Session News and Actions, May 2021
Session met twice in the last month. On May16th we met in the back yard of the manse to meet with seven individuals who wish to become active members of Hopewell Presbyterian Church. Session voted enthusiastically to welcome Shari Adair, Joseph Bevis, Chris Cox, David Denito, Michele Immordino, Tori Paquette, David Reynolds as members. David’s 5 year-old son Ricky is also welcomed as a baptized member.
The May 26th regular (or stated) meeting was held in the somewhat warm environment of the Choir Room, with everyone masked and distanced.
Providing for Worship in a Pandemic.
In response to the steadily improving situation, Session voted to modify worship protocols again. On and after June 20th masks will still be required indoors for the time being. Indoor seating will be “self-selected” from the available rows. Masked singing is permitted. Other detailed changes were made to the outdoor service protocols and to the use policies for the buildings and staff.
Reorganizing our Ministries
Session continued the work of reorganizing our ministries, working on final details. Full details will be provided when this is complete.
Caring for and Improving Our Facilities
· Approved $28,500 to hire architect Eric Holterman of Holt Morgan Russell to produce concept, schematics design work, drawings and cost estimates for the sanctuary.
· Approved $12,000 for a heat pump and air conditioning unit to cool the library, second floor choir room, and the large and small conference rooms on the first floor.
Community
· Met with confirmation candidate Josie Blankstein and her mentor Jennifer Megaffin. Session heard and enthusiastically approved Josie’s faith statement and welcomed her as a full and active member of the church
· Received and discussed the Report “HPC Young Adult Survey Results” prepared by Elder Molly Person and Doug Peterson. This presents and analyses the results of a survey of 20 young-adults who grew up in HPC and were asked about their current t perceptions of faith, “Church”, and HPC. It has much to teach us.
· Received and approved the slate of New Officers presented by the Nominating Committee. These will be presented at the Annual Meeting on June 13th.
· Recognized the service of Elders Stan Krystek. Dick Scheetz and Todd Sutton, who are rotating off Session.
· Determined to increase the rent for our 86/88 West Broad Street properties.
· Adopted a 2021-22 budget.
Staff for the Church’s Mission and Ministry
· Approved the summer intern job description and approved hiring a summer intern at a cost of $1,350.
· Approved a sick leave policy which conforms to NJ requirements.
Ian Burrow
Clerk of Session