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Annual Meeting St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
Report for 2016 January 29, 2017
This is my commandment, that you love one another
as I have loved you.
--John 15:12
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Agenda
1. Opening Prayer
2. Reading of the minutes from 2016 Annual Meeting
3. Election of Vestry Members (See bios below)
A. Qualification of Vestry Members: Cannon 24, Sec. 6c. The qualifications for a member of the parish
vestry shall be as follows: A confirmed communicant of the parish in good standing of not less than 18 years of
age, a frequent attendant upon the services of church for the six months preceding the election and a regular
contributor and pledger of record. Provided 1. a husband and wife shall not both be members of the vestry at the
same time; and 2. members of the paid staff (including clergy) of a parish working more than 10 hours a week
and their spouses, shall not be eligible to serve. In case of question as to eligibility, the report of the rector in
consultation with the treasurer shall be final.
The following are nominees for 2014:
B. Those entitled to vote: Canon 24, Sec 4. All worshipers of not less than 16 years of age, being
confirmed communicants and regular contributors of record, or members of family groups who are regular
contributors of record, for the support of the parish, and who shall have been canonically connected with the
parish for 30 days prior to the date of the parish meeting. This provision as to financial support shall not apply
to those communicants who are unable to contribute.
C. Voting closes.
4. Rector’s Remarks
5. Finance Committee Report
6. Stewardship Report
7. Laying the Foundation Team Report
8. St. Peter’s Endowment Fund
9. Discussion
10. Adjourn
Table of Contents
1. Minutes from 2016 Annual Meeting
2. Bio’s of Nominees
3. Written Reports
Teri Daily, Rector
Jerusalem Greer, Minister to Children, Youth & Families
Jane Harris, Senior Warden
Karen McNutt, Jr. Warden
Acolytes, Jerusalem Greer
Adult Choir, Patty Oeste
Adult Forum, Teri Daily
Altar Guild, Dinah Reed
Bethlehem House Meals, Tracy Simpson
Bible Study, Joe Arn
Brotherhood of St. Andrew, Joe Arn
Brown Bag Book Study, Linda Brown
Card Ministry, Donna Hutchinson and Mary Ferguson
Casserole Ministry, Pansy Westrich
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Community of Hope, Peggy Cromwell
Christmas Dinners, Teri Daily
Church Women United, Dee Sanders
College Dinner Ministry, Peggy Cromwell
Contemplative Quaker Fellowship, Amanda Moore
Daughters of the King, Pam Holt
Education for Ministry, Jane Harris
Episcopal Church Women, Marilyn Rishkofski
Eucharistic Ministers, Jerusalem Greer
Eucharistic Visitors, Rita MacKintosh
The Fledgling Writing Group, Liz Larson
Food Pantry, Christy Jones
Foyers, Dee & Bob Sanders
Guatemalan Mission Trip, Marianne Smith Black
Handbell Choir, Patty Oeste
Library, Sarah Bryan and Mary Ferguson
Little Free Library, Jerusalem Greer
Men’s Group, Jerry Adams
Morgan House, Jerusalem Greer
Newcomers Ministry, Jerusalem Greer
Servant Leadership, Carolyn Scott
Theology Coffeehouse, Sam Buchanan
Total Ministry Teams, Jerusalem Greer
Verger’s Report, Mike Moses
Website, Media, and Church Office, John Churchwell
Wedding Coordinator, Donna Hutchinson
The Wisdom House Project, Brett Hardison
Financial Report to be distributed at Annual Meeting.
St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
Minutes of the Annual Meeting
January 24, 2016
The annual meeting commenced at 4:15pm with an opening prayer given by the Reverend Teri Daily.
Over fifty members attended the annual meeting. Attendees included Teri Daily, Jerusalem Greer, Sylvia
Walker, Warren Readnour, Karen McNutt, Jane Harris, Dan Allen, Jerry Adams, Eric Hutchinson, John
Vanderslice, John Shute, Jay Ruud, Liz Larson, Kelley King, Mike King, John Phillips, Christy Garret-Jones,
Sam Buchanan, Leigh Ann Warriner, Dee Sanders, Mary Ferguson, Ashley Groves, Dinah Reed, Joe Arn,
Donna Hutchinson, Nita Brown, and Ann Drake.
A motion was made by Kelley King to accept the minutes from the 2015 annual meeting and to dispense with
the reading of the minutes, which can be found in the annual report. Second by Karen McNutt. All approved.
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The election of vestry members: John Phillips, Christy Garret-Jones and Sam Buchanan were elected to the
vestry. The bios of these new members are included in the annual report. The Rector appointed Jane Harris
Senior Warden, and Karen McNutt Junior Warden. Jerry Adams will serve the last year of Kelley King’s term,
and Kelley will serve as Secretary of the Vestry. Mike King is the new bookkeeper, and Leroy Hendricks will
continue as Treasurer. Teri thanked the off-going Vestry members – Sylvia Walker, Warren Readnour, and
Scotty Bell.
The written reports from ministry team leaders and the rector’s remarks are included in the annual report.
Members of the parish offered thanksgiving for how the Holy Spirit is moving among us in the various
ministries including Thanksgiving Baskets, the Newcomer’s Breakfasts, Food Pantry, our volunteers, Theology
Coffee Group, Men’s Breakfast, and the Brotherhood of St Andrews, to name just a few ministries.
John Shute presented Finance Committee Reports for 2015, which included the balance sheet, the statement of
profit and loss, and capital campaign review. A motion was made by Dan Allen to accept these reports. Second
by Jay Ruud. All approved.
The stewardship report was presented by Warren Readnour (report included).
The Bridge Team report was presented by John Vanderslice (report included).
The Endowment Fund report was given by Eric Hutchinson (report included).
A motion was made to adjourn by Warren Readnour. Second by John Phillips.
Meeting adjourned at 5:45 pm.
2017 Vestry Nominations
*Marilyn Larson
Describe your current involvement (past 5 yrs.) at St. Peter’s. 1. Chaired the Foyers Dinner Group, organization/participation
2. Completed the 4 yr EfM Sewanee theological Program
3. Trained/Mentored EfM Program, served as a Mentor "sub"
4. Support and Receptions for our LGBTQ Community
5. Singing with the Christmas Cantata for four year.
6. Dream Circle
7. Second Sunday Service Team
What elected or appointed positions have you held in the church? 1. Eucharistic Minister
2. Eucharistic Visitor
3. Lector, Oblationer, Usher, Greeter
4. Candidate-Retired, Deaconate
5. October Children's Services
6. UN Earth Charter as St. Peter's Representative to D.C.
7. Elected to take Labyrinth Leadership Training
How do you understand your faith being lived out in your daily life?
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In my fresh "salad days" I believed ALL, i.e. family, teaching, faith, as a "job" that I (we) did 24/7, a
repeated daily experience with some elaborations here and there often to tease life within the job.
I reached an age when the ALL became a "career", more thoughtfully engaged, more reflective on how
there came to be a centered loving engagement in my world of family; teaching and administrative
work; and faith. A sense of nurturing connections evolving was coming forth.
And there came a time in my 50's when the lens through which I began to view the world, and continue
to do so, became a "ministry." I felt transformative "bigness" enfolding inclusiveness and non-duality,
uplifting "All-that-is" i.e. the connectivity of experiencing this "God Spark" in all sentient beings:
individuals, families, communities of peoples, animals, plants, earth, our Earth home as a "ONENESS."
My leadership style as teacher and administrator has reached out to the "God Spark" in others. A quote
from Lao Tzu comes to mind......."A leader is best when people barely know she exists, when her work
is done and aim fulfilled, they will say, ‘We did it ourselves.’”
My faith lives out now in daily life in the comfort of Julian of Norwich: "All shall be well, and all
SHALL be well, and all manner of things shall be well........."
If you work outside the home, please describe what you do.
Educator Emeritus of 40 years:
1. Teacher in Indiana, Ohio, Arkansas.
2. Conway District Administrator, Director of Gifted Education/Advanced Placement
3. Arkansas Governor's Advisory Council for Gifted Education-6 yrs, 5 of those Chairperson
Age: 74
How long have you been an Episcopalian? 21 years
When were you confirmed? 1996
Where were you confirmed? St. Peter's
How long have you been a member of St. Peter’s? 21 years
Have you ever served on a Vestry previously? No
*Chris Odom
Describe your current involvement (past 5 yrs.) at St. Peter’s Choir and handbell choir member
Secretary of the Finance Committee
Courtyard Committee
2012 Capital Campaign Committee
What elected or appointed positions have you held in the church? Vestry Member
Secretary of the Finance Committee
How do you understand your faith being lived out in your daily life?
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While I may not consciously invoke my faith every day, I know that it undoubtedly shapes the way I
handle situations, decisions, and relationships. I do my best to find joy in life, greet others with a smile
whenever possible, and use my talents for a bigger cause/reason.
If you work outside the home, please describe what you do. For 14 years, I’ve worked for Conway Corporation and am currently a member of the Executive Staff
and serve as the Manager of Voice Services.
Age: 42
How long have you been an Episcopalian? 42
When were you confirmed? 1986
Where were you confirmed? Grace Episcopal Church, Muskogee, Oklahoma
How long have you been a member of St. Peter’s? 10 years
Have you ever served on a Vestry previously? Yes
*Tracy Simpson Describe your current involvement (past 5 yrs.) at St. Peter’s.
I typically attend our 9am services and participate in the first and fourth Sunday ministry teams. I
organize our parish’s monthly meals for Bethlehem House. In recent years, I have served on a
discernment for ministry committee and the search committee for the Minister to Youth, Children, and
Families. Prior to these activities, I facilitated a Sunday school class for our junior and senior high
school youth.
What elected or appointed positions have you held in the church? None.
How do you understand your faith being lived out in your daily life
Day in and day out I attempt to recognize God in all His creation. That is what I pray to do – to seek and
see Him so that I will respond to others with love.
If you work outside the home, please describe what you do. For the last 25 years I have worked for Acxiom in a variety of roles in both product development and
delivery. I’m now transitioning into a Service Readiness role as liaison between the two groups.
Age: 48
How long have you been an Episcopalian? I have been an Episcopalian since birth. My dad and his siblings grew up attending St. Peter’s, as did I
until my early teen years.
When were you confirmed? In 1978 or 1979.
Where were you confirmed? I was confirmed at St. Peter’s by Bishop Christoph Keller, Jr.
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How long have you been a member of St. Peter’s? After my time away at Baylor University I returned to St. Peter’s in the mid-1990s. My husband Scott
and I were married by Greg Rickel in 1998 at Camp Mitchell. While living in Little Rock we attended
Trinity Episcopal, where our son Walker was baptized. We moved back to Conway and St. Peter’s in
2003 where our son Wade was baptized in 2006.
Have you ever served on a Vestry previously? No, I have not.
Written Reports
The Rev. Teri Daily, Rector
Dear St. Peter’s,
The past year has seen the continuance of so many St. Peter’s ministries. Please take the time to look through
the pages of this report to see the number and variety of spiritual formation, worship, fellowship, pastoral care,
and outreach ministries that occur each year at St. Peter’s. The work that the people of St. Peter’s do and the
love with which you do it is itself a proclamation of the gospel. And for that, I am so grateful.
At our vestry retreat this fall, the vestry and I both felt that this coming year is a year to “go deeper” with our
current ministries instead of beginning many new ministries. (Having said that, we all know that sometimes
God has different plans for us than the plans we have for ourselves! So there’s always a bit of openness here…)
In order to avoid burnout for those who give so much of their time, as well as to avoid resources being spread
too thin to do ministry well, this seems to be a year to make our current ministries stronger and more
sustainable.
It is, I believe, a year to go deeper also in our own faith journey – to understand why and how our lives and
ministries are connected to what it means to follow the way of Jesus, to explore more fully just what this way of
Jesus really is. In the coming year, you will hear me talk frequently of servanthood and discipleship. You will
hear me ask each person to give one hour a week to the work of St. Peter’s, this place we love so much.
And, of course, in the meantime we will continue to do those things that are crucial to our faith. Last year we
celebrated three baptisms – Abraham James Glenn Baxter, Lily Amelia Killingsworth, and Alan Scott Bell.
Four people from our community died and began the next phase of their journey in God – Bob Chappell,
Melody Purdy, Peggy Hays, and John Schenck. We celebrated four marriages and blessings of marriages –
Paul McCowan and Eric Jones, Brett Hardison and Brandon Dietz, Melanie and Chrissy Cavender, Courtney
Collins and Josh Terry. At the bishop’s visit in October, eight people were confirmed, nine people were
received, and one person reaffirmed their baptismal vows.
As always, I have so many people to thank this year. I am grateful for Peggy Cromwell who began her diaconal
ministry at St. Peter’s in August. Her energy, preaching, presence in worship, and collegiality is a gift. I am
grateful for Patty, who continues to enliven our worship week after week; for Jerusalem, whose creativity and
devotion to our children makes St. Peter’s a better place; for John Churchwell, whose presence in the office is
joyful and caring; for Mike, who took over as bookkeeper earlier this year and works long hours when
necessary to provide the information we need to make wise decisions; and for Tammy, who comes in at
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awkward hours to get our building ready for the next event. I thank Tom and Karen McNutt for painting our
parish hall. What a world a difference a fresh coat of paint in a warm color makes – it is so welcoming! I thank
Pansy Westrich for the care she provides to so many in this congregation and for organizing others to do the
same. And my very, very deep gratitude to Mike Moses, whose job as verger extends from welcoming a
newcomer, to taking care of a fussy baby, to getting us all where we need to be at the right time, to using his
mad decorating skills, to preparing the columbarium for a burial. I often wonder what we did before we had a
verger!
The vestry of St. Peter’s is a devoted group of people who work hard to provide thoughtful and wise leadership
for the church. I am thankful for Jane, who has been our senior warden this past year; her wisdom, support,
support, and friendship has meant so much. I am grateful to Karen McNutt, who deserves a badge of honor for
serving two consecutive years as junior warden. Many thanks also to our outgoing vestry members (Liz Larson,
Jay Ruud, and Jerry Adams) for their commitment and diligence, as well to the vestry members who continue
their terms into 2017. Sylvia and Dale Walker have both served on vestries in the past, as well as in other areas
of church life that are too numerous to count. They leave St. Peter’s this month to move to Texas to be closer to
family; we will miss them so much!
Finally, I want to thank you all for your patience and care during my medical leave in December. We have
never eaten so well! I read every single card with love, and I felt the prayers. I continue to give thanks every
day for the people of St. Peter’s.
Faithfully,
Teri
Jerusalem Greer, Minister to Youth & Families Family Ministry at St. Peter’s is not just for those families with small children or teenagers, it is for everyone
who is part of the St. Peter’s family, regardless of age or relationship status or household number. While a large
portion of what I work on is specifically aimed at youth and children and their families, the overall goal is to
minister to the St. Peter’s family as a whole. To reach this goal, Family Ministry seeks to provide opportunities
for connection between all parish members and friends, giving comfort and support where needed, helping with
community outreach and spiritual formation when needed.
Family Formation
Where we are: Family Formation hour, which is our spiritual formation classes for children ages 4 and up, and
their parents (we split the ages up mid-class) returned this fall. For this class we use the WHIRL Curriculum
from Augsburg Press, which ties into our lectionary readings during Sunday’s services. We meet between
10:00-10:50 on Sunday mornings, and have been averaging between 8-10 children each week.
EYC
Where we are: The EYC (Episcopal Youth Community) program continues to grow. We gather on Wednesday
nights, increasing our time together by an additional thirty minutes, meeting from 5:00-7:00 PM for dinner
(generously provided by EYC parents and parishioners), games, reflections, group projects and evening prayer
in the Parish Hall and the “new” EYC room off the courtyard. On average we have about 25 youth at each
gathering. We have two college interns who work on Wednesday nights and have been a huge gift to the youth
and myself. We have had guest speakers, served on Turkey Basket Day, made Christmas cards 200 lbs of rice
for the Food Pantry. In addition to our Wednesday night meetings we have also had a Back-2-School Bash,
went Yurting, hosted Trunk-or-Treat, and went bowling, and had a Holiday Party at the Greer’s Farm. We have
also sent youth to Camp Mitchell for Summer Camp, Winterstar, and AYE. The best part of 2016 for a lot of
our youth was our EYC Café on the 3rd
Saturday morning of each month, where we served our Food Pantry
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Clients a homemade hot plate breakfast. This project was a huge success and we can’t wait to do it again this
year! The youth also sold t-shirts to raise money for Camp Scholarships, and participated in a Youth Serve Day
during the Summer Break.
EKC
EKC (Episcopal Kids Community) is the newest addition to our Wednesday Nights. This is a class for kids in
Pre-K through 3rd Grade. We use the Holy Moly curriculum for this age group. This is a program that I am
hoping to expand and grow over the next year.
Family Ministry Team
Where we are: Last fall Jeff and Kristina Ward generously took over the leadership of the Family Ministry
Team, which is the ministry team for the first Sunday in each month. Through this opportunity, kids of all ages
and their parents have had the unique chance to experience, learn, celebrate, and take ownership of almost every
portion of the worship service. We have youth (and their parents, or grandparents, when needed) serve as
lectors, oblationers, ushers, and greeters for each of the three services.
Where are headed: This great team continues to grow, and I am grateful for all Jeff and Kristina have done for
this ministry.
Childcare
Where we are: We currently have four permanent Sunday morning and two Wednesday evenings paid workers
for child care. We have two workers in the preschool rooms and two in the baby nursery.
Where we are headed: St. Peter’s is growing and so are our young families, and we always need additional
volunteers for both the babies and preschool classrooms to assist our workers.
In addition to these regular programs, this year's Family Ministry Events and Programs have also included:
Graduation Sunday
Summer Movie Outings
Blessing of the Backpacks
Rally Day
Harvest Family Feast in September
Family Feast and Advent Event in November
Christmas Pageant
Youth Orchestra
Youth Confirmation Classes
I want to thank the following people for their service to Families Ministries and to me over the past few months
- Rev. Teri Daily for her leadership, encouragement and support, John Churchwell and Mike King for helping
me with daily office life and solving countless conundrums. Huge thanks to Verger Mike Moses for helping me
with a never endling list of projects and events. Thanks to the Hutchinsons for providing dinner for the Back-to-
School Bash, the Men’s Group, DOK and the Writing Group for their help with Trunk-or-Treat, and the Vestry
for their support, service, and wisdom at every turn. Thanks also to our childcare team – Caisa Doyle, Emily
Harris, Annika Warrick and, Zay Davis, and all our nursery volunteers for their kindness and dedication to our
children, and to Katie Larson and Charlie McCracken for their service to EYC.
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Jane Harris, Senior Warden
I have been honored to serve as the senior warden of St. Peter’s vestry during 2016. We have experienced a
number of changes this past year. After the retirement of our former deacon, Merry Helen Hedges, we
welcomed our deacon Peggy Cromwell, who has brought her gifts to our worship and to leadership of our
college ministry. With the hiring of John Churchwell as parish administrator, he has brought wonderful energy
to the office at St. Peter’s and skill in managing our facilities and our technology. Christy Garrett-Jones, John
Phillips, and Sam Buchanan joined the vestry in 2016 and added their wisdom, gifts, and insight to our work, as
they continued their various ministries within the St. Peter’s community and beyond.
One of the joys of serving as senior warden has been the opportunity to meet regularly with our rector Teri
Daily to think together about the life of our congregation and to dream and pray about our ministries and a
vision for our role in God’s work here in Central Arkansas and even to the ends of the earth, in particular in
Syria and Guatemala. When Teri was away on medical leave, I certainly felt her absence and was moved by the
response of the entire congregation both to care for Teri and her family during that time and to make sure that
the ministries of St. Peter’s continued to receive the commitment and support that would sustain them. I shared
with all of us the joy of Teri’s return to the pulpit and to her pastoral role among us. We are blessed beyond
measure by her leadership.
The vestry’s work this year, beyond our regular month meetings and responsibilities each Sunday, included two
distinctive opportunities for service. We participated in a one-day retreat on October 22nd
, where we shared in
discussions of our role as God’s servants, reflecting upon both the challenges and the spiritual growth that come
when we open ourselves to servanthood. We also celebrated my birthday that Saturday, which I shall always
cherish as a very special birthday. The vestry assumed leadership in the stewardship emphasis in 2016 by
leading discussions of the book Defying Gravity, which focused our attention upon the ways in which our
culture and our internal resistances may block our understanding of and practice of stewardship as a spiritual
discipline that can deepen our relationship with God, one another, and the whole creation.
After three years of service on the vestry, Liz Larson, Jay Ruud, and Jerry Adams will rotate off the vestry after
the annual meeting, and we will dedicate three new vestry members on February 5th
. The work of this body will
continue to advise, support, and encourage our rector, as we all seek to be responsible stewards of the
ministries, resources, and opportunities that God places before us in 2017. I look forward to my last year of
service as a member of the vestry of St. Peter’s Episcopal Church and am grateful for the confidence and
privilege entrusted to me in 2016 as the senior warden.
Submitted by Jane Harris
January 19, 2017
Karen McNutt, Junior Warden Report 2016 was a busy year but at the same time a good year for our facilities. Below is a snapshot of the projects that
have been completed or in progress:
Completed:
Parish Hall walls repaired and painted
“Cloudy” window in sanctuary and Teri’s office repaired
Roof repairs completed
Exterior signs refurbished
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Half fence on Mitchell Street removed
Raccoon roundup and repairs to the Morgan House
June workday was held
Recommendations for a 12 month maintenance plan submitted to the finance committee
Under Discussion:
Repair and refurbish fence and wooden playground equipment.
Drainage in the Courtyard Area
Freshen the paint on the Parish Hall ceiling
Many thanks to all who have helped with these projects, and a special thanks to Tom McNutt, Dale Walker, Ric
Readnour, and Mike King for their willingness to serve on the Facilities Committee (and for the countless
repairs you’ve voluntarily taken on!). Also, many thanks to John Churchwell for his willingness to make calls,
invaluable research and recommendations, and act as the point of contact for our service vendors.
2016 Ministry Reports
Acolytes Our Acolyte Ministry is going well again this year. We currently have 16 Acolytes. This ministry is in constant
flux due to do the fact that kids grow up (the audacity!) and new Acolytes – OF ANY AGE - are always
welcome to join the team. An Acolyte party is being planned for the spring. To volunteer please contact
Jerusalem or Verger Mike.
Jerusalem Greer
Adult Choir The Adult Choir meets every Sunday morning at 10:00 to rehearse for the many upcoming musical
contributions to our worship. In a year, we sing approximately 40 anthems, including music for special
services. It is always a wonderful thing to have new challenges and the choir is grateful for the support of the
members of St. Peter’s.
Patty Oeste
Adult Forum Adult Forum continues to meet with a wonderful array of speakers and teachers. Please join this group
whenever you are able; we welcome all. This year’s team of Adult Forum planners include Kev Mequet, Judy
Helm, and Rita MacKintosh.
Altar Guild St. Peter’s Altar Guild is a group of wonderfully dedicated and capable men and women of our congregation
who prepare the altar of the church and chapel for all worship services. Members are divided into 4 teams,
serving for a month at a time, 3 times a year. Three of our members, Donna Hutchinson, Dee Sanders, and
Genie Davis also serve as Wedding Coordinators. Our teams diligently continue to be responsible for
maintaining supplies of wine and bread, clean linens and vestments, polishing silver and brass, filling candles,
arranging for flowers and setting up the altar, credence table, and all else needed to complete preparation for
worship services, including weddings, memorial services, and funerals. Recruiting and training new Altar
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Guild members is also an important part of being on Altar Guild. All are invited to join this important ministry
by contacting the church office, Dinah Reed ([email protected]) or any current member.
Although the Altar Guild provides some flowers, the people of St. Peter’s have, and continue to be very
generous in providing flowers, and are encouraged to continue to do so. We try to make extended use of
flowers by frequently taking them to parishioners who are ill or unable to get to church. A sign-up sheet for
donating flowers on specific Sundays is posted on the bulletin board in the lobby. The Altar Guild is funded
through the operating budget of St. Peter’s and specific donations by parishioners, i.e. the donation of linens and
vessels, Communion wine, etc. Memorials by the congregation to replenish linens, vestments, etc., are
appreciated and encouraged.
Dinah Reed, Altar Guild Director
Bethlehem House Meals On the first Tuesday of every month, two teams of St. Peter’s parishioners take turns providing evening meals
to Bethlehem House residents and other guests. The Traditional team members each deliver a portion of the
meal to Bethlehem House. The Hands-On team meets the weekend before the first Tuesday, bringing
ingredients to prepare the meal in the Bethlehem House kitchen together. Annually, St. Peter’s provides over
700 meals through this ministry.
Tracy Simpson
Bible Study Monday Afternoon and Thursday Evening Bible Study participants completed their discussion of The Gospel of
Mark and started their study of Matthew. Discussions are interactive with participants reading scripture, asking
questions, and formulating suggestions how the scripture applies to them. Average attendance for Monday is
ten and Thursday is six. Monday study meets in the library, and the Thursday night group meets at the Morgan
House. Both study groups are designed for participants to start at any time.
Joe Arn
Brotherhood of St. Andrew Brotherhood of St. Andrew meets the third Monday of each month. The meeting consists of prayer, study, and
service. There are nine active Brothers. The Brotherhood started and continues to facilitate the Morning Prayer
Service on Tuesday and Thursday mornings. The Brothers in cooperation with the Daughters of the King
conduced the noon prayer services during Advent and Lent. The Brotherhood sponsored a "trunk" at the
Church Halloween activities and sponsored the No Shave November initiative for men's health.
Joe Arn
Brown Bag Book Study In 2016, a small committee gathered to discuss a possible Senior Ministry formation at St. Peter’s. After
several meetings, the decision was made to start with a book study for those of us who are looking at the second
half of life. What we discovered is that the term, ‘second half of life’ is relative and can apply to any age. The
group has been highly successful and now is reading and discussing our fourth book. Discussion is lively,
honest, and probing. Each session has assigned reading and is led by one of the participants with everyone
helping them do the job. We always welcome new participants.
The books read to date are:
Toward Holy Ground: Spiritual Direction for the Second Half of Life, by Margaret Guenther
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Falling Upward, by Richard Rohr
Learning to Walk in the Dark, by Barbara Brown Taylor
Divine Dance, by Richard Rohr (currently reading)
Dr. Linda Brown,
Diaconate Intern
Card Ministry Mary Ferguson continues to coordinate our team of 13 dedicated and happy volunteers, two who joined
us in 2016.
CARDS SENT BY THE CARD MINISTRY IN 2016
Congratulations 38
Marriage 3
New Baby 6
Confirmation 13
Graduation 10
Misc 6
Encouragement 6
Get Well 8
Sympathy 20
TOTAL 72
The Card Ministry works in conjunction with Cares and Concerns but will also gladly receive direct information
or requests for a card to be sent to someone in the community. Requests may also be made through Cares and
Concerns or the church office. To volunteer or request a card be sent, you may reach Mary Ferguson at
[email protected] or 505-8766 or Donna Hutchinson at [email protected] or 501-269-1664.
Respectfully Submitted,
Mary Ferguson and Donna Hutchinson
Casserole Ministry Since September, a group of 31 women make casseroles for the freezer. These are used for those who are sick,
had surgery, lost a loved one, or simply are identified by the ministry staff as having a need. Casseroles vary in
size for different size families, and vegetarian casseroles are available. An average of 10 casseroles are used
monthly.
Pansy Westrich
Community of Hope "In short, Community of Hope International equips lay people to serve in all forms of pastoral care. Pastoral
care is when a person is being ‘present’ in a listening, compassionate, non-controlling manner to an individual
or group for the purpose of consciously or unconsciously representing God to them and seeking to respond to
their spiritual needs. Through ongoing, spiritual formation and practical lessons on care giving, members learn
to match theological insights and spiritual practices with their experiences of ministering to others and giving
spiritual guidance." (COHI website)
Here at St Peter's, our Community of Hope folks visit parishioners who are otherwise unable to participate fully
in the life of the congregation. They are ready and willing to provide pastoral care whenever needed.
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Christmas Dinners Beth Brady has headed up our Christmas Meals faithfully for several years, and she is now ready to hand this
ministry on to others. We did not deliver meals to people on Christmas Day this year, but we hope to resume
this ministry in 2017. If you are willing to help coordinate the efforts of this ministry, please contact Teri Daily.
Teri Daily
College Dinners The College Dinner program provides a meal for college students on ten Tuesday evenings per semester in the
Parish Hall. We have 4 interns who plan, shop, and prepare the meal each week. Vegetarian and gluten-free
options are always available. In the fall semester of 2016, an average of 30 students came to dinner each week.
St Peter's congregation provides the final meal each semester as a way to say "Thank you" to the interns for
their hard work during the term.
Peggy Cromwell
Contemplative Quaker Fellowship Contemplative Quaker Fellowship (CQF), a silent worship service with a Quaker-Episcopal spirit, has been
meeting weekly on Sundays (7:00-8:00 pm) since September 8, 2013. This service has a short reading followed
by silence as participants discern God’s inward guiding presence within a compassionate, contemplative
community.
Attendance has ranged from four to ten participants with an average participation rate of five.
CQF participants seek to live four interrelated Quaker testimonies:
Equality: To recognize that of God in each person and foster the flowering of divinity in all.
Integrity: To be truly in harmony with oneself and live from one’s deepest authentic self.
Peace: To seek to resolve internal and external conflict and to live intentionally with compassion towards
oneself and others.
Simplicity: To live simply, joyfully, and true to one’s “Inner Guide.”
Respectfully submitted by Amanda Moore
Daughters of the King The Order of Daughters of the King is a lay order for women who are communicants of the Episcopal Church.
The Order's purpose is to bring others into a living, loving relationship with Jesus, Our Lord and Savior and
to help strengthen the spiritual life of our parishes and missions. The requirements for membership in The Order
are that a woman be a communicant in the Episcopal Church, be willing to participate in a period of
discernment and to accept The Rule of Life.
The Imogene Chapter celebrated its 5th birthday in June with the installation of 3 new members. We currently
have 23 members. The Rev. Teri Daily in our Chapter Chaplain. The chapter meets monthly with varying
activities, including speakers on varying subjects, book studies and service projects [ including the prayer shawl
ministry, the casserole ministry, prayer ministry and others]. In 2016 we led noonday Lenten prayers/Stations
of the Cross in conjunction with the members of The Brotherhood of St. Andrew. We also began the formation
of the first Junior DOK Chapter in the state. One of our members, Dinah Reed is currently president of the
Arkansas diocese DOK. Any St Peter's woman who is interested in knowing more about how to join The Order
is encouraged to talk to any current Imogene chapter member.
Pam Holt
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Education for Ministry Education for Ministry (EFM) is a program of theological education for laity, created and administered by the
School of Theology at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. Under the leadership of Nita Brown
and Marilyn Larson, more than a dozen members of St. Peter’s participated in the EFM program from January-
May 2016. Nancy Thompson completed the four- year curriculum and became a graduate of EFM in May 2016
and was recognized by the congregation for her commitment to theological education when she received her
certificate from the School of Theology at Sewanee during a worship service. In September 2016, fourteen
persons began or continued their studies. Nita Brown provided leadership in organizing and administering the
program in the fall of 2016.
On Monday afternoons from September 2016 until May 2017, Emily Madden and Kathryn Spinks lead the
following persons in their studies of scripture, theology, and church history. The third year students focus on
the history of Christianity and include the following members: Beth Brady, Tanya Buchanan, Catherine
Fortney, Pam Holt, Gloria Parker, Lillian Petrucelli, Dinah Reed, and Danny Reed. The fourth year students;
Emily Madden, Dee Sanders, and Kathryn Spinks; will complete their studies this year as they concentrate upon
the study of Christian theology.
A smaller group of EFM students has met since September on Tuesday evenings with Jane Harris as the EFM
mentor. Melanie Cavender has begun the first year of study with a focus on the Old Testament. Joe Arn and
Dave Barlow are studying church history using the third year’s curriculum. Dan Allen will complete EFM this
year with the study of Christian theology.
An integral part of the EFM program is the process of theological reflection. As students and mentors,
participants in EFM take what we learn in our individual studies and apply new insight and awareness to God’s
presence and work in our daily lives. Through theological reflection, we become more aware of the spiritual
depths of the ordinary events and moments in our lives.
Worship and fellowship also contribute to the richness of the EFM experience. The group members get to
know each other well as we worship, share, and learn together. While EFM is definitely intellectually
stimulating, the opportunity for community building and personal spiritual growth make this program uniquely
enriching in the life of our church. For some participants, EFM begins a process of discernment about their
ministries.
A new community of EFM participants will be organized in September 2017. Any of the participants and
mentors would welcome your questions about this program of theological education for laity.
Submitted by Jane Harris
January 19, 2017
Episcopal Church Women Episcopal Church Women (ECW) was introduced to the parish at the 2016 ministry fair. Women of St. Peter’s
had the opportunity to ask questions of ECW members to understand more fully the vision of the organization
as it moves forward. Just for fun, several women traveled to the Arkansas Art Museum to enjoy a tour of the
exhibits led by Museum Docent Joseph Arn. To become better acquainted with each other, women gathered at
the Morgan House in November to share stories, enjoy fun filled activities and taste delicious food. ECW is off
to a great start at St. Peter’s with many events planned to continue our mission of building relationships among
all women of St. Peter’s.
Marilyn Rishkofski
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Eucharistic Ministers Our Eucharistic Ministers ministry grew again this year. Currently we have 22 EM’s serving. We have
Eucharistic Ministers serving at all three Sunday morning services and on Wednesday nights. EM’s also serve
at funerals and weddings as needed. Mike Moses continues to do a great job serving as Verger. If anyone is
interested in becoming an EM please contact Teri, Jerusalem, or Mike.
Jerusalem Greer
Eucharistic Visitors At present we have eight EV ministers:
Dan Allen, Cody Blackmon , Tanya Buchanan, Catherine Fortney, Rita Mackintosh, Elizabeth Walters, Erin
Weindorf , Deana Weindorf .
We have a list of 6 people we regularly visit, with occasional visits to persons that are temporarily in need of
visit.
Total visits for 2016 = 160
Rita Mackintosh
The Fledgling Writing Group The Fledglings Writers Group continues into its fourth year. We are an “open to all” writing workshop. No
matter your experience in creative writing, we welcome you. Our group meets on Wednesday nights, 5:30pm to
7:00pm in the church library. We discuss the work we are doing, share our writing in group and use all kinds of
writing prompts during meeting time to make the stories, the poems, and the hybrid whatnots. Our numbers
range in size from 9-16 people, depending on time of year and personal schedules. Please contact Liz Larson
for any information at: [email protected].
Liz Larson
Food Pantry
Returning New Total
Households 1744 315 2059
Adults 65+ 634 34 668
Adults 18-64 2978 512 3490
Children 0-17 1919 281 2200
The number of families we served in 2016 in comparison to 2015 decreased by 49 and the total number of
people we served in 2016 decreased by 257. It looks like this is a pattern we have continued for a couple of
years now. Each year the number of people we serve decreases a little more. This is a positive thing because it
lets us know that our clients continue to be able to provide for themselves with less assistance. As in years past,
I have to thank all of our wonderful volunteers. Without their time and the generation donations given, we
would not have been able to serve the 6,358 pantry clients who needed us in 2016.
Balance as of 12/31/15 $ 3,035.44 ($400.00 added to 2015 beginning balance)
Income as of 12/31/16 $16,427.61
Total $19,463.05
Expenses as of 12/31/16 (16,156.35)
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Net balance as of 12/31/16 $ 3,306.70
Primary Food Expenses:
Purchases Pounds of food Cost/Pound
Arkansas Food Bank ($7,268.30) 15,387 $.47
Price Cutter/WNM ($7,382.89) 12,608 $.58
Conway Locally Grown
St. Peter’s parishioners and others in the community donated $1,848 through Conway Locally Grown to be used
for purchases for the food pantry. The majority of purchases for the pantry consist of fresh eggs, vegetables,
fruit and laundry detergent.
Volunteers & Board Members
Current active board members are Christy Jones, Sylvia Walker, Pam Neuhofel, and Norma Smothers
Our volunteers are what keep the pantry doors open. Without them, the food pantry would not operate as
efficiently and effectively as it does. Thank you to all of the volunteers and board members who give their time
to keep the pantry doors open each Saturday, pick up food from AFB and local grocery stores, and work so
diligently on the fundraisers throughout the year.
Summary of significant events
May
$1,740 raised at the rummage sale through sales of items donated by parishioners
November
Successfully completed another Thanksgiving meal project
Offered 150 meals to food pantry clients, ILS, CASA, Hendrix, and St. Peter’s parishioners
Received $6,070 in monetary donations from St. Peter’s Parishioners, Hendrix College and 1st Presbyterian
Church
Received substantial food donations from 1st Presbyterian Church and Hendrix College
Had over 30 volunteers – youth and adults – help with handing out the Thanksgiving boxes
Rollover amount of $3,770.89 from 2015 reported in November of 2016
2016 ending balance of $6,911.67 will be held in the Thanksgiving project account and will be disbursed as
needed to the food pantry in 2017
December
Received over 1000 cans of food from the Faulkner County Library food drive
If you have questions or concerns, please contact me at 501-472-9249 or [email protected].
Thank you,
Christy Garrett-Jones
Foyers Foyers began again this year in September. We had 20 people sign up so we were able to form two Foyers
groups. The groups will decide among themselves, but it is expected that they will meet through May.
Dee and Bob Sanders
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Guatemala Mission Projects An enthusiastic group of 25 participants went to Guatemala in early April 2016. The trip membership consisted
of team members from St. Peter’s and St. Mark’s in Little Rock. A number of the participants are not affiliated
with any specific church, but are interested in the project via their work at Conway Regional Medical Center.
Again we were able, through the efforts of Conway physician Doug Stroud, to offer balloon sinuplasty – a
procedure which opens the sinus passageways and provides permanent relief to patients suffering the effects of
chronic sinus infections and pain. Dr. Stroud and his surgical staff performed these procedures on 10 adults and
they also provided consultation for ear/nose/throat patients of all ages. We are expanding this service to
pediatric patients in 2017 by partnering with a small charity hospital in the area where we work. Many of our
patients were there for routine clinic needs and with 4 clinicians we were able to take care of over 500 patients
in 4 days. Remarkably, a toddler with a severe cleft palate came through our clinic and we were able, through
generous donations of our team, to send him for an immediate cleft palate repair. We are REALLY hoping to
see that little boy this coming April.
The team set up medical clinics in Chumanzana, Chucalibal, Chichicastenango, and Solola. We were able to
provide for fitting of basic eye glasses which greatly improves the quality of life and earning potential for
elderly Mayans. Every patient seen is also given a minimum of one month’s supply of vitamins and new
clothes and shoes. Additionally, for the first time, we conducted a clinic in the women’s prison in
Quetzaltenango. These ladies told us that for the first time in years, they felt “remembered” by the love of God.
The trip is again being planned for the spring of 2017 and will be largely made up of participants from both St.
Peter’s Episcopal and St. Mark’s in Little Rock. The entire project for 2016was directed by Bishop Carlos
Lainfiesta and Father Roberto Armas, both of the Western Region of the Diocese of Guatemala.
Marianne Smith Black
Handbell Choir The Handbell Choir consists of 11 handbell players. Each player is responsible for up to 4 notes and plays an
independent part of the music. This is teamwork at its best! Rehearsals are after the 11:00 service during the
seasons of Lent and Advent. The handbell music truly enhances worship at St. Peter’s.
Patty Oeste
Library Many thanks to Sarah Bryan and Mary Ferguson, who continue to organize and catalog our wonderful
collection of books and other materials.
Teri Daily
The Little Free Library The Little Free Library has been managed beautifully by Stephanie Vanderslice. The library has continued to be
featured in statewide media and is being used often by the neighborhood.
Jerusalem Greer
Men's Group Our Men’s Group gathered five times in 2016 – four times at the Morgan House for dinner and one time at the
Parish Hall for breakfast – we met in January, March, May, September and November. Special thanks to the
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men who provide the main course for our gatherings – Nathan Greer, Dale Walker, Leo Wilcox, Scotty Bell and
Brad Teague. Steve Littrell served as the highly-paid email communicator – keeping the men of the church
apprised of the time and place of our gatherings. The highlight of the year was a special program provided by
Dr. Harold Hedges on men’s health specifically on the benefits of a vegetarian diet.
Great news for 2017 – the team of Bill Dudley, Rob Reid and Dan Allen will be coordinating the Men’s Group
this year – Bill Dudley has agreed to lead this team.
Jerry Adams
The Morgan House The Morgan House was put to wonderful use in the past year. TMH was used for the Men’s Group dinners,
Inter-Faith Gatherings, EFM dinners, Canterbury College Ministry, the Homeschool Junior and High School
classes. Workshops and experiences were provided through our Living Whole Series including the Faithmark’s
Art Show and TMH played host to Fat Soul community wide events. The Newcomer Ministry, and Servant
Leadership also made use of the space, and we held our Inquirer’s Workshop and the Bishop’s meeting with
new confirmands there. We are excited about all the ways TMH was used to engage with our community this
past year and we look forward to offering it through more events during 2017.
Jerusalem Greer
Newcomers Ministry We have had a wonderful year welcoming Newcomers into our midst. The Newcomer Team currently consists
of Dan Allen, Karen McNutt, Jerusalem Greer, and help from the Vestry. Over the past year, we hosted
Newcomer Brunches at The Morgan House, all of which were extremely well attended. Effort was made to also
invite Newcomers to several church-wide events including Pie Fest, Advent Event, and Rally Day. There were
also two Newcomer Meet & Eat gatherings – one at the home of Marilyn and Len Rishkofski, and one at the
home of Veronica and Simon Makepeace. We are so grateful to everyone who has helped with all of these
events.
We are always trying to improve the way we welcome and include those who are visiting or new to St. Peter’s.
If you would like to serve on the Newcomers Ministry Team please contact Jerusalem!
Jerusalem Greer
Servant Leadership School After the retirement of Deacon Merry Helen Hedges, the volunteers who had been involved with her bringing
the concepts from the Servant Leadership School of Greensboro to Conway met again and again in early 2016
to write a vision and mission based upon which the organization could go forward.
Vision: Trusting in Divine Presence, we imagine an interdependent, inclusive community rooted in compassion
and empowered to serve.
Mission: Relying on ancient spiritual wisdom enriched by modern understanding, we offer courses designed to
foster personal growth and service to others.
The first workshop was held February 12, 2016, led by Ms. Catherine Crews from Russellville who is
commissioned to teach contemplative practices. The focus was on contemplative prayer and forgiveness.
There were 14 participants.
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The second workshop was held on April 2, 2016, at The Morgan House led by Ms. Kayse Williams from Hot
Springs. She spoke on compassionate communication. There were about 20 participants.
Throughout the year the volunteers were revamping the core Servant Leadership course which then took place
on eight Monday evenings in September and October. There were about 20 participants and presenters.
Volunteers include Teri Daly, Carolyn Scott, Rita Mackintosh, June Stewart, Diane Brownlee, Merry Helen
Hedges, Nita Brown, Amanda Moore and Judy Helm.
As an outgrowth of the Servant Leadership School classes, a Circle of Trust was formed and met regularly.
They studied Parker Palmer's book A Hidden Wholeness: The Journey Toward an Undivided Life. Circles of
Trust are small groups who meet to support each other in discerning their own truth. They rely heavily on
confidentiality, and once formed, are usually closed to new members.
Another confidential small group has been meeting for about four years. It focuses on the spiritual practice
called the Enneagram. The members have shared insights from several books, and continue to learn to detach
from self-images as they draw closer to God.
Carolyn Scott
Theology Coffeehouse The Coffee House Theology Discussion Group met one Thursday night a month in 2016. Each night was
devoted to the discussion of the main points of a particular theologian's ideas and how they related to our lives
today. Most meetings were facilitated by experts in the field of religion including, but not limited to, Dave
Daily, Jane Harris, Donna Bowman, Teri Daily, and Robert Musser. Meetings were held at Panera Bread Co. in
the Hendrix Village and participants were given a brief reading selection to prepare for the occasion. The
number of members of the parish participating averaged about 10 per night.
Sam Buchanan
Total Ministry Teams We currently have four ministry teams in rotation. Jeff and Kristina Ward lead the Family Team (Team 1,)
Carolyn Scott leads Team 2, Jerry Adams leads Team 3, and Nancy Thompson leads Team 4. These teams are
made up of individuals and families who serve as Lectors, Oblationers, Ushers, Greeters and Coffee Host. Each
team takes one week of the month, and one fourth Sunday of the year.
All of our team leaders would like to thank everyone who serves on a team – Ministry Teams are what make
Sunday mornings run smoothly, and help to make our visitors feel welcome.
As always, the leaders are happy to welcome new team members and a sign-up sheet is on the board in the
lobby!
Jerusalem Greer
Website, Social Media & Church Office Our website traffic has increased over this past year by 10%. John Churchwell and Jerusalem Greer make sure
that information is up to date. There is a need to update some pictures and graphics.
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St. Peter's Social Media presence has grown as well. With the addition of posting pictures of events, and using
Social Media as a reminder of church events, we are getting more likes and post shares.
The Church Office has changed its hours to 9 to 5 beginning in 2017. We have several volunteers who help out
answering phones. printing bulletins.
John Churchwell
Wedding Coordinator There were 2 wonderful weddings and two lovely wedding blessings at St. Peters this year.
Our Weddings in 2016 were:
Eric Jones and Paul McCowan,
Brett Hardison and Brandon Dietz,
the blessing of Josh and Courtney Collins-Terry;
and the blessing of Melanie and Chrissy Cavendar.
Congratulations to all the couples.
The wedding coordinator ministry is headed by Donna Hutchinson who is ably assisted by Genie Davis and Dee
Sanders.
Respectfully submitted,
Donna Hutchinson
The Wisdom House Project THE WISDOM HOUSE PROJECT
http://thewisdomhouseproject.com/
Facebook: The Wisdom House Project
OVERVIEW:
Support for school in Maarrat al-Nu’man Syria educating 358 children orphaned or 1 parent left.
Building relationships across borders; supporting education and the future for children in Syria.
SUPPORT TEAM:
Mouaz Moustafa - SETF (Syrian Emergency Task Force) executive director
Natalie Larrison – SETF representative and liason with Syrian ground team.
Jerry Adams – St. Peter’s Episcopal Church Conway team leader
Teri Daily – St. Peter’s Episcopal Church
Nancy Allen – St. Peter’s Episcopal Church contact for “Letters of Hope for Syria”
Brett Hardison – St. Peter’s Episcopal Church team secretary
Marianne Smith Black – St. Peter’s Episcopal Church/CRMC
Kandace Kenney – UCA TED talk representative
Shelley Mehl – UCA/FUMC team budget manager
Keith Jones – Acxiom Cares
BUDGET:
$39,880 is 1st year budget.
$28,331 raised as of Jan 1,2017
$6,000.00 recently sent to Turkey for orphanage purchases.
$2,200.00 in the bank.
$11,549 left to raise by Sept. 2017
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SCHOOL PURCHASES:
Bus was purchased with private donation of $10,000.
Heater for class room, oil for generator, projectors and printers
School moved to an underground location for better protection.
Maarrat al-Nu’man Syria is near and has been a center of bombing from the Al Assad regime.
LETTER WRITING:
“Letters of Love for Syria” writing campaign
Facebook link https://www.facebook.com/lettersofhopeforsyria/
Cathleen Koch – With CNN. Connected Katrina victims letter writing to Hope for Japan (tsunami victims).
May be helpful to create a letter writing campaign for Syria. Letter writing campaign describing the crimes in
Syria sent out to community leaders to inform community for Words Of Hope for Syria or other name, PO Box
for all to be sent, instructions.
Nancy Allen will work on packaging.
Brett Hardison
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