INTRODUCING THE NEW LOCAL CHURCH PROFILEopportunities.ucc.org/CustomerFTP/3238/Attachments... · We need peace and love to get there. We are looking for respect and tolerance for

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Rachel Hackenberg

Microsoft

[Pick the date]

Search and Call Tools for Congregations

Advancing the Spirit’s guidance into God’s future

INTRODUCING THE NEW

LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE

?

Who is God

calling us

to become

Who is our

neighbor

Who are

we

The new Local Church Profile is not just for congregations in search of a

pastor. All congregations are encouraged to engage in its process of

discovery every 3-5 years. The UCC Local Church Profile reflects

valuable data, assesses ministry, clarifies change, and helps advance the

calling of the congregation. Not just to be completed by a search

committee – the more participation, the better!

MINISTERIAL EXCELLENCE, SUPPORT & AUTHORIZATION

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UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST

LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE

Armenian Martyrs' Congregational Church

Full-time Pastor

United Church of Christ, Pennsylvania Southeast Conference

Validation Date: September 25, 2018

LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE CONTENTS

➢ Position Posting

➢ Who Is God Calling Us To Become?

➢ Who Are We Now?

➢ Who Is Our Neighbor?

➢ References

➢ Consent and Validation

“God is able to provide you with every blessing, so that

having all sufficiency in all things at all times,

you may abound in every good work.”

(2 Corinthians 9:8)

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INSTRUCTIONS

The new Local Church Profile supports the calling and discernment of United Church of Christ

congregations with their current or future pastoral leadership.

For many congregations, the interim time between ministers is an intentional season that is guided

in part by the preparation of a Local Church Profile. Using the Profile, the church can discover its

data and express its story for the reliable discernment of a search committee and the beginning of

a new pastorate. Searching ministers will want to see this document in its entirety.

The interim season is not the only time in a church’s life when it’s valuable to give attention to

explore a congregation’s vocation. Three sections of the Local Church Profile – WHO ARE WE NOW, WHO IS OUR NEIGHBOR, and WHO IS GOD CALLING US TO BECOME – are meant

to be updated every 3-5 years. Known together as the “Discovery Document,” these three sections

can be completed by a visioning group, a governing body, a transition team, or other group – not

just the search committee – in order to draw forward the gifts and imaginative possibilities of a

congregation. The church’s engagement with the “Discovery Document” might not have the same

sequence as the completed Local Church Profile that is read by candidates.

Some questions are easy to answer. Some are not so easy. Prompts are provided to stimulate

narrative response if needed; these italicized prompts are merely examples from which to choose

or to inspire your own. Efforts to answer the questions will prompt conversations and explorations

and storytellings and many prayers, and as the Spirit moves throughout the process, congregations

will shape a collective articulation of Christ’s leading (WHO IS GOD CALLING US TO

BECOME). This last question to be answered becomes the first section to be read by searching

ministers in the Local Church Profile, and it is boldest and most actionable piece for faithful

leadership into the future.

Your conference can provide materials referenced in the Local Church Profile, such as the 11-

Year Report containing data as reported by your congregation annually to the UCC Data Hub and

MissionInsite reports containing demographic information on your community. More information

on types of pastorate in the United Church of Christ can be found in the Call Agreement

Workbook. Be sure to use the Call Agreement Workbook’s Scope of Work to describe in this

Local Church Profile the position being sought.

When it is time for ministerial search, the conference can counsel you on posting the Local Church

Profile together with your public listing at UCC Ministry Opportunities

(http://oppsearch.ucc.org).

The last page of the Local Church Profile contains a statement that parallels the consent statement

signed by ministers in the UCC Ministerial Profile. In keeping with the covenantal relationship

between a church and those it seeks to call, this statement encourages an open, honest exchange

of information. On behalf of the United Church of Christ, and on the basis of the best knowledge

available to them, your conference staff will validate your completed Local Church Profile when

it is ready to be shared in relationship with prospective new leaders.

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POSITION POSTING

LISTING INFORMATION

SCOPE OF WORK

COMPENSATION & SUPPORT

WHO IS GOD CALLING TO MINISTER WITH US?

LISTING INFORMATION

Church name: Armenian Martyrs' Congregational Church (AMCC)

Street address: 100 N. Edmonds Avenue, Havertown, PA 19083

Supplemental web links:

www.amccpa.org

Additional ecumenical affiliations (e.g. denominations, communions, fellowships):

Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA)

Armenian Evangelical Union of North America (AEUNA)

Haverford Township Ministerium

Armenian Inter Communal Committee (comprised of representatives of the 5

Philadelphia Armenian churches)

Conference: Pennsylvania Southeast

Association: Philadelphia

UCC Conference or Association Staff Contact Person (Name, Title, Phone, Email):

Rev. Sharon Morris, Associate Conference Pastor

484-949-8774

[email protected]

Summary Ministry Description:

In a short paragraph, reflect on where your church is going and what it might look like when

you get there. What do you need to get there? Who are you seeking to join you on this part of

your church’s faith journey?

We are striving to be a loving, united congregation following the example of Jesus to

welcome all. We need peace and love to get there. We are looking for respect and tolerance

for one another's diversity. We are looking for unity.

All members need to work together under the leadership of our new pastor who will

shepherd us through our church's faith journey.

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Photographs:

Church building

Choir and congregants on Easter Sunday joining in "Hallelujah Chorus"

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July 4 Picnic

What we value about living in our area (2 – 3 sentences):

Our area is a central location for so many of our members, as well as other Armenians.

The area is a beautiful residential neighborhood, with a good school district.

Current size of membership: 89

Languages used in ministry (other than English): Western Armenian

Position Title: Full-time Pastor

Position Duration (choose one, delete the other options listed):

Settled – a called position intended for longer-term ministry in which the minister moves

church membership to the congregation and moves standing to related association

Compensation Level (choose one, delete the other options listed): Full -time

Does the total support package meet conference compensation guidelines? YES

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SCOPE OF WORK

(add here the Scope of Work developed by your church using the Call Agreement Workbook)

We have added the scope of work for Full-time minister and added more to clarify needs

of our church (in italics and underlined).

Full-time Minister (40-50 hours)

• preparation and leadership of Sunday worship – crafting the liturgy, scripture study, sermon

prep, including bulletin preparation, music choice, finding and guiding lay liturgists,

preaching, prayers, etc. • faith formation and vitality – through prayer, Bible study, service, identifying helpful

resources and opportunities and helping lay persons take advantage of them • leadership development – working with people in the church to create ministry and

programs with active participation • community engagement – leading the way for the church to be an ambassador of God’s

love

• pastoral care in collaboration with spiritual council or other lay people – at least the elderly

and the sick and those grieving • weddings and funerals for participants in the worshipping community • strategic planning for current and new directions in ministry with special focus on youth

ministry • faithful financial development

• attend meetings and give leadership as needed in relation to church programs, always in

collaboration with lay leadership – meetings of the governance board, committee meetings,

administrative work such as planning and training of lay leaders

• be available to the community for funerals, weddings, special service programs and as a

representative of the church in community organizations • participate in wider church meetings and activities such as conference and association

meetings, AEUNA, AMAA, Philadelphia area Armenian churches, and Haverford Ministerium

• administration responsibilities (unless delegated) such as e-mail, web-site, regular mail,

church supply choices/purchasing, filing or resources, record-keeping • responsibility and authority for supervision of all/some staff (list direct reports here: Shared

supervision with the Trustees of Church Secretary. All other staff report to Trustees. • counseling when there are special needs, listening and referral including conflict resolution

issues that exist in our church • study and pray to keep learning and improving skills and understanding so as to lead, teach,

preach better • inspiring and energizing and deepening the spiritual connections and faith understanding

through whatever they do

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Core Competencies:

(List three core competencies that you imagine could be foundational in your next

minister’s relationship with the church. For example, a church seeking a pastoral care

minister might hope to call someone who is caring, sensitive and sociable, while a church

seeking an executive minister might want an organized, detail-oriented and time-

conscious person.)

Effective preacher

Youth-oriented

Accepting and uniting

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COMPENSATION AND SUPPORT

Salary Basis (from the Call Agreement Workbook, equal to Cash Salary plus Value of

Parsonage/Housing Allowance): $

Per UCC Guidelines, based on experience

Benefits (choose one):

Salary plus Benefits, including 14% Pension

Salary includes Optional Benefits

No Benefits

What is the expected living situation for your next minister (e.g. parsonage, living nearby with a

housing allowance, living elsewhere to commute as needed)?

Living nearby with a housing allowance

Comment on the residential/commuting expectations for your next minister.

Same as current and previous pastors - living nearby with a housing allowance

State any incentives (e.g. school debt reduction or retention bonus after a certain number of

years in position):

We reimburse Social Security, travel expenses, and education expenses. We also

contribute to UCC pension and offer four weeks of paid vacation.

Describe peer and professional supports available for ministers in your association/conference:

Haverford Ministerium, Pennsylvania Southeast Conference and PSEC Conference Office

Philadelphia Association and Communities of Practice

If applicable, describe how your church will adopt part-time adjustments in the pastoral schedule

to support a minister’s bi-vocational employment:

Not applicable, since we seek a Full-time Pastor.

WHO IS GOD CALLING TO MINISTER WITH US?

Describe the ministry goals you envision your next minister co-collaborating with the

congregation to achieve. We envision our next minister to co-collaborate with the congregation to:

1. Encourage the congregation to relate their faith to their daily lives.

2. Integrate our youth into the life of the church.

3. Accept people's divergent backgrounds, traditions, and theologies.

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Describe how your vision of the minister you are now seeking will assist the congregation in

making an impact beyond its walls.

We wish the minister to equip members to also participate in making homebound

calls and visits to congregants. In addition, support the congregation in reaching out to

unchurched Armenians, non-Armenians, and inactive members, and help expand AMCC's

missions work and hands-on community outreach service.

Specify language requirements or culturally-specific capacities preferred in a next ministerial

leader, and why those matter to the congregation’s sense of calling.

As an Armenian church founded and populated by survivors of massacre and their

descendants, our church has a strong calling to its Armenian roots. Some members

appreciate the inclusion of an Armenian- language component within our worship service.

As such, it would be preferred if our next pastor were conversant in Western Armenian,

and knowledgeable of and sensitive to the Armenian culture.

Based on what you have learned about who your church is, who your church’s neighbor is, and

who God is calling the church to become, describe four areas of excellence from The Marks of

Faithful & Effective Authorized Ministry that your next minister will display to further equip the

congregation’s ministry in these areas.

EXHIBITING A SPIRITUAL FOUNDATION AND ONGOING

SPIRITUAL PRACTICES

* Loving God, following Jesus Christ, and being guided by the Holy Spirit. Living a

life of discipleship.

* Praying and nurturing spiritual practices.

* Exhibiting a commitment to lifelong spiritual nurture and development.

PARTICIPATING IN THEOLOGICAL PRAXIS

* Integrating theological reflection in teaching, preaching, and ecclesial and

community leadership.

* Experiencing and appreciating a variety of theological perspectives.

STRENGTHENING INTER- AND - INTRA PERSONAL ASSETS

* Respecting the dignity of all God's people.

* Understanding and ministering to stages of human development across the

lifespan.

* Demonstrating excellent communication skills.

* Exhibiting strong moral character and personal integrity.

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WORKING TOGETHER FOR JUSTICE AND MERCY

* Drawing on the ministry of Jesus Christ to confront injustice and oppression

* Engaging in mission and outreach

* Building relationships of mutual trust and interdependence

CARING FOR ALL CREATION

* Nurturing care and compassion for God's creation

* Providing hope and healing to a hurting world

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WHO IS GOD CALLING US TO BECOME?

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and

with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37 NRSV)

1. Who is God calling you to become as a congregation in the following areas:

a. Stewardship -- "As each has received a gift, employ it for one another, as good

stewards of God's varied grace." (1 Peter 4:10 RSV)

People feel it is important for members to use our time, talent, and financial

resources to increase the vibrancy of our church. They recognize this service should be

done as God's grace is given to us in a spirit of good will and humble joy to serve others as

we are blessed by God. They feel this service should then be extended into the broader

Armenian and local communities by better use of our time, talent, and financial resources.

These comments are in contrast to AMCC's habitual challenge to find members willing to

serve on committees or engage in church activities.

b. Worship -- "God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and

truth." (John 4:24 RSV)

Some members expressed that worship is about what you bring to it, not what you

get out of it. They also expressed that God is calling us to be safe and honest with ourselves

in His presence and enjoy participating with the congregation during the service. Others

expressed how they believed the worship music is great, while others believe it needs more

energy and a faster pace. Some members believe that we need blessed quietness with more

reverence for the sanctuary. Members also expressed that we need a message that we can

apply to our daily lives.

c. Outreach -- "Welcome one another, therefore; as Christ has welcomed you, for the

glory of God." (Romans 15:7 RSV)

Most members feel that we are a warm and welcoming congregation when guests

visit our church. People also feel that we do not do enough to reach out to others to

encourage them to join us in worship or spiritual study. They feel we need to make this

more of an ongoing endeavor, and a few even suggested a special committee that focuses

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on this outreach effort. There are a few who feel we should focus mainly on the

unchurched Armenian population, but others feel this effort should be extended to the

local community as well. A few members suggested hosting activities such as concerts,

dinners, or plays that would provide an opportunity for people to begin participating with

our church family besides attending a Sunday worship service.

d. Missions -- "For it is all for your sake, so that as grace extends to more and more

people it may increase thanksgiving to the glory of God." (2 Corinthians 4:15 RSV)

Most feel that for a small congregation, we are strong and active in missions and

outreach: we support Armenian, as well as local projects. We are taught to be aware of

other peoples' needs.

We contribute financially to several programs and projects of the AMAA in

Armenia, Lebanon, and Syria. We also respond to AEUNA appeals for mission projects.

However, we need to look for ways to increase our hands-on activities in addition to this

financial support.

A few members feel that we have lost our connection to our sister church in Berd,

Armenia and need to make every effort to reclaim this relationship.

Overall, people feel that we are a giving church, but would like to be more involved

in hands-on mission projects. As one member expressed: "Missions and service are tightly

connected".

e. Service -- "If any one serves me, he must follow me; and where I am, there shall my

servant be also; if any one serves me, the Father will honor him." (John 12:26 RSV)

Members expressed that we are called to service as a way to praise and worship

God - when we serve others (in our church and the needy in our community and the

world), we serve the Father. We need to be more proactive and involved, beyond passive

donations. Some feel we are lacking in this area and need more guidance to learn and

grow. We have busy lives, but need to ask ourselves, " Does my life reflect my service to

Christ?" Specific service activities mentioned include providing homeless meals, Vacation

Bible School (VBS), and serving and volunteering in our church's life. However we serve,

we should do it with love, gladness, and willing hands.

f. Faith in action -- "So faith by itself, if it has no works, is dead." (James 2:17 RSV)

People in general agree that more action is needed to actualize faith. While most see

this as already occurring at AMCC, some feel there is opportunity to increase our service

to people in the community. Specifics include meeting local needs, reaching out to others,

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knowing each other more fully, learning to accept each other, and living by example

according to the model Christ set for us. There is a consensus that God is calling us to

greater involvement in acting out our faith.

g. Faith formation -- "All scripture is inspired by God and profitable for teaching, for

reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete,

equipped for every good work." (2 Timothy 3:16-17 RSV)

Our members are committed to and want to grow their faith. Members pursue

different paths in their faith formation. Members feel we can grow through questioning

and understanding the messages of the Bible. Some value reading additional inspirational

works as well. Others feel that we need to do more to challenge and grow our faith, make

our diversity a strength at AMCC rather than divisive, and learn not to judge others.

h. Fellowship/Partnership -- "For just as the body is one and has many members, and all

the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ." (1 Corinthians 12:12

RSV)

Members strongly express that God is calling us to focus on what unites us, and not

what divides us - with an emphasis on a deep respect for those we disagree with. Members

also express that there is a lot of talent in the church and that it should be utilized in

service. Some also want more congregational retreats, and to join in more activities with

the Inter-Communal Committee, the Haverford Ministerium, the AEUNA, and the UCC.

Additionally, some would like to see the AMCC youth partnering with youth from

neighboring congregations. They also feel there should be more open, loving conversations

to build on the recent congregational retreat.

i. Other -- "For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for welfare and not

for evil, to give you a future and a hope." (Jeremiah 29:11 RSV)

Most people feel we have a mandate as church members to provide a living example

of Christ's love. They feel we should trust each other and trust God, relying on His

prompting by the Holy Spirit and not following our own plans. A comment was made that

Armenians have a special responsibility to ensure that not only is the Armenian Genocide

remembered, but that we should be moved by Christ's love to do more to prevent similar

atrocities from happening in our present time.

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2. Describe how God is calling you to reach out to address the emerging challenges and

opportunities of your community and congregation.

Many people feel that we have a unique opportunity given the large community of

unchurched Armenians in the Philadelphia area. Other people feel our outreach should

include the local community since statistics indicate that only 14% of people in

Pennsylvania attend church regularly. The potential is great to lead many to the love of

Christ. Suggestions for outreach also include events such as dinners, cultural programs,

fundraisers, sponsoring refugees, and game nights, providing various ways for people to

meet us and enjoy the fellowship of our congregation.

a. For example, describe two experiments your congregation has initiated or engaged in the

past year?

Examples of experiments our congregation has engaged in are: the youth group's

free community car wash, family game nights, congregational retreat, and Couples' Bible

Study.

What were the results and where do you see your next steps?

Most responses were very positive about all the experiments. They also found

providing opportunities for fellowship among the congregation and community of benefit.

b. Has your church had a multi-year strategic plan or vision statement; if so, where do you see

that plan/vision taking you?

Vision Statement -- (2006) – "AMCC will be a church community that is Christ-centered,

spiritually alive, growing in worship attendance, Armenian and community-based, and

welcoming all people."

AMCC does not have a multi-year strategic plan, and this is reflected in people's

feedback. Our church does, however, have a vision statement, which some people have

drawn from to think about the future direction of the church. These thoughts include a

vision for a greater focus both on our Armenian heritage and in reaching out to fellow

Armenians. Some suggest that we should regularly review our vision statement to consider

its current relevance. Overall, people express hope that we will respond to all that God is

calling us to be and do.

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WHO ARE WE NOW?

“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39 NRSV)

CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTIONS

11-YEAR REPORT

CONGREGATIONAL DEMOGRAPHICS

PARTICIPATION AND STAFFING

CHURCH FINANCES

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTIONS

1. Describe your congregation’s life of faith.

For example, what beliefs and commitments are stated in your congregation’s purpose

statement or membership vows? How is God most often described in worship liturgy? In what

ways would you describe the Holy Spirit in your midst?

Armenian Martyrs' Congregational Church (AMCC) is primarily an ethnic

Armenian congregation. We are warm and welcoming: Armenians and non-Armenians

alike. We are Christ-centered and spiritually alive. We are proud of our Armenian

heritage and support the other four local Armenian churches. As the only Armenian

Protestant church in the Philadelphia area, our members have always held diverse

theological views, and this is part of what makes our church unique. We are searching for

a pastor who will respect all points of view and encourage harmony within our

congregation while strengthening our relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

Progress is being made through retreats, but there is much work to be done.

We need to respect and nurture each and every member's faith journey. We support

a variety of Armenian causes and non-Armenian mission projects locally and globally, as

well as several missionaries located in Lebanon, Mexico and Romania. We are blessed with

members who continually serve our church and our missions work in a variety of ways.

Some believe the Holy Spirit moves in our midst and guides our actions; however, others

believe the Holy Spirit is absent.

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2. Describe several strengths or positive qualities of your congregation.

AMCC enjoys a rich Armenian history that is still important to the current and

prospective members who participated in our pastoral search forums. This ethnic glue has

created a congregation with different views on Christian theology, though all are

interested in focusing on Christ as their life's model. The church has to continue to develop

a loving, respectful manner to ensure this theological diversity is a strength for AMCC.

The warm Armenian culture, cultivated through generations of families in our church,

provides a welcoming environment for non-Armenians. The congregation is interested in

maintaining its Armenian identity, in support of a rich, spiritual relationship with God

and Jesus Christ, which we hope draws non-Armenians to our church.

3.Describe what worship is like when your congregation gathers.

For example, where does worship take place, and what is it based around? What was a

recent baptism like? What are some words used to describe good preaching?

Our primary worship takes place in the sanctuary at 11 AM Sunday. (For many

years, the worship service took place at 10AM during the summer when there was no

Sunday School.) The service is generally traditional, with attention to thematic continuity

of scriptures, sermon, music, and other elements. The pastor provides a scripture-based

sermon as well as a children's message; scriptures are read in English and Armenian by

members of the congregation. Our members value Bible-based preaching that inspires,

relates to daily life, and is thought provoking. Music has always been an important part of

worship, with a fine all-volunteer choir, excellent pianists/organists, and congregational

singing; we offer a blended mix of music, from classics to contemporary to Armenian. Our

youth participate in reading, music, speaking and occasional skits. We share our joys and

concerns at each service, allowing us to provide ongoing prayer and care for each other.

Communion is served 6 times a year, usually in the traditional manner that some members

find deeply meaningful, while others find it routine. Baptisms, although infrequent, are

always a joyful occasion. Worship is also a part of other programs of the church, including

youth fellowship, Bible studies, Sunday school, Vacation Bible School (VBS), and other

gatherings. Our worship experience flows into our fellowship time. Our geographically

diverse community uses this opportunity to connect with one another.

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4. Describe the educational program/faith formation vision of your church.

For example, how are young people in leadership? How do people continue to form their

faith over a lifetime? Name a topic studied or curriculum used recently; what was the

impact of this study on those who attended?

We support an array of educational/faith formation programs. A dedicated group of

adults attend the adult Sunday school, where they discuss lectionary topics. We have two

Bible study groups that meet monthly, one for men and another for women, which are

attended by our members and friends. Couples' Bible study is a vibrant recent ministry in

our church: Bible-based, marriage-and faith-strengthening, small-group bonding,

different ages, etc. In addition, our members pursue their own faith formation through

personal reading/Bible study and personal life experiences.

Children's Sunday school, which precedes the worship service, is geared for ages 4-

18. During our worship service, a children's message is delivered by the pastor. Christian

Youth Fellowship (CYF), for ages 12-18, meets every Sunday evening, under the

supervision of the pastor and lay-leaders. During the year, the youth participate in retreats

organized in different cities by the Armenian Evangelical Youth Fellowship-Eastern

Region (AEYF-ER). Youth are looking for opportunities in our church to serve and be

involved in leadership beyond their current representation on our Missions and Search

committees. It is our hope to develop our ongoing youth ministry with the help of a future

youth pastor. Every summer we invite the community to attend a week long VBS, which

attracts children from the other Armenian churches and local community.

5. Describe how your congregation is organized for ministry and mission.

For example, how are decisions communicated in your church? How are teams or

committees organized? When it comes to decision-making, how many hours are spent in

meetings per month?

• Think of a time when action had to be taken quickly, for example when a crisis or

disaster occurred. How was that accomplished?

• Can you provide the next minister with a copy of an organization structure, bylaws

and/or annual report to further explain the patterns of the church’s activity and

governance? YES

As a congregational church, major decisions are voted on by the church members

during congregational meetings. The Nominating Committee seeks candidates to run for

elective office: Deacons, Trustees, Sunday School Superintendent, Treasurer, Assistant

Treasurer, Nominating Committee, Endowment Fund Committee, and Clerk. Standing

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committees are appointed by the Deacons, and volunteers are sought to serve. Weekly

church programs, e-newsletters, and monthly bulletins are means by which we

communicate with members and friends.

6. Where does your church struggle for vision?

People are drawn to AMCC by both the church's Armenian heritage and its Christ-

centered focus. AMCC is a church of differing theological views. Some respondents see this

diversity as a historical strength that makes our church welcoming and accepting to

everyone. Others see this diversity as an obstacle that prevents AMCC from having a clear

statement of faith.

There are also differing views of the church's role in the community and social

justice issues. Some respondents feel 'community' should be limited to a local and global

Armenian focus, while others feel our focus should embrace everyone. Some respondents

feel we should focus on key issues of our community, such as homelessness, opioid

addiction, and social justice. Others feel these topics are too political in nature and should

not be church-led activities, but rather should be handled by individuals via other

community or political organizations.

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11-YEAR REPORT

(add here the 11-Year Report developed with the help of your conference staff, UCC Data Hub,

and MissionInsite)

Church#: 600560

Assoc: 628 Schedule: 0 Armenian Martyrs' Congl Church of Philadelphia

Havertown PA 19083

YEAR MEMBERS AVG WEEKLY ATTENDANCE

CHR ED/ FAITH FORM CONFIRMATION CONFESSION

TRANSFER OR

REAFFIRM

DEATHS OR

TRANS OUT

OTHER LOSSES

NET MEMBS ADDS-

REMOVED 2007 113 77 20 0 0 0 12 0 -12 2008 119 77 20 0 0 0 0 0 0 2009 116 83 20 0 0 0 3 0 -3 2010 110 78 20 0 0 0 6 0 -6 2011 115 80 18 11 0 0 6 0 5 2012 112 80 20 2 0 0 5 0 -3 2013 112 75 22 0 4 0 4 0 0 2014 83 68 28 0 5 3 0 37 -29 2015 95 66 25 0 1 2 4 0 -1 2016 101 68 26 0 6 0 1 0 5 2017 86 71 18 0 0 0 4 13 -17

YEAR CURRENT

EXPENSES CAPITAL

PAYMENTS BASIC

SUPPORT

TOT OTHER

UCC GIVING

TOTAL OCWM

OTHER GIFTS

WIDER MISSION

BASIC SUPP%

CURR LOCAL

TOTAL EXPEND

PLEDGES AND

OFFERINGS 2007 $171,760 $0 $2,000 $5,900 $7,900 $50,069 $57,969 1.16 $229,729 $133,019 2008 $171,760 $0 $2,000 $3,850 $5,850 $0 $5,850 1.16 $177,610 $0 2009 $189,238 $0 $0 $1,700 $1,700 $47,275 $48,975 0.00 $238,213 $138,329 2010 $188,723 $0 $2,000 $2,500 $4,500 $34,997 $39,497 1.06 $228,220 $107,659 2011 $203,153 $0 $2,000 $5,325 $7,325 $34,045 $41,370 0.98 $244,523 $121,327 2012 $198,448 $0 $2,000 $3,200 $5,200 $14,565 $19,765 1.01 $218,213 $121,907 2013 $213,173 $0 $2,000 $3,732 $5,732 $19,600 $25,332 0.94 $238,505 $113,958 2014 $223,215 $0 $2,500 $6,040 $8,540 $22,244 $30,784 1.12 $253,999 $122,351 2015 $119,727 $0 $2,000 $6,770 $8,770 $21,635 $30,405 1.67 $150,132 $119,432 2016 $285,539 $50,158 $2,000 $2,598 $4,598 $0 $4,598 0.70 $340,295 $126,130 2017 $385,220 $98,106 $2,000 $3,615 $5,615 $13,659 $19,274 0.52 $404,494 $143,933

% CHANGE MEMBERS

AVG WEEKLY ATTENDANCE

CHR ED/ FAITH FORM

TOTAL ADDITIONS

TOTAL REMOVALS

CURR LOCAL

EXPENSES TOTAL OCWM

TOTAL EXPENDITURE

2012-2017 -23.21 -11.25 -10.00 -100.00 240.00 94.12 7.98 85.37 2007-2017 -23.89 -7.79 -10.00 0.00 41.67 124.28 -28.92 76.07

21

CONGREGATIONAL DEMOGRAPHICS

**The responses are from 43 households.

Describe those who participate in your church.

Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)

Number of active members: 89

Number of active non-members: 13 Yes

Total of church participants (sum of

the numbers above): 102

Percentage of total participants who have been in the church:

Is this numbere an estimate? (check if yes)

More than 10 years: 82%

Less than 10, more than 5 years: 11%

Less than 5 years: 7%

Number of total participants by age:

0-11 12-17 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+ Are these numbers an

estimate? (check if yes)

3 8 6 7

2

7 28 13 25

These are people

whose households

responded.

Percentage of adults in various household types:


Single adults under 35: 4%

Joint household with minors: 23%

Single adults age 35-65: 6%

Joint household with no minors: 44%

Single adults over 65: 23%

Education level of adult participants by percentage:

22


High school: 20%

College:

37%

Graduate School: 26%

Specialty Training: 6%

Other (please specify): 8%

High school Jr., Assoc. Degree, Nursing

Diploma, Accounting & Finance, some

college

Percentage of adults in various

employment types: Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)

Adults who are employed: 45%

Adults who are retired: 38%

Adults who are not fully employed:

16%

Describe the range of occupations of working adults in the congregation:

28 are Professionals; 24 are in Business; 19 are in various "Other" occupations; 5 are

Students; 3 are Trades people; 2 are in Labor/Manufacturing; 1 is Clerical.

Describe the mix of ethnic heritages in your congregation, and the overall racial make-up. Most

UCC congregations tend to describe themselves as “diverse.” Yet, the vast majority of UCC

congregations are mono-cultural. What does diversity mean in your context?

The congregation is largely monocultural with a low percentage of non-Armenians who

are primarily white.

23

Has your congregation recently had a conversation about welcoming diversity, or do you plan to

hold one on the near future (perhaps using, for example, the Welcoming Diversity Inventory)?

Please note the date. Comment after the exercise.

We started a process of addressing a most pressing issue of diversity for our context,

theological diversity in the spring of 2018. This solidified the congregation's desire to

address the most important issue first, theological diversity. A follow-up retreat to explore

this issue in further depth is planned for November, 2018. There are additional diversity

issues that have surfaced, which we hope to address in the future.

PARTICIPATION AND STAFFING

Complete the following chart. Please leave blank any fields that are not applicable to

your congregation.

Ways of Gathering Estimated

number of

people involved

in attendance

Who plans each of the listed

gatherings? (list any and all worship

planners, such as various lay leaders,

pastors, musicians, other staff)

Adult Groups or Classes Adult

Sunday School 10

Pastor, Christian Education

Committee

Baptisms (number last year) 0 Pastor

Children’s Groups or Classes

Sunday School -- 2 classes 8

Pastor, Christian Education

Committee

Christmas Eve and Easter Worship 125/104 Pastor, Music Director

Church-wide Meals: 2018:

Congregational meeting, 3 Cong.

forums, Fri. evening /Saturday

Retreat, Mission Comm. lunch

45-60/per

meal Mission Com/ Search Com/Deacons

Choirs and Music Groups Choir 14 Music Director, Pastor

Church-based Bible Study Men's

Women's

6

15

Pastor, D. Babaian

Rev. Ballester

Communion (served 6 times/year 51 Pastor

Community Meals 2 Missions Committee

24

Confirmation (number confirmed

last year) 0 Pastor

Drama or Dance Program N/A

Funerals (number last year) 4 (2017)

3 (2018) Pastor

Intergenerational Groups N/A

Outdoor Worship N/A

Prayer or Meditation Groups Ongoing

Number varies Layperson

Public Advocacy Work N/A

Retreats 1 held March, 2018

And 1 scheduled for November,

2018

50-75 Search Committee, Pastor, UCC

Leader

Theology or Bible Programs in the

Community with the Ministerium:

Thanksgiving, Good Friday,

World Day of Prayer services

Not known Pastor

Weddings (number last year) 0

Worship (time slot: _11 AM 71 Pastor

Young Adult Groups or Classes N/A Christian Education Committee,

Sunday School Superintendent

Youth Groups Meet Sunday

Evenings 10 Pastor, lay youth leaders

Other: Senior Fellowship (age 55 +)

Meet once a month for

lunch/program

24 L. Tashjian and Committee

Additional comments:

25

List all members or regular participants in your congregation who are ordained, licensed, or

commissioned ministers. Indicate those with current United Church of Christ Three-Way

Covenants (i.e. serving in a congregation) or Four-Way Covenants (i.e. serving in a ministry

beyond a congregation).

Name Three- or Four-

Way Covenant?

(3 or 4 or No)

Ministry Setting Type of Ministry

Role

Retired?

(Y or N)

Rev. Carol

Sarian Ballester No Counselor N

Rev. Dr. Peter

Doghramji No

AMCC Pastor

Emeritus Y

If one or more previous pastors or retired ministers currently hold membership in the church,

describe their role(s) in the life of the congregation:

Rev. Sarian Ballester has/does step in as Liturgist and Preacher

Rev. Dr. Doghramji has/does step in as Preacher and helps serve communion

List all current staff, including ministers. Exclude the position you are seeking to fill. Indicate

which staff person serves as head of staff.

Staff Position Head of

Staff?

Compensation

(full time, part

time, volunteer)

Supervised by

Length of Tenure for

current person in this

position

Interim Pastor N/A Full time Board of

Deacons 1 year

Secretary N/A Part time Board of

Trustees 4 years

Sexton N/A Part time Board of

Trustees 10 years

Music Director N/A Part time

Board of

Deacons &

Pastor

20+ years

No staff person is head of staff.

26

REFLECTION

Reflection: After reviewing the congregational demographics and activities above, what does

this information reflect about your congregation’s overall ministry?

We are a UCC and AEUNA affiliated Protestant church with a significant Armenian

ethnic component. AMCC is involved with an ecumenical organization, The Armenian

Inter-Communal Committee of Greater Philadelphia that includes all area Armenian

Apostolic and Catholic churches. AMCC actively supports the AMAA via member

contributions and church mission outreach. AMCC also supports Sunday School,

Christian Youth Fellowship and Vacation Bible School programs.

We are a small congregation, and try to meet the needs of the congregation. When

suggestions for new programs are made, we are willing to discuss and try new

activities/programs.

CHURCH FINANCES

Current annual income (dollars used during most recent fiscal year)

Source Amount

Annual Offerings and Pledged Giving 2017 Actual $ 143,950.00

Endowment Proceeds (as permitted within spending policy, such

as a cap of typically 4.5%-5% on total return) Cash only, not principal

And only as necessary to meet expenses

$ 37,000.00

Endowment Draw (beyond what is permitted by spending

policy, “drawing down the principal”) $ 0

Fundraising Events (4th of July Picnic) $ 18,150.00

Gifts Designated for a Specific Purpose $ 11,926.00

Grants $ N/A

Rentals of Church Building 2018 YTD $ 1,569.00

Rentals of Church Parsonage $ N/A

Support from Related Organizations

(e.g. Women’s Group) $ N/A

27

Transfers from Special Accounts $ N/A

Other (specify): Unusually large memorial bequest $ 121,500.00

Other (specify):Unusually large kitchen fund donation $ 51,125.00

TOTAL $ 385,220.00

Current annual expenses (dollars budgeted for most recent fiscal year): $ 233,404

budgeted for 2018

Attach most recent church budget, spending plan, operating statement, or annual

treasurer’s report as shared publicly with the congregation, or – if your church does not pass an

annual budget – list current budgeted expenses here.

28

AMCC 2018 Budget Budgeted Actual

Expenditures @

6/28/2018

Operating Fund Income

News Bulletin Income 200 476 Interest Income 25 14.39 Memorial & Special Donations 16,000 8,110 Pledge / Offering Donations 120,000 47,103.37 Fourth of July / Adult Fellowship 13,000 10,750 Rental Income 600 1,349 Transfers from Endowment Fund

Total Sources of Funds 133,600 67,802.76

Operating Fund Expenses AEUNA Dues (9) 1,720 1,530 Church Office

Office Supplies / Postage 4,000 1,937.06 Office Operations - Incl. Equipment rental 3,500 6,463.88

Church Operations Building Capital Improvements (10) 5,000 2,376.38 Electricity and Gas 14,000 9,246.25 Grounds Care 7,000 2,612.00 Janitorial 13,400 5,958.34 Pest and Termite Control 415 180 Property and Workers Comp Insurance 6,500 364 Repairs & Maintenance (7) 15,000 11,217.96 Restroom / Kitchen Supplies 1,000 Security/Fire Alarm System/Monitoring 1,275 579.75 Snow Removal 1,800 700 Telephone / Internet 3,500 1,700.54 Water and Sewer 1,400 667.54 Web Site (8) 600 Switch to secure https hosting 130

Church Secretary (6) 24,310 10,708.57 Conferences / Meetings 500 CYF Retreats / Summer Camp 500 1,061.53 Missions Expense & VBS 9,658.91 Music Ministry

29

Music Director 25,000 11,087.95 Music Fund Expenditures (NOT BUDGETED) Organist (5) 8,575 4,850 Pastoral Ministry Guest Pastor 300 1,388.05

Pastor - Salary (1) 42,509 21,438.17 Pastor - Housing Allowance (2) 22,040 9,183.35

Pastor - Healthcare and Pension Benefits 0 6,073.48 Pastor - Reimbursable Mileage, Expenses,

Educ 4,000 400 Pastor Subtotal 68,549

Youth Ministry (3) 4,000 0 Payroll Tax

Federal Taxes Paid (4) 3,900 1,093.93 UCC Dues (OCWM) 2,000 Uncategorized/Miscellaneous Expense 3,000

Total Use of Funds 220,874 123,686.00

Net Funds - (Deficit funded from Endowment) 87,274 55,083.00

Footnotes: (1) Salary shown is gross including reimbursement for Social Security/Medicare taxes and health insurance reimbursement

(2) Stated separately for tax reporting purposes (3) Youth Ministry is an estimate for budget purposes only 4 months of cost for 2016, but there is no 2017 candidate yet. (4) Includes AMCC's matching Social Security and Medicare taxes and Federal Unemployment Taxes on Secretary's salary

(5) Budgeted 49 services (48 Sundays plus Christmas Eve) at $175 = $8575 (6) Church Secretary hours are estimated at 5.5 hours/day (5.5hrs*5 days*52 weeks *17.00/hr) (7) Includes proposed sanctuary heating upgrades (affects both 2016-2017) (8) Calculated as $50.00 per month * 12 months (9) Based on 86 active members @ $20 per person

30

Considering total budgeted expenses for the year, compare total ministerial support. What

is the percentage?

Excluding the unusual bequest and kitchen fund donation, and Endowment Fund transfer,

2017 budget revenue = $175,595.00. Total Pastoral support in 2017 (including a 6-month

gap while Rev. Dr. Doghramji served for free) = $62,916.69, which is 35.83%. The 2018

budget percentage is $68,549/133,600 = 51.3%

Has the church ever failed to pay its financial obligations to a minister of the church? No

Is your church 5-for-5, i.e. does it include each of the following contributions during the church

year? (indicate those included during the most recent fiscal year)

_Yes_ Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM – Basic Support)

_Yes_ One Great Hour of Sharing

_No _ Strengthen the Church

_Yes_ Neighbors in Need

_Yes_ Christmas Fund

In what way is OCWM (Basic Support) gathered? If calculated as a percentage of operating

budget, what is that percentage? (recommended 10%)

Flat fee of $2000.00

What is the church’s current indebtedness?

Total amount of loan debt: $0.00

Reason for debt: N/A

Are capital and other payments current? N/A

If a building program is projected or underway, describe it, including the projected start/end date

of the building project and the total project budget.

N/A. Completed a $100,000 kitchen renovation project in 2017

If the church has had capital campaigns in the last ten years, describe:

Year(s) Purpose Goal Result Impact

N/A $ $

$ $

31

If a capital campaign is underway or anticipated, describe:

Year(s) Purpose Goal Result Impact

N/A $ $

$ $

Describe the prominent mission component(s) involved in the most recent (or current)

capital campaign.

There is no specific capital campaign for missions. Missions are supported by

individual contributions with additional support from the Endowment fund as required.

In 2017 we supported the following mission activities:

Missionaries: (Total $4500) Marge Krikorian in Mexico and Becky Melville in Romania through

Wycliffe Bible Translators. Reda Narouz with local outreach to Muslims (Salam Center in Baltimore,

Maryland). Evelyn Biles through Global Mosaic Int’l. Ongoing prayer support for Rev. L. Nishan & Maria

Bakalian, missionaries through Global Ministries (UCC) and AMAA.

AEUNA: (Total $ 1230) Expenses of South American Delegation, AEUNA Sunday.

AMAA: (Total $3000) Child Sponsorship Programs (4 children in Armenia, 6 students in Armenian

schools in Lebanon); In addition, individuals contribute generously to the AMAA directly.

UCC: (Total $ 6340) One Great Hour of Sharing, Neighbors in Need, Hurricane Relief (including a $3000

matching gift).

Retired Pastors: (Total $ 1020-Christmas 2016) Annual contribution of our Christmas Eve collection to

needy retired ministers’ funds of AEUNA, AMAA.

Philadelphia Armenian Community: (Total $ 1000) Scholarship assistance to the Armenian Sisters

Academy where several of our children attend.

Community Action Agency of Delaware County (CAADC): (Total $ 500) Located in Media; supports

services to the homeless. veterans, disadvantaged children, and provides care/skills/job training for those

seeking to break out of poverty in Delaware County. Delivered donated items from the “mitten tree” to

CAADC.

Life Center of Eastern Delaware County (Total $ 250) Part of CAADC, located at 63rd and Market,

houses and feeds the homeless and impoverished in the area. In addition to an annual donation, the Life

Center receives our collection of canned and paper goods and clothing.

Family Promise of Delaware County (formerly Interfaith Hospitality Network): (Total $ 500) Provides

support to homeless families.

New Covenant Ministries of Camden, NJ (Total $ 500) In addition to a donation, AMCC members

collect and deliver discarded bicycles and scooters to refurbish for delivery to needy families in Camden

on Christmas Eve Day (this year, on Dec. 23). Many of our members help with the distribution.

Hope Now for Youth: (Total $ 500) This organization, started by Rev. Roger Minassian, helps transform

gang members in Fresno and brings the Good News of Jesus Christ to them.

Armenian Evangelical Church of Nor Marash in Beirut: (Total $ 1000) Partnered with AMCC’s 2017

VBS donations to help support the 6-week long program at Nor Marash.

Armenian Village Aid, Inc. – Zadig Kindergarten in Vahagni, Armenia (Total $ 1175) For ongoing

expenses and the support of two children. Vicken Keshishian visited in June. Proceeds from the November

2017 Election Bake Sale supported the kindergarten. In addition, individuals sponsor children directly.

32

Harvest Bridge: (Total $500) Lara Kaiserian went to India during her mission year under their auspices.

Global Mosaic International: Dr. Evelyn Biles helps equip and train leaders, mentors and coaches with

conflict resolution skills in countries where Christians are a minority.

Sister Church in Berd, Armenia: Support of our sister church through prayer and communication. The

church has a new pastor, Pastor Seno Saribekyan.

Does your church have an endowment? Yes

What is the market value of the assets? $1.8 M

Are funds drawn as needed, regularly, or under certain circumstances? Only as needed

What is the percentage rate of draw (last year, compared to 5 years ago)?

In past years, 50% of earnings were designated for missions, and the other 50%

were reinvested. About seven years ago, it became apparent that the endowment

income would need to support both missions and church operations. Due to a

favorable market and wise investing by the endowment committee, AMCC has been

able to fund our missions effort and cover shortfalls in our operating costs without

using any of the principal of the endowment. The usage of the endowment funds for

these purposes is reported to the congregation in our annual February

Congregational Meeting.

Describe draw on endowment, if any, to meet operating budget expenses for the most

recent year and the past five years:

2018 - $0.00 to date. 2017 - $37,000. 2016 - $94,750. 2015 - $71,278. 2014 - $77,337.

2013 - $57,195

At the current rate of draw, how long might the endowment last?

The Endowment draw has increased in recent years, but so far AMCC has generally

not invaded principal. Therefore, the principal should last at least a decade or two

into the future.

Please comment on the above calculations or estimates:

Value of Endowment fund is subject to market value of investments. Endowment Fund

Committee meets quarterly to discuss and manage the funds.

Other Assets

Checking Account $38,115.34

33

Reserves (savings): $ N/A

Investments (other than endowment): $ N/A

Does your church have a parsonage? No

N/A

Fair market rental value of the parsonage:

How is the parsonage used?

Street / City / State / Zip:

Finished square footage:

Number of Bedrooms, Number of Bathrooms:

Assessed real estate value:

Available for minister residence: Y/N

Expected minister residence: Y/N

Condition of structure, systems and appliances

Entity in the church responsible for review and needed repairs

Describe all buildings owned by the church:

Integrated Sanctuary, Narthex, Office, Social Hall, Kitchen, Sunday School Rooms,

and Conference Room, plus basement storage and Choir Room.

Describe non-owned buildings or space used or rented by the church: N/A

Which spaces are accessible to wheelchairs? (worship space, pulpit, fellowship space,

facilities, etc.)

All areas are accessible except basement, altar/pulpit, choir loft, and choir room.

Reflection: After reviewing the church’s finances and assets described above, what does this

information reflect about your congregation’s mission and ministry?

For example, when was a time the church made a major budget change? How is the

budgeting process done? What new ministry initiative has your church financed?

There is a greater reliance on the endowment fund for current expenses. There is a

new mission effort to construct and support a school in Vahagni, Armenia.

The budget preparation process is performed by the Trustees and Treasurer

annually, based on current expected income and expenses, subject to congregational

approval.

34

HISTORICAL INFORMATION

Name one to three significant happenings in the history of your church that have shaped the

identity of your congregation. Add the most important event in the life of your church in the past

10 years.

1. The move from Philadelphia to Havertown (1963)

2. Sharing the Spirit initiative which included the creation of " Sharing the Spirit" hymn

book, Vision Statement, and "40 Days of Purpose" small group sessions. (2001-2007)

3. The most important event of the last 10 years has been the revitalization of the youth

group with involvement of youth from the Armenian community, and led by a youth

pastor.

Describe a specific change your church has managed in the recent past.

The formation of the Vacation Bible School, which involves many members of the

congregation and serves our church and broader Armenian community.

35

Every church has conflict, some minor, some larger. “Where two or three are gathered, there

will be disagreement….” Describe your congregation’s values and practices when it comes to

conflict.

For example, what is an example of a recent conflict and something your congregation

learned from it? Describe an occasion when your church experienced conflict without

being able to resolve it well. Does your church have policies, protocols or structures for

dealing with conflict?)

While we have a policy in place to handle conflicts through discussion at

congregational meetings, we have come to the conclusion that, while we do discuss

issues at congregational meetings, it has not been adequate recently, and must be

revisited. We need to find other ways to resolve conflict.

Ministerial History (include all previous ministerial staff for the past 30 years)

Staff member’s name Years of service UCC Standing (Y/N)

Rev. Dr. Eugene Grau (Interim Pastor) 4/9/89--7/29/90 Y

Rev. Jirair Sogomian 8/5/90--4/15/01 Y

Rev Gary Schongalla-Bowman (Stated

Supply) and

Rev. Hovhannes Karjian (sermons in

Armenian) 9/9/01-- 8/31/07 Y (Rev. Gary)

Rev. L. Nishan Bakalian 9/1/07-- 1/31/17 Y

Rev, Carol Sarian Ballester and

Rev. Dr. Peter Doghramji 2/1/17 - 6/30/17 Y

Rev. Edward Livingston (Interim

Pastor) 7/1/17 - present- Y

Comment on what your church has learned about itself and its relationship with persons who

provided ministerial leadership:

Over the past several decades, some pastors have not been treated well. Some have felt

undermined by members of the congregation, while others have enjoyed strong ties with

the congregation.

Has any past leader left under pressure or by involuntary termination? Y/Ask us

Has your church been involved in a Situational Support Consultation? N

Has a past pastor been the subject of a Fitness Review while at your church? N

36

WHO IS OUR NEIGHBOR?

“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39 NRSV)

COMMUNITY VISION

MISSION InSite

COMMUNITY VISION

1. How do the relationships and activities of your congregation extend outward in service and

advocacy?

Mostly through financial missions outreach, AMAA Child Sponsorship, and

Armenian relief.

a. For example, which service activities has your church participated in this past year?

Annual service activities include, but are not limited to: Vacation Bible School,

July 4th picnic, special Christmas worship service with the Upper Darby Encore

Singers, sock collection for homeless men, mitten and hat collections for youth

(Delaware County), Camden (NJ) bicycle drive, Women's Retreat, Youth Group

door- to- door Thanksgiving food collections, and Election Day bake sales.

b. Where has the church participated in global connections of care and justice?

Our mission outreach reaches many parts of the world including Armenia,

Lebanon, Romania, Syria, and Mexico. We helped with funds after the hurricane in

Puerto Rico. AMCC supports missionaries in a variety of countries. We have also

supported individual members who have traveled to Armenia on mission trips, such

as the renovation of the Vahagni kindergarten center and medical clinic. We are

connected with a sister church in Berd, Armenia. UCC support is provided in

various ways, including

Our Church's Wider Mission. We support AMAA projects and programs globally.

37

c. What is currently transformational in your church’s engagement with neighbors near

or far?

We participate with the other four Armenian churches in the Philadelphia area in

the Intercommunal Committee, planning for special events for the congregations of

all five churches. In our local community, we participate in the Haverford

Ministerium's activities, feed the homeless at Old First Church in Philadelphia, and

invite children in the community to Vacation Bible School. At Christmas, we give

bicycle donations to an outreach effort in Camden, collect socks for the homeless,

and have a mitten/hat tree to donate to children in Delaware County. As an ongoing

project, we collect food and other essentials to donate to the Life Center of Delaware

County.

2. Describe your congregation’s participation in meetings, relationships and activities

connecting the wider United Church of Christ (association / conference / national setting).

a. the wider United Church of Christ

As a member of the United Church of Christ, we have kept close ties with the

Pennsylvania Southeast Conference (PSEC). The conference has provided us resources

and assistance in the search process. They have supplied us our interim pastors in the past

and the present.

As a church we participate in local events with local UCC churches, such as

providing meals for homeless men at Old First UCC (Philadelphia). We participate in

special collection requests: hurricane relief, earthquake relief, and mission trips. We also

contribute to annual collections: Neighbors in Need, One Great Hour of Sharing, Veterans

of the Cross, and Our Church's Wider Mission (OCWM).

We share the weekly Communitas -- the weekly PSEC newsletter -- with our

congregation every Sunday. Our pastors and lay people attend local Philadelphia

Association meetings, regional conferences, and national General Synod meetings, and

report back to us.

b. the wider Armenian Evangelical Union

AMCC is a member of the Armenian Evangelical Union of North America

(AEUNA), a fellowship of the Armenian Protestant churches in North America. Some

AMCC members serve on various AEUNA committees and on the Board. Besides our

delegates, several families attend the biennial conference, while youth attend the

38

concurrent AEYF conference. We participate in and have hosted the Armenian

Evangelical Women's Fellowship (AEWF) conference. The CYF participates in regional

and national meetings, retreats, camps (Camp Arevelk), and conferences. Occasionally, we

have hosted board meetings of these associations in our church.

c. the wider Armenian Missionary Association of America

The Armenian Missionary Association of America (AMAA) and our church have a

close relationship, and we support them financially and with hands- on mission projects.

Some of our members serve on the Board of Directors.

Every year, our missions committee hosts the AMAA Sunday, with the participation

of the CEO or other representative, who reports on the AMAA's worldwide ministry and

ongoing projects. Some of our members attend the annual meeting of this organization,

and in 2016, we hosted the annual meeting.

Some of the mission projects we are involved in are the Shoe Box Ministry, Child

Sponsorship program in Armenia and the Middle East, the Milk Fund and the "Stitched

with Love" (knitted blankets and hats) ministry.

Over the years, several of our members have participated in mission trips to

Armenia and

the annual summer internship programs.

We participate in special collection requests, hurricane relief, earthquake relief, and

mission trips. Lastly, AMAA supports some of our missionaries, most recently in Lebanon.

3. Following Christ's teachings of justice, mercy, and faithfulness:

a. In what ways would you like our church to reach out to our immediate and wider community

in the near future? (For example, issues such as economic, social, and environmental justice:

gender and racial equity: immigration: health, etc.)

There was a wide variety of responses to this question during our church forum.

Some people feel that our focus should be supporting the people of our church more,

and attending to the spiritual needs of those who cannot attend or are choosing not to

attend. They would like us to reach out to local unchurched Armenians and welcome them

to share in Christ's love found in our worship and congregation. There were a few

comments that our church should work to support Armenians who are Syrian refugees

more actively.

Some feel that it is not our church's role to be politically active or take stands on

social issues such as gender, economic, and racial equity issues. They feel that individuals

can do such advocacy via other organizations, and that the church should be focused

39

instead on spiritual growth and support of our Armenian community, as well as non-

Armenians.

There are a smaller number of members who feel our church has a responsibility to

be more engaged in such social justice advocacy and provide better support to our local

community.

b. What emerging challenges, needs, and opportunities have you observed in our community?

There is a perception that there are community needs that AMCC might help serve,

but due to our dispersed congregation, it isn't practical for the church to accomplish much

more than our current efforts. Additionally, AMCC could do more in reaching out to

unchurched Armenians, which may improve our ability to serve others with more funds,

time, and talents.

Some members feel AMCC should do more to address the current needs in the

community, such as the opioid crisis and homelessness.

Many local churches love to tell the story of what they are doing in the community to transform

lives. Some have identified certain aspects of their witness into the wider community using

language shared with other UCC congregations. (Find more information as desired at ucc.org.)

Check any statements below that apply to your UCC faith community.

__Accessible to All (A2A)

__ Creation Justice

__Economic Justice

__Faithful and Welcoming

__God Is Still Speaking (GISS)

__Border and Immigrant Justice

__Inter-cultural/Multi-racial (I’M)

__Just Peace

__Global Mission Church

__Open and Affirming (ONA)

__WISE Congregation for Mental Health

__Other UCC designations:

__Designations from other denominations

X_None

While we have not been involved in these activities and programs, we do pursue

other community activities and programs more specific to our Armenian identity and to

our home community, such as those of the Haverford Ministerium, AEUNA, AMAA, and

the Philadelphia Armenian churches.

40

Reflect on what the above statement(s) mean(s) to your community. Is your congregation

interested in working toward any of the above statements of witness in the near future?

Some of the congregation have expressed interest in witnessing into the wider

community, but action has not been taken.

4. Describe your congregation’s participation in ecumenical and interfaith activities (with other

denominations and religious groups, local and regional).

AMCC is a member of the Haverford Ministerium of churches, which plans three

worship services each year. These include a Thanksgiving Eve service, a Good Friday

service, and the World Day of Prayer. Likewise, despite being the only Protestant

Armenian church in the Philadelphia area, we are blessed with strong ties with our sister

Armenian churches – three Apostolic (Orthodox) and one Catholic. This is facilitated by

the Armenian Intercommunal Committee, made up of members from all five churches,

who plan various activities in conjunction with the (Catholic) Armenian Sisters' Academy,

such as our annual Vartanantz Commemoration.

5. If your congregation has a mission statement, how does that mission statement compare to the

actual time spent engaging in different activities? Think of the range of activities from time

spent gathering, to governance, to time spent going out.

AMCC's Vision/Mission Statement: "Armenian Martyrs' Congregational Church will be a

church community that is Christ-centered, spiritually alive, growing in worship

attendance, Armenian and community-based, and welcoming to all people."

The congregation acknowledges that we are Christ-centered and welcoming people.

We have an active Missions Committee and the congregation is involved in collecting socks

for the homeless, collecting children's hats and mittens for needy children of Delaware

County at Christmas, and preparing meals for homeless men at Old First Church. The

congregation contributes financially to the Armenian Missionary Association of America,

and other organizations. Some members feel that growth in worship attendance could be

stronger. We continue to be involved with the other four Armenian churches in the

Philadelphia area. We also share Thanksgiving and Good Friday services with our local

community churches. Our members' active participation in our various church programs

as well as our involvement with the UCC, AEUNA, and AMAA, help keep us spiritually

alive. We feel more time needs to be allotted to sharing our faith outside the church.

41

6. Reflect on the scope of work assigned to your pastor(s). How is their community ministry and

their ministry in and on behalf of the wider church accounted for in the congregation’s

expectations on their time?

Many feel our pastor's primary work is as shepherd - to help members know God in

a deeper and more meaningful way, be a Christ-centered community, and follow what

Jesus teaches us. Strong preaching is valued, as is visiting the sick and others in need, and

helping members and the church through times of crisis.

Our pastor is expected to wear many hats, which can be challenging and

exhausting: participate in meetings of internal committees and groups; confer with the

Moderator and Deacons, Chair of Trustees, and Pastoral Relations committee; work with

staff on church communications and administration; hold office hours and be available to

advise and support members as needed; focus on youth and education programs; and plan

and lead worship. Some feel we've leaned too much on our pastors to take on the

responsibilities of the church, and that more members should be encouraged to become

leaders and active participants.

Many feel the pastor should focus first on our existing congregation and its needs,

with additional participation in the Philadelphia Armenian community, UCC, and

AEUNA, as well as the AMAA, and the Haverford Ministerium. Some see the pastor as

our community connection, introducing us to and leading us in answering community

needs. Others feel there is too much time and attention on church-related work beyond our

doors.

42

Pennsylvania Southeast Conference, UCC

Custom Demographics Report

Study Area: Radius (2.5 mi), Radius (1 mi)

44

Demographic Trends

Demographic Trends 2000 2010 2018 2023

Population 130,996 130,030 130,293 132,963

Population Change -966 263 2,670

Percent Change -0.74% 0.20% 2.05%

Households 50,143 49,344 49,380 50,389

Households Change -799 36 1,009

Percent Change -1.59% 0.07% 2.04%

Population / Households 3 3 3 3

Population / Households Change 0 0 0

Percent Change 1.15% 0% 0%

Family Households 34,862 34,180 34,549 35,280

Family Households Change -682 369 731

Percent Change -1.96% 1.08% 2.12%

Non-Family Households 1,980 2,384 2,089 2,095

Non-Family Households Change 404 -295 6

Percent Change 20.40% -12.37% 0.29%

Average Age 38 38 40 41

Average Age Change 0 2 1

Percent Change -0.50% 5.24% 2.60%

45

Racial/Ethnic Trends

Racial/Ethnic Trends 2010 2018 2023 2010 % 2018 % 2023 %

Asian (Non-Hisp) 8213 8220 8439 6.3% 6.3% 6.3%

Black/African American (Non-Hisp) 18353 19407 19866 14.1% 14.9% 14.9%

White (Non-Hisp) 97687 96516 98027 75.1% 74.1% 73.7%

Hispanic or Latino 3538 3747 4035 2.7% 2.9% 3.0%

Pac Is/Am Ind/Oth (Non-Hisp) 2238 2403 2596 1.7% 1.8% 2.0%

Totals: 130,029 130,293 132,963 100% 100% 100%

Voting Age Census 2010

Voting Age Census 2010 2010 2010 %

18+ 98865 100.0%

Population/Households Forecast

Population/Households Forecast 2018 2023 2028

Population 130,293 132,963 136,229

Percent Change 2.05% 2.46%

Households 49,380 50,389 51,628


Totals: 98,865 100%

46

Phase of Life Forecast

Phase of Life Forecast 2010 2018 2023 2028 2010 % 2018 % 2023 % 2028 %

Before Formal Schooling: Ages 0 to 4 8765 7665 7437 7431 6.7% 5.9% 5.6% 5.5%

Required Formal Schooling: Ages 5 to 17 22399 21267 20877 20198 17.2% 16.3% 15.7% 14.8%

College/Career Starts: Ages 18 to 24 10365 11804 11762 12117 8.0% 9.1% 8.8% 8.9%

Singles and Young Families: Ages 25 to 34 17200 15510 16453 17163 13.2% 11.9% 12.4% 12.6%

Families and Empty Nesters: Ages 35 to 54 38165 34419 32974 32722 29.4% 26.4% 24.8% 24.0%

Enrichment Years Singles/Couples: Ages 55 to 64 16164 18976 18437 17337 12.4% 14.6% 13.9% 12.7%

Retirement Opportunities: Age 65 and over 16971 20652 25023 29260 13.1% 15.9% 18.8% 21.5%

Totals: 130,029 130,293 132,963 136,228 100% 100% 100% 100%

Summary: Population 5+: Language Spoken at Home

Summary: Population 5+: Language Spoken at Home 2018 2018 %

Speak Only English at Home 105516 86.3%

Speak European/IndoEuropean Language at Home 6689 5.5%

Speak Asian or Pacific Island Language at Home 4958 4.1%

Speak Spanish at Home 3504 2.9%

Speak Other Language at Home 1661 1.4%

Totals: 122,328 100%

47

Summary: Phase of Life

Summary: Phase of Life 2010 2018 2023 2010 % 2018 % 2023 %

Before Formal Schooling: Ages 0 to 4 8765 7665 7437 6.7% 5.9% 5.6%

Required Formal Schooling: Ages 5 to 17 22399 21267 20877 17.2% 16.3% 15.7%

College/Career Starts: Ages 18 to 24 10365 11804 11762 8.0% 9.1% 8.8%

Singles and Young Families: Ages 25 to 34 17200 15510 16453 13.2% 11.9% 12.4%

Families and Empty Nesters: Ages 35 to 54 38165 34419 32974 29.4% 26.4% 24.8%

Enrichment Years Singles/Couples: Ages 55 to 64 16164 18976 18437 12.4% 14.6% 13.9%

Retirement Opportunities: Age 65 and over 16971 20652 25023 13.1% 15.9% 18.8%

Totals: 130,029 130,293 132,963 100% 100% 100%

48

Summary: Population by Household Type Population in Family Households 111299 111605 113890 85.6% 85.7% 85.7%

Population in Group Quarters 654 647 655 0.5% 0.5% 0.5%

Summary: Families in Poverty

Above poverty level 32673 94.6%

Below poverty level 1876 5.4%

Totals: 34,549 100%

Summary: Housing Units

Summary: Housing Units 2010 2018 2023

Housing Units 51,826 51,935 52,674

Housing Units Change 109 739


Population in Non-Family Households

18076 18040 18417 13.9% 13.8% 13.9%

Summary: Population by Household Type 2010 2018 2023 2010 % 2018 % 2023 %

Totals: 130,029 130,292 132,962 100% 100% 100%

Summary: Families in Poverty 2018 2018 %

49

Mosaic

Mosaic 2018 2018 %

D16 Suburban Style - Settled in Suburbia 9347 18.9%

C13 Booming with Confidence - Silver Sophisticates 5981 12.1%

D18 Suburban Style - Suburban Attainment 4916 10.0%

C11 Booming with Confidence - Aging of Aquarius 3717 7.5%

G24 Young, City Solos - Status Seeking Singles 1801 3.6%

H26 Middle-class Melting Pot - Progressive Potpourri 1792 3.6%

J34 Autumn Years - Aging in Place 1778 3.6%

E20 Thriving Boomers - No Place Like Home 1432 2.9%

O51 Singles and Starters - Digital Dependents 1396 2.8%

F22 Promising Families - Fast Track Couples 1297 2.6%

K40 Significant Singles - Bohemian Groove 1197 2.4%

K37 Significant Singles - Wired for Success 1106 2.2%

O54 Singles and Starters - Striving Single Scene 1057 2.1%

A01 Power Elite - American Royalty 942 1.9%

I31 Family Union - Blue Collar Comfort 914 1.9%

O52 Singles and Starters - Urban Ambition 862 1.7%

L42 Blue Sky Boomers - Rooted Flower Power 821 1.7%

B07 Flourishing Families - Generational Soup 815 1.7%

A04 Power Elite - Picture Perfect Families 767 1.6%

P57 Cultural Connections - Modest Metro Means 737 1.5%

E19 Thriving Boomers - Full Pockets, Empty Nests 629 1.3%

B09 Flourishing Families - Family Fun-tastic 590 1.2%

Q62 Golden Year Guardians - Reaping Rewards 564 1.1%

Q65 Golden Year Guardians - Senior Discounts 540 1.1%

A02 Power Elite - Platinum Prosperity 526 1.1%

A05 Power Elite - Couples with Clout 517 1.0%

50

B08 Flourishing Families - Babies and Bliss 422 0.9%

O55 Singles and Starters - Family Troopers 369 0.7%

B10 Flourishing Families - Cosmopolitan Achievers 312 0.6%

A03 Power Elite - Kids and Cabernet 255 0.5%

S71 Economic Challenges - Tough Times 208 0.4%

K39 Significant Singles - Metro Fusion 160 0.3%

D17 Suburban Style - Cul de Sac Diversity 113 0.2%

O50 Singles and Starters - Full Steam Ahead 101 0.2%

H28 Middle-class Melting Pot - Everyday Moderates 62 0.1%

I32 Family Union - Steadfast Conventionalists 40 0.1%

F23 Promising Families - Families Matter Most 32 0.1%

O53 Singles and Starters - Colleges and Cafes 20 0.0%

H27 Middle-class Melting Pot - Birkenstocks and Beemers 17 0.0%

I33 Family Union - Balance and Harmony 15 0.0%

S69 Economic Challenges - Urban Survivors 246 0.5%

C14 Booming with Confidence - Boomers and Boomerangs 125 00.3%

P56 Cultural Connections - Mid-scale Medley 91 0.2%

L41 Blue Sky Boomers - Booming and Consuming 35 0.1%

Q64 Golden Year Guardians - Town Elders 19 0.0%

H29 Middle-class Melting Pot - Destination Recreation

3 0.0%

K38 Significant Singles - Gotham Blend 288 0.6%

R67 Aspirational Fusion - Hope for Tomorrow

187 0.4%

G25 Young, City Solos - Urban Edge 112 0.2%

R66 Aspirational Fusion - Dare to Dream 57 0.1%

C12 Booming with Confidence - Golf Carts and Gourmets 29 0.1%

A06 Power Elite - Jet Set Urbanites 15 0.0%

51

P61 Cultural Connections - Humble Beginnings 3 0.0%

P58 Cultural Connections - Heritage Heights 1 0.0%

P60 Cultural Connections - Striving Forward 1 0.0%

Totals: 49,381 100%

M45 Families in Motion - Diapers and Debit Cards

2 0.0%

52

Mosaic Groups

Mosaic Groups 2018

Group A: Power Elite 3022

Group B: Flourishing Families 2139

Group C: Booming with Confidence 9852

Group D: Suburban Style 14375

Group E: Thriving Boomers 2062

Group F: Promising Families 1329

Group G: Young, City Solos 1913

Group H: Middle-class Melting Pot 1874

Group I: Family Union 969

Group J: Autumn Years 1778

Group K: Significant Singles 2751

Group L: Blue Sky Boomers 855

Group M: Families in Motion 2

Group N: Pastoral Pride 0

Group O: Singles and Starters 3805

Group P: Cultural Connections 833

Group Q: Golden Year Guardians 1123

Group R: Aspirational Fusion 244

Group S: Economic Challenges 454

Totals: 49,380

53

Page | 53 Citizen Voting Age Population by Race

White Alone 76776 77.7%

Asian Alone 6035 6.1%

Remainder of Two or More Race Responses 305 0.3%

Asian and White 174 0.2%

Some Other Race Alone 90 0.1%

American Indian or Alaska Native and Black or African American 85 0.1%

Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander Alone 16 0.0%

Totals: 98,865 100%

Comment on your congregation’s MissionInsite report with data for your neighborhood(s) or

area. What trends and opportunities are shown?

This shows a slight population increase. Overall, the area is highly populated and lacks

sufficient open land for a lot of new building and development. The cost of housing is

increasing in value.

How do your congregation’s internal demographics compare or contrast to a) the neighborhoods

adjacent to your church, and b) other neighborhoods with which your church connects?

Ours is primarily Armenian, with some (mostly white) non-Armenian, while the

community around the church and the neighborhoods we connect with are vice versa.

How are the demographics of the community currently shaping ministry, or not?

Black or African American Alone 12671 12.8%

Black or African American and White

223 0.2%

American Indian or Alaska Native Alone 85 0.1%

Citizen Voting Age Population by Race 2010 2010 %

Hispanic or Latino 2314 2.3%

American Indian or Alaska Native and White

91 0.1%

54

Our church is not affected by the community other than our involvement with the

Ministerium.

What do you hear when you talk to community leaders and ask them what your church is known

for?

The community does like our participation in the Haverford Township Ministerium, with

the Thanksgiving Service, Good Friday Service, and the World Day of Prayer. Over the

years, we have hosted these events.

What do new people in the church say when asked what got them involved?

They were:

Attracted by the energy and teaching

Welcomed

Given responsibilities

Asked if they wanted to join the church

On the periphery, but decided to finally invest in the church.

55

REFERENCES

Name up to three people who have agreed to serve as phone and written references.

Advise the three references: “The contact information you provide may be shared publicly.

Please use contact information that you feel comfortable giving to candidates so they can reach

you with their questions.”

Make sure they are not members of your church but are persons who know your church

well enough to be helpful to candidates seeking more information. Request a letter from each

reference in answer to the four prompts below. Attach the letters (up to three) as desired.

REFERENCE 1

Ms. Jennifer Tashjian/ Friend of the church

Telephone: 610-724-6318 / Email: [email protected]

REFERENCE 2

Ms. Wilma Cholakian/ Friend of the church/ Please note that Ms. Cholakian is

available after November 10.


REFERENCE 3

Mr. Paul Oflazian / Friend of the church


PROMPTS FOR REFERENCES

Describe some areas of strength in this church’s ministry.

Describe some areas for improvement in this church’s ministry.

Describe a significant experience you have had of this church’s ministry.

Anything else you wish to share.

56

RESPONSES TO PROMPTS

Ms. Wilma Cholakian

Describe some areas of strength in this church's ministry.

* Close-knit family relationships

* Identify with our Armenian heritage, forefathers of Armenian Evangelical

Church, singing in Armenian, and hearing the Scripture read in Armenian

* Outreach to youth

* Vacation Bible School

* Teamwork of members in their respective responsibilities

* Bible studies which I have attended at AMCC, such as the Lenten Bible

Study

*Choir

*Praying for the concerns of our community, at joys and concerns.

Describe some areas for improvement in this church's ministry.

*We need more members

* Need of spiritual growth of members

* Environment for young families to attend church, to ensure the continuity

of the message of Jesus Christ

* They are not inclusive of youth, in regards to allowing them to have more

responsibility.

Describe a significant experience you have had of this church's ministry.

* The church has given me the opportunity to be more vocal about my faith

and my willingness to share my experiences with others. I started as a child

in an Evangelical environment, and now I feel I've come back full circle. I

started in an Evangelical church in Aleppo, Syria, and the Lord has brought

me to a church in Havertown, PA, in the United States.


*I am able to share more and open up when I am in close contact with the

person of interest.

57

Ms. Jennifer Tashjian


*The church is extremely warm and welcoming to everyone who walks

through the door, both members and visitors.

*The church genuinely cares for everyone: member, visitor, family, friend,

etc.

*The church reaches and supports a number of people through different

organizations.

*The church is VERY family oriented as the families and children of the

founding members still attend regularly.

*Members of the church are always willing and offering to help other

members, no matter what. They are always there when you need them.

*Even with our differences, the church puts them aside when members need

help.

Describe some areas for improvement in this church's ministry.

*When members of the church volunteer for a job or task, they kind of get

stuck there forever. The church can improve on making sure that jobs and

responsibilities are rotated between all able members. (I don't mean just

actual members, but everyone/anyone who attends church.)

*The congregation seems divided between fundamental and moderate

theology and the ability to compromise is an improvement the church needs.

Acceptance and understanding of everyone's personal beliefs is another

improvement the church needs. No one belief is right or wrong, they are just

different. People's beliefs bring them peace and comfort. Members need to

respect the differences and accept them.

*Understanding and acceptance of people's lifestyles is another improvement

that needs work.


*When my grandma got sick a little less than four years ago, I was amazed at

the support, love and concern that the church had for not only my grandma,

but for myself and grandpa. I was amazed and touched by the number of

phone calls I took from members inquiring how my grandma was. Not only

did they ask about her, but they also asked how my grandpa and I were

doing. The amount of cards the members sent wishing my grandma a

58

speedy recovery and the meals that were brought over for my grandpa and

me were so touching. My family and I were showered with love and it was

just amazing. It is something I will never forget.


*No church is perfect and I think that every church needs some improvement

to serve its members better. That being said, I am extremely fortunate to be

part of this church. Differences aside, every member has a heart of gold,

and only wants the best for each other.

Mr. Paul Oflazian


*Maintaining and strengthening strong bond among parishioners and

community area Armenian churches. This conforms with social Gospel

where the emphasis is on societal justice and harmony.

Describe some areas of improvement in this church's ministry.

*As a non member of the church, I find myself in a difficult predicament to

be commenting on areas of improvement. However, I believe maintaining

organic healthy growth should be a primary objective. To achieve this,

pastoral leadership and topics are extremely important. There are many,

many areas of interest in the Holy Bible, which when brought to the

attention of parishioners, not only may result in immense interest but can

also strengthen the faith, the Gospel of personal redemption, and of

individual salvation, which should be in focus.


*Since the early nineties, I have had the privilege and honor of meeting

individuals from AMCC, who truly catalyzed and developed my

understanding of my personal Christian faith. And for that, I will forever

remain grateful.


*Please see number 2.

59

CLOSING THOUGHTS

CLOSING PRAYER

STATEMENT OF CONSENT

CONFERENCE/ASSOCIATION VALIDATION

CLOSING PRAYER

Include here any prayer or dream for the minister you imagine journeying toward you… a

poem, for example, or a Scripture passage or a piece of music that is meaningful to your Search

Committee:

Many of our Search Committee feel that the anthem "Love One Another" is meaningful to

us.

The words in the anthem are:

" Love one another, love one another as I have loved you.

And care for each other, care for each other as I have cared for you.

And bear each other's burdens and share each other's joys.

And love one another, love one another and bring each other home.

Forgive each other here, as I've forgiven you,

Be friend to each one here, as I've been friend to you.

Pray together here, as I have prayed with you.

Serve together here, as I have served with you.

Love one another, love one another as I have loved you.

And care for each other , care for each other as I have cared for you.

Love one another, love one another as I have loved you.

Love one another, love one another and bring each other home.

Love and bring each other home."

Also, we would like to add the Bible verse from Romans 12:13: "Share God with people in

need and practice hospitality.""

To hear our church choir singing the above anthem, please visit:

https://www.amccpa.org/worship-services/choir/

https://www.amccpa.org/worship-services/choir/

60

STATEMENT OF CONSENT

The covenantal relationship between a church and those called by that church to serve as

pastors and teachers and in other ministerial positions is strengthened when vital information is

openly shared by covenantal partners. To that end, we attest that, to the best of our abilities, we

have provided information in this profile that accurately represents our church. We have not

knowingly withheld any information that would be helpful to candidates.

As the committee charged with the responsibility for identifying and recommending

suitable new minister for our church, we have been authorized to share the information herein

with potential candidates. We understand that a candidate may wish to secure further

knowledge, information, and opinions about our church. We encourage a candidate to do so,

recognizing that an open exchange of relevant information builds the foundation for continuing

and healthy relationships between calling bodies and persons seeking a ministry position.

Which individuals and groups in the church contributed to the contents of this Local

Church Profile? (for example, church council or consistory, transition team, etc.)

The congregation was involved as they attended 3 forums to discuss and respond to

the 3 major questions, "Who are We Now", Who is Our Neighbor", and "Who is God

Calling Us to Become?" The Search Committee also held a Friday evening and all day

Saturday Congregational Retreat. The congregation's responses were tabulated and used

as narratives by the Search Committee to complete that portion of the profile.

The Board of Trustees were involved as they completed the responses to the

financial sections of the profile. Our church secretary helped with mailing, and reports

that were needed to gain information. The Search Committee along with our Interim

Pastor Rev. Livingston completed the remaining profile questions. The Board of Deacons

reviewed the profile when completed.

Additional comments for interpreting the profile:

Signed:

Name / Title / Date:

Eileen Chopourian Stephey

Search Committee Chair

September 20, 2018

61

VALIDATION BY CONFERENCE/ASSOCIATION

The congregation is currently in good standing with the association / conference named.

Staff Comment:

To the best of my knowledge, ministerial history information is complete.

Staff Comment:

To the best of my knowledge, available church financial information is presented

thoroughly.

Staff Comment:

My signature below attests to the above three items.

Signature:

Name / Title: Rev. Sharon S. Morris, Associate Conference Minister

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 484-949-8774 ext. 302

Date: September 25, 2018

This document is created through support to Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM) and

is only possible through the covenantal relationships of all settings of the United Church of

Christ.

“Jesus answered them, ‘Have faith in God!’” – Mark 11:22

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