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2013 Annual Report

Epiphany Lutheran Church

Dale City, Virginia

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T a b l e o f C o n t e n t s

Table of Contents........................................................................................... 3

Council President’s Report.......................................................................... 4

2013 Epiphany Leadership .......................................................................... 6

Call Committee .............................................................................................. 8

Caring Ministry Team.................................................................................. 9

Christian Education.................................................................................... 12

Preschool Committee........................................................................... 13

Youth Group......................................................................................... 14

Communications Team............................................................................... 15

Evangelism Team ........................................................................................ 16

Personnel Committee.................................................................................. 17

Stewardship Team....................................................................................... 18

Building and Property Committee .................................................... 19

Worship and Music Team.......................................................................... 23

2013 Year in Review.................................................................................... 25

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C O U N C I L P R E S I D E N T ’ S R E P O R T

Dear Members of the Epiphany Family,

It is with great surprise that I realize that 2014 has already begun. 2013 seems to have flown by. Looking back over the previous year, I find that Epiphany, as a congregation, has accomplished a great deal.

Among other things, we completed a several years-long update to our Epiphany Organization and Management Guidebook (formerly known as the Epiphany Handbook). New, eye-catching T-shirts were designed and then donated. In addition to gathering food to donate to ACTS, we were able to provide financial assistance to people in our local community who were in need, by helping to cover heating bills, electric bills, and paying for gas cards. We have also been blessed to be able to share our physical resources, by opening our doors to another congregation that is now meeting on Fridays and Sundays. Furthermore, we held a successful and well-attended book fair and ice cream social with combined support from the preschool and the congregation.

Pastor Davidson has been a wonderful blessing to our congregation. As we move forward, he has made use of his years of experience and expertise to guide us through this time of change. He has challenged us to think in different ways and has been very active and involved in all aspects of our congregation.

We held a very successful outdoor service and picnic in June, where we were able to honor both our graduates and our teachers. The outdoor service was followed up by the 1st Annual Epiphany Olympics. After seeing the medals, I am certain that everyone has been working hard to improve their skills in beanbag toss, ladderball, Ping-Pong ball spoon race, water balloon toss, catching wet sponges in a colander on your head and generally obscure facts about other Epiphany members. Competition is certain to be fierce for the 2nd Annual Olympics this year!

In August, we held the annual Epiphany Leadership retreat. The retreat included a short survey to determine spiritual types and was extremely well attended! We were blessed with a plethora of great ideas and discussion about the future and direction of Epiphany. That discussion spawned the activities at our annual rally day, where all members (and non-members and visitors) were able to assess and consider their own part in Epiphany’s future and determine their particular spiritual gifts by taking an introspective quiz and survey. Those survey results were tallied and the results were clear by a wide margin: Epiphany’s members felt that the issues of homelessness and hunger were not only some of the biggest concerns here in our own community, but that we, as a whole, felt called to focus a significant portion of our time, talents, resources and prayers towards caring for and assisting the homeless and hungry here in our community and beyond.

Pastor Davidson’s series of bible studies/conversations based on Joshua, and concurrent visit from ACTS Executive Director Frances Harris provided yet another opportunity for us to

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consider how we, as a congregation, can best use our time, talents and resources towards making a dent in the extremely daunting and pervasive issues that are hunger and homelessness.

While we haven’t fully answered those questions yet, we enter this new year full of purpose and direction. I believe that this sense of purpose will be helpful in a myriad of ways as we discern our path forward, seek to grow our congregation, and search for a permanent Pastor.

As we enter into this new year, I ask that each of you continue to prayerfully consider all of the ways that you can be a part of our vision as we build an exciting future for Epiphany.

Thank you to everyone for your incredible contributions of time and talent throughout this last year. I am truly humbled by the dedication and commitment I see every day in your hard work and service to the congregation and the community. I look forward to working with all of you as we move forward into 2014.

In HIS Service,

Billy Kraig

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2 0 1 3 E P I P H A N Y L E A D E R S H I P

Council:Pastor……………………………………………………………………..Rev. Dr. Neal R. Davidson (Starting in February)President ....................................................................Billy KraigVice President ............................................................Stuart RansomSecretary ....................................................................Blanche CathcartTreasurer....................................................................Katie KraigMember .....................................................................Jessica McNeilMember .....................................................................Stephen SiebertMember .....................................................................Michelle Rindal

Financial Secretary:……………………………………………………………Connie Holt

Trustees:.................................................................................Alice Nelson....................................................................................Rick Siebert....................................................................................Carolyn Todd

Synod Delegates:Primary.......................................................................Nancy Neeper....................................................................................Ralph NeeperAlternates:..................................................................Becky Rasmussen....................................................................................Phil Rasmussen

Audit Committee:...................................................................Patty Craig....................................................................................Michael Simmons....................................................................................Jeff Smith

Nominating Committee: ........................................................Becky Barnett ....................................................................................Owen Cheney....................................................................................Sharon Durham....................................................................................Omar McNeil

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Personnel Committee: ...........................................................Bruce DeSoto (chair)....................................................................................Becky Barnett....................................................................................Barbara Brooks....................................................................................Lynne Cheney

Staff:Administrative Assistant ............................................Katharyn WheelerDirector of Music .......................................................Chris JohnstonSexton ........................................................................Alicia Munoz

Team and Committee Chairpersons:Building & Property Committee.................................Debra HesebeckCall Committee...........................................................Bruce DeSotoCaring Ministry Team.................................................Becki O’LoughlinChristian Education Team ..........................................Lyn SiebertCommunications Team ..............................................Kyla Sikorski (through May, now vacant)Discipleship Ministry Team........................................Terri HoffmanEvangelism Team .......................................................Jeff SmithPreschool Committee ................................................Connie HoltStewardship…………………………………….........................Gaye DeCesareWorship & Music Team..............................................Terry Rindal Jr. and Katharyn WheelerYouth Group...............................................................Mark Masterson

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C A L L C O M M I T T E E

Voting Members: Non-Voting MembersBruce DeSoto – Chairperson Jessica McNeil (Became Council member)Lynne Cheney Ralph NeeperBecky Durham Denise Shoemaker (Moved)Darwin HesebeckBecki O’LoughlinKyla Sikorski (Moved)Katharyn Wheeler

Peace and Blessings from the Call Committee. The committee had a busy 2013, but one that ended without a new pastor for Epiphany. During the year, we lost several members for various reasons. The Shoemaker family moved further south, the Sikorski family rotated to a new assignment, and Jessica McNeil was elected to council. With those changes, council approved Becki O’Loughlin to become a voting member leaving Ralph Neeper as our lone non-voting member. Even with the personnel changes, we remained focused as a group with the sole vision of finding the best pastoral candidate for Epiphany.

During the summer months, we received several pastoral candidate packages from Synod. The team followed the recommendations of Synod and set up multiple interviews with the candidates. Unfortunately, none of the candidates felt that God was calling them at this time to lead our congregation. However, they all spoke very highly of the committee and the congregation and believe that God will lead the right candidate to us. Although easy to say, we must remain patient and trust God’s plan for finding the right candidate and the right time for Epiphany. Although we were not able to find a pastor the first time around, the committee gained valuable knowledge in conducting the interviews and will only grow from the experiences.

Looking forward in 2014, the committee is very hopeful that Synod will provide a name of a pastoral candidate that will eventually lead Epiphany as we continue being a Called, Growing, Sharing, Caring community.

In closing, I want to personally express my sincere appreciation to all committee members for their tireless dedication, energy, insight, and thoughtfulness during this past year. We are truly blessed to have such a wonderful team that comprises this committee. May God continue to shine on you and Epiphany!

Respectfully Submitted,Bruce DeSotoChairperson

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C A R I N G M I N I S T R Y T E A M

Team Purpose: to hold each other and our Epiphany sisters and brothers in our prayers; to serve the members of the congregation and the larger community in times of joy and sorrow; to meet; to the best of our abilities, the needs of our hurting community; and to provide opportunities to join together in fellowship.

2013 Activities:

o Third Sunday Potlucks – The Third Sunday Potlucks continue to be well attended, some more so than others, and appear to be a good source of fellowship. I would like to see at least one of them mesh with whatever “theme” or focus Epiphany adopts in the coming year, as we did when we were concentrating on hunger and one day cooked most of the food from the farmers’ market.

o Craft Group – The craft group met only in response to specific requests (i.e. blankets for graduating seniors, baptismal stoles). In the absence of Kyla Sikorski, who was its driving force, I do not see it continuing in 2014.

o Mitten and Hat Tree for ACTS – This is the fourth year we have sponsored this tree as our holiday giving activity. For a variety of reason, most notably disorganization due to my lack of leadership, the congregational response was significantly less than in previous years. The team will look at the various causes and consider whether to continue this activity or reach out in other ways next year.

o Save the Children – In cooperation with the Sunday School, CMT has “adopted” Donald, a five year old boy who lives in Appalachia and is sponsored by Save the Children. The Sunday School children are encouraged to bring in small weekly offerings to supplement CMT’s monthly support, and they have the opportunity to interact with Donald via letters and drawings and learn about his community via e-mail and their personal web page.

o Meeting with ACTS – The Caring Ministry Team, along with others in the congregation, has been searching for a focus for Epiphany for the coming year. In my role as chair of this group, I met with Tom Benjamin, the Director of Development, at ACTS to get an idea of the wide variety of community outreach opportunities available through this organization. Frances Harris met with interested members of the congregation after a service to talk about possibilities for service. Tom then came to Epiphany to meet with a small group of interested parishioners to continue the discussion. It appears that we have just begun to scratch the surface and will be following up – sooner rather than later – to discern a focus that can involve members of Epiphany of all ages, ability levels, and time constraints.

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o Other Outreach—

o ACTS Food Basket was ongoing every month, although in some months the basket was less full than in others. We may need to step up our appeals. One month we held a friendly competition, pitting one side of the church against the other; and that really increased the offerings.

o Coupons were delivered to the ACTS food bank at least once each month.

o In February, Epiphany members served dinners at the Hilda Barg Homeless Prevention shelter. An additional night of service was filled in April. The Wheeler family has volunteered to take over this ministry, and we thank them for this service. Now that ACTS has taken over Hilda Barg, opportunities here may increase.

o CMT worked with the Sunday School and preschool to organize “Share the True Love.’’ This drive collected sample size toiletries and warm socks for the winter shelter.

o CMT assisted with the annual school supply collection in August and September.

o CMT again spearheaded Operation Turkey in fall. This year the emphasis was on gift cards to be used for the purchase of turkeys.

o CMT continues to have regular representation at the CCOM meetings and tries to keep the congregation informed of its activities.

o Other Inreach--

o CMT hosted various receptions, including several baptisms, new member welcomes, and farewell and Godspeed receptions. This was also Epiphany’s yearto host the multi-congregation Thanksgiving service, and CMT organized the dessert reception. In my absence, the Wheelers enabled Epiphany to host a reception after the Messiah sing-along presented by the Celebration Singers.

o Meals and visits were provided for Becki O’Loughlin when she broke her hip and required a total hip replacement. CMT organized this effort, which was invaluable to me.

o Members of the CMT assisted with the Chili Cook-off in January.

o CMT assisted with the Outdoor Service and Picnic in June.

o CMT presented high school grads with blankets; purchased and framed photos of

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the stained glass window for college grads; and assisted with the receptions and presentation of gifts for all. Window photos were also presented to members who left our area. Baptismal stoles were created presented to children in three families who were baptized at Epiphany.

o Members of the CMT assisted with the preschool ice cream social.

o The card ministry continued to send birthday and anniversary greetings to all members and long-time friends. A number of members told me they appreciated receiving these greetings. Starting in January, members who request a prayer will have the option of providing an email or “snail mail” address for the person receiving the prayer. If an address is given, the prayer recipient will get an email or a postcard with these words: The people of Epiphany Lutheran Church are praying for you in your time of need. May God comfort you. “He shall give His angels charge over you, to keep you in all your ways.” Psalm 91:11. Connie Holt will send the emails and forward snail mail addresses to Sharon Durham, who has volunteered to send the postcards. (This was an outgrowth of our discussion with Pastor Neil during the retreat at Kraigs.) Copies of all the postcards we use are available to anyone who would like to see them

o CMT members are active in the prayer chain.

o The CMT bulletin board continued to be updated now and then to keep members apprised of what CMT is doing, especially in the area of outreach.

Plans and Goals: The CMT will devote its energies to helping the congregation develop a focus and become involved in that focus, each to the best of his or her ability. Once the new pastor is installed we will meet with him or her to brainstorm ways to discern our role in the focus and to become fully involved.

Respectfully Submitted,Becki O’Loughlin

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C H R I S T I A N E D U C A T I O N

What you have heard from me, keep as the pattern of sound teaching, with faith and love in Christ Jesus. - 2Timothy 1:13

We are called into God’s mission to intentionally grow in faith.

The Congregation at Epiphany provides educational experiences on Sunday morning, mid-week bible study, and in small focus groups. Everyone is encouraged to participate in a group that is comfortable for them.

Our Sunday morning children’s Sunday school continues to meet before the church service instead of after to allow for more time after the service for celebrations, meetings and fellowship. A mixed age class of preschoolers through 4th graders is led by Patty Craig. The confirmation class is led by Terry Rindal Jr. and is held after worship. The adult education session takes place after worship as well and is led by Jeff Smith. Pastor Davidson and Connie Holt led sessions on Sunday mornings as well as we looked at a biblical connection to our interim status.

The mid-week bible study is held on Thursday morning with the group meeting in the home of Patty Craig. The Young Families Group tries to meet once a month for an outing or get together. Book Club continues to meet once a month.

Although we did not participate in VBS this year, the plan is to share God’s love with our neighborhood community with vacation bible school providing family meals, bible stories, crafts and music during the summer of 2014.

Respectfully Submitted,Lyn Siebert

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PRESCHOOL COMMITTEE

The Preschool Committee oversees the operation of Epiphany Lutheran Preschool as an outreach program of the Church.

Preschool Committee members:Connie Holt – ChairpersonFran Story – Preschool BookkeeperKaren Stokes – Preschool DirectorJessica McNeil – Council RepBill Stokes – Member at Large

*The Preschool staff consists of a director, a bookkeeper, and 6 teachers.

*The Preschool ended the 2012-2013 school year with 34 students in 4 classes- one 3-year-old classes, two 4-year-old classes, and an enrichment class.

*As of December 2013, enrollment is at 38 students in 5 classes- one 3-year-old class, two 4-year-old classes, one 5-year -old class and an enrichment class.

*The Preschool Director submitted the required yearly documentation for Virginia StateReligious Exemption of a child day center in February 2013 and received the Letter of Exemption for the Preschool.

*The Preschool collected ‘’Quarters for Chicks” in December 2012 to support the Heifer Project. We were able to raise $89 to buy 89 chicks. This was the third year for a project like this.

*The Preschool again worked with the Outreach committee and successfully supported Operation Turkey and other ACTS food drives.

*The Preschool sponsored several fundraisers. In the Spring of 2013 we sold Sweetz Cheesecakes and in the Fall of 2013 we sold Little Lambs cookie dough. We also sold the Attractions coupon books for Prince William County. All proceeds went into the budget to purchase supplies.

*The Gramp’s Fund continues to be a help to families in need with four children helped in the last school year and two children being helped during the current school year.

Respectfully Submitted, Karen Stokes, Director

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YOUTH GROUP

The youth group had a quieter than normal year because we do not have many youth in the middle and high school age range. We did still do some of our social events like the Chili Cook-Off/Brownie Bake-Off in January which is always a great success. We also had the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper in February to kick off the lent season. While the youth may not be active in the synod events the adults in the congregation still continue to participate. In July Stephen Siebert attended Chi Rho, the synod high school camp in Neon, Kentucky with 14 adults and youth. They spent the week sharing Christ with the community while demolishing two old homes to make room for new houses. December was the Chrysalis high school weekend retreat in Front Royal, Va. Mark Masterson helped with set up Friday night and check-in of the churches. It was a great weekend even if Mother Nature cut it short with the ice storm. We continue help the youth in the church and community grow in their faith.

Respectfully Submitted,Mark Masterson

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C O M M U N I C A T I O N S T E A M

2013 was a year of transition for the Communications Team. Kyla Sikorski, who had done a tremendous job as our Communications Team Leader for several years, moved out of the area in June. Even as she was leaving, she was diligent in ensuring that all of the most essential work that she did as Communications Team leader was covered moving forward. The Church Council and the Personnel Committee worked with Katharyn to ensure that the website continues to be regularly updated. Patty Craig and Katharyn Wheeler continue to work together to keep ourFacebook page looking great and publish our quarterly newsletter. Madelyn Wheeler, Bethany Rendall, Amanda Rendall (and periodically other volunteers) have taken on the task of making sure that the sermons are recorded and posted to the website. While we have been unable to locate someone who feels called to take on the Communications Team leader position, the Church Council has taken on the responsibility of coordinating any Communications initiatives. The Council would like to say a very heartfelt Thank You to all of those mentioned above, and all others who have helped out in various ways to assist in making sure that the work of the Communications Team continues on.

In October, Katharyn Wheeler attended a seminar on Communications and Branding on behalf of Epiphany. She came back with many great ideas that we hope to use as we move forward in fully discerning and realizing our mission.

In 2014, we continue to pray that someone will take up the call of leading our Communications Team. The work done by the Communications Team is tremendously important to the overall fabric of Epiphany as the Team often works in concert with other committees and teams to ensure that activities and events are properly publicized to audiences both within Epiphany and external to the congregation.

Other goals for 2014 include purchasing a microphone to improve the quality of the sermons that are posted to our website, and working further to find new and different ways to make our communications spaces (Bulletin Boards, etc.) more appealing, efficient and effective.

Respectfully Submitted,Billy Kraig, Church Council President

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E V A N G E L I S M T E A M

“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.” Matthew 28:19-20 (RSV)

Team Purpose:To assist Epiphany Lutheran Church Congregation disciples in obeying Christ’s command to spread the Good News of HIM from the local level to world-wide.

Background:The Evangelism Team has periodically tried to raise awareness for the congregation by explaining the team purpose and ideas about evangelism. Evangelism is not a separate activity conducted by only the team, but is an aspect of all activities of the Congregation as a whole and each disciple in his or her Christian life. Based on this, it was decided that Evangelism Team functions could be combined with those of other teams.

2013 Accomplishments: Epiphany once again sponsored an “advertisement” in the Dale City July 4th parade

program. The Team provided Bible Study for Adult Forum. Epiphany sponsored an advertisement in the Christmas program booklet of the New

Dominion Choraliers. The Team participated in the Leadership Retreat 2013. Epiphany, for Easter, sponsored four advertisements (over four weeks, one ad each

week) in the Prince William Today paper. Sent cards to, or called, visitors who provided an address or telephone number.

Plans for 2014:A basic part of our life as Christians is to tell others about Christ; indeed, that is the Great Commission from Jesus (Matt 28:19-20). Each individual brother or sister does this, through words or actions as the gift from the Holy Spirit provides. We also do this as a congregation as part of our purpose of being Called, Growing, Sharing and Caring. Based on this, it was decided that Evangelism Team functions could be combined with those of other teams.

Former members of the team will be ready to help with participation in the Dale City July 4th celebration, including placing a large ad in the program booklet.

Former members of the team will continue Bible study on Sunday mornings after the service.

Respectfully Submitted,Jeff Smith

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P E R S O N N E L C O M M I T T E E

Committee Members:

Bruce DeSoto – Chairperson – 2 year termBarbara Brooks – 2 year termLynne Cheney – 2 year termBecky Durham – 2 year term

The Personnel Committee met on a fairly regular basis during 2013 with the goal of dispersing and receiving signed acknowledgement copies of both the Epiphany Lutheran Church Code of Conduct and Ethics for Employees and Elected Leaders, and the Employee Handbook – Policies for Leadership and Employees. Numerous copies were obtained from church members, but the committee will soon be contacting those members who have yet to return their Acknowledgement and Receipt document. Signed documents will be retained by the committee and filed away in an approved secure file cabinet.

The committee chose not to make further changes during 2013 to the Epiphany Performance Review documents used to evaluate staff members. We met with all staff members in the August/September timeframe to conduct annual reviews. Coordination was then made with Council on decisions of pay increases and salaries for 2014.

Through much consideration and discussion it was decided that employees would not receive pay raises in the 2014 budget year, but one-time Merit Awards for staff employees was submitted and approved by Council. The Personnel Committee and Council are very appreciative of the work performed by our staff and feel very fortunate to have such talented employees.

For 2014, the Personnel Committee’s primary focus will be finalizing required signatures for the Code of Conduct and Employee Handbook documents. The committee will also continue to strive to retain their top-notch performance for the upcoming year. Finally, the Personnel Committee will be in need/search of two new members for the Committee to replace two that have completed their term of office.

Respectfully Submitted,

Bruce DeSotoChairperson

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S T E W A R D S H I P T E A M

This year the Stewardship team continued to emphasize giving of more than money – to celebrate the generous giving of “our selves, our time, and our possessions.” Our Epiphany family rose to the occasion, as evidenced in the reports of other committees contained herein.

On Commitment Sunday, monetary pledges were received from 26 giving units, enabling the Finance Committee to develop a budget that is both reasonable and realistic.

As we begin a new year, let us continue to focus on giving – God’s continuous giving to us, and our giving to God through the mission and ministry of Epiphany Lutheran Church. What is God calling you to give?

Respectfully Submitted,Gaye DeCesare

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BUILDING AND PROPERTY COMMITTEE

Debra Hesebeck remains Chairperson of the committee and Billy Kraig/Stuart Ransom serve asCouncil representatives. The committee has 8 dedicated members who have worked diligently on various tasks and projects to maintain and enhance Epiphany. Numerous other members of Epiphany, Scouts, Samaritan Congregation and Jesus Is Our Refuge Congregation have also shared their talents with various jobs and projects.

Committee Purpose

The committee’s purpose is to maintain and improve the facilities and grounds of Epiphany Lutheran Church and serve as liaison for the church Sexton.

2013 Accomplishments

1. Monthly meetings were held usually on the 1st Monday of the month from 1800-2100. The July meeting was cancelled. Maintenance was done on the vacuum cleaners, batteryreplacement & checks on the emergency lights, furnace filters replaced & checked, light bulbsreplaced as needed, light switches, ballasts, doorstops, and outlets were replaced as needed, sinks unplugged, garbage disposal repaired, downed branches picked up & commodes repaired, as well as any other items that needed to be worked on. Supplies for the church were also maintained on a monthly basis. Committee members also spent numerous hours on various needed repairs and projects @ times other than the meetings as well as mowing and maintaining the grounds, cleaning and helping with painting, shoveling snow and dealing with ice, meeting plumbers, contractors & the HVAC company.

2. Spring clean-up was held on March 23rd 9:00 am to 3:00 pm with approximately 20 Epiphany members and 10-15 Scouts members working outside 9am to 3pm and 5 people working inside from 1pm to 3 pm. Fall outdoor clean-up day was held on November 16th, 9 am to 3 pm with approximately 16 Epiphany members, 2 members of Samaritan Congregation & 21 Scouts & scout parents working outside. Fall indoor clean-up was held on November 15th from 5pm to 9pm. Those helping were 14 members of Epiphany (2 people helped from 2pm to 9pm), 7 members of the Samaritan Congregation & 6 girl scouts with adults. Numerous areas of the church were cleaned including: bathrooms painted, light covers, vents, kitchen cabinets, refrigerator, oven, janitor closet, library, tabled, chairs, walls, bathrooms, alter, organ, windows, nursery toys, wooden doors, & outlets checked and some were replaced. Industrial Disposal Service was used to provide the trash dumpster. A county voucher was obtained for the dumpster as well as gloves and other items given by the county for the clean-up. Lunch was provided for the outside clean-ups and a meal was provided for the indoor clean-up on Nov. 15.Everyone worked together to beautify our Lord’s House. The Memorial Garden, woods and areas inside the church and sheds were cleaned, organized, painted, maintained and repaired with the support of Epiphany members, Jesus is Our Refuge, Samaritan Congregation, and Boy, Girl and Cub Scouts. Jesus is Our Refuge Congregation also focused on spring and fall cleaning of all the carpets and cleaning of the Sanctuary.

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3. Numerous trees were removed as needed from the grounds and stumps ground.

4. Bruce DeSoto headed up 2 volunteer mowing teams each consisting of 6 to 8 dedicated Epiphany congregation members. The teams helped to keep the trash picked up, groundsmowed and groomed on a bi-weekly basis during mowing season & helped Bruce keep the lawn equipment in repair. Due to 1 riding mower being un-repairable, a new riding lawn mower was purchased. 2 used push mowers were donated which replaced 2 push mowers that no longer functioned. The Memorial Garden and flower beds were cleaned and maintained by the “digging in the dirt” team who usually met on Monday evenings during the spring and summer. This included mainly 2 dedicated members of the congregation, Owen and Lynne Cheney.

5. R. E. Martin Tree Removal was chosen again for the 2012-2013 winter for snow removal. The other snow removal equipment and ice melt for the sidewalks was maintained. Various B&P & congregation members helped with sidewalk snow shoveling/removal.

6. A maintenance agreement was continued with Vernon Heating and Air Conditioning for the heat pumps. Repairs and maintenance were done on the heat pumps on a monthly basis by the committee and as needed by Vernon.

7. Replaced various light switches as needed.

8. Holder was made by Jeff Holt for the acolyte candle lighters and was hung in the secretary’soffice.

9. Leaking roof was repaired by JIMR congregation and the insulation replaced as needed. Ceiling tiles were dried and painted/replaced as needed.

10. Broken light globes on the Sanctuary walls were changed as needed.

11. The pond & pump in the Memorial Garden was cleaned and maintained.

12. The outside lighted sign was maintained.

13. Security Seminar was attended by Mark Masterson.

14. Burned out & broken parking lot lights were replaced/repaired by NOVEC & the parking lot lights timers were adjusted as needed.

15. Updated lighting for the outside cross was installed after much research and finding a company with the appropriate equipment.

16. Mini blinds were replaced as needed.

17. Omega Fire Protection Company maintained the fire extinguishers.

18. Screens were repaired.

19. Keyboard lock repaired.

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20. Recessed light fixture in the back Sunday school room was repaired.

21. Oven door repaired.

22. Gutters cleaned out.

23. Groundhogs removed.

24. Large amounts of leaves raked and removed, mulch put down in the garden areas,

25. Preschool playground was cleaned out, equipment repaired & power washed, new barrier & mulch put down. The weeds & poison ivy were sprayed.

26. Addressed problems with lights being left on in the church, doors left unlocked, & doors left open when no one was at the church.

27. Replaced the closer on the front door in the Narthex.

28. Tables repaired.

29. Carpet in the fellowship area & secretary’s office door was repaired.

2013 Goals Not Accomplished/Pending

1. Paint the Memorial Garden gate.

2. Repair/replace the outside door in the Sanctuary

3. Put a screen in the vent to the women’s bathroom on the east side of the church

4. Prime and paint the inside of the window replaced in the back classroom

5. Remodel the area for the banners in the back Sunday school room

6. Replace the hanging light fixtures in the Sanctuary with translucent fixtures

7. Paint the kitchen

8. The young families to paint the nursery.

9. Adjust the chair rails to allow for better function of the window blinds

10. Check and replace broken outlets throughout the building—some have been done

11. Put up the key box—find a place to put it.

12. Repair the neighbor’s fence where trees came down on it.

13. Repair the preschool gate/fence.

14. Chop the bamboo trees.

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15. Paint the 4 sheds, gutters & trim on the church building. Powerwash the buildings prior to painting.

16. Reseal and reline the parking lot—repair an area on the circle drive.

17. New carpet for the fellowship/classroom areas.

18. Place an accordion door or pocket door between the Narthex & kitchen area to allow for a separation of the 2 areas when needed.

19. Clean up the woods.

20. Repair the light in the woods.

Areas for Improvement/Needs

1. To involve more people from the congregation to participate with the Building and Property Committee.

2. See “Goals not accomplished”

Plans/Goals/Initiatives for 2014

To enhance the visibility of Epiphany in the community by maintaining, updating and repairing the building and grounds. Main focus areas will be:

1. Maintaining the Memorial Garden & grounds.

2. Power wash & paint the gutters and trim on the church.

3. Resealing & relining of the parking lot.

We will be working together in our commitment in carrying out God’s work.

To encourage other congregation members to participate in sharing their talents in caring for Epiphany.

See “Areas for Improvement/Needs”

Respectfully Submitted, Debra Hesebeck, Building and Property Committee Chairperson

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W O R S H I P A N D M U S I C T E A M

Team Purpose: The mission of the Worship and Music committee is to plan and coordinate meaningful worship to the members of Epiphany, and to reach out to the local community.

Team Members: The 2013 Worship and Music Team consisted of Co-Chairs Terry Rindal Jr. and Katharyn Wheeler, Pastor Edward Kofi Nana Buabeng who was succeeded by Pastor Neal Davidson, Jennifer Bishop, Tom Bishop, Gaye DeCesare, Terri Hoffman, Chris Johnston, Billy Kraig, and Philip Rasmussen. Jennifer Bishop served as the worship assistant scheduler. Tom Wheeler headed up the Liturgical Arts Team, responsible for changing the paraments and banners as appropriate for the church seasons and special events. Tom Bishop helped (re)train in worship assistant positions.

2013 Accomplishments: January 6th we had a Night Vespers on the Feast of the Epiphany. Three “kings”

presented gifts at the altar. The service concluded with the traditional burning of the greens that had been used to decorate the church during the Christmas season.

January 20th we welcomed into membership Andrew, Isaiah, and Morgan Ransom through baptism and Stuart and Veronica Ransom through Affirmation of Baptism.

Ash Wednesday service was held on February 13th. Each Friday during Lent we offered a Lenten Dinner, Discussion and Devotion.

February 17th Rev. Dr. Neal R. Davidson began serving as pastor of Epiphany. On Palm Sunday, March 24th, we once again used beautiful fan palms from Eco-Palms,

allowing us to keep expenses down while helping the needy and caring for the planet. Holy Week we had evening worship services on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. A

group of volunteers met on Saturday to prepare the worship space for Easter services, decorating with lilies and tulips purchased by members of the congregation.

We celebrated Easter Sunday, March 31st, with Sunrise and regular Easter services and fellowship receptions throughout the morning.

April 7th we celebrated the First Communion of Eddie Craig, Taylor Craig, Andrew Ransom, Morgan Ransom, Matthew Rendall, Katja Sikorski, Luella Sikorski, and Rysa Wheeler.

May 5th we welcomed Stella McNeil into membership through baptism. This year we did not have any confirmands. June 9th we recognized graduates and Sunday School teachers during worship. June 16th we held our annual outdoor service. July 22nd we welcomed Jackson Holt into membership through baptism. We blessed the backpacks and other school supplies both for our members and to be

donated on September 1st. Rally Day, September 8th, we commissioned our Sunday School teachers. Our Fall worship service centered around the Lord’s Prayer.

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October 20th we included Commitment Sunday into our worship service. With the offering of commitment cards.

November 3rd we welcomed Danielle Yunker into membership through baptism. On November 24th Epiphany hosted the Community Thanksgiving Service with Lutheran

Church of the Covenant at Good Shepherd. For our annual Sermon in Song on December 15, a small string and percussion ensemble

accompanied the Chancel Choir. December 22nd members of the congregation remained after the service to “green” the

church with poinsettias, wreaths and pine roping, in preparation for Christmas Eve services. This year we continued with the new tradition of inviting members of the congregation to supply homemade or inexpensive ornaments for our Chrismon tree.

Christmas services included two Christmas Eve Candlelight Services at 6:00 p.m., with one verse for most hymns and a special children’s message, and 10:00 p.m. with the Chancel Choir singing.

We continue to look at various ways to enrich our worship experiences, working diligently to ensure that all who enter are spiritually fed and strengthened to be the face of Christ in the community. We welcome your suggestions, and our meetings are open to all.

We give special thanks to all who serve faithfully as Worship Assistants on Sundays and for special services throughout the year. Your contributions are invaluable. We also give special thanks to Rhoda Kraig, Lyn Siebert, and Kyla Sikorski for their commitment to providing stoles for baptisms and to Rhoda Kraig for her work on new paraments, hangings, and banners.

Respectfully Submitted,Katharyn Wheeler

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2 0 1 3 Y E A R I N R E V I E W

JANUARY: Jan 6 – Epiphany Service with Burning of the Greens Jan 11 – Parents’ Night Out Jan 20 – Baptisms of Andrew, Isaiah and Morgan Ransom, Affirmation of Baptism for

Stuart and Veronica Ransom Jan 26 – Chili Cook-Off/ Brownie Bake-Off Jan 27 – Annual Congregational Meeting and Fantasy Football Party

FEBRUARY: Share the Love Drive for the Winter Homeless Shelter Feb 3 – Scout Sunday Feb 3-6 – Provided Meals at Hilda Barg Feb 12 – Shrove Tuesday Pancake Dinner Feb 13 – Ash Wednesday Service Feb 17 – Rev. Dr. Neal R. Davidson began serving at Epiphany Feb 22 – Lenten Dinner and Devotional

MARCH: Mar 1, 8, 15, 22 – Lenten Dinner and Devotional Mar 1 - Celebration Singers Concert Mar 23 – Spring Clean-Up Mar 24 – Palm Sunday Service Mar 28 – Maundy Thursday Service Mar 29 – Good Friday Service Mar 31 – Easter Services

APRIL: Softball Season Began Apr 6 – First Communion Training Apr 7 – First Communion Apr 26 – Provided Meals at Hilda Barg

MAY May 5 – Baptism of Stella McNeil

JUNE Jun 14 – Celebration Singers Concert Jun 9 – Graduate Recognition & Sunday School Teacher Recognition Jun 16 – Outdoor Worship and Picnic

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June 21-22 – Synod Assembly Jun 28-30 – Young Families Camping Trip

JULY:

AUGUST: School Supply Collection Aug 2 – Girl Scout Silent Auction Aug 17 – Leadership Retreat Aug 25 – Fantasy Football Draft

SEPTEMBER: Bowling Season Began Sep 1 – Blessing of the Backpacks Sep 8 – Rally Day and Picnic Sep 9 – Preschool Begins Sep 22, 29 – Discipleship Series

OCTOBER: Oct 6 – Discipleship Series Oct 13, 20, 27 – Belonging to Epiphany Sessions Oct 18 – Book Fair/ Ice Cream Social Oct 20 – Commitment Sunday

NOVEMBER: Operation Turkey Nov 3 – Baptism of Danielle Yunker Nov 7 – ACTS Meeting Nov 15-16 – Fall Clean-Up Nov 24 – Congregational Budget Meeting and Joint Community Thanksgiving Service and

Dessert Fellowship

DECEMBER: Gifts of Hope and Mitten/Scarf/ Hat Collection Dec 6 – Celebration Singers Concert Dec 15 – Sermon in Song provided by Chancel Choir and Chris Johnston Dec 20 – Celebration Singers and Old Bridge Chamber Orchestra Messiah Sing-a-Long Dec 22 – Greening of the Church Dec 24 – Christmas Eve Services 6 & 10pm

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THROUGHOUT YEAR: Continuing Education

Bible Study met Thursday mornings Book Club met monthly Weekly Bible study for Adult Forum

Committees Building and Property Committee met monthly—maintenance, repairs, lawn

mowing, etc. were done and Digging in the Dirt met throughout the summer Preschool Committee met monthly W&M Committee met regularly 2 months on one month off DMT met every 3rd month Caring Ministry, Communications, and Evangelism Teams met quarterly Call Committee met regularly Personnel Committee met as needed Evangelism sponsored advertisements in various publications and for events Evangelism continued weekly Bible study for Adult Forum

Fellowship 3rd Sunday Potlucks occurred every month

Small Groups Young Families met monthly Middlers met regularly