regular congregation Council meeting

Wednesday, September 19

The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Council President Gordy Blem

Members present: Morgen Dietrich, Chet Boen, Cheryl Mallak, Betsy Hennen, Deanna Beckler, Amy Button, and Curt Sather.

Staff members present: Pastor Matt Hausken, Deb Knudson, and Laurie Schultze.

Devotions were led by Gordy and Pastor Matt.

The minutes of the August meeting were reviewed. A motion to approve the minutes for the August meeting was made by Chet, seconded by Curt, motion carried.

Financial Secretary and Treasurer's Report

We haven't paid the Synod or Lutheran Social Services for the past few months. Our cash balance is $5000. It takes $12,000 a month to pay all regular expenses, and we took in $13,000. We paid for 3 big items, aside from the regular expenses, that brought our cash balance down. Betsy made a motion to approve the report, seconded by Cheryl, motion carried.

Pastor's Report

Pastor highlighted the speaker's message from the Fall Church Workers retreat on Sept. 18.

Confirmation is going great this year. The small group leaders are Jeni Skeie, Teri Sigurdson, and Dave and Chris Revier.

Pastor has a baptism on September 23 and 2 weddings in October. The 3rd Graders will be getting their Bibles and 1st communion classes have begun.

There is a Passing on the Faith conference in Marshall, November 2-3, if anyone is interested in going, please let Pastor Matt know.

Youth and Family Minister's Report

Laurie asked for feedback on the following: 1) Youth announcements presented by youth and 2) the monthly Biblical and theological foundations for youth and family ministry, as published in the Follower, the bulletin and on the screen.

High School Ministry has met and has been planning events and mission activities.

Rally Sunday went well.

There is an interest in having a youth sit on the Church Council.

The survey was shared and a date was set for a small group to go over the data. Another date was set to share the data with the larger church body.

Youth Ministry

They met on September 13. They received 4 new members and 1 retired. They are going to start promoting the National Youth Gathering. In order to go on the National trip they have to go on one of the Urban Immersions trips. They are going to budget higher next year for the National Youth Gathering.

They are going to do some fundraising to build the general Youth Board account for next year.

Parish Education-Haven't met

Worship and Music-Haven't met.

Evangelizing/Parish Life -Haven't met. Chet reported that we are down to 4 faith chest and will be setting a work day sometime in October.

Property

The roof is repaired. Chet said there are some spots on the carpet that keep coming back. They talked about covering the carpet in the fellowship hall under the serving table.

The Property committee will be doing a walk through at the Parsonage in October. The deck will need to have something done next spring.

The bathrooms are done with the exception of a few details. They are wonderful! The cost came in higher than expected. May do some more coffees.

Stewardship- The note at Citizens for the windows and Parsonage will come due September 27. The balance is $6000. Curt asked for a motion to renew the note. Morgen made a motion, seconded by Betsy, motion carried.

World Missions-Haven't met.

Technology-Haven't met.

Respectfully submitted by

Debbie Knudson

Council Secretary

Minutes of the

regular congregation Council meeting

Wednesday, June 27, 2007

The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Council Vise President Chet Boen

Members present: Morgen Dietrich, Heather Thompson, Chet Boen, Cheryl Mallak, Betsy Hennen, David Bergren, and Curt Sather.

Staff members present: Pastor Matt Hausken, Deb Knudson, and Laurie Schultze.

Devotions were led by Chet Boen and Pastor Matt.

Devotions were led by Chet Boen and Pastor Matt.

The minutes of the May meeting were reviewed. A motion to approve the minutes for the May meeting was made by Morgen, seconded by Curt, motion carried.

Financial Secretary and Treasurer's Report

At the end of May we were $3500 below what we need to meet budget. The cash balance is down to $7800. David made a motion to approve the report, seconded by Cheryl, motion carried.

Pastor's Report

Pastor and Laurie are going to start home visits to the confirmation kids. They will be studying the Lutheran doctrine this year.

Pastor has talked to Mark Thiesse about doing the Crossways Bible study for the adult Bible study this fall. The series will be on “How we study scripture”.

Pastor has 2 weddings in July and will be gone to a family wedding. There will be 3 baptisms in July.

Pastor and Laurie are still meeting with David Anderson once a month for coaching.

Pastor is working on Advent services for December, hoping to increase attendance by having it geared toward family devotions and learning to worship as a family at home.

Youth and Family Minister’s Report

The shed is stained and a big thanks to Logan Erickson and Jacob Mikosch.

VBS was a big success.

The survey will be closing this week. It will take a couple of weeks to get the results back.

The new curriculum is ordered for Sunday school and the planning is underway.

There are 23 kids going to camp starting the week of July 1, with the Camp House kids leaving July 15. They will be doing a service project one day while in Duluth.

Youth Encounter will be here on September 15-16.

The National Youth Gathering will be in 2009 in New Orleans. They will need lots of service work. Pastor and Laurie have decided that the kids that want to go to the Gathering will need to do an Urban Emersion Project before they go to understand what they will be facing.

Youth Ministry

Cheryl gave the report. They approved the camp guidelines.

They have decided to put Camp COCCO on hold until next year.

Parish Education-They wraped up VBS.

Worship and Music-Haven’t met.

Evangelizing/Parish Life -Haven’t met. But will be discussing the parade for Corn Capital Days.

Property

Chet, along with other men, will start cleaning carpets next Monday, July 2.

Steve Erickson will be starting on the bathrooms after July 15.

Stewardship-Covered. There is a Synod meeting August 15-16 that Curt is going to try to attend on the 16th. On July 19 the Synod will be offering a Stewardship event at Gloria Dei if any council members can go.

World Missions-Will meet in August.

Technology-David gave the report. The bulb hasn’t been ordered for the projector. They are going to order it, so we don’t get into a position where we have to go without. They are still training people to help with the service.

Other Business

There will be no July meeting and will have the retreat in August.

Betsy Hennen presented “Love & Logic” a training program that she would like to offer at our church that would be open to the community. There are 7 sessions that take 2 hours each. She would be able to present this sometime in the fall or early winter. Council decided to table this until the next meeting.

The meeting was adjourned with the Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully Submitted by

Debbie Knudson

Council Secretary

Council Meeting on Wednesday,

February 21, 2007

The meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by Council President Gordy Blem.

Members present: Morgen Dietrich, Heather Thompson, Chet Boen, Betsy Hennen, Deanna Beckler, and Cheryl Mallak, Amy Button, Dennis Schultze, and Curt Sather.

Staff members present: Pastor Matt Hausken, Deb Knudson, and Laurie Schultze.

Devotions were led by Morgen Dietrich and Pastor Matt.

The minutes of the February meeting were reviewed. A motion to approve the minutes for the February meeting was made by Dennis, seconded by Morgen, motion carried.

Financial Secretary and Treasurer's Report

We are $2,000 behind to meet budget. We have had only 2 weeks that we have met our budget of $3,850 since the first of the year. We need $3,850 per week to stay on budget. The general fund dropped about $10,000 since the first of the year because of repairs and some other expenses. Cheryl made a motion to approve the financial report, seconded by Amy, motion carried.

Pastor's Report

This is a busy month with Lent; it’s Pastors favorite time of the year. Pastor encouraged everyone to come on March 30, for Jews for Jesus. April will also be busy with Holy week, Matins, Palm Sunday and Easter. Then Synod Assembly will be April 21-22. Pastor will be gone for Saturday night service but will be here on Sunday. He will be bringing a Pastor from South Africa to preach on Sunday morning with Pastor Matt.

Youth and Family Minister’s Report

The Youth board met on March 20. They came up with a new evaluation for the youth activities.

They had their first “Hang Time”. They played games, ate, did highs and lows, and “Ask Pastor Matt.” That went very well.

The Timothy project was a great success with 12 participants.

The Sr. High Gathering is March 23-25. There are 11 kids going.

The Youth Board is looking at restructuring the after school and youth programming.

The youth worship team is meeting every Tuesday over the noon lunch. We have 7 kids from Cross of Calvary and 4 from other churches. The first worship service is scheduled for May 2.

Sharon Alton is looking at putting together 2 youth choirs

Youth Ministry-Covered in Laurie’s report.

Worship and Music-Haven’t met.

Evangelizing/Parish Life

February 11 was movie night, no one came.

New Disciple Sunday in April 15 with 2 couples for sure.

March service project in Food Shelf.

They are working on some new ideas for Passing on the Faith after new disciples join.

They are deciding whether or not to have a float for the Corn Capital parade.

Jill is looking into a new Pictorial directory in the fall.

Property-Betsy Hennen offered to trim the weeping willows.

The rail for the Altar should be done very soon.

Stewardship- No report.

World Missions-Dennis gave the report. The Kids Against Hungry is going to be April 28. Dick Hagen has been helping with the advertising. The next meeting will be April 16, at 6:00 pm.

Parish Education-Amy gave the report. They have VBS planned for June 18-21. The cost will be $7.00 per child, or $15.00 per family. The theme will be the Great Barrier Reef.

They are purchasing Akaloo for the new Sunday school curriculum for next year.

Technology-Haven’t met.

Other Business -The Holien CD will need to be renewed the end of March. They will take out $1,000 for the camp scholarships, and the rest will be invested again.

The meeting adjourned with the Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully submitted by

Debbie Knudson

Council Secretary

Minutes of the Regular Congregation

Council Meeting on Wednesday,

January 17, 2007

The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Council President Gordy Blem.

Members present: Curt Sather, Amy Button, Sarah Mittelstadt, Morgen Dietrich, David Bergren, Dennis Schultze, Jill Hanson, and Chet Boen, Cindy Johnson, and Cheryl Mallak.

Staff members present: Pastor Matt Hausken, Deb Knudson, and Laurie Schultze.

Devotions were led by Morgen Dietrich and Pastor Matt.

The minutes of the December meeting were reviewed. A motion to approve the minutes for the December meeting was made by Chet, seconded by Sarah, motion carried.

Financial Secretary and Treasurer's Report

We took in more than we spent. We didn’t meet the proposed budget. December’s giving was okay. Cheryl made a motion to approve the financial reports, seconded by Sarah, motion carried.

Pastor's Report-Pastor stated that he will have 6 baptisms by the end of January. A group of ladies are making baptismal blankets for the newly baptized. They are also making prayer pillows for those who are added to the prayer list.

Pastor will not be going to the Extravaganza; he will work on some continuing education. Pastor asked council approval to continue with the Passing of the Faith coaching project with Laurie. David made a motion, seconded by Dennis, motion carried.

February 11 will be the dedication of the new hymnals. The Synod is recommending that families that purchased or dedicated the LBW be contacted to see if they would like the hymnal to use for devotionals.

Pastor asked council approval to have 2 communion teams on the Sundays we are at the Altar, in hopes it will cut down on the time it takes for communion.

Youth and Family Minister’s Report-Laurie stated the camp Sunday went well. It is recommended that the 3-6 gr. go to Green Lake or Shores of St. Andrews. Seventh grade and up will be going to South Dakota or Lake Onomia.

January 28 the youth along with anyone who wants to help, will be putting together the care packages to send to the military. Annmarie and Laurie are working on the DVD of the Veterans Day Service.

February 18 will be the ski trip to Mt. Kato. They are looking at going with Our Savior’s.

The Girls’ All Nighter is all planned. Laurie is still looking for people to transport the girls form one house to the next.

The Youth Lead Worship service that they attended in Hutchinson went very well. There are 9 kids that want to do this at Cross of Calvary. They will be planning on May 2 for the first worship service, with a couple this summer, then move to every other month.

Laurie will be gone from January 30-February 11.

Gustavus Outreach will be here on March 20.

The Sr. High Youth Gathering is March 23-25

Youth Ministry-Report given by Cheryl. They looked at the youth budget. Everything else is covered in Laurie’s report.

Worship and Music-Report given by Morgen. The group interested in raising money for the Grand Piano came with their presentation and a cut out of the piano that they will be presenting at the Annual Meeting.

Talked about putting up a hand rail for the left side of the Altar.

They discussed having a schedule for the Sr. Choir, and putting together a youth Choir.

Evangelizing/Parish Life -Jill gave the report. We had New Disciple Sunday on January 14, with several families joining. Doing a new picture directory was discussed.

*January service project is Habitat for Humanity.

*February 4 will be The Souper Bowl of Caring.

*February 11 is Friendship Sunday.

*February 14 will be the Men’s Spaghetti Supper.

Pastor and Jill are looking into Loaves and Fishes as a service project for everyone. Volunteers prepare and server a meal at a homeless shelter in the cities.

Property-Chet gave the report. The roof repair was $6,000 instead of $4,000. They found several things that needed to be fixed after they got up there. The garage door at the parsonage wasn’t working. Chet replace some parts.

The Ham Dinner committee is looking at remodeling the bath rooms. The quotes are starting to come in for that.

Stewardship- Curt presented the budget for 2007. David made a motion to approve the 2007 budget, seconded by Jill, motion carried.

Pledge cards and Time and Talents will be discussed at the February meeting.

World Missions-Dennis gave the report. Dennis is looking into 2 different missionaries to replace the Redfield’s. They will meet in February.

Parish Education-Sarah gave the report. They have picked the curriculum for VBS.

They will use Akaloo in February again.

Technology-Chet gave the report. Sharon purchased a DVD recorder that can be used here at church to record service, baptism, weddings, etc. Sharon recommended selling DVD for $10 for the first and $5 for additional, with the processed going into the tech fund. Chet made a motion, seconded by Sarah, motion carried.

The Sunday service is on the web-site, (just the sound).

They need a storage cabinet for upstairs.

Sharon asked Chet about leveling the floor upstairs.

Ushers need to make sure the speakers in the Narthex are on.

Other Business

Gordy asked council about changing Resolution 12.5.C. It will be proposed to the congregation and brought to vote at the Annual meeting.

Gordy went over the staff reviews.

Gordy suggested that Deb Knudson be the Council Secretary for the Annual meeting, David made a motion, seconded by Jill, motion carried. Tellers for the Annual meeting were chosen and are as follows: Curt Sather, Dennis Schultze, Bill Miller, and Dean Schultes. Curt made a motion to adjourn.

The meeting adjourned with the Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully submitted by

Debbie Knudson

Council Secretary

Results of the 2007 Election are as follows:

Council: DeAnna Beckler

Cheryl Mallak

Heather Thompson

Betsy Hennen

Auditing Committee: Sheila Siems

Nominating Committee: Darin Bratsch

Endowment Fund: Brian Boen

Head Usher: Mark Thiesse

Asst. Usher: Steve Wertish

Congregational Rep. to Synod: Karen Flom

Duane & Mary Senger

Rep. to Gustavus Adolphus College:

Keith & Stacey Larson

Thank you to everyone who was willing to serve the Lord!

Minutes of the Regular Congregational Council Meeting on Wednesday,

December 13, 2006

The meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by Council President Gordy Blem.

Members present: Curt Sather, Amy Button, Sarah Mittelstadt, Morgen Dietrich, David Bergren, Dennis Schultze, Jill Hanson, Chet Boen, and Cheryl Mallak.

Staff members present: Pastor Matt Hausken, Deb Knudson and Laurie Schultze.

Devotions were led by Amy Button and Pastor Matt.

Lyn Knoke and Bonnie Triplett of the Bazaar Committee came to the meeting asking Council’s permission to put together a proposal for a grand piano to present to the congregation at the annual meeting. Morgen made a motion, seconded by David, motion carried.

Kathy Slagter came to council to present a proposal to bring back a Parish nurse position to Cross of Calvary. This would be a team effort with other nurses in our congregation participating. A motion was made by David, seconded by Jill, motion carried.

The minutes of the November meeting were reviewed. A motion to approve the minutes for the November meeting was made by Chet, seconded by Cheryl. The motion carried.

Financial Secretary and Treasurer's Report

November revenues were not very good. Income was $15,000 and expenses were $17,000. The checking account balance is $16,000. Cheryl made a motion to approve the financial reports, seconded by Sarah, motion carried.

Pastor's Report

Pastor stated that Advent services are going well, we have had a few baptisms with several more coming up. He had one wedding in November. Four new families will be joining in January.

Council party will be January 6, at 6:30.

Youth and Family Minister’s Report

Laurie received a desk donated by Kent Kircher from the bank, so her old desk needs to be deposed of, or someone can have it.

She had several things coming up in the following months: ·the high school kids will be going to Hutchinson to a youth-led worship service with the intent to develop something similar ·Camp Sunday is in January ·Chili dinner following the annual meeting ·a girls’ all-nighter with a progressive dinner, swimming, and candlelight service ·mystery youth project ·lock-in with Gustavus Outreach, here in March.

The Timothy Project will be offered in March. It is a workshop for adults who walk along side our youth. This workshop will be funded by “Passing on the Faith”.

Youth Ministry

Covered.

Worship and Music

No report.

Property

Chet gave the report. The garage door at the Parsonage isn’t working. The lights on the west side haven’t been working for awhile; the timer may be worn out.

The roof will have to been redone in the next two years.

Stewardship- Curt informed the council that they would designate $1500 for the furnishing allowance for Pastor Matt. Curt made a motion, seconded by David, motion carried.

World Missions

No report.

Parish Education

Sarah gave the report. In January, Sunday school teachers will be trying out a new curriculum called Akaloo.

Technology-No report.

Other Business

Gordy received a letter for Prisoners of Hope asking for donations. It was turned over to Missions.

The meeting adjourned with the Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully submitted by

Debbie Knudson

Council Secretary

Minutes of the Regular Congregational Council Meeting on Wednesday,

November 15, 2006

The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Council President Gordy Blem.

Members present: Curt Sather, Nancy Bellig, Amy Button, Sarah Mittelstadt, Morgen Dietrich, David Bergren, Dennis Schultze, Jill Hanson, and Chet Boen,

Staff members present: Pastor Matt Hausken and Deb Knudson.

Devotions were led by Gordy and Pastor Matt.

The minutes of the October meeting were reviewed. A motion to approve the minutes for the October meeting was made by Chet, seconded by Morgen. The motion carried.

Financial Secretary and Treasurer's Report

October revenues were good. There was a cash balance of about $22,000 at the end of October. We have received about $1,600 in Debt Retirement since the blue envelopes were handed out.

Pastor's Report

The Jr. High Youth Gathering is this weekend in Willmar. There are 23 youth and 6 chaperones going. This Sunday is Gideon Sunday; Chet Boen, Jill Hanson and Sharon Alton will lead worship. Thanksgiving service will be on Wednesday night at 7:00 pm. Christ the King Sunday is November 26; we celebrate the end of the Church year. Advent services begin on Wednesday, November 29, at 7:00 pm and continue for the next 3 Wednesdays. On December 3, the 3rd graders will receive their bibles. Christmas Eve falls on a Sunday, so we will have regular morning worship along with the 4:30 and 11:00 pm Christmas Eve services.

Youth Director's Report

Laurie was gone.

Youth Ministry

Nancy gave the report.  They talked about High Adventure camps for next summer. One is in the Lake Superior area at Amnicon; it is water activities. The other is in South Dakota where there are 8 different activities from which to choice from.

Laurie gave the kids a survey; 68% of the kids said they want to be involved in planning of the events, 50% said they wanted faith enriching activities.

The Veterans luncheon brought in around $400.

Worship and Music

Morgen Dietrich gave the report. For the December Council meeting The Bazaar committee will try to have a report regarding their purposed Grand piano project ready for the December Council meeting.

Evangelizing/Parish Life

Jill gave the report. Sunday, November 12, was game night. It was a lot of fun!

The service project this month is the Thanksgiving food boxes and Christmas gifts for the less fortunate. This will go to Social Services.

Chet stated that we need to have another work Saturday to finish up the faith chest.

Property

Curt gave the report. We are having roof problems. The flat roof over the fellowship hall needs to have drains put in so the water doesn’t sit there, the cost is $2400. The main roof is also in need of repairs along seams, the cost is $2000 for that roof. Curt made a motion to get the roof repaired, Jill seconded it, motion carried.

We need a new phone system here at church. We have 2 bids, and this will be presented at the Annual meeting.

Want to thank the Kirchers for the donation of the fire safe filing cabinet.

The Community Christmas Cantata will be preformed here at Cross of Calvary this year.

Stewardship-Covered

World Missions

Dennis gave the report. There is $2200 in the Missions fund that the committee decided to disperse before the end of the year. We will continue to support the Slidell Louisiana church. The Redfields are done and back in the US. The Synod has recommended a new Missionary to support. They are looking into that. The next meeting will be February 12, at 6:00 pm.

Parish Education

Sarah gave the report. They haven’t met. The Christmas program practice is going well. Thank you to all the volunteers for their help.

Technology

David gave the report. The TV has been installed in the fellowship hall. Sharon, Dirk, and Dick have been working on setting up the equipment to record DVD for people on request.

Other Business

If we order 2008 offering envelopes before the end of the year, we can have them at this year’s price with free storage until delivery time. Chet made a motion to order now, seconded by Jill, motion carried.

The meeting adjourned with the Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully submitted by

Debbie Knudson

Council Secretary

Minutes of the Regular Congregational Council Meeting on Wednesday, June 21, 2006

The meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by Council President Gordy Blem.

Members present: Gordy Blem, Curt Sather, Cindy Johnson, Cheryl Mallak, Jill Hanson, Amy Button, Dennis Schultze, and Sarah Mittelstadt.

Staff members present: Pastor Matt Hausken, Deb Knudson and Laurie Schultze.

Devotions were led by Jill and Pastor Matt.

The minutes of the May meeting were reviewed. One change was made to the minutes. A motion to approve the minutes for the May meeting was made by Jill, seconded by Curt. The motion carried.

Financial Secretary and Treasurer's Report

Curt stated that we are a little behind budget. Our cash position is good.  Curt made a motion to approve the financial report, seconded by Dennis, motion carried.

Pastor's Report

Pastor has three weddings in June, has one in July, one in August and two in September. There will be two baptisms in July. VBS is going very well.

Pastor and Deb will be gone out of the office the week of July 3-9 with 13 youth in San Antonio.

Youth Director's Report

Laurie gave the report. Just coming on board she has had some opportunity to work on the Auction and VBS. VBS is a big success. There are 40 plus kids attending.

Laurie is looking forward to working with Pastor on new ideas and planning for the new direction of Youth & Family Ministry in our congregation.

Laurie has council’s approval for a new office chair.

Youth Ministry

Cheryl Mallak gave the report.  They met on June 13.

The auction went well, grossing over $3,000.

The Star Wars marathon will be sometime in August.

The camp out will be in September.

The car wash in Bird Island will be on June 24 for Wing Ding Days at Health Enhancement from 8-11 am

Worship and Music

Sarah Mittelstadt gave the report. They met on June 12. We have a shortage of organist. Mike Agree from RCW may be a possibility. Sarah asked about paying his mileage also. Curt stated that was the policy to pay mileage. Sarah said they may play some recorded music in an emergency.

Council directed the Worship and Music committee to meet with Property and Technology Committees regarding the feasibility of a Baby Grand piano and to report back to council.

Evangelizing/Parish Life

Jill gave the report. They haven’t met. June 14th will be the Sabbath Wednesday. June 24-24 will be Family camp at Birch Coulee with the Sunday service being at the park with potluck following. July 16 will be New Disciple Sunday.

Property

Jill gave the report. Sabbath Wednesday went very well with 30-35 people attending. There was a meal, devotions and games.

Family camp will be June 24-25 at Birch Coulee, with Sunday worship at 10 am at the Park followed by a potluck.

July 16th will be New Disciple Sunday.

We will have a float in the parade for Corn Capital Days. Volunteers are needed.

The next meeting will be July 12th.

Property

Damages after the break in will be less then our deductible of $2500. Damage included: church office door lock and door window, youth office door window, Pastor’s file cabinet.

Discussed putting dead bolts on the outer doors off the kitchen, fellowship hall and the sacristy. Possibly installing some kind of security system.

Stewardship and Finance

Curt stated that after the break-in, the safety deposit key was found.

World Missions

Dennis gave the report. They will meet on June 22. Shirley has agreed to be the contact person for mission mailing. Dennis noted that they had given to 12 different missions last year.

Parish Education

Sarah Mittelstadt gave the report. VBS is going very well and thanks to all the volunteers for their hard work.

Technology

No report.

Other Business

Pastor asked council approval to donation $100 for the Ecumenical service at Nester Park for Corn Capital Days.

Meeting adjourned with the Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully submitted by

Debbie Knudson

Council Secretary

Minutes of the Regular Congregational Council Meeting on Wednesday, May 24, 2006

The meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by Council President Gordy Blem.

Members present: Gordy Blem, Curt Sather, Chet Boen, Cindy Johnson, Cheryl Mallak,

Jill Hanson, Amy Button, Morgen Dietrich, and Sarah Mittelstadt.

Staff members present: Pastor Matt Hausken, Deb Knudson and Sarah Hausken.

Devotions were led by Gordy and Pastor Matt.

The minutes of the April meeting were reviewed. A few changes were made to the minutes. A motion to approve the minutes for the April meeting was made by Jill, seconded by Cheryl. The motion carried.

Financial Secretary and Treasurer's Report

Curt stated that we are close to budget. We are sitting good going into summer.  Curt made a motion to approve the financial report, seconded by Sarah, motion carried.

Pastor's Report

Pastor stated he has several weddings and baptisms this summer and the trip to San Antonio.

To move into compliance with what the ELCA suggests for starting age for 1st communion, we will currently keep instruction at 5th grade for all children, however it is permissible to commune before or after the 5th grade instruction. If the decision is made to commune before 5th grade, it will happen only after consultation between the parents, child, and pastor. At that time, the pastor will offer age appropriate communion instruction.

Youth Director's Report

This was the last week of programming.  Sarah’s last day was Wednesday after WOW.   Sarah thanked everyone for the opportunity to serve as the interim Youth Director and thanked all the committees for their help during this time. 

Youth Ministry

Cindy Johnson gave the report.  There will be a Star Wars movie marathon, over night lock in on June 27, from 10:00 am until 8:00 am the next morning.  They are looking at a Cross of Calvary camp out, August 12th. They would pitch tents, have a bonfire, potluck and attend Sunday morning worship. 

            They have received many donations for the auction.  The plant sale went very well.

Worship and Music

They haven’t met. Karen Grasmon won’t be coming home this summer so we will be short an organist.

Evangelizing/Parish Life

Jill gave the report. They haven’t met. June 14th will be the Sabbath Wednesday. June 24-24 will be Family camp at Birch Coulee with the Sunday service being at the park with potluck following. July 16 will be New Disciple Sunday.

Property

Chet gave the report. There was some water in the basement of the parsonage. They need a new outlet in the basement also. The back garage

door at the parsonage is broken. Chet was going to find a new door to replace the old one. The outside water faucet at the church is broken and Steve Erickson will be replacing it.

Stewardship and Finance

Since we haven’t been able to find a treasurer, Curt will take over the job for now. Curt made a motion that there be at least 2 signatures on the checks. Curt suggested that Dennis, Gordy and himself be added to the signature card at the bank.  Motion was seconded by Sarah Mittelstadt, motion carries.  

World Missions

Haven’t met.

Parish Education

Sarah Mittelstadt gave the report. VBS will be June 19-22 from 6-8 pm. There are 22 kids registered so far.

Technology

Morgen Dietrich gave the report. They are working on the audio/visual for the fellowship hall/kitchen, nursery and narthex. They are looking at selling the old sound board and speakers. Curt made a motion to use the memorial money to finish the project and get it done right. The motion was seconded by Chet, motion carries.

Other Business

On June 18, a Lutheran Seminary doctorial student will be coming out to observe our congregation.

June 4 is Pentecost Sunday and Pastor Matt has several people that will be saying the Lord’s Prayer in several different languages.

June 18 will be Laurie Schultz’s installation for the Youth & Family Ministry position. Cake and coffee will be served during coffee hour.

It was recommended that the band get paid what we would normally pay the organist, each time that they play. The money would be put in an account and would be used for band equipment etc. Curt made a motion to approve this, seconded by Sarah, motion carries.

Gordy proposed to council to send Deb to a Business Writing class in St. Cloud. Chet made a motion, seconded by Curt, motion carries.

Meeting adjourned with the Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully submitted by

Debbie Knudson

Council Secretary

Minutes of the Regular Congregational Council Meeting on Wednesday, February 15, 2006

The meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by Council President Gordy Blem.

Members present: Gordy Blem, Curt Sather, Chet Boen, Cindy Johnson, Cheryl Mallak,

Jill Hanson, Nancy Bellig, Amy Button and Morgen Dietrich.

Staff members present: Pastor Matt Hausken, Deb Knudson and Sarah Hausken.

Devotions were led by Gordy Blem and Pastor Matt.

The minutes of the January meeting were reviewed; a motion to approve the minutes for the January meeting was made by Cheryl, seconded by Jill. The motion carried.

Financial Secretary and Treasurer's Report Curt stated that we aren’t in great shape but not in terrible. Curt made a motion to approve the Financial Reports, Chet seconded it, motion carried.

Pastor's Report

Pastor had 2 Baptism’s, one in January and one in February. Rylie Boen will be baptized in March.

The Extravaganza went well. They had great speakers.

Lent starts on March 1. Pastor will be using the book “Sabbath” during Lent on Sunday’s and on Wednesday using “Praying like Jesus.” All

Council members are encouraged to get the book Sabbath. The “Passing on the Faith” committee will pay for half the book for each Council member as incentive.

Youth Directors Report

Sarah Hausken gave the report. Everything is going very well. The Youth led service on January 29th was a big success. The youth have had movie night, Supper Bowl party at Mallak’s and Broomball. Sunday, February 19th the youth will be going to Parkview to play Bingo with the residents over there and the following Sunday will be Girl’s Night In.

The Senior High Gathering is the last weekend in March which is also a music Competition for the High School Choir members. There will be fewer youth going.

WOW just finished studying the 10 Commandments. They celebrated by going bowling.

They will be studying “Journey with Jesus” next.

Next month will be a camp push.

Youth Ministry

Cindy Johnson gave the report. Deanne Beckler will head up the fundraising committee. She will be looking for help.

Worship and Music

Cindy Johnson gave the report. The Worship committee met with the Technology committee. They were wondering if the Good Friday service could be done by the Youth as in the past. Pastor didn’t have a problem with that.

They talked about a group raising money for a Baby Grand Piano. Curt made a motion to post pone any further fundraising until we can make a final decision if we want it or can have it. Jill seconded the motion, motion carries.

They discussed training more people to run the new system. If someone outside of the church wanted to use the system for a funeral or wedding etc. someone from our church would have to run it. Talked about charging a fee for that person to come in and run the system also.

Evangelizing/Parish Life

Jill gave the report. Friendship Sunday went very well. We had 6 people join us.

February’s service project is paper products for the Food Shelf. Jill reminded everyone that we are coming up on the 3rd Sunday which all the loose offering goes to the Food Shelf and to remind everyone to also bring a non perishable food item. March is Food Shelf month.

Rich and Trish will be here on March 11-12. There will be a potluck on Saturday evening with a program following. They will be leading the Sunday morning service as well.

Property

Chet gave the report. Everything is good. There is a little work upstairs on the new system. They are talking about installing a door at the top of the stairs.

Stewardship and Finance

Curt stated that we are still looking for a new Treasurer.

World Missions

They met on February 9th. The decided to pay out $500 to each of the following: Lutheran Orient Mission, Mission: Moving Mountains-Dave Haglund, World Mission Prayer League-Radio Carinavi, ELCA Missionary Support for Guy Redfield.

Parish Education

Cheryl gave the report. Jeni had Sunday school schedule planned out.

Technology

David Bergren was gone. Pastor stated that Dirk Siems got the wiring finished to link the computer upstairs and the office computer together.

Other Business

Pastor stated that we have 4 more applications for the Youth Directors position. The deadline is February 28.

Gordy stated that Clifford and Valerie Holien left a CD in the amount of $5000 to Cross of Calvary. Council tossed around ideas for use of the money. The Holien’s loved children and were never able to have their own. The Council decided to use it for enhancing faith lives of the youth. We would like to thank the Holien’s for their generous gift to Cross of Calvary.

Meeting adjourned with the Lord’s Prayer

Respectfully submitted by

Debbie Knudson

Council Secretary

Minutes of the Regular Congregational Council Meeting on Wednesday, January 18, 2006

The meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by Council President Gordy Blem.

Members present: Gordy Blem, Curt Sather, Chet Boen, Cindy Johnson, Cheryl Mallak, Dennis Schultze. Jill Hanson, and Sarah Mittelstadt.

Staff members present: Pastor Matt Hausken, Deb Knudson and Sarah Hausken.

Devotions were led by Gordy Blem and Pastor Matt.

The minutes of the December meeting were reviewed; a motion to approve the minutes for the December meeting was made by Chet, seconded by Curt. The motion carried.

Financial Secretary and Treasurer's Report

Curt stated that we made our budget with a cash balance of $12, 000. Curt made a motion to approve the report, Sarah seconded it, motion carries.

Pastor's Report

Pastor had 2 wedding in January, Marlin Hanson and Maureen Frantik, and Jim Doering and Lisa Newland. Carol Gusey’s wedding has been changed to April 6.

Intergenerational Sunday school is off and going very well. Pastor encourages Adults of the congregation to stop by any of the Sunday school rooms and participate with the youth. The 3rd graders got their new bibles on January 15th. McKenna Jensen will be baptized on January 22 and Landon Robideau will be baptized on February 12.

Pastor will be gone the first Sunday in February to the Extravaganza in Phoenix. He will be looking for people to help with the service.

Pastor is gearing up for the Lenten service “Preaching and Teaching” it is about Sabbath. The series will be used on the Wednesday service as well as on Sunday services.

Pastor Matt is filling out the position for Synod Council for Pastor Nick. Pastor Matt will be the Synod Pastor Dean for this years Synod Conference.

Youth Directors Report

Sarah Hausken gave the report. SNOR is gaining steam again with several adults participating which is very good to have the intergenerational carried through to other programs besides Sunday school. SNOR on January 22 will be the youth planning the youth lead service for January 29. They were a little hesitant at first but are coming around to the idea. Brendon Siems will be preaching that day. January 29th will be movie night. February will be Bingo at Parkview, Broom ball, and girl’s night in.

Breakfast club is going very well.

WOW kids went to the Draheim’s to see the nativity scene of Bethlehem. It was a wonderful experience for the kids, they total enjoyed being able to touch and look at all the piece of the nativity, and just coming together with someone from the congregation that they might not have had contact with otherwise.

The Senior High gathering will be coming soon.

Youth Ministry

Cheryl Mallak gave the report. They talked about fund raising and programming. They will be looking

at a budget for expenses.

Worship and Music

They haven’t met. Chet made mention that there were not enough ushers for the 4:30 Christmas Eve service. No Acolytes were there either. Gordy asked to put on the calendar for next year to check with the Head usher the week before Christmas to make sure we have enough

Evangelizing/Parish Life

Jill gave the report. We had new Disciple Sunday on January 15 with 11 adults and 8 kids becoming new members. The next new Disciple Sunday will be in April.

January 22 will be movie night at 6:00 pm. We will be watching Marin Luther.

We are supporting the “Souper Bowl of Caring” service project. The Bowls will be out on the table during the Chili dinner for people to through their loose change into. The money will go to the Habitat for Humanity. Evangelizing/Parish Life have served 2 coffee’s making $115 which will also go to Habitat for Humanity.

They are encouraging all Council members to participate in the Lenten series “Preaching and Teaching” the Sabbath. They will pay for half the book and asking the members to pay for the other half.

Next months service project will be paper products that will go to the Food Shelf.

Property

Chet gave the report. They have been tossing ideas around the security on the new sound equipment. One idea was a door at the top of the stairs. Gordy called the insurance company and we will be covered. They suggested going around and taking pictures of what we have since it as been a while. They removed the old speakers last week.

The entryway is done.

Stewardship and Finance

Curt handed out another draft of the budget. After much discussion Sarah made a motion to pass the budget, Chet seconded, motion carries. Curt stated that Colin will be resigning from the Treasurer position and we will need to look for a new one.

World Missions

They haven’t met in January but will be meeting on February 9th.

Parish Education

Sarah gave the report. Intergenerational

Sunday school is going very well. They need 1 more teacher for February and May.

Parish Education will start meeting at 7:00 pm on Council night.

Technology

Gordy read a report from David Bergren:

The video system has been installed. All the equipment for the system has been moved to the balcony. It is on the desk Chet made for this purpose.

The audio system is almost complete. The new speaker has been hung in the sanctuary, and the old ones have been removed. The sound board is now in the balcony. The portable, lectern and pulpit mikes are installed. The committee has not yet decided on a way to get the sound to the Narthex, the Fellowship Hall, and the Nursery. When we identify the correct way to do this, we will complete the work

Our next meeting will be on February 2. This will be a joint meeting with the Worship and Music committee. We will be exploring ways that we can work together in the coming year. Part of this meeting will be used to discuss the best way to acknowledge the memorial gift from the Kircher family that was used to pay for the new audio/video system and the memorial gift from the Kern family that was used for the desk and other system enhancements.

Other Business

The call committee has interviewed 3 applicants so far. That this point we have opened the position back up and Pastor Matt will do some recruiting at the Extravaganza.

Meeting adjourned with the Lord’s Prayer

Respectfully submitted by

Debbie Knudson

Council Secretary

Minutes of the Regular Congregational Council Meeting on Wednesday, January 18, 2006

Website: www.crossofcalvary.net

E-mail: crossofcalvary@redred.com

Pastor: Rev Matt Hausken

mhausken@redred.com

Pastors Study: 523-5857 Parsonage: 523-1282

Cell: 320-579-0839

Youth Director: Sarah Hausken, Interim

cocyouth@yahoo.com

Administrative Assistant: Deb Knudson

Choir Director: Kathy Reese

Organist: Peggy Vesterby

Sextons: Chet and Angie Boen

Sunday School Superintendent: Jeni Skeie

Council: Gordy Blem, President

Jill Hanson Dennis Schultze Sarah Mittelstadt

Curt Sather Chet Boen David Bergren

Karen Flom Cindy Johnson Cheryl Mallak

Treasurer: Colin Berg

Devotions were led by Dennis Schultze and Pastor Matt.

Curt stated that we are about $5500 ahead of budget. We should be ok by the end of December.

Pastor's Report

Advent is almost over. There will be 2 Christmas Eve services, 4:30 and 11:00 pm. Morgen Dietrich and Steven Belling will be doing solo’s during the 4:30 service, the Brass band will be performing also. There will be a Christmas day service this year. Jill and Sarah will sing during that service. Pastor will be gone from December 26 – January 2 to be with family. Ken Ziesmer will be doing the Saturday service with Lessons and Carols service, Jill Hanson and hopefully others, will be doing the Sunday service.

Pastor has 3 weddings in January, Carol Gusey, Marlin Hanson and Jim Doering.

The Annual meeting will be on January 22. McKeena Jensen will be baptized that day.

We will have a movie night that evening at 6:00 pm. The movie will be Martin Luther.

January will be intergenerational Sunday school. They will be doing a Heifer project.

The 3rd Graders will be receiving their Bibles on January 15.

Communion will be on January 8 and 22.

Youth Director's Report

Breakfast club had about 7-8 every time.

The next Youth Board will be on January 10.

Youth Ministry

Chery Mallak gave the report. They asked for an increase in the budget of $500-$1000 to help cover the cost of camp expenses. The budgeted amount that they have now and the fund raising only helps cover the cost of day to day expense.

Worship and Music
They haven’t met.

Evangelizing/Parish Life

Property

Curt handed out a rough draft of next year’s budget.

World Missions
They haven’t met.

Parish Education

They haven’t met. The treat bags were taken care of.

Technology

Meeting adjourned with the Lord’s Prayer

Respectfully submitted by

Debbie Knudson

Council Secretary

Minutes of the Regular Congregational Council Meeting on Wednesday, November 16, 2005

The meeting was called to order at 8:00 p.m. by Council President Gordy Blem.

Members present: Gordy Blem, Karen Flom, Curt Sather, David Bergren, Chet Boen, Cindy Johnson, Cheryl Mallak, Dennis Schultze. Jill Hanson, and Sarah Mittelstadt.

Staff members present: Pastor Matt Hausken, Deb Knudson.

Devotions were led by Cindy Johnson and Pastor Matt.

At an earlier Council meeting it was noted that Gordy would check to see if the Lutheran Digest could replace the Lutheran magazine for those who no longer wanted to receive it. Gordy reported that Lutheran Digest doesn't send them out in that way.

A motion to approve the minutes for October meeting was made by Curt, seconded by Dennis. The motion carried.

Financial Secretary and Treasurer's Report

Curt stated that we are about $6500 ahead of budget, with a cash balance of almost $20,000. By the time we pay off our mission's obligations and the entryway, $12,000 of that will be gone. Curt made a motion to approve the report, Sarah seconded it, motion carries.

Pastor's Report

Advent is just around the corner.

The Jr. High gathering is November 18-20 in Willmar. Colin will be filling in on Saturday,

also on Sunday along with Jill Hanson, and Lyn Knoke.

The Thanksgiving service will be at 7:00 pm. The first Advent service will be on November 30 at 7:00 pm. We will be learning about Revelations during Advent. Christmas Eve on Saturday this year with services at 4:30 and 11:00 pm both will be candlelight with Communion. There will also be a Christmas day service on Sunday morning at 9:00 am.

Pastor will be gone December 26 through January 2.

Confirmation will still continue during Advent.

Pastor has 2 weddings and 3 baptisms in January.

Youth Director's Report

Sarah Hausken stated that everything is going well. Nancy Bellig is helping with WOW that is a big help.

The Youth board will meet again on November 29.

Sarah went over the job description for the new position with Council.

Youth Ministry

Cindy Johnson gave the report. They haven't met. They are working on budgeting Camp money and other youth events. Cheryl had put together what they have spent so far out of the budget for this year; for camp was $2391, breakfast club was $1000 and WOW and SNOR are at $375. That puts them over budget.

Worship and Music

They asked Council for a line item on the budget next year for music.

Evangelizing/Parish Life

Jill gave the report. They had game night, only 10 people were there but they had a great time.

They will have an Advent Celebration on December 4. It will start right after Sunday school with a tree blessing, potluck, crafts and games and caroling later in the afternoon.

Property

No discussion.

Stewardship and Finance

Motion by Curt, second by David to give permission to committee to work with the treasurer to eliminate/consolidate some of the designated gift fund accounts.

Reminded the other committees to forward

Minutes of the Regular Congregational

Council Meeting on Wednesday, September2l, 2005