Sunday, January 22, 2012 the 196th Annual Meeting of St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Pawtucket, RI was opened at 11:38 a.m. in the parish hall. There were 55 in attendance. The wonderful buffet provided by the vestry was totally consumed. All reports were accepted. There was discussion about the use of our parish building, about St. Paul's Church being a beacon in the community, it isn't about us - it is offering shelter and opportunities for people to learn English and become American Citizens. What are we doing to keep St. Paul's open to provide the outreach,as well as many other programs for the edification and enjoyment of the community. How to figure out ways to keep it open - Need people to be happy to help on projects. We have to be creative and continue to pray for guidance. One of the young people said we could raise money if we were specific about what our goal was. The young people showed a video they created and will probably post on U-Tube. Bob Benson, Treasurer, spoke to the 2012 budget passed by the Vestry at their January 9, 2012 meeting. Several questions were answered and concerns taken under advisement. People spoke to possibility of having fund raiser(s) in order to earn back the $360,000 taken from endowment. One person eloquently and passionately spoke to the draw down from endowment. His analogy was to him having a house he couldn't afford any longer and in order to save his family he would have to lose his house and find another place to live. This is serious and not acceptable to spend all our money and shut the doors. The Rector gave his report and underscored his thanks to the vestry for their hard work this past year putting together long term plans for church growth. He also thanked all the groups who make this church run. He introduced Ms. Heather Annis the Youth Formation Director. Nominations of the following were presented: Senior Warden, Bradford Bellows Junior Warden, Jeff Southworth Clerk, Margaret Noel Vestry Members for 3 year term to expire end of 2014 Rita Bentz, Donna DeCrescenzo, Michael Newman Vestry Member for 2 year term to expire end of 2013 Fiona Leo-Mensah Vestry Member for 1 year term to expire end of 2012 Dante Tavolaro Delegates to Diocesan Convention Grace Swinski, Carol Varden, Dante Tavolaro Alternate to Diocesan convention John Kelley Finance Committee Frank Doheny, Margaret Browne Nominating Committee 2012 Donna Lancaster, Linda Provost, Grace Swinkski Penny Fisher moved to have the clerk cast one ballot for the slate. Second by Donna DeCrescenzo. Approved. There being no new business, the meeting was adjourned at 1:06 p.m.
This summary of the 196th Annual Meeting respectfully submitted by Margaret Noel Clerk
St. Paul's Episcopal Church • 50 Park Place, Pawtucket, RI02860