Session Report - September 2007    

The theme for Session’s September meeting was Financial Matters.  At this meeting, Session:

• Listened to and asked questions about the church’s balance sheet and income statements.  We learned that expenses are in line with the budget and year-to-date the church is doing well, but that may be due to some people pre-paying their pledges.
• Discussed Mark Powell’s book Giving to God, which was our “homework assignment” in advance of this meeting.  We discussed principles of giving, and the reasons each of us pledges to the church.  Joy, duty and thankfulness ranked high.
• Approved a Statement on Proportional Giving.
• Approved an “initial budget” for 2008, after much review and discussion.  After communication to the congregation and an in-depth review of each committee’s budget, a final budget is to be presented in December 2007.
• Approved a motion to extend a call as interim pastor to Rev. Stuart Ritter.
• Approved a motion to dissolve the Transition Team.
• Heard reports from each of the committees, and approved items such as fund-raising activities of PW and the Global Mission Committee as well as PC(USA) special offerings; this year’s Christian Education curriculum; and a 1.5% mid-year salary adjustment for non-clergy staff which results in a $2,026.14 impact on the budget;
• Heard pastoral reports concerning our members and friends who are in need of our prayers and care at this time.

Submitted by

Patti Nussle

BSPC Ass't Stated Clerk of Session