished with a donation from a church family of a new direct replacement.

Ella Anderson Trust – We applied for and received another $5000 grant from the Ella Anderson Trust to assist us in paying for the sill and roof projects.

Cash Audit – Ken George completed a cash audit of the church financials and found everything to be in order.

Endowment – Our endowment has grown to approximately $35,000. It started with a bequest from Nan Pearson of $20,000 and was supplemented this year with an anonymous cash gift of $10,000. Additionally, two planned gifts, a gift annuity and a charitable remainder unitrust, have been established by two church families that have the endowment as the final beneficiary. These gifts provide for a lifetime income for the families with the balance of the funds being transferred to the endowment upon the second death. Both of them also provided the donors a charitable donation for tax purposes.

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Many thanks to all of the volunteers throughout the year who have provided their talents, time and financial backing to assist us in accomplishing these many tasks. It has been truly a group effort.

Respectfully submitted,

Board of Trustees

Dave Brownell – Chair Sue Hunter

John Bunton Steve Holmes

Mike Carty Steve Nassoura

Liz Chisholm Christine VanDerslice

Jay Gauvin Melissa Vander Woude

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STRATHAM COMMUNITY CHURCH

ENDOWMENT POLICY

PREAMBLE

This endowment policy is established in order to further the mission of Stratham Community Church (SCC). This church wishes to encourage the Christian stewardship of accumulated, inherited and appreciated resources. It is understood that special gifts and bequests should not take the place of faithful stewardship of current income, but should be made to enable the church to continue and extend its mission in the future, both here in Stratham and to the greater community. This policy supersedes the endowment policy established on October 20, 2005.

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

The purpose of this endowment policy is to provide the framework for accepting, investing and managing of special gifts to SCC.

GENERAL POLICY

Effective February 1, 2016, Stratham Community Church shall assign and manage its endowment funds (the Fund), both those presently held and those to be received in the future, in accordance with the guidelines established in this policy document.

TRUSTEES OF THE FUND

The Board of Trustees of SCC shall administer the Fund. The Pastor and the Moderator shall function as advisors to the Trustees with voting privileges concerning matters relating to the Fund.

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TERMINOLOGY

Current (General) Funds – Funds that are available from the normal stewardship activities each year, i.e. annual pledging, church suppers, Stratham

Circle Learning Center proceeds, etc.

Endowment Funds – Funds that are gifted to SCC through direct gifts to the Fund and/or from memorial funds, bequests or other channels that the Board of Trustees have voted to be part of the Fund. The Fund principal cannot be used. Only a

portion of the total return of the Fund can be used as described in this document.

Restricted Funds – Funds that the donor has specified to be used only for a specific use.

Unrestricted Funds – Funds that the donor has made no specification of the use of the funds.

Value of the Fund – Total net assets of the Fund as periodically reported by the Trustees. The year-end value and the investment returns will be reported in the

SCC Annual Report.

Total Return – The summation of annual appreciation of the Fund from interest, dividends and capital appreciation/depreciation.

Distributions (Income) – The portion of the Total Return that shall be available for expenditure. The value of the income is discussed later in this document.

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INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND GOALS

Endowment Funds – The Board of Trustees may, at their sole discretion, pool other assets with the Fund for investment purposes. However, assets of other funds accepted by the Board of Trustees and which are required, by a donor’s written instructions, to be invested in separate investments will be invested accordingly by

the Board of Trustees. The investments of these other funds may be included in the Fund but separately identified with the donor names and their designated purposes.

Investment Objective – The primary investment objective of the Fund is to maintain the corpus of the Fund in real dollars (the original gift plus an allowance for inflation) in perpetuity.

Overall Objective – The overall objective of the Fund is to provide a consistent level of support for SCC programs while maintaining or modestly increasing the purchasing power of the Fund.

Spending Policy – The spending policy of the Fund will be based on the total return of the Fund, current inflation rates and the average investment results for the previous twenty (20) trailing calendar quarters. (The initial draw from the Fund will be based on the trailing four (4) calendar quarters. Subsequent draws will add additional calendar quarters until twenty (20) are available). If the investment results are negative for the twenty (20) trailing quarters average (or whatever number of

quarters is available at the time), no draw will be allowed. In order to retain the purchasing power of the Fund, it is assumed that the average annual draw

on the Fund will be 4%. The annual draw percentage will be determined by the Board of Trustees. If the Board of Trustees decides to invest the funds with the

United Church Funds or a similar organization, the annual distribution policy of that organization will be followed.

Portfolio Guidelines – The portfolio guidelines are at the discretion of the Board of Trustees. The goal is for the Fund to be managed with a balanced portfolio that

recognizes the changes in the investment environment over the years.

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Portfolio Management – The Board of Trustees shall have the sole authority to determine who shall manage the assets of the fund. They may decide to use an

outside investment manager, including but not limited to, the United Church Funds, to manage the funds. The expenses of that management shall be paid for from the endowment funds.

RECEIPT OF GIFTS

Types of gifts – Gifts to the Fund may be given to SCC directly or as bequests, in such forms as wills, assignment of life insurance, transfers of property (cash,

stocks,

bonds, real estate, personal property), memorial gifts, or through other governing documents.

Acceptance of gifts – The Board of Trustees shall have the responsibility for the acceptance or rejection of all gifts. Gifts which are unwieldy to manage or not in keeping with the Christian mission of the Church will be carefully reviewed and

may be declined by the Board of Trustees.

Disposition of Gifts - Property, stocks and/or mutual funds transferred to SCC will generally be sold promptly and the cash proceeds placed into the Fund.

Gift Restrictions – Funds that have restrictions must be at least $20,000 in value when established. It is the hope that gifts will be given without restrictions to allow the Board of Trustees over the years to determine the most appropriate use of the funds at that point in the life of SCC.

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UTILIZATION OF THE ENDOWMENT DISTRIBUTIONS

The allocation of the annual distributions from the Fund will be at the discretion of the Board of Trustees with the following recommendations:

1) 50% of the income will be used for mission programs of the SCC.2) 30% of the income will be used for capital expenses or put into the building

fund.3) 20% of the income may be used for current use in the general fund, if needed.

The Board of Trustees shall report to the congregation, at the annual meeting, how the distributions from the endowment were spent in the past twelve months.

GROWING THE ENDOWMENT FUNDS

It is the responsibility of the Stewardship committee, in consultation with the Board of Trustees, to publicize the existence, benefits and purposes of the Fund. Programs to promote planned giving should be conducted every few years to aid in this communication.

ADOPTING AND AMENDING THE ENDOWMENT POLICY

This revised policy will be adopted if it receives a majority favorable vote of the Church Council and the congregation of SCC.

Amendments to this policy shall be made as follows:

1) The Board of Trustees shall first approve amendments with a 2/3 majority.2) The Church Council shall then approve recommended amendments from the

Trustees with a 2/3 majority.

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3) The congregation shall approve the recommended amendments with a 2/3 majority of those voting (must be a quorum).

The Board of Trustees shall review this policy every five (5) years, at a minimum, or as necessary.

REPORTING

The value and investment performance of the Fund shall be reported to the SCC members in the church annual report and at the SCC annual meeting. The Board of Trustees shall review a report of the value and investment performance of the Fund quarterly.

CONFLICT OF INTEREST

The persons responsible for management of the Fund or for direction of disbursements from the Fund must assure that there is no possibility of a conflict of interest, including but not limited to those persons who might be receiving direct or indirect benefit from investment vehicles, commissions, the fashion in which funds are spent, etc.

LIABILITY OF BOARD OF TRUSTEES/CHURCH COUNCIL

The members of the Board of Trustees and/or the Church Council shall not be liable for any losses which may be incurred upon the investments of the assets of the fund except to the extent such losses shall have been caused by bad faith and/or gross negligence. Members shall not be liable for the willful misconduct or omissions of any other member. No member shall engage in any self dealing or transactions with the fund in which the member has direct or indirect financial interest and shall at all times refrain from any conduct in which his/her personal interests would conflict with the interest of the fund. The Board of Trustees shall secure and maintain appropriate D&O insurance coverage for the Board of Trustees and the Church Council.

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DISPOSITION OR TRANSFER OF THE FUNDS

In the event Stratham Community Church ceases to exist through dissolution, disposition or other legal event, the transfer of the Fund shall be made consistent with donor imposed restrictions, or, once any donor restrictions that would otherwise prohibit such transfer are lifted by the donor, or with the consent of the Division of Charitable Trusts and any court required to approve, to the Rockingham Association of the United Church of Christ. If the Rockingham Association no longer exists, then the Fund should be transferred to the New Hampshire Conference of the United Church of Christ. If neither of these organizations are in existence, the Fund shall be distributed to a non-profit charity that most resembles the mission of Stratham Community Church. The SCC Church Council, in place at that time, will have the sole discretion as to which charity will receive the remaining funds.

GOVERNING LAW

The laws of the State of New Hampshire and the Internal Revenue Code of the United States govern the endowment fund. In the event either such governing law changes and the change would alter this policy, this policy shall be amended to incorporate such change. While SCC and its unrestricted funds are not subject to the jurisdiction of the Division of Charitable Trusts of the New Hampshire Office of the Attorney General, restricted endowment funds which have been restricted by the donor, are subject to the jurisdiction of that Division as “Charitable Trusts” and may be transferred only in accordance with the restrictions or with the permission of the Division.

Policy adopted by the congregation at the Annual Meeting held January 31, 2016.  

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Stratham Community Church Board of Trustees

Annual Report 2017

Treasurer Report

2017 Operating Budget

The approved 2017 budget had a $28,744 projected budget deficit. The actual operating results for 2017 showed a $4,792 deficit. We had a successful Spring challenge of $29,692 to help offset the projected deficit. We received $5000 less in regular giving than we had budgeted. Had we received our budgeted regular giving we would have balanced our budget for 2017. We continue raise money through church suppers, the Holy Fair and building usage by organizations as well as weddings and funerals. SCLC had another successful year with a net income of $39,503. The clothes attic is another great source of income, making $15,300 in 2017.

Unrestricted and Building Funds

We started the year with $13,050 in Building Funds and ended with $14,680, the increase was due to the funds making money over the year. We did not choose to use the building funds for any renovations this year.

We started the year with $136,550 in Unrestricted Funds (formerly labeled Endowment Funds) and ended with $117,538. We transferred $20,000 in February 2017 and $20,000 in June 2017 to our Peoples United operating account to replenish from operating losses and capital expenditures before establishing a separate capital campaign fund and expense tracking.

2018 Proposed Budget

Projected revenue (including SCLC net income) is $207,895 in 2017. Projected expenses are $244,798. The bottom line for the 2017 budget is a $36,902 deficit.

Melissa Wolfe-Vander Woude

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Treasurer

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CHRISTIAN EDUCATION ANNUAL REPORT, 2017

I began working with Stratham Community Church as the Youth and Family Christian Education Director on August 23rd, 2016. The Christian Education Board and I have strived to reflect our mission and foster the beliefs and missions of our church and the UCC.

We continue to offer a Sunday school program. After hearing the children’s message in the sanctuary, youth gather in room 201 (the orange room). We continue with the “worship” feel in the classroom by sharing news of the week and an opening prayer. Sunday school has consistently had an attendance of twenty to thirty youth. We split into three groups for classroom time. We have been using the curriculum titled Whole People of God. This curriculum provides lectionary-based lessons that follow what the congregation is hearing in worship.

During the summer, a youth room was built on the lower floor of the church. Many, many people volunteering their time, tools, furniture, and labor made this beautiful room happen. The high school and I went shopping to decorate the room. Since being built, the room has been a gathering place for many events—everything from high school Sunday School, hosting the youth group programs to confirmation class. This room is a prime example of our church community’s love and care of its youth and desire to see its younger community thrive.

The Christian Education Board continues to develop a program that tracks each of our youth’s faith milestones. Each child’s ‘Journey of Faith’ will mark what he/she/they have learned such as: The Lord’s Prayer, Ten Commandments, and first communion. The CE Board looks forward to incorporating the ‘Journey of Faith’ into our Sunday School program.

Our church continues to collaborate with Christ Church in Exeter and Exeter Congregational Church for Vacation Bible School and Sunday night youth group. VBS was held during the last week of June. It was a great collaboration between all three churches. Twenty to thirty attended each day, representing each church. Several parents and youth leaders made this week possible by graciously sharing their time to lead a craft, story, game or snack.

Our confirmation program began October 15th, 2017 and will continue until Confirmation Sunday on April 15th, 2018. We have five confirmands and mentors. Using the curriculum Making Disciples, we are walking through the book of Luke and topics including discipleship, Jesus Christ, and prayer. Confirmation classes are held every other week on Sunday afternoons and led by Rev. Jonathan and Lily Nutt. We are attending a

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confirmation retreat weekend at Camp Calumet in Ossipee New Hampshire on March 16th through March 18th, 2018.

The Christmas Pageant titled Christmas In the Stable, was adapted from the book written by Astrid Lindgren. Twenty-five youth participated in the production and everyone enjoyed the experience.

Since I arrived on August 23rd, 2016, I have been involved in the following to support the youth community:

Attended play productions performed by SCC youth Sent care packages to college students Attended NHCUCC faith formation meetings Attended CE Board meetings Began a Sunday night youth group with Exeter Congregational Church for middle

and high school youth Held movie and dessert nights

For the Future

The CE Board and I are excited to implement in 2018: Encouraging all youth to attend Horton Center and/or Star Island Summer Sunday School gardening Attending NHCUCC youth events such as Horton Center work weekends and the

NHCUCC Environmental Youth Summit More youth group outings Implementing the CE’s Journey of Faith

We feel very blessed to be a part of this church and excited to continue energizing our youth!

Respectfully submitted,Lily NuttMona R. Stephenson

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Diaconate Annual Report- 2017 The year 2017 was a fulfilling year of service for the Deacons at Stratham Community Church in no small part due to the quiet guidance, consistent encouragement, and organization of Reverend Jonathan Roach.

Throughout 2017, the Diaconate managed all aspects of preparation and support for worship services, working closely with church staff and other committee members.  With Reverend Roach, we presided over 7 baptisms, 9 funerals and the welcoming of 6 new members.  

Following our support for Cheryl Stromski as a Member in Discernment with the Rockingham Association in 2016, the Board of Deacons in 2017 provided guidance to Cheryl with respect to her sermons to the Congregation.

Upon meeting with Lily Nutt and with Reverend Roach, the Deacons communicated to the Rockingham Association Committee on Church and Ministry, New Hampshire Conference United Church of Christ, our recommendation that Lily Nutt be examined, and if found acceptable, be received as a Student Member in Discernment with the Rockingham Association.

The Deacons adopted a new policy in 2017 to ensure smooth flow of the congregation when services involve processions:

During services with processions, ask the Pastor, Christian Ed director, Choir director, or whomever is in charge of the procession to attend the deacon's meeting 2 months prior to the service being planned. Plan the processions to begin in an area that doesn't obstruct the main entrance of churchgoers. These services include as a minimum Children's Sunday, Palm Sunday, and the Christmas pageant.

We hosted a Welcome Sunday celebration in September to welcome new and returning families back to church after summer and to signal the start of the Sunday School curriculum.   

Proactive development of the Liturgical Calendar has resulted in more time for everyone involved in service to plan meaningfully and thoughtfully. For example, the theme for the Advent Season was chosen in September after collaboration over the summer with Reverend Roach and the Music Director.  

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Two members, Sandee Murray and Tricia Coleman, left the Diaconate in 2017. Deacons continue to coordinate coffee hour, flower donations, acolyte training, and to welcome visitors throughout the year. 

We give thanks to the church members who have completed their service to the church as spiritual leaders and are leaving the Diaconate: Laura Batchelder, Kristen Dusseault and Roger Stephenson. 

Respectfully submitted Roger Stephenson

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2018 OFFICERS, BOARDS & COMMITTEESSTRATHAM COMMUNITY CHURCH

+=must be members of the Stratham Community Church

Board or Committee NameTerm

expiresJan.

MODERATOR:+ Bob Butcher – RJButcher@comcast.net 2020

CLERK:+ Jen Wheeler - cjewheels@yahoo.com 2019

Board of Trustees +

ASST. TREASURER: Liz Chisholm – lizchisholm@comcast.net 2019

CHAIR: Dave Brownell - dpb44@comcast.net 2020

TREASURER: Melissa Vander Woude - thewoude5@gmail.com 2020

MEMBERS: Steve Nassoura – SNassoura@CreeganNassoura.com 2020

Roger Stephenson – r-stephenson@comcast.net 2021

Sue Lyndes – salyndes@comcast.net 2021

Chris Wheeler – the.nhwheelers@gmail.com 2021

  (SCLC Representative)

(Property Representative)

(Clothes Attic Representative)

Board of Deacons +

Cindy Dominguez – cinguez234@gmail.com 2020

Lucy Cushman – lc24tyler@comcast.net 2020

Aaron Spiller – spiller.aaron@gmail.com 2020

Pam Kulesza – pamela1227@comcast.net 2020

Christine VanDerslice – christine@vanderslice.com 2020

Judy George – georgejudy.03885@gmail.com 2021

Joe Keith – marnyguatemala@gmail.com 2021

Connie Abell – ccash10454@aol.com 2021

Board of Christian Education

DIRECTOR: Lily Nutt – lilynutt@strathamchurch.org N/A

Kevin Madley – kmadley@hotmail.com 2019

 Chair Mona Stephenson – mona_stephenson@comcast.net 2020

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  Ann Nassoura - ANassoura@comcast.net 2021

Kristy Kaffko – joseph.kaffko@connection.com 2021

Music Committee

DIRECTOR: Cheryl Stromski - cheryllynne02@msn.com N/A

Chair Pam Kulesza – pamela1227@comcast.net 2019

  Bob Kinsman – sekinsman@comcast.net 2020

Maria Emmanuel – memanuell152@gmail.com 2020

  Dave Timmerman – dacartim@hotmail.com 2020

Joan Gough – jlgteach@gmail.com 2020

Tina Kinsman – sekinsman@comcast.net 2021

Publicity Committee

Kristen Dusseault – rkmjdusseault@comcast.net 2019

Chair Dave Timmerman – dacartim@hotmail.com 2020

Dave Brownell – dpb44@comcast.net 2020

Esther Roach – jesther124@hotmail.com 2020

Katie Brown – findfaith@strathamchurch.org 2020

Human Resources Committee +

  Sue Hunter – shunter2@comcast.net 2020

Chair Carol Gulla - crgulla@gmail.com 2021

Property Committee

John Goodrich – jwpg1@aol.com 2020

Chair John Bunton – johnsbunton@gmail 2021

Steve Holmes – coachhummer@yahoo.com 2021

Ron Nason – rtnason@comcast.net 2021

Ken George – ken.george@comcast.net 2021

Joe Keith - jwkeith@netzero.net 2021

Pastoral Relations Committee +

Bonnie Bunton – notnub@comcast.net 2019

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Susie Curtis – susiecurtis@gmail.com 2020

Phyllis Lurvey – plurvey@comcast.net 2021

Mission & Justice Committee

Chair Allan Lurvey - allanlurvey@comcast.net 2019

Ryan Curtis – ryanmcurtis@gmail.com 2019

Stella Scamman – sdscamman@comcast.net 2019

Bonnie Bunton – notnub@comcast.net 2020

Steve Chenard – surface@worldpath.net 2020

Jen Scrafford – senator535@gmail.com 2020

  Ann Nassoura – anassoura@comcast.net 2021

Stewardship Committee

Doug Scamman – sdscamman@comcast.net 2019

  Marny Keith – marnyguatemala@gmail.com 2020

Cyndi McCleary – cyndi4@comcast.net 2020

  Drew VanDerslice - andrew@vanderslice.com 2021

Nominating Committee +

 Bob Butcher Moderator  

Dave Brownell Chair of Trustees  

Senior Deacon  

Delegates to Rockingham UCC Conference +

  Bonnie Bunton - notnub@comcast.net 2019

  John Bunton - Johnsbunton@gmail.com 2019

Dave Timmerman – dacartim@hotmail.com 2020

Historical Committee

John Goodrich – jwpg1@aol.com 2021

 Chair Lucy Cushman - lc24tyler@comcast.net 2022

Dave Brownell - dpb44@comcast.net 2022

  Douglas Scamman - sdscamman@comcast.net 2022

Women's Guild

Joan Gough - jlgteach@gmail.com  

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Church Suppers

  Liz Chisholm "and Crew"  

Clothes Attic Advisory Board:

Board Co-Chair(s): Dave Timmerman 2023

Mike Carty 2023

Co-Director Operations(s): Joan Gough 2023

Nancy Singleton 2023

Treasurer: Katie Brown 2023

Bobbie Timmerman 2023

Sue Hunter 2023

Liz Chisholm 2023

Joyce Rowe 2023

Ex: Officio(s): Dave Brownell – Chair of Trustees

Jonathan Roach - Pastor

Bob Butcher - Moderator

Stratham Circle Learning Center

Director Christine VanDerslice – Christine@vanderslice.com

Asst. Director Bev David – bevjdavid@gmail.com

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Stewardship Annual Report for 2017

1. Introduction

The Stewardship Committee had an eventful and productive year. Over the last 12 months, the Committee conducted 12 meetings and collaborated over e-mail and phone calls. The Committee consists of Steve Holmes, Drew VanDerslice, Doug Scamman, Marny Keith, and Cyndi McCleary.

1. Spring Challenge

The Committee conducted a Spring Challenge Campaign, called “Fearless Generosity,” it started on April 4 and concluded on May 1. This Challenge raised $29,692.00.

* Annual Campaign

The Committee also conducted the Annual Campaign, “Journey to Generosity,” which resulted in $110,394.00 from 48 pledges.

1. Capital Campaign

The Committee devoted a substantial amount of time and energy to planning the “Candle in the Wind” Capital Campaign. We wrote and published a case statement, worked with the Trustees to set a goal, conducted a silent phase campaign to get us going, and numerous other projects. We will announce our current results and officially start the campaign in a special worship service on February 11th. We hope to see you there.

With sincere regards, Drew

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MUSIC COMMITTEE REPORT FOR THE 2017 ANNUAL REPORT

- We support Sherry, our Minister of Music, as she continues her Seminary Education program as a Member of Discernment sponsored by Stratham Community Church within the Rockingham Association. As a result of Sherry’s busy schedule, we have needed to occasionally tap into our reserves, John Scott and Joan Holmes, for keyboard expertise. We are thankful to both of them for their excellent musical skills. Also, John fills in for rehearsals when Sherry is unable to attend due to her classes.

- Stratham Community Church’s launching of the use of “Worship Design Studio” for the 2017 Lenten and Advent seasons was strongly supported by the music program. It included the use of new instruments, congregational interactive musical experiences, and relevant music selections.

- The choir continues to benefit from Sherry’s attention to vocalization and blending, as well as her time and effort to provide practice CDs for choir anthems. Additionally, a mix of new and familiar anthems were performed.

- In April 2017, the music committee designed, conducted, and analyzed a survey to learn more about the congregation’s preferences for various musical elements that support the SCC worship experience. Examples of questions asked were: What type of music do you prefer? What hymn book do you like better? Should the choir invest in new robes? , Do you like to hear guest musicians?, etc. We received 30 responses through paper surveys and Survey Monkey. This was completed in May 2017.

- During the summer of 2017, the music committee held two special meetings to set up the future search process for a new choir director once Sherry leaves. This plan is in place and ready to go.

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- A Music/Organ Intern proposal was prepared in June 2017 to explore a part-time opportunity under the Director of Music to provide accompaniment (piano, organ, etc.) for church services.

- The Allen Digital organ (MOS-1, System 202) which was purchased in 1978 was evaluated. No problems were found. The organ Owner’s Manual was obtained from the manufacturer and copied for the organist and the church office.

- The Yamaha grand piano in the Sanctuary was evaluated in November. Although some cracks and repairs were noted, nothing major needs to be done immediately. It will be checked after the heating season.

- The music committee continues to explore the possibility of having an organ intern join us through the “Youth Organist Collaborative”. Stratham Community Church may offer study, practice, performance space and other assistance as required. Our contact person is Barb Flocco who is a faculty member of YOC.

- The Music Committee is developing an evaluation template for the Minister of Music position. We will discuss this with the Human Resources Committee the potential use of this rubric for other SCC staff positions.

We would especially like to thank Joan Holmes for her excellent advice, support and contributions to the Music Committee. Her input has been invaluable.

Respectfully Submitted By: Maria Emmanuel, Joan Gough, Bob Kinsman, Pam Kulesza, and Dave Timmerman

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Pastoral Relations Annual Report 2017

It is hard to believe that Pastor Jonathan has only been at our church since last year. It seems like a longer time, a credit to the work that he has done. Jonathan continues to keep our church informed about all of his activities and they are numerous. Our committee continues to support Jonathan in all of his work.

Laura Batchelder finished her term last year and we welcomed Susie Curtis to our committee. My term expires this year having extended my service 1 year to ease the transition of Pastor Jonathan coming into our church. We continue to meet on at least a quarterly basis, for updates on church affairs and any concerns that might arise.

The Pastoral Relations committee participated in the celebration of Esther Roach’s installation in March. Our committee arranged for church members to participate in the event and coordinated some of the service. We are so thankful to have Esther as a member and a chaplain fulfilling her ministry.

On a personal note, it has been my great privilege to serve on this board. We have had a phenomenal group of individuals who have given their time and talents to this committee. It is my greatest desire and prayer that this group, our pastor, and our church continue to prosper in our service to God.

Faithfully,

Bev David (retiring member), Bonnie Bunton, and Susie Curtis

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Historic Committee 2017

Last year our church celebrated its 300th year. In 2017, our committee was faced with the question – what next? We decided to take up Pastor Jonathan’s suggestion or a pre-thanksgiving colonial feast. Recipes from cookbooks on colonial cooking were shared with the congregation. On November 18th we sat down to a meal of venison and pork pies, corn-pudding, corn and apple muffins, and vegetables cooked the “old-fashioned” way followed by colonial era dessert pies. Jonathan and Esther’s venison pies were the hit of the day. We hope to make this feast an annual event.

The day of the feast was also a celebration of the accomplishments of the other committees that work to keep our 1839 building in good repair. The extra care taken to preserve the façade of the building is a statement of the pride we take in our history.

Progress continues on the plaque for the Parish Hall to commemorate the history of that building and its incorporation into our mission.

Lucy Cushman, Doug Scamman and Dave Brownell

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2017 MISSION AND JUSTICE

ANNUAL REPORT

We represent the church in its work with people beyond out walls. Our tradition going coming from both Old and New Testaments is that God is particularly interested in those with less power and less means and His interest is having His people make sure they are not forgotten or shoved out.

To that end we work on particular projects throughout the year that are responsive to people in need beyond our walls.

1. Salvation Army soup kitchen. On the third Saturday of the month, we serve dinner to the homeless at the kitchen. Sometimes it is our members and sometimes it is other members of our congregation. Throughout last year we covered every third Saturday.

2. Blood drive. Bob Butcher has been administering this one his own for about a decade, but this year he asked us for assistance and we supported that work with food and people present and available for the drive itself.

3. Crop Hunger Walk. We are now 35 years into this Walk – raising money for local hunger and for reducing hunger world-wide. HUNGER WORLDWIDE IS COMING DOWN. We are a part of making that happen – raising nearly $21,000 this past year for this work.

4. End 68 Hours of Hunger. This is a one-time per year collection of food for childrens’ back packs, children in our area who don’t have food over the weekend. This food drive was a huge success! We collected the food the last weekend of September and brought it to the packing and distribution center in Exeter. We also have 2 members of our committee who help with packaging of a regular basis.

5. Seacoast Family Promise. We have a continuing offer of back-up assistance to Marny who is our administrator of this ministry.

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6. TASC. Carol Gulla has been on our committee and kept us up to date on the work that program does.

7. One Heart Mission. We keep abreast of the mission trips that come through our church.

It’s a pleasure to work with the fun and dedicated people who are this committee.

Respectfully,

Allan Lurvey

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2017 Property Committee Report

The property committee had an exceptionally busy year. We accomplished many things the biggest being the renovation of the Seacoast Family Promise space for SCLC and a new youth room. This work began in June and was finished up in October a very large project.

Many electrical items were addressed in the church. The wiring for the new Clothes Attic space, new SCLC storage space and the youth room was all accomplished. All the receptacles in the SCLC the two main hallways and the Rust room (70 receptacles) were changed to tamper resistant style. Five new emergency lights were added to our building in areas that were felt to be lacking. A new light was installed in the church office closet. The lights in the Clothes Attic and in the SCLC were upgraded to more energy efficient lightening. A CO2 detector was installed in the boiler room. All this work was accomplished with the help of Dave Rennie who volunteered his time.

We had three yards of sand delivered to the playground, a donation by Knipstien Enterprises. The second-floor hall was prepared and painted. Self-closing hinges were replaced on the door from the Rust room to the hall. A new handrail was installed in the hall going from the Rust room to the exterior of the building. A leaking radiator pipe in the Rust room was repaired.

Emergency lights and exit signs were tested, repaired and or replaced as needed. This is an annual test that needs to be done and was done in house saving the church $1200 that we would have paid a contractor to do.

We look forward to a productive 2018 keeping our building in the best shape possible.

John Bunton

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Publicity Committee Annual Report 2017The Publicity committee had been on hiatus for a couple of years. We formed

a new committee this year, consisting of six members: Katie Brown, Dave Brownell, Kristen Dusseault, Esther Roach, Reverend Jonathan Roach, Ph.D., and Dave Timmerman.

The committee reached out to the church council at the beginning of the year to ask for the publicity needs of the church and committees. An outline and schedule of annual events was created to reference throughout the year.

We created a survey for the congregation using Survey Monkey to determine their communication needs. The survey was accessible online, and a printed version was available in the narthex. Based on the results and comments we received, we decided to suspend the production of the Stratchat newsletter.

Katie took over publicity for our monthly church suppers. Posters are prepared for the church, SCLC, clothes attic, town hall and library. An announcement is sent to local newspapers, and posted on TFTD.

We helped to publicize for the Mission and Justice Committee’s Robert Azzi’s “Ask a Muslim” event.

The visitor and welcome brochures were updated. New packets were made available in the narthex.

The committee worked with Joan Gough and Nancy Singleton to publicize the Clothes Attic Grand Re-opening and 40-year celebration. A press release was sent to the local newspapers and posters were created and distributed around town. We also had on-line advertising at yardsale.com.

We worked with the Women’s Guild to publicize this year’s Holly Fair, including posters, and announcements in local newspapers and TFTD.

Announcements for our Easter and Christmas services were sent to the local newspapers and posted on TFTD.

A press release for the Epiphany service our church hosted on January 7, 2018 was developed to announce the event.

The committee continues to work with the Historical committee on a prototype for a historical sign about the Stratham Community Church to be placed on the church property. It will include the history of the church, as well as pictures taken throughout the years.

Jonathan continues to use Facebook to update our community about historical church facts, news and upcoming events.Respectfully submitted by:Katie Brown, David Brownell, Kristen Dusseault, Esther Roach, Reverend Jonathan Roach, Ph.D., and David Timmerman

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Stratham Circle Learning Center Annual Report 2017

Christine completed her first full year as Director and the transition went very smoothly. The 2016/2017 school year finished in June with a celebration that took place in the Sanctuary.

The Art show, an SCLC fundraise, was successful raising funds for the school. More than ½ of the SCLC parents either attended and/or donated to the school. The staff had one week off at the end of June than returned for summer programing. We had a full summer program with 5 returning teachers working modified hours.

The 2017/18 school year began in late August with the addition of a new classroom. We added a 5 day 3-year-old classroom. We hired a new teacher to teach this new classroom two days of the five days it offered. Currently we have 6 preschool staff, One Assistant Director (who teachers three days a week), One Director (who teachers one day a week) and two afterschool helpers. SCLC services over 55 families and over 65 children on varying days. We currently have 5 classrooms. Two classrooms are offered three days a week and three classrooms are offered 5 days a week. The before care and after care program provides care for 17 friends from SMS ages Kindergarten through 5th grade. The State Licensing Coordinator visited SCLC in January of 2017. We were found to be in good standings with only minor infractions. All of which were dealt with the day of her visit. No other findings or accommodation were necessary.

SCLC believes and supports the missions of the church. Two families receive assistance in tuition due to financial difficulties. One family attends at no charge and the other receives a 90 percent discount. These children would not be able to attend if they did not receive this assistance. SCLC also supports Seacoast Family Promise by moving out of the Honeybee classroom and giving up the nap room on the weeks that the SFP guest are at the church.

SCLC is working towards replacing the back playground as the current set is beginning to age and needs to be replaced. SCLC T-shirts and sweatshirts were sold to kick off the first fundraiser to raise funds for this item.

SCLC continues to connect with families in our community providing them with a safe, nurturing environment for their children to grow.

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Respectfully reported by: Christine VanDerslice

Stratham Community Church (SCC) – Bylaw Amendment January 2018

Establishment of Clothes Attic Advisory Committee:

The Church Council and Board of Trustees recommend to the congregation that an advisory committee be established to coordinate, manage and have oversight of the operations of the Clothes Attic.

The committee is to meet at least quarterly, more if necessary, to review operations, set strategy and oversee the financial conditions of the Clothes Attic. The committee is responsible for submitting monthly contributions to the church through the church treasurer, appointing the Director of the Clothes Attic, and submitting a written annual report to the congregation.

The committee is comprised of a minimum five members, at least three of the committee members shall be members of SCC. Additionally, the Director of the Clothes Attic, the Pastor, the Moderator and a representative of the Trustee Board will be Ex-Offio voting members of the committee. The chair of the committee shall be a member of SCC.

The advisory committee works through the Board of Trustees and will be assigned a budget for the year. The committee shall have a representative on the Board of Trustees and the Church Council.

The members of the committee shall be elected for five (5) year terms and can be reelected for one additional five (5) year term.

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Clothes Attic 2017

The year of 2017 was quite a year for the Clothes Attic team. Starting in May we transformed the space vacated by Seacoast Family Promise into a larger, more attractive and more efficient space for the Clothes Attic operation. Many people volunteered a lot of time, energy and material contributions to make this transformation what it is today. For that we thank all of the volunteers. We eliminated the consignor’s $3.00 contract fee and changed the consignors share of revenue to 50% of sales value. We had the Grand Reopening in the fall and we have been getting very positive feedback from our customers and consignor’s ever since. New volunteers have joined us but we still need more to share the workload and create the opportunity for growth. This is a great place to have a good time with good fellowship amongst the volunteers as well as our consignors and customers. The Clothes Attic is now officially reporting into the Board of Trustees from an administration standpoint.

Financial Summary 2017:

Income: $

Opening Balance Jan 1, 2017 1571.97Sales 22025.12Contracts (4 @ $3 each) 12.00

Fundraising 904.28Total income $24513.37

Expenses:

To consignors/60% 795.48 To consignors/50% 5745.45

Donations to SCC 16163.00Cash on hand

100.00

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Misc. Expenses – Supplies etc 934.00Total expenses $23737.93

Ending Balance Dec 31, 2017 $775.44

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