SYMBOLS OF THE UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA · Web viewthe Greek word for fish). The crest ... St James participated with other United Church members in Ottawa who participated in the

SYMBOLS OF THE UNITED CHURCH OF CANADA

For our church members, this insignia is a spiritual and historic reminder. Its oval shape is derived from the outline of a fish, a symbol of identity by early Christians (the initials of the words "Jesus Christ, Son of God, Saviour" spell ixthos, the Greek word for fish).

The crest is designed in the form of a St. Andrew's Cross with an insignia in each of four directions. The "X" at the centre (the first letter of the Greek word for Christ) is a traditional symbol for Christ. It is believed that the apostle Andrew was crucified on a saltire (X-shaped) cross; he is said to have told his executioners that he was not worthy to be crucified on the same cross style as Jesus, and persuaded them to alter the shape,

now a symbol of voluntary suffering.

In the four sides of the crest are symbols, three of which are particularly associated with the three communions—Congregational, Methodist, and Presbyterian—that united to form The United Church of Canada in 1925. In August of 2012, at General Council 41, the United Church of Canada acknowledged the presence and spirituality of Aboriginal peoples in the United Church by revising the church's crest. The crest changes include incorporating the four colours of the Aboriginal medicine wheel (yellow as a symbol of eastern people, black as a symbol of the south and dark-skinned people of the world, red as a symbol of the west and Aboriginal peoples, and white as the colour of the north and white-skinned people).

The Latin words ut omnes unum sint that surround the symbols on the crest are a traditional sign of the universality of the faith, as Latin was formerly the “international” language. The words mean “That all may be one” and are taken from John 17:21. They are a reminder that we are both a "united" and "uniting" church. In 2012, The United Church of Canada added the Mohawk phrase Akwe Nia'Tetewá:neren, which means "all my relations."Affirm United/S’affirmer Ensemble is a voice and a support for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. We draw strength and hope from biblical stories of liberation; from the prophetic call to live justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with God; and from Jesus’ witness to God’s inclusive love. The Bible itself is an Inclusivity document, as it binds together the sundered kingdoms of North and South Israel (Ezekiel 37).

GLEBE-ST. JAMES UNITED CHURCHVISION: Reaching – into Faith, Out to Others

VALUES: Openness & Inclusion, Love & Respect, Curiosity & Courage, Justice & Hope.

MISSION: Glebe-St. James is an Affirming congregation of the United Church of Canada. We strive to accept each other as we are, and we seek to be a welcoming space for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities, indeed for all people. We also remember that we meet on traditional unceded lands of the Algonquin.

We come together –To be an open, safe place to explore spirituality and faith; to sustain and deepen that faith through joyful worship and robust reflection; to put that faith into action as a community of healing and of loving resistance, daring to speak out for justice and healthy outcomes for all; and to work with other organizations as partners for the common good.

COUNCIL COVENANT: To promote the spiritual health of this community and as a witness to each other and to the whole congregation of our sense of belonging, we each individually enter into this Covenant:

I WILL recognize that we are all leaders; model behaviours I want others to follow; treat everyone with respect, allowing all to speak freely and not be criticized or judged; commit to hearing and understanding all views; engage and empower others to bring out our diversity; respect the views of others and recognize that we share the same vision; practice open, inclusive, transparent and respectful communication in a timely manner; listen and try to understand the issues respectfully; listen to all those who may be affected; ensure that appropriate information gets to the appropriate people in the appropriate manner; foster a culture of surfacing conflict in a healthy manner within a caring and safe environment,

without personalizing issues; acknowledge and address in a timely manner any conflict in which I am involved; speak directly to any person with whom I have conflict; encourage a complainer to talk directly with the person involved, offering to accompany them it

that would be helpful; respect people’s time and meeting agendas; understand my roles and responsibilities; contribute to decision-making and support decisions once they have been made; contribute to good record keeping.

Glebe-St. James Annual Congregation Meeting - Sunday March 26th, 20172

LIVING MINISTRY PROFILE

Referring to the 2014 Joint Needs Assessment profile, please reflect on the following questions:

1. Does the description of our physical community (town, city, region) still adequately reflect who we are? In what ways has our community changed?

Intensification is happening in the Glebe (Lansdowne Park renewal, new condos and community parking garage in 2016). Another condo is going up right next door to the church. 2017 will be Canada’s 150th anniversary and big changes to the community are underway, most notably rail service to the downtown core promised for 2018

2. Do our facilities continue to meet the needs of our congregation and wider community? Yes – we are now successfully enticing more visitors and the wider community, including Aboriginals, to enter our building. Thanks from building users included, “The United Church rocks!” We recognize the need to re-think our Narthex to make it more welcoming and less like a museum.

3. How has our congregational demographics changed over the past year? Some long-time supporters have died or left town; on the other hand, we are making our best efforts to keeping up with and involve visitors.

4. In the past 12 months, how has our congregation responded to the outreach needs within our community, both regionally and globally?

We have responded to great public demand for refugee sponsorships through commitment to a three-church and community refugee sponsorship group helping 2 families so far, and support of a large community-led initiative with periodical use of the church building. We have also applied to co-sponsor seven refugees who are relatives of a local family. Other outreach partnerships continue, but will need to be evaluated for sustainability. A motion to respond to our occupancy of unceded Aboriginal land with annual funding was discussed and accepted at our last congregational meeting.

5. In what ways have we assisted our congregational leadership in responding to the mission of the congregation within the community of faith and beyond?

People are heavily involved in many initiatives but less willing to chair committees. A review of our constitution has begun to simplify and clarify these duties. UCC remits have been studied by our leadership to see if these also need further study or approval.

6. In what ways have we assisted one another within the congregation on our individual spiritual faith journey?

Minister-led Sunday morning Bible study has re-started, and the congregation-led Men’s Group is branching out to include women. We need to re-start evening opportunities for individuals in the congregation to tell their own faith stories.


7. Are there new initiatives that have been undertaken -- or need to be undertaken – to remain faithful to our call within this town/city/region and our world?

Multifaith Housing Initiative has begun a major drive to create a whole community to meet the social as well as physical needs of people who need affordable housing; this needs major funding and personal support but so far has received little notice in our church.

8. Are we as a congregation continuing to meet the needs of this town/city/region relating to pastoral care, spirituality and self-care, within the community of faith and the wider community?

Expressions of hate in graffiti on places of worship brought Christians, Muslims, Jews, and community groups together in expressions of solidarity, love and peaceful resistance at 2 meetings where GStJ was represented. We see opportunities to meet such needs that transcend boundaries.

9. Are we faithful in our use of our resources: financial ($), talents (people) and physical (building)? Do our stewardship goals assist us in meeting the needs of the life and work of our congregation?

We have numerous fundraising events, but generous financial donations towards building and outreach needs (e.g., new refrigerator, refugee sponsorships) still come in. A list of 43 church commitments now includes 73 participants, some of whom are involved 5 or more initiatives.

10. In what ways do your financial/budget projections for the coming years need to be updated? Are they still accurate?

We are “on track” to complete paying for major building renovations in 2017 2017 with surplus donations for continued repairs, yet came close to balance the budget this year without having to resort to a major end-of-year appeal for more donations.

11. Does our worship meet the diverse needs of the whole people of God? People of diverse backgrounds find security and spirituality; sermons are inspiring and challenging; the needs of our community and world are always before us; and a welcoming atmosphere encourages outsiders to come to our services and stay afterwards for socializing in our church hall.

12. What does it mean for us to be a part of the United Church of Canada? We hosted a very successful Affirm United conference in 2016. Other UCC initiatives of inclusivity, including our Aboriginal brothers and sisters, are supported; we are still working on how best to meet these challenges.

13. After reflecting on all these questions, are there things that need to be changed/updated in our Living Ministry Profile? (Formerly referred to as a JNAC Report)

The 2014 JNAC Report is still appropriate. We have re-staffed 3 ministerial and lay leadership positions in 2016 using these guidelines. Council has approved new policies regarding violence and harassment in the workplace.


FROM THE MINISTER’S DESK

Dear Friends,It is hard to believe that 2016 has come and gone! And so we’ve finished our second year of ministry together. Just as one visits a family physician for an annual checkup, the Annual Report offers us an annual opportunity to check to see how healthy we are as a community of faith.

I thought it might be interesting to revisit the Joint Needs Assessment Report (JNAC) and check in to see how we’re doing with our shared vision. The report offered this summation of GSJ’s common longing:

to be a vibrant, inclusive, welcoming, spiritually alive, community; to be a place where there are opportunities for all ages to grow in faith; to find ways to build right relationships and to work for a better world; to work with other area churches and faiths to make a difference in our community and world; and, to be sustainable where we are responsible with our gifts (finances, time, energy and commitments)

so that we can achieve what we are capable to becoming.

“Inclusive and welcoming”This year GSJ hosted the annual national conference of Affirm United in July. The Rt. Rev. Jordan Cantwell, Moderator, was the featured guest preacher for this event. We have worked on new strategies for welcoming and retaining newcomers to the community of faith. Some of this work has been online in working on redesigning our website and overall “brand”. We are focusing on what we want people to know about us at a glance. Other projects have included an office reorganization in my office to make people feel more comfortable coming in to chat, and, a “re-tooling” of the art room with a large conference table and brightly coloured chairs. The idea was to have a space that could be used for Sunday School or adult gathering. Thank you to all who helped with this project.

Coming projects include a general updating of Narthex to make it more welcome and a refurnishing of the lounge to make it more accessible and welcoming.

“Spiritually alive, community”We have been blessed with outstanding leadership for our worship services. In my absence in late spring retired colleagues and Licensed Lay Worship Leaders took care of the services. It is wonderful to know that we have such excellent leaders within our faith community. See the Worship Committee’s report for a complete overview of the worship life of GSJ.

I have watched as you, the congregation members, cared for one another throughout this year. I thank the Creator for the way you respond to needs both within and outside our own community. From Syrian and Eritrean refugees to the Children’s Church, GSJ volunteers have shared their resources and their talents.

Coming projects: We are open to new ideas for how to strengthen our bonds of community! The current review of the congregational constitution has been undertaken in the hopes of channeling more energy into our ministries and streamlining the administrative tasks of congregation members. Another project underway is the restoration of the church tower, inside and out. The plan is to name the tower room in honour of long-time volunteer building manager James DeJonge.

“Opportunities for all ages to grow in faith”There have been lots of opportunities to grow in faith this year. We held a book study during Lent that was well attended and this Advent we have had an ongoing bible study group, Jesus and Java, meeting on Sunday mornings


before service. As you will see from the Christian Development report we also have a newly minted youth group and have expanded our one-room Children’s Church to accommodate the teens who are attending.

Coming projects include a workshop on prayer writing and a series of spiritual practices.

“Find ways to build right relationships”Members of Glebe St. James have continued to be active in supporting a wide range of social justice projects throughout the city. I recommend you review the report of the Outreach Committee to get a fuller sense of the breadth of our support. In a special way, the congregation continued to support First Nations activist Sue Martin and her organization, Home Fires Burning, while they struggled to call the government to account for the 1,800 missing and murdered indigenous women. I have also been active, on your behalf, and have spoken several times on the topics of indigenous justice, gender justice, and the process of becoming an Affirming Congregation.

Through my work on the national Theology, Inter-Church, Inter-Church Committee, I am currently involved in researching and writing a new study guide on indigenous spirituality for the wider church.

“To work with other area churches and faiths”GSJ has continued to work with other local churches to host joint services on Ash Wednesday, Holy Thursday, and Good Friday. The area youth group, staffed by Jessica, is from largely the same churches.

I continue to work on your behalf in the wider church courts. I am currently serving as secretary on Ottawa Presbytery’s Education & Students’ Committee – a group that works with theological candidates and inquirers for professional ministry in the United Church of Canada. I am also serving my second term on the national church’s Theology, Inter-Church, Inter-Church Committee – a committee that researches and recommends theological positions for the wider church. As part of my committee duties, I am serving as the TICIF representative on the Permanent Committee for Ministry and Mission, and on the World Council of Methodists as the United Church of Canada delegate. My work on the Council is in Liturgy and Justice.

Coming Project: In the wake of the vandalism at the home of Rabbi Anna Maranta of the Glebe Minyan, a community meeting was held at the local Society of Friends’ Meeting House. Each community of faith had an opportunity to share their support of Rabbi Maranta and then we strategized how to work together in the future, both on other projects and on working towards a restorative justice process in the case of the youth vandal.

“To be sustainable…”The building of Glebe St. James is a grand old building who requires tender, loving care! Tom Tanner and the Men’s Group continue to maintain the building and project. See the property report for more information on what has been happening. One 2016 sustainability project was the replacement of the industrial refrigerator with a large consumer refrigerator that is environmentally friendly.

Coming Project – the replacement of the 500 watt bulbs in Fraser Hall with energy efficient bulbs.

In AppreciationFinally, I’d like to share a few words of thanksgiving. Church volunteers are the unspoken heroes of every congregation and GSJ is no different! Thank you to all who serve on committees, task groups, guilds, and in the Children’s Church. Without you, we wouldn’t be here! A special thank you to the M&P Committee – on behalf of the staff team – you help make the “process” of church work. Finally, thank you to the staff team. It is a delight to come to work when you have such a good group of people with which to work. Sincerely,

The Reverend Teresa Burnett-Cole


2015-2016 AFFIRMING REPORT

Affirm United reports are submitted mid-year.

The plaque on our hallway wall expresses the pledge that Glebe St James United Church made several years ago when the congregation became one of the first United Churches in Ottawa to make this commitment. In 2015 and to this day, we begin each service with the words “Good morning and welcome to Glebe St James, an Affirming Congregation in the United Church of Canada where all are welcome, regardless of …” This is the weekly reminder to visitors and recommitment made by the congregation.

New items to report in 2015 are that Glebe St James accepted the request of Affirm United to hold the Annual Affirm Conference at Glebe St James on 22-24 July, 2016. We look forward to that event and have begun making arrangements to facilitate our hosting role.

Members of Glebe St James participated with other United Church members in Ottawa who participated in the city’s annual Gay Pride parade in August 2015.

In 2015, we have posted a sign on one of our washrooms to indicate that it is gender neutral in the spirit that, regardless of gender identity or ability, all are welcome to use it. The sign represents a significant message to the larger community especially at the neighbourhood annual ‘Great Glebe Garage Sale’ when approximately 500 people line up to use the church’s washrooms in exchange for a donation.

Lastly, we want to recognize all the work done in Ministry and in ‘ministry’ that the values expressed in the hallway plaque and the welcoming expressed on Sundays and in the sign below have been integrated in the day to day work of the congregation.

Respectfully submitted by Jim Louter for the Council of Glebe St James United Church


MINISTER OF MUSIC

Music plays a very important role in the life of Glebe St. James. I am truly blessed in having a most dedicated adult choir who faithfully attends Thursday evening rehearsals, Sunday morning services and special church related functions. My goals for 2017 include:

attracting more choir members; involving the youth in singing; and continuing to improve congregational singing

I am happy to report that Pam Fitch has rejoined the choir after many years of absence.

Here are the musical highlights for the past year

On April 13th, a youth band, JAM, from Emmanuel United Church under the direction of Jim Lamb provided music for the service

The May 8th Anniversary service featured three trumpeters from Glebe Collegiate Institute (GCI) On May 15th our choir took part in the annual fundraiser for the Carlington Community

Chaplaincy with four other choirs On June 5th we paid special tribute to a long-time choir member, Russ Bailey, who died at age

97. Seasoned members of the Savoy Society joined our choir in singing special music for that occasion.

Our June 12th service was enhanced by the participation of a choir from GCI under the direction of Rachel Handley

October 29th set the stage for a special showcase fundraiser concert featuring local talent and members of the church.

In early October, 10 members of our adult choir went to sing hymns at the home of James deJonge who had been diagnosed with terminal cancer

On December 4th, harpist Heather Flinn and violinist Linda Mathies provided lovely music for our 2nd Advent service

It was with great sadness that we said goodbye to Nancy MacNider when she retired and return to Ocean City, Maine, after forty years at GSJ. The choir held a potluck supper in her honour. Special


thanks to Marilyn Hamilton, George Clifford, Joyce Wagland, Teresa Burnette-Cole, Julia Barry and Liz Caswell for sharing their solo voices with our congregation.

I wish to thank the congregation for their financial support which enables us to provide a high quality of music ministry.

Submitted by Robert Palmai


REPORT FROM COUNCILCouncil is the voice of our Congregation, and listens when you speak. We are delighted when we

hear or read, “I love this church!” or “Change is good ... It is worth all the effort to be GStJ United Church!” But we also need to hear the cries of desperation: ”KEEP IT SIMPLE!” or “Donations and volunteer work go unrecognized.” And we need to hear the wisdom, too: “If we know each other, we can see the difference between using a person’s skills and talents, and journeying with a person to develop gifts that align their dreams with God’s purpose.”

Anyone who is willing to come to a Council meeting is welcome to visit or to join us. Up to 16 people meet four times a year (3rd Wednesday evenings of October, January, March, May), and help at other times as needed. It is not a political body: it has no quorum, no divisions or special-interest groups, and subscribes only to a Council Covenant for healthy, compassionate and thoughtful work together. There are few assigned roles for Council members; most serve as they can, particularly for special events such as hosting the Affirm United 2016 meeting at Glebe-St. James this past summer (a notable success: more than double the usual attendance). Other Council-approved events in 2016 included hosting the final celebrations around “Keep the Home Fires Burning” at which native peoples found a warm welcome and a supportive community here, and several successful meetings of the community volunteers of OCRA (Ottawa Centre Refugee Action) which grew from initially just 22 people – they were amazed at the turnout for their first event, in our lounge – to subsequent recruitment events of 64 at the second meeting in Fraser Hall, and over 110 at their third event in the same venue. Truly a great way to involve the community in social action!

Members of Council generally serve a minimum of 1 year, but can stay on as long as they like. Chair of Council may serve a 6-year term: up to 2 years as Chair-elect, helping the Chair as needed and learning the issues and personalities in the Congregation, followed by a 2-year period as Chair when leadership is needed, issues must be clarified and action plans implemented. This in turn is followed by another 2 years as Past Chair, supporting the new Chair when requested to do so, and providing the wisdom and experience needed for guiding the Congregation in new directions by the Spirit and changing circumstances. My report as Chair therefore covers much more than just what happened in 2016: it highlights issues that emerged from our Visioning report in 2014, and also covers things told to us as important to our Congregation that were not captured in successive Annual Reports.

Our Congregation last conducted an extensive review of its values in 2013 with a congregational survey that concluded the 3 most important functions of our Church are Worship, Hospitality and Faith Development, and the next 4 most important are Outreach followed by Music, Pastoral Care and Intergenerational events. These were formulated in 2014 as statements of Vision, Values and Mission that are entered into each Annual Report to keep them always in mind, and a Vision statement that clarified specific goals and objectives:

Deepen our connection with God; work for deeper inclusivity; be a community of loving resistance, a voice for alternative values, a safe open space to nourish the Spirit;

Be a healing, caring community; yearn for right relationships with First Nations; work on relief from poverty and housing for all;

Be a welcoming, open, flexible community that integrates newcomers;


Strengthen and build community and inter-faith partnerships.Last year we were able to report having achieved most of the specific goals:

Becoming community leaders on issues people are concerned about; providing alternative ways of thinking, creating a refuge from a world that operates from a different value system; working for deeper inclusivity; being a leader in progressive change; holding community meetings; being vigilant on social justice issues; collaborating with other churches to address refugee issues; keeping our vision named regularly and our symbols visible;

Strengthening and building partnerships with area churches; sharing services and learning events; exploring ways we can work together for the common good and using resources wisely; being open to other partnerships with those who share our values, including after-school programming with GNAG;

On aboriginal issues, working with other Presbytery churches to build direct relationships with people from First Nations;

Making poverty issues part of Worship with weekly food baskets and quilts for St. Mary’ Home; Deepening our connection with God through setting up a labyrinth, holding Healing Pathway

activities within our Ministry, and holding twice annual book studies led by our minister. Including newcomers early in worship and other activities.

This year we still had many issues that were not resolved in previous years. For example, our Treasurer was able to assure us that our 15-year outstanding loan repayment is on track for final closure as scheduled for 2017, and would leave enough money in the account for ongoing repairs to the exterior of the building. Then at the Annual Congregational Meeting we debated having as a standing GStJ budget item $2000 per year, payable to Odawa Friendship Centre, for our use of unceded Aboriginal land. This was approved for 2016 only, subject to reconsideration after the initial 1-year trial period.

Our 3-church agreement known as FACES (First Avenue Churches Embracing Sponsorship of refugees), entered into during the fall of 2015 and later augmented by community volunteers, became a reality this year when we welcomed our first refugee family in February and a second one this summer. Three Council members serve on the FACES steering committee that oversees the work and provides committee leadership; Karen Walker does most of the actual work, and loves it … just ask her, and watch her face light up!

Don McKenzie, our Clerk of Session, provided Council with an updated list of former attendees who needed to be removed from our membership roll, and this list was checked and approved. Past Council Chair Jim Louter has helped update our Website and Teresa has revitalized our Pastoral Care. The Church brochure is being updated and our compliance to Ontario Bill 168 (on violence and harassment in the workplace) has been accepted after a preamble was added explaining the difference between a covenant relationship in a trust community such as a church and the legal responsibilities of an employer to employees that commercial operations must abide by. We as a congregation accept not only the legal responsibilities but also the personal responsibilities of good relationships at all levels. At another level of concern for others, some of us gathered with other faith groups and churches, both at a synagogue and later at the local meeting house of the Quakers to present an united community front against recent hate crimes in Ottawa.


We welcomed Crystal Maitland as our new interim Council Secretary in October and have found a person willing to consider becoming Council Chair-elect this spring, but we are still looking for people to take on chairing Ministry & Personnel now that the Chair has resigned, and will need new chairs for Christian Development Ministry and Finance & Administration as both chairs will step down in 2017. The long-serving Christian Outreach co-ordinator Marilyn Hamilton is also looking for help juggling the many initiatives we have started. I will covenant with you to facilitate this work and lighten the administrative load, but this I cannot do for you: volunteer your time to help our Congregation.

In the hope that we can encourage new people to take on such responsibilities, we revisited our Constitution at the Steering Committee in November and approved a proposed simplification of committees and more flexibility in how we do things. A summary of the most important changes will be included elsewhere in the present Annual Report. These changes are based on a re-evaluation of the many people and their favorite projects at Glebe-St. James: in addition to the regular volunteers in the kitchen, greeters at the doors, communion servers and a host of other short-term jobs, we now have a list of 73 of our people who serve on Council or at least one of the 10 committees or 32 other task forces, some of whom are on 5-7 such groups. Simplifying these roles and still keeping people active and engaged is our objective.

You may have noticed that this Annual Report comes out much earlier this year than last. This has been done so we can proceed directly into our annual Planning Meeting to set our yearly goals well ahead of the spring instead of waiting until March for our audited financial statements. We hope to have a draft of our proposed Constitution approved by the January Council meeting in time for circulation at the Planning Meeting. The response from this meeting will then be examined and any needed changes made for final ratification, hopefully at the March 2017 Congregational Meeting but otherwise it will be re-examined for emendation and put to a vote later in the year.

The final piece of unfinished business from the last few years is making the Council covenant into a reality. “Recommended conduct for a fruitful Council meeting” (available on request) lists 10 practical ideas, such as ensuring that complex issues are circulated by e-mail before each meeting so everyone comes informed, and nobody has to waste valuable time reading out or projecting presentations. The invitation is always out there for more interaction with the congregation, particularly if a Council member cannot attend a regular meeting, in which case he or she can designate a replacement for that meeting.

Won’t you come yourself, and see how we work together for the good of our Church?

Submitted by Andy Hamilton, Chair of Council 2016-2017


GLEBE-ST. JAMES UNITED CHURCH CONSTITUTION

Our Constitution was last revised in 2006 and most recently emended in 2008. At that time we hoped to “grow” Glebe-St. James from a Pastoral Church (its size at that time) to a Program-sized Church capable of supporting several full-time clergy and an abundance of congregational talent organized in multiple committees and sub-committees (Alice Mann, 2001. Raising the Roof: The Pastoral-to-Program Size Transition, Alban Institute, Durham, NC).

Unfortunately, that experiment did not succeed; we have lost rather than gained membership and those who are left bear an unreasonable burden of administration. “We [in the mainline church] have become overly bureaucratic – too many meetings and not enough ministry happening. We have substituted busyness for the real business of the church – helping people to come alive in Christ. Clergy have exhausted themselves being personal chaplains for far too many families, rather than being exemplars of abundant life … We have made being warm and friendly with newcomers our primary purpose, when in fact they are looking for the Holy Spirit.” (Bruce Sanguin. 2008. The emerging Church: A Model for Change & a Map for Renewal. CopperHouse: Wood Lake Publishing, Kelowna, BC).

As a result, a constitutional review is overdue. Our current practices, whether enshrined in the Constitution or not, are respected. For example, Council now provides annual renewals for lay ministers and annual reports to UCC, as requested (e.g., in support of Affirming Ministry and Living Ministry Profile).

Significant changes include: The Congregation is seen as an organic, growing and evolving body that establishes its own

governance structure, subject to approval of Presbytery, based on the mission statement that it has adopted and revised from time to time.

Council will have the responsibility to prepare a Congregational Policy and Operations Manual. The annual Planning Meeting is to be held before each Annual Congregational Meeting. Church Council meets only 4 times a year, and the Steering Committee meets 5 times. The Steering Committee (Chair, Chair-elect, Past Chair, Treasurer) may meet with any Chair with

a pressing issue needing attention. There will be only 3 standing committees: M&P, Stewardship and Worship. Standing committees work with Ministry teams to implement the Glebe-St. James mission

statement in their areas of responsibility. Ministry teams (or Guilds) are flexible associations of persons having concerns in common, who wish to become periodically active in the life of the Congregation with the minimum of bureaucracy. These presently fall under four main objectives, Christian Development, Christian Outreach, Communications and Pastoral Care but are not limited to those groupings. For example, our oldest such team, the Celebration Guild, now in its 40th year of service, is nominally part of the Worship Committee but its members are also active in Outreach by providing quilts for unwed mothers.

Where do I fit in? Everyone has their personal style – which is yours? Can you help us? Creative - Celebration Guild; choir; CommunicationsSpiritual – Pastoral Care; Worship CommitteeEducational – Christian Development Ministry; volunteerismPractical – Council; Stewardship Committee; Steering Committee Helpful – Ministry & Personnel Committee; Outreach Ministry


Legal – Board of Trustees; Presbytery; Roll Clerk Submitted by Andy Hamilton, Chair of Council

IN MEMORIUMIn grateful memory we record the names of the Members

and Adherents of Glebe-St. James United Church who

entered into rest during the year 2016

Nancy Josephine Alexander

Russell Bailey

James Anthony De Jonge

Kirk Thompson

In life, in death, in life beyond death, God is with us.

We are not alone. Thanks be to God.


ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETINGGlebe-St. James United Church

Annual Congregational Meeting MinutesFebruary 28, 2016

The meeting was called to order by Jim Louter in Fraser Hall at 12:16 p.m.

Moved by Ian McKercher, seconded by Barbara Coyle, that Jim Louter serve as chair for the meeting and Tom Tanner as secretary. Carried.

Voting: Moved by Ruth Burnett-Cole and seconded by Bruce Taylor that adherents who contribute to the life and work or the congregation be given voting privileges in relation to temporal matters. Carried.

Agenda: The agenda for the meeting was approved as circulated. Moved by David Lee, seconded by Ross Snyder. Carried.

In Memoriam: The list of members and adherents of Glebe-St. James United Church who passed away in 2015 was read by Tom Tanner.

Minutes of the Annual Congregational Meeting of March 1, 2015, Congregational Planning Meeting of April 26, 2015, and Special Congregational Meeting, November 1, 2015 (concerning refugee sponsorship — distributed on a page separate from the Annual Report) were adopted as circulated. Moved by Colleen Clark, seconded by Betty Taylor. Carried.

Council Report: Jim Louter started by noting that the Table of Contents in the Annual Report lists the authors of each report. The author’s name is not given at the end of each report. It was noted that in future, the author’s name should be printed with each report.

Jim spoke to his report printed in the Annual Report. He noted we are still worshipping in the same building after 111 years. This year, and in the coming years, there will be significant maintenance challenges. But this is a busy place and a vital part of the Glebe community. We all need to play a role in making sure our communication and welcoming messages get out to others in the wider community.

Transition marked 2015. Teresa has been with us a full year. Jim Richardson has retired as Council Secretary, Sandy Macmillan has retired as Office Administrator, Stephanie Langill has moved on from Christian Development, our nursery attendant Kevin Fowlow and our Sexton, Kiley Hyland have gone on to new activities. But we have had the opportunity to welcome Catherine Fumerton to the office, Jessica Hetherington as the Minister of Christian Development, Emily Brak as nursery attendant and Rebecca Hyland as Sexton.

Jim stressed that we are thankful for the steading presence of Teresa, George Clifford, Robert Palmai and Abdulrezak Ibrahim. He also mentioned that he had been one of the persons who signed the sponsorship papers for Abdul so that he could come to Canada. A special thanks was expressed for Andy Hamilton’s efforts in putting together the Annual Report this year.

2015 Financial Report: Karen Walker spoke to the six page Treasurer’s Report which was distributed before the meeting. It shows the total donations for the year for Operating, Outreach, and the Doug Davidson Fund were $337,323. The operating budget donations were $186,542, some $13,458 short of the target of $200,000. Fundraising was also short of projections. Charts on page 2 showed how the number of tax receipts issued has decreased since 2009 and the giving trends have been downward. The deficit of $16,729 is being financed by the accumulated surplus but this can not continue because this ‘operating balance’ will now be $56,000 and can not go lower because our monthly deficit can vary by as much as $35,000 and this reserve is necessary so that we can pay our bills.


In discussion, Louise Archer suggested that contributions given early in the year could be helpful in meeting the high fuel costs of the winter months.

Karen explained that the Doug Davidson Fund is built up from donations, bequests and from the transfer of the Memorial Fund. It is used to pay off the loan from Ottawa Presbytery taken on to finance the new heating plant and foundation repairs. It will be paid off in 2017. Meanwhile there are building maintenance and restoration projects which will be paid for from this fund.

Don McKenzie asked why the first priority was not to pay off the loan from Presbytery immediately so the church could save the cost of interest. In reply it was pointed out that the principle repayment for 2016 is to be paid this week thus saving interest for 2016. In addition, the roof repair and restoration will need to be paid this summer from the Davidson Fund. Needs are being balanced to get the best value for all congregational giving.

Dietlind Gardell urged that general overhead should be investigated and reduced. Karen replied that we are being frugal. Teresa said that the staff are extremely frugal and some of the costs in the past year arose from the need to do organization and upkeep with the change of staff. The project to replace the refrigerator with an energy efficient model was first suggested by Robert. The staff are all aware of the need to be careful with costs.

2016 Proposed Budget: Dudleigh Coyle noted that the Budget had been well crafted and is endorsed by Finance and Administration and Council. It is balanced at $351,749. Glebe Montessori School still pays a substantial portion of the revenue. The Fundraising target is set at $10,000 but plans are moving ahead to raise $20,000. A special concert in the Fall will feature Rev. Teresa and other artists. Other projects are in the works including “Glebe-St. James goes out for dinner”. Don Hall will be organizing this and the dates are Saturdays, April 30, May7 and May 14. Barb Coyle explained how “Out to Dinner” works. It is a fund raising activity which promotes fellowship and connections among our church family. Bruce Taylor suggested we should make sure newcomers to Glebe-St. James have a special invitation to be part of “Out for Dinner”.

In discussion, Don McKenzie urged that personnel costs should not be just one line but should be broken out to show the payment for each staff person. Karen said that information is easily available for anyone who is interested. MOTION: Moved by Dudleigh Coyle, seconded by Louise Archer that the Proposed Budget for 2016 be approved as presented. Carried.

David Lee spoke of the need to acknowledge the work done by Karen, Dudleigh and the team in building a balanced budget for 2016.

Andy Hamilton introduced a discussion about the $2,000 in the budget which recognizes that we meet on the unceded land of the Algonquin. This “land use” line will be an annual “expense” and will be used to support projects to benefit Indigenous people. In 2016, Andy proposed that the money be donated to the Odawa Native Friendship Centre. The motion, moved by Andy and seconded by David Lee, was put as follows: “That the Congregation of Glebe-St. James United Church direct and annual sum (set at $2,000 for 2016) to Odawa in recognition of our use of unceded Aboriginal land.” Andy pointed out that Odawa is a charity recognized by the Government of Canada and that this use of funds does not infringe on our status as a charitable organization.

In discussion, Ian McKercher pointed out that this is a pioneering measure. Reiner Hollbach acknowledged that this is a significant issue and that there should have been material available before the meeting. In response, Andy said that this measure was discussed at the Annual Meeting last year and had been endorsed by Council. [See the Minutes of the 2015 Annual Meeting.] The principle has become an action.


It is something we ought to do. It is not charity, nor a donation. It is an expense. The motion presented is targeting the action.

Dietlind Gardell spoke in support of Odawa and the importance of Centre 510. Margaret Torrance pointed out that St. Paul’s-Eastern United Church has provided significant space to Centre 510. Rev. Teresa made the point that this is a significant way of saying “We get this” — we acknowledge the benefit we have from this land and we want to walking right relationship with Indigenous people. It shows good will.

Andy affirmed the pioneering nature of the measure and said he hoped this would be “the pebble which starts the avalanche” and others will follow our example.

Discussion then moved to the technicalities of the motion. The expense line is to be in the budget every year but it may be directed to other organizations in future. Ron Totten wondered if we should get a property rights lawyer to look at the issue. The response was that this shows we acknowledge the original owners of the unceded land and are being pro-active in taking this measure.

Teresa also told the meeting of a phone call she received this week from Dr. Mark Kristmanson, the CEO of the National Capital Commission (NCC). Teresa got the call because of the support Glebe-St. James has been providing for Sue Martin who has been camped on Victoria Island for almost a year. Dr. Kristmanson said that the NCC is planning to make a second building on Victoria Island available for Aboriginal use and it will be administered by an organization headed by Claudette Commanda [who has spoken at Glebe-St. James]. Sue Martin is going to end her camp on April 29 — after a full year. The NCC would like to be part of the ceremonies when the camp is closed. Would the churches be supportive of this? Teresa wanted everyone to know that our support of Aboriginal issues is being noticed.

Further discussion resulted in the original motion being broken into two parts and re-worded. The changes were accepted as “friendly amendments” by the mover and seconder.

MOTIONS: Moved by Andy Hamilton and seconded by David Lee that: (a) A sum for our use of unceded Aboriginal land will be included as an expense in the annual budget of Glebe-St. James United Church. This will be given to an Indigenous organization. Carried with 1 abstention.

(b) The land use expense will be directed to the Odawa Native Friendship Centre in 2016. The Glebe-St. James budget for 2016 set this amount at $2,000. Carried unanimously.

Mission and Service Objective: Marilyn Hamilton reported that the congregation has not met the M&S Objective for several years. This fund is fundamental to the work of the United Church.

MOTION: Moved by Marilyn Hamilton, seconded by David Brown that the Mission and Service Fund target for 2016 be $37,000. Carried unanimously.

Annual Report: Rev. George Clifford pointed out that he is not a doctor. He visits “parishioners”, not “patients”. The report of the Pastoral Care ministry will be amended to make this correction.

MOTION: Moved by Brad Munro, seconded by David Lee that the Annual Report for 2015 be accepted with the correction noted above. No further discussion. Carried unanimously.

Ottawa Presbytery and National Church: David Lee, a lay representative to Ottawa Presbytery from Glebe-St. James and past Chair of Ottawa Presbytery spoke to emphasize three points covered in his written report. (1) The report must be set against what is happening to faith groups across Canadian society. Major societal changes are causing churches to lose members and resources. The United Church has


produced a Comprehensive Review which is the most sweeping change for the Church since its inception in 1925. The Comprehensive Review was examined and amended at General Council 42 last August and will be triggering several remits which are coming soon. There are three levels of remit: (1) minor changes (2) substantive changes and (3) major changes. Five of the eight remits will be Class 3 which must be approved by Presbyteries and congregations. Three of the eight remits are Class 2 which go only to Presbyteries. If a congregation or a presbytery does not submit its vote, it is counted as a NO vote.

(2) Among the remits will be the proposed change from a four court system to a three council structure. Another change will propose financing the administrative cost of the church from assessments, not givings to M&S. Mission and Service donations will be reserved for outreach. David advised consulting the United Church website for more information. The time line is tight as the remits must all be concluded by June of 2017.

(3) In April 2015, Ottawa Presbytery adopted a motion on climate change. This proposed action on education and advocacy and also set a goal for the reduction of emissions by Presbytery of 25% over 5 years. Glebe-St. James has a role in this effort.

Nominations: Marsha Hay Snyder introduced the chart which shows the people who serve on the Committees and Ministries of Glebe-St. James. She noted that there are still notable vacancies which need to be filled. Council is trying to adjust the committee/ministry structure to make it a better fit for our changing congregation but governance is important. These are roles and functions we must have and energy comes with engagement. The congregation needs structure to be effective in its mission and contributing to the work of the congregation is often done best through ministries and committees.

The chart was corrected to remove Rebecca Lee from the Christian Outreach Ministry and add Ruth Burnett-Cole and Jessica Sunter to the Welcoming /Communications Ministry. MOTION: Moved by Marsha Hay Snyder, seconded by Ruth Burnett-Cole that the persons named to Committees, Ministries and Positions in the printed chart of “Glebe-St. James Ministries and Committees 2016”, with changes as noted, be confirmed in those positions until the next Annual Congregational Meeting. Carried unanimously.

Jim Louter mentioned that he would be interested in helping revive the Citrus Sale this year. Betty Taylor explained why it was abandoned but allowed that it could be successful if enough orders are received.

Vote of Thanks: Rev. Teresa Burnett-Cole expressed the vote of thanks starting with the staff. Her printed report “From the Minister’s Desk” covers many of the contributions made by staff and others in the church. She explained who is involved in arranging the weekly service of worship and ensuring that it is a cohesive experience. Among the individuals mentioned were:

Jim Richardson who prepares the projections Chris Burbridge who arranges for scripture readers and organizes communion Jim McCulloch who organizes the ushering teams the Licensed Lay Worship Leaders who contribute frequently

In other spheres, Teresa noted the contribution of the “men who mow and Karen who sows” — those who look after the lawns and gardens of the church.

the dedicated people who help in Children’s Church and all those who bake birthday cakes, make coffee and see to other needs.

Jim Louter for his two-year term as Chair of CouncilThe list can never be totally complete as many, many people contribute to the ministry of Glebe-St. James. All deserve thanks. Adjournment: Moved by Brad Munro, seconded by David Lee that the meeting be adjourned.Carried [2:08 p.m.]


The closing prayer was offered by Jessica Hetherington.

QUILTING RETREAT

Patchwork Pilgrimage 2016

At the end of September, 33 participants went to Gracefield Camp for our annual quilting retreat. This was our 10th year at Gracefield. The beautiful late summer weather distracted a few from our work, but we were still able make over 30 quilts for the clients of St. Mary’s Home. This year we also had some family and friends join us in one of the out buildings for a weekend of hiking and canoeing.

The theme for our lakeside worship service at Gracefield was “Hope.” We feel these little quilts offer hope for the babies and parents who will receive them, a sign of God’s love in the world. The quilts were presented to Rosann Thorn, Vice-chair of St. Mary’s Home Board of Directors, during the worship service at GSJ on November 27, Advent 1, when the theme was “Hope” again.

- Chris Burbridge



BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Members: Don Hall, Olga Lee, Nancy MacNider, Don Ray (Chair), Hilda Sabadash, Margaret Torrance, and Janice Vennos.

The Rev. Teresa Burnett-Cole is an ex officio member as Minister.

Mandate: In accordance with s.61 of the Glebe-St. James United Church Constitution, 2007, the Mandate is as follows:

The Board of Trustees reports to the Annual Congregational Meeting, but it takes direction from the Church Council from time to time. Its duties and procedures are as described in the United Church Manual. These include:a. Holding in trust the properties of the Congregation, including manses. church edifices, Trust Funds

and Memorials,b. Dealing with matters relating to investments, capital indebtedness, major renovations or capital

improvements, and property acquisitions.c. Maintaining insurance policies and an inventory of assets, andd. Acting in legal matters for the Congregation.Summary of Activities:

The Trustees met twice in 2016.We have received notice from Nancy MacNider that as she has moved to Maine, she be requesting permission to resign as a Trustee at our next Annual Congregational Meeting.Ihe status of the church archives, records, bequests and memorials was reviewed.The development of the Violence and Harassment policies by Church Council as required by provincial legislation was noted.The insurance requirements for activities held at the church have been followed.

Focus and Priorities for 2017:The development of an inventory of current assets and an Insurance protocol for building use.The maintenance of records and archives to be improved.Further discussions re best practices for holding funds and reporting to the congregation.

Respectfully submitted by Don Ray, Chair


BUILDING AND PROPERTY

Introduction2016 saw a major restoration project completed. This was financed through the Doug Davidson

Building Fund which continues to be an important resource in keeping our building sound, attractive and welcoming. Thank you to all who have contributed.

Key Accomplishments in 2016

Lantern Tower Restoration: Under the direction of Fishburn Sheridan engineers (John McIntyre), NorthCo Services (Daniel St-Aubin and David Gowing) completed the restoration of the central Lantern Tower over the skylight. A very large “cherry picker” lift was employed to give access to the centre of the roof, some 85 feet above the ground. The metal roof was scraped and two coats of primer plus two coats of specified metal coating were applied. Linseed oil paint was used on the wooden structure and the cedar shakes around the turrets. Flashing was replaced along the south face and areas were carefully treated to prevent water leakage. The result looks like new. The job went well and everyone is very pleased with the result.

Shingle repair: Morgan McGrath repaired the roof on the west side of the sanctuary as some shingles had been dislodged by the wind. Further work will soon be needed on some roof surfaces over the sanctuary.

Window replacement: Three windows on the lower level and two windows in the Administration Office were replaced by Centennial Glass. For several years’ window upgrades have been part of the long term building preservation plan.

Furnace repair: One of the furnace boilers required a new burner. It is always important to keep essential equipment in top working order.

Work days: Work days were held in the spring and in the fall. This is very important for two reasons: (1) critical seasonal tasks are accomplished; (2) more people learn about our building. A great vote of thanks is due for all those who helped with air conditioners, storm windows, leaf raking, hedge clipping, gardening, cleaning and other chores. One member, who does not scamper up ladders as he once did, provided money to hire a student to help at the second fall work day. This was greatly appreciated as our volunteer crew needs to be more cautious with heights and lifting.


Projects for 2017

Work days: Please plan to help in 2017. There are worthwhile jobs for men and women of all ages. The dates reserved are: May 13, June 3 for spring and October 14 and 28 for fall.

Window and dormer restoration: Tom McClelland was unable to restore the east window and dormer during the summer of 2016. He has promised to come this summer to do that job and, hopefully, the large north window as well.

Restoration of the corner tower and steeple: Engineers at Fishburn Sheridan are preparing specifications for shingling the steeple and restoring the upper reaches of the main corner tower. This will involve removing the two layers of asphalt and wooden shingles and installing new shingles. The trim will be painted with appropriate coatings and some masonry inside the tower will be repaired. While the mason is on site, stonework in the tower basement will also be repaired. This project is overdue — the steeple is shedding pieces of shingle almost daily.

Renewal of Tower room and Narthex: Work is underway to renew the tower room and the stairs to the balcony. This will involve plaster repairs and fresh paint on the walls, window frames, railings, floor and stairs. It will take three coats as a conversion undercoat will be used to insure the finish coats adhere properly to the aged oil paint. It is proposed that a plaque in this area acknowledge the contribution made by James De Jonge during his many years as property manager.

The Narthex needs to be more welcoming. Various ideas are being considered. It would be appropriate to have much of this work done in conjunction with the Tower room project.

Getting the work done: Keeping our building up to standard requires time and money. Volunteers are needed to help on work days, to manage projects and to undertake repair and repainting. A grass mowing roster operates during the summer to keep the lawns in check. Please help by responding to work day announcements and other calls for volunteers.

On the money side, there is an allocation for repairs and maintenance in the church budget operating fund. For 2017 the amount should be $20,000 for general items and $4,000 for the heating system. This report has not included the many recurring service calls and inspections which are yearly expenses. Surprise repairs come every year. Larger projects are financed through the Doug Davidson Building Fund (the Capital Fund). Your contributions to this fund are extremely important for maintaining the building which is both our church home and a significant community resource.

Submitted by Tom Tanner, Property Manager


CHRISTIAN DEVELOPMENT MINISTRY

Members: Jessica Hetherington (Minister of CD), Margo Williams (Chair), Andy Hamilton, Stefan Lehmeier (stepped down as of June 2016)

Mandate: To ensure that the children, youth and adults of the Congregation are provided with continuing opportunities to learn and grow in their Christian faith.

Goals of the Christian Development Ministry:

1. Grow the faith of children and youth in dynamic and engaging ways.2. Nurture adults, especially new members, in their faith exploration. 3. Recruit, train, and celebrate CD Leaders, Shepherds and other volunteers.4. Foster multi-age relationships within Children’s Church as well as during Worship services.5. Fundraising to allow a GSJ Youth presence at the next tri-annual national United Church

gathering.

Summary of Christian Development at Glebe-St. James UC in 2016

Challenges and Opportunities

Jessica joined GSJ as our Minister of Christian Development in January 2016. Jessica is a theology student at United Theological College in Montreal and the mother of five children. The youngest Ella was born on March 29, 2016. Before Jessica went on a short maternity leave, she prepared the Children’s Church lessons for each of the Sundays she would be away. During her leave Margo ensured that Children’s Church was ready each week with volunteers, the prepared curriculum and supplies for crafts and activities. Finding volunteer Leaders and Shepherds for the Children’s Church programming is always a challenge, and is a constant issue that requires reflection and creativity to serve families well. More volunteers beyond the parents of involved children would be most welcome. Enthusiastic people with an interest in Christian Development for all people of our congregation are invited to join our ministry.

Adults

A Lenten Book Study of “The First Paul: Reclaiming the Radical Visionary Behind the Church’s Conservative Icon” by Marcus Borg and John Dominic Crossan was led by Rev. Teresa on Tuesdays evenings. This was attended by GSJ people as well as St. Giles Presbyterian and Centretown UC members. Rev. Teresa and Jessica led a successful “Java and Jesus” Bible Study on Sunday mornings before the morning service from October 30th to December 18th.


Intergenerational

Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper on February 9th was co-hosted by families and the Men’s Group. A Strawberry Shortcake fundraiser hosted by the Children’s Church families in June provided funds for our Youth Special Events. Intergenerational services throughout the year were geared to all ages. Jessica led an intergenerational service on the theme of “Forgiveness” in November 2016. The Intergenerational Christmas Pageant “Los Posados” was presented on the Third Sunday of Advent. Jessica also led the Family Christmas Eve service.

Youth

In early February 2016 GSJ hosted 30 youth from southwestern Ontario who attended Worshiplude. In late February four youth joined Jessica and Stefan for a movie and pre-movie social time. In September Jessica began The EYE (Ecumenical Youth Experiment) youth group, bringing together youth from GSJ, 4th Avenue Baptist, McPhail Baptist, and St Giles Presbyterian to get to know each other, have fun, and explore their faith together. Approximately 15 youth from the churches attend the biweekly meetings. Also beginning in September, there have been several youths (ages 12 and up) attending church on Sundays; Jessica has begun a regular youth program during the service (as part of Children’s Church). Some of our youth volunteer throughout the year with the AV team, Nursery and Children’s Church.

Children’s Church

Children’s Church provides a fun and active time for our 4-12 year olds. This is the second year using the “Whole People of God” curriculum. Jessica gears the lesson for our multi-age group. In the Spring of 2016, Lenten projects included sandwiches for Centre 507 and cards for the flowers delivered during Pastoral Care Easter visits. Robert Palmai and Stefan Lehmeier led a small children’s choir for Mother’s Day. At the end of June, we sent our families off with a 'sweet treat' dessert box filled with fun items and conversation starters to keep their faith alive and well over the summer. On Thanksgiving Sunday, the children made homemade soup for Centre 507. Small numbers, varying ages and abilities continue to challenge the leadership of Children’s Church. New volunteers for Children’s Church are always welcome and are needed, especially since attendance in Children’s Church and the Youth program is growing.

The Nursery

Emily Brak provided wonderful care and stimulation for our youngest congregants until the end of June. She usually had 2 or 3 infants/toddlers in her care each Sunday. Due to her school commitments Emily was unable to continue with us this fall. Bronwyn Rowland is now providing excellent care and programming for the children in our nursery.

Submitted on behalf of the CDM by Margo Williams


CHRISTIAN OUTREACH COMMITTEE

Members: Susan Palmai, Ross Snyder, Kylie Taggart, Marilyn Hamilton (chair), Dietlind Gardell (lay Presbyter, ex officio), Rev. Teresa Burnett-Cole, (minister, ex officio)

Mandate: What are the top 5 things your committee does or are responsible for? Disbursement of undesignated funds for local outreach. Providing information about outreach partners’ needs and priorities to the congregation and

maintaining relationships. Distributing information about issues of concern to the wider United Church and other

denominations. Promotion of the Mission and Service Fund of the United Church. Working with the Steering Committee to insure commitment to inclusivity and growth as an

Affirming Congregation in the United Church.

Focus and priorities (2016): Where are the areas for future growth? Building right relations with indigenous peoples: information sessions; learning circles; using

guides for protocol and philanthropy. Advocacy on social justice issues, particularly with petitions, letter writing and contact with

politicians. Partnerships with other United Church congregations and other faith groups. Sponsorship of and advocacy for refugees and displaced persons. Enabling groups in the congregation to have “hands on” experience, for example, a work party

at Centretown Emergency Food Centre.

We have numerous and diverse forms of social action and few people consistently involved. It seems that we should get more people involved at some level, or drop some connections and partners. From my perspective as Chair, we should prune this list, or someone else should co-ordinate. We probably must go forward without official involvement of a lay Presbyter. Dietlind does not have time.

The Planning Meeting in January should be a good time to make choices; so a broad base of participation setting priorities is absolutely necessary to design the future of outreach in our congregation.

Summary of activities: Carlington Community Chaplaincy, http://www.carlingtonchaplaincy.com . Represented at

Board and Council meetings (Marilyn Hamilton); members bought fund-raising items and attended the annual dinner and silent auction. Changes: Interim Chaplain Audrey Lawrence became Chaplain in June; new volunteer and program co-ordinator Sarah Posthuma; Sewing as Art introduced as program in conjunction with the Royal Ottawa Hospital; Caldwell Family Centre will be represented on the Board. Volunteer opportunities: Communications (internal and external), Pastoral Care and Worship, Resource Development (fundraising and grant writing). Visit during weekday drop-ins and get to know the Chaplaincy community! As a supporting church, we can offer to host one of the monthly brunches for the community.


http://www.carlingtonchaplaincy.com/

Centre 507, http://www.centre507.org/ . M embers serve on the Board. Others volunteer, working with clients or on committees. Ross Snyder is Chair of the Board. Children’s Church and youth have provided sandwiches from time to time. Other support is with donations.

Centretown Churches Social Action Committee, http://centretownchurches.org/ . Represented at monthly meetings (Marilyn Hamilton; Susan Palmai, alternate). Donations of money are made with some regularity. Some of us attended an August charity performance at Morrisburg’s Upper Canada Playhouse, which benefitted CCSAC, and thus Centretown Emergency Food Centre. Robert and Susan Palmai walked in the first ever Walk for the Centre, a walk-a-thon in support of Centretown Emergency Food Centre, and gathered pledges. Meetings serve as a clearinghouse for opportunities for social action. Updates on Centretown Emergency Food Centre, information from member churches, and ongoing updates on work with refugees are shared.

Centretown Emergency Food Centre, http://cefcottawa.org/ . Supported by monthly donations of money and food. Some of us are seasoned volunteers. They are challenged by increases in client numbers and food costs.

Carleton Interfaith Chaplaincy Centre . We hope to be partnered with other churches for the Pause Table—food and snacks provided during exam periods. Elizabeth Elton was our point person for Pause Tables in winter and spring. We love you Liz! The opportunity continues, but we need to assess interest and find another point person. Contact: They are no longer on Facebook. We have been contacted by Open Table Carleton about helping with the Pause Table ([email protected] ).

Christmas Hampers (with Southminster and Centretown UCs) http://www.centretownunited.org/xmashamperproject/ . Some members have adopted hampers, or helped with packing and delivery in the past. This is still needed.

Multifaith Housing Initiative, http://www.multifaithhousing.ca/ . Our congregation is a member. Some of us have participated in the annual Tulipathon—a walk for fund-raising and awareness of housing issues. The current building campaign is in support of a large development of affordable/mixed housing in Barrhaven. Ottawa Presbytery encourages local UCC congregations to support this, and we amended our disbursement of undesignated funds for local outreach to include this support. MHI checked with us to see if we needed help with housing for any of our refugee families.

Refugee housing (Ottawa Mennonite Church’s OMRA Shelter Alternatives Corporation) Commissions from the sale of grocery gift cards meet our monthly commitment of $500 to OMRA. Thirty-two families or individuals are regular participants in the gift card program. Nine others purchase gift cards as they need them. A few others make direct donations via their church envelopes. This enables property maintenance and has been applied towards retiring mortgages on four rent-subsidized properties rented to larger refugee families, especially those in which women have been at risk. OMRA had a possible opening and checked with us to see if they could help with housing any of our refugee families. The Refugee Assistance Program (RAP) is separate from housing, and involves Ottawa Mennonite Church members in settlement and integration support of families in housing. Donna-Fay Mailhot, Marisa Romano and Janice Vennos manage our grocery gift card purchases. Marisa is on the Board of OMRA.


http://www.multifaithhousing.ca/

http://www.centretownunited.org/xmashamperproject/

mailto:[email protected]

http://cefcottawa.org/

http://centretownchurches.org/

http://www.centre507.org/

Aboriginal Support—set aside from undesignated donations for outreach; primary support in 2016 went to Odawa Native Friendship Centre. There is still special concern for Centre 510, http://www.odawa.on.ca/programs/dropin.htm—Odawa’s drop-in centre for First Nations, Inuit and Métis who are homeless or at risk of being homeless. Remodelling is in process to enable the drop-in to generate funds and give clients focus and experience with a café as a social enterprise.

Home Fires Burning—We visited with a group led by Sue Martin that camped on Victoria Island (middle of Ottawa River) from summer 2015 to spring 2016 to call attention to Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and the need for federal inquiry. We hosted a feast they gave in celebration as the process began for establishing the inquiry and its parameters.

The revival of participation in refugee sponsorship continues. Members serve on steering committees of the groups below, and have come forward with financial and in-kind offers of support.

FACES—First Avenue Churches and Community Embracing Sponsorship, comprised of Glebe-St. James, St. Giles, and St. Matthew’s, and community groups. A full report from Karen Walker is included separately. Karen has been lead with integration of refugee families into life in Ottawa.

OCRA—Ottawa Centre Refugee Action, http://refugeeaction.ca/; started with a grassroots group in the Glebe; some Glebe-St. James people are associated, and meeting space has been made available in the church. In 2016, this included a cultural awareness workshop for OCRA family support groups, and a series of Arabic-friendly financial literacy and entrepreneurship workshops presented in co-operation with the Ottawa Public Library (Business Section) and Ottawa Community Loan Fund. Light meals were provided by a fledgling catering group of newcomer women.

Co-sponsoring 7 Eritreans with a local family was approved in the spring by Council and a Special Congregational Meeting. After a summer hiatus because spaces allotted to the United Church as Sponsorship Agreement Holder had been filled, the sponsorship application package was completed and submitted to the UCC Refugee Advisor in Toronto. The situation where the group lives in Israel is being monitored with concern. Now we wait and pray.

Thanks to all who helped in the process. Please know that the wider church includes people who are knowledgeable and ready to help, in spite of their busy schedules.A detailed report is included elsewhere.

With an anonymous Breton fisherman, we pray,

“Dear God, be good to me;The sea is so wide,

And my boat is so small.”

This report is offered with thanksgiving for all the ways in which you choose to be “God with skin on” for our outreach partners and those they serve. ̶ Submitted by Marilyn Hamilton, Chair


http://refugeeaction.ca/

http://www.odawa.on.ca/programs/dropin.htm

REFUGEE SPONSORSHIP

Glebe-St. James is partnering with St. Matthew’s Anglican Church, St. Giles Presbyterian Church and a community group to sponsor refugees. The FACES partnership is governed by a Steering Committee with representatives from each church and the community group.

Our first family, the Elsellums, arrived in early February. Faiz (25), his wife Rehab (18) and their baby boy Riyad (now 20 months) are Syrian refugees who spent 3 years in a refugee camp in Turkey. The Settlement Team found and furnished an apartment for them on Metcalfe St. The first few weeks were spent getting OHIP and Ontario ID cards, initial doctor’s visits, setting up a bank account, completing applications for government funding, signing the lease and arranging for telephone and internet. Faiz started language school within a few weeks of arrival and appears to have an aptitude for languages. His English has improved enormously from virtually nothing in February to now being able to carry on conversations on abstract topics. Rehab was reluctant to leave Riyad in day care to attend school but, with the help of volunteer language tutors visiting her at home once a week, she is starting to pick up some words and phrases. Their second child, a daughter, Mariam was born in mid-September. Faiz has had some temporary part-time jobs including working at Costco on the weekends for a few weeks. He is now training for a job as a cashier at a Quickie Mart and exploring options for certification as a barber.

Our second family, the Hakems, arrived in early September. Hareth (34) and his wife Marwa (31) and their two boys Fahad (6) and Zaid (4) are Iraqi refugees who also spent a number of years in Turkey. They have relatives here in Ottawa (grandmother, aunt, uncles, and cousins) who have been very supportive. The Settlement Team found them an apartment in the same building as the Elsellums. The initial


couple of weeks were spent getting id and making other arrangements including registering the boys in school. The boys, particularly Fahad have had some difficulty adjusting to school. The teachers and principal at Centennial School have been very understanding and helpful and a social worker has become involved to help assess Fahad’s needs and identify resources. The boys are going to school half days for now but expect to attend full-time after Christmas. Hareth and Marwa were tested for English proficiency and have just recently started language school in the mornings while the boys are in school. Marwa already speaks excellent English so has been placed in an advanced class.

We have submitted an application to sponsor Mustafa, a single Iraqi man, with a master’s degree in engineering. Mustafa was doing volunteer work with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in Turkey and helped us get some information about the immigration status of Fiaz’s family. He subsequently asked for our help to come to Canada. Our application has been received by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s Central Processing Center in Winnipeg. We are currently expecting him to arrive mid next year.

The night we picked up the Hakems at the airport, we met another family of refugees. They are government sponsored refugees (GARs). Something had gone wrong and no one was there to meet them or take them to the reception centre at Sophia House. We helped them make connections with friends who put them up overnight. About the same time, we became aware of several other GAR families and of how poorly equipped they were to start life in Canada. In light of the amount of money we had raised to support refugees and the increasingly lengthy process to sponsor additional families, the Steering Committee decided to devote some of our resources to helping GAR families get a good start in Canada. To date we have been working with:

the Syrian family of five we meet at the airport; a Syrian family of eight and soon to be nine (friends of Faiz and Rehab) who arrived in Trois

Rivières from Turkey in July but have since moved to Ottawa; a Syrian family of four (Faiz’s cousin) who arrived in Ottawa in mid-September; and a Congolese family of six who we met at Sophia House.

An initial assessment of need was carried out for each family and a total budget of $22,500 was approved for clothing, school supplies, furniture, linens, small appliances, etc. A group of dedicated volunteers have been busily scouring the city for bargains and almost all of the needs of these families have now been met.

Thank-you for your continued support of FACES and our refugee sponsorship initiative. It is really heart-warming to see these families start a new life in Canada. They are all incredibly grateful to be here and to be safe and able to work toward a better future.

Karen Walker

Glebe-St. James FACES Representative

AGREEMENT FOR REFUGEE CO-SPONSORHIP


This agreement made this 15th day of May 2016 between Glebe-St. James United Church and Amleset Kidane.

Whereas the Church intends to assist Amleset, to bring to Canada certain members of her extended family comprised of a family of 5 consisting of a mother and father, 2 minor children and 1 adult child plus 2 single adults currently living in Israel;And whereas the Church, as a Constituent Group, and Amleset, as a Co-Sponsor, intend to sign four linked applications with the United Church of Canada (UCC) as the Sponsorship Agreement Holder, in the form provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (formerly Citizenship and Immigration Canada) (Undertaking/Application to Sponsor form IMM5373);And whereas the Church and Amleset have agreed to deposit with the Church certain funds for the purpose of providing the support referred to in section G of each of the Undertaking/Application to Sponsor forms submitted;Now therefore the Church and Amleset agree as follows:

1. On the signing of this Agreement, Amleset will provide the Church with the sum of $20,000 which the Church will hold in its general account as a non-interest bearing segregated fund.

2. Amleset will provide the Church with additional amounts of $750.00 to $1,000.00 monthly until a total of $10,000 is reached.

3. The Funds totaling $30,000 will be used to finance the obligations set out in section G of the Settlement Plan. There will be no charitable receipt issued for the Funds as they do not constitute a donation to the Church.

4. After the arrival in Ottawa of members of the extended family referred to in the Undertaking/Application to Sponsor forms, the Church will pay out of the Funds to each of the two individual male adult persons 1/7 of 1/12 of total funds and to the father and mother jointly, of the family including the adult daughter, 5/7 of 1/12 of total funds on a monthly basis and at least 5 working days prior to the end of the month.

5. In the event that the UCC fails to approve of the Settlement Plan* and/or gives notice that it will not execute the Undertaking/Application to Sponsor, or in the event that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada advises that all of the sponsorship undertakings are refused, or all of the Permanent Residence applications are refused, the Fund will be returned to Amleset, unless Amleset and the Church agree otherwise.

6. In the event that one or more, but not all of the persons intended to be sponsored arrives in Canada, the Fund will be maintained and used to finance the obligations set out in section G of the Settlement Plan with monthly payments to be adjusted as determined by the Church in its absolute discretion after requesting advice from Amleset.

7. In the event that none of the persons intended to be sponsored arrive in Canada within 1 year of the Church receiving notice that the permanent residence applications have been approved, or that a visa has been issued, the Church will have the right to initiate withdrawal from the sponsorship group and upon receipt of the acceptance of the withdrawal and a release of the obligations of the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the Fund will be returned to Amleset, unless Amleset and the Church agree otherwise.

SETTLEMENT PLAN FOR REFUGEE SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENT


What does the settlement document mean when it specifies that the sponsoring group members are “jointly or severally liable” if the provisions of the settlement agreement are not carried out?

This is specified to ensure that the refugees are well cared for; it does not specify that any particular individual or group within the sponsoring group is liable for the actions or inactions of others in the group, but that as a whole the sponsoring group must do its best to provide the services specified in the settlement plan. As such, it is particularly appropriate that those concerned will know where their responsibilities lie, and this would constitute the “joint” responsibilities within which the “several” members would do the work. In this respect, I would recommend that item (1) be clarified by adding the following: The Church’s sole responsibility in this agreement is to provide the necessary documentation and to handle the money provided by Amleset and/or her relatives (who will jointly or severally be responsible for all other aspects of the settlement).

What does the settlement document mean when it specifies that all the family members of those being sponsored must be named?

This is specified for clarity, so that the applicants provide the government with all necessary data, such that records will not have to be updated if another member of the same family is later sponsored. Obviously, no distant relatives can be named as people to be sponsored, because ultimately we are all related to some degree to everyone on earth.

What does “no risk” mean in the context of the risk assessment, as requested by the Board of Trustees?

This is a value judgement, because there is always some degree of risk in any situation and some people have higher tolerance for risks than others. “No risk” here means that the risk is very low and easily covered by existing resources.

What steps have we taken to minimize the risk in the case of Amleset and GStJ jointly sponsoring her 7 relatives now resident in Israel?

1. The agreement specifies that $30,000 must be provided for the 7 family members being sponsored. Amleset will hand over to GStJ the first $20,000 which (short of loss or theft on the way to the bank) is the necessary first step in bringing the sponsorship agreement into force. She commits herself to provide another $10,000 over the next year; and just in case she cannot provide some or all of those extra funds, a family of our congregation (who wish to be anonymous) has agreed to provide backup so our congregation as a whole will not be liable.

2. Amleset has a proud track record of following through on her commitments, and in addition has 5 adult family members already in Canada who have agreed to provide the necessary means to help find and furnish a home for the new refugees. In the unlikely case where they are unable to complete this task, members of GStJ who have already volunteered to help with refugees, or other members of FACES, or even OCRA could be asked to volunteer to complete the work (the present commitments for these volunteers are still available because they are unable to find sufficient refugees to sponsor). Thus there is plenty of backup already in place.

3. Amleset has agreed that she and her family members already in Canada will provide any additional money that may prove to be needed to carry out the housing and feeding of the entire group of 7 relatives, so that the group will not need to be split up.

4. If Amleset and her relatives wish to sponsor the 5 additional members of her family, now in Eritrea, she recognizes that a new agreement and refugee application process will be needed.

Submitted by Marilyn Hamilton, Christian Outreach Chair

CONCERT COMMITTEE


Background

The GSJ concert committee overseas organization and management of two concert series, a professional-level “Concerts-in-the-Glebe” series and a pre-professional “Young Artist” series. These two series offer a performance opportunity for selected ensembles and soloists as a form of stewardship outreach, drawing audiences into the sanctuary, as Glebe-St. James U.C. strives to be a centre of activities in the Glebe community. The performers are generally local, although several groups have come from Montreal or Toronto. For ‘out-of-towners’ we stress the importance of having an Ottawa-support base. Several inquiries have been received from musicians studying/working abroad, who likely having learned of our concert series via the internet. We discourage such inquiries, by seeking to inform them of the ‘local’ nature of our series lest they entertain unrealistic expectations (e.g., as in the form of a commercial concert hall and the draw of large audiences).

Music of a variety of genres comprises the season from September through May. Ensembles are selected from proposals received by the end of May; details are posted on the concert web page. Typically up to 10-12 concerts may be booked for the season; all take place at 2:30 pm on selected Sundays. An effort is made in scheduling to avoid the Advent season and school holidays, accommodate performer preferences for time of year, and avoid concerts on consecutive weekends.

Current ticket prices, unchanged for several years, are:

Concerts-in-the-Glebe series - $15 (adults); $10 (students/seniors)

Young Artist series: $10 (adults); $7 (students/seniors)

We adhere to a ‘no barriers’ policy, meaning that those unable to pay are admitted free by obtaining a ticket at the office, and also accept ‘admission by donation’. Our goal is to draw audiences into the beautiful acoustic space of our sanctuary to experience beautiful music. The concerts are, needless to say, a tremendous value.

The “performer”, whether ensemble or soloist, receives 70% of ticket sales as remuneration; GSJ receives 30% of ticket sales. In rare cases, when the audience is extremely small, the “performer” may receive all of the proceeds from ticket sales. Volunteers to collect admission at the door (a program is received in return, in lieu of a ticket) are sought from a short list of past volunteers. Concerts are typically emceed by B. Taylor and, occasionally, another member of the committee (e.g., Karen Walker). Additional emcees would be welcome!


Concert Season 2015-2016

During the calendar year 2016 (which encompasses parts of two concert seasons: Winter-Spring of 2015-16 and Fall of 2016-17), Glebe-St. James presented 7 concerts in the “Concerts-in-the-Glebe” series. The proceeds from ticket sales totalled $615, which less than usual. A larger season, for example with 12 concerts, can potentially generate on the order of $1-2K/year. The concert proceeds are intended to help defray the costs of music-related items (e.g., piano tuning) in addition to needs expressed by the Music Committee, or others. Our concerts provide an opportunity for inspiration and interest in Glebe-St. James. Not infrequently, concert goers ask about the history of GSJ, or the services, etc. Audience size is directly proportional to the advertising web/effort of the ensembles. Although we provide signage and posters (for email distribution), and publicize concerts via ‘spotlight’ (Citizen digital events calendar), the majority of the concert goers are known to the performers. A-frame and window posters and the printing of programs were provided by B. Taylor as a donation.

NEEDS:

1) Expand our advertising. At a minimum this should include email and hard-copy distribution of our concert season brochure to all churches in the NCR. For this we need the efforts of a volunteer.

2) Compilation and use/maintenance of an email list of concert-goers to advertise up-coming concerts.

3) Develop presence on social media and use this avenue for advertising.4) Update of concert web page to include links for each concert to a copy of the program as they

are provided (these are composed by B. Taylor). Jim Louter has provided much-need support for timely correction/updating of posted season concert season when and if needed

Submitted by: Bruce Taylor


DESIGN COMMITTEE

Members of the Design Committee: Martien De Leeuw, Lindsay McKercher, Tom Tanner. New members would be most welcome. Let us know if you would like to contribute to design decisions at Glebe-St. James

Mandate: The Design Committee was established in 2001. It is responsible for overseeing changes to the Glebe-St. James building which involve design choices.

Focus and accomplishments for 2016: During 2016 building work was primarily exterior restoration. On the inside, a new table was donated for the Art Room and chairs were selected to replace the mis-matched veterans which had given long service. Donations from the congregation financed the chairs. A new refrigerator was purchased for the kitchen thanks to generous donations from members. This new unit is quieter, much more efficient and better sized for our needs.

Looking ahead: A major initiative is underway to refurbish the Tower Room as a memorial to James De Jonge. Decisions on colour and furnishings will be required. Lindsay McKercher is working on plans to refresh the Narthex so that it is more appealing and welcoming. The sofas in the Lounge need replacing and a search is underway for sturdy, comfortable furnishings for this well-used space. A proposal to convert the unused pulpit to house the sound and lighting equipment is a current challenge. This will take careful thought and skilled execution. A set of sound proofing doors between the Art Room and Fraser Hall are being planned. These need to be designed so that boisterous activity and thoughtful meetings can co-exist.

Your ideas are always welcome. Please talk with a member of the committee or volunteer to join. Sacred space and important community activity come together in our unique building. Help us keep it functional and attractive.

Submitted by Tom Tanner


MINISTRY AND PERSONNEL COMMITTEE

Committee members: Jenifer Aitken, Mary Capehart, Elizabeth Elton, Marsha Hay Snyder, Andy Thompson.

The responsibilities of the Ministry and Personnel (M&P) Committee are set out in the United Church Ministry and Personnel Committee Handbook, p. 10, http://www.united-church.ca/sites/

default/files/handbook_ministry-personnel-committee.pdf

a) support communication between the congregation and ministry personnel and staff, and communication between ministry personnel and staff members;

b) review with ministry personnel and staff their salaries, allowances, benefits, and honoraria, and the working conditions of the pastoral charge, and make appropriate recommendations to the official board (or equivalent) prior to the beginning of the regular budgeting process;

c) clarify the responsibilities and lines of accountability of ministry personnel and staff, and review with them their position descriptions;

d) consult with ministry personnel and staff regarding continuing education plans and needs, and make recommendations to the official board (or equivalent) to ensure that time and money are made available;

e) conduct an annual review of the effectiveness of all ministry personnel and staff, referring to the goals and objectives established by the official board (or equivalent) and in the joint needs assessment process, and to the pastoral charge mission statement Ministry and Personnel (M&P) Committee Guidelines 11;

f) establish a regular system of communication with the Presbytery Pastoral Relations Committee, and become aware of the role of the Presbytery Oversight Committee;

g) become familiar with resources available through the Presbytery, Conference, and General Council to enhance the committee’s effectiveness;

h) educate the official board (or equivalent) and its committees as well as the congregation about the role of the M&P Committee;

i) work to resolve conflict at the earliest possible stage.j)


The M&P Committee of Glebe-St. James United Church meets as required. Each member of M&P is associated with a staff person and is in regular contact with the staff member in person, by phone and/or email. Good working relationships are essential. Problems and questions raised by members of the congregation or by staff are either referred to the relevant M&P member for action or brought to the whole committee for discussion and a plan. As needed M&P contacts Presbytery and Conference staff for help. Because of the nature of its terms of reference, most of the work of the committee is confidential.

If any member/adherent of the congregation or staff person has a concern, that person is encouraged to raise it with the relevant staff member(s) or volunteer(s.) After that, if the problem is not resolved to the satisfaction of both parties, either one can bring it to the attention of the M&P Committee. Once that is done, strict guidelines outlined in the manual are followed to ensure that confidentiality is maintained. The M&P Committee can only respond to concerns raised directly. No anonymous complaints will be addressed.

At times the committee is asked to do other tasks. This year M&P members used a template provided by the United Church of Canada to write Glebe St. James Policies on Harassment and Workplace Violence, as required by Ontario law. These were approved by Council.

There were a few changes to our staff and M&P Committee this year. We would like to thank Emily Brak for her good work as our Nursery Attendant, and welcome Bronwyn Rowland who started with us in this role in September. Congratulations to Jessica Hetherington and her partner, Mark, on the birth of their daughter Ella in the Spring. Many thanks to all who supported the Children’s Ministry while Jessica was on maternity leave. We are pleased to have Jessica back and very present among us as of September. Martha Hall stepped down from M&P in June. We miss her leadership and are grateful for her wisdom during her time as Chair. The Committee members continue to ensure that the core functions of the committee are carried out, and we look forward to a replacement chair being named.

Marsha Hay Snyder


PASTORAL CARE VISITATION COMMITTEE

Members: Eileen MacLeod, The Reverend Teresa Burnett-Cole (Minister), The Reverend George Clifford, Minister of Visitation and Adele MacLeod, Committee Coordinator.

Visitation

Reverend Teresa has the responsibility for Pastoral Care visitations assisted by Reverend George who visits the elderly and persons unable to get to church and by Adele MacLeod who visits the congregants of Glebe-St. James assigned to her. Adele is a volunteer visitor to patients in The Ottawa Hospital (Civic Campus) who identify themselves as affiliates of any United Church of Canada. She is approved by the Hospital’s Spiritual Care Program.

During 2016 Reverend George made 31 visits each month to the elderly and shut-ins. During each month of 2016 Adele made 4-5 visits to GSJ congregants and between 30 to 55 visits to hospital patients.

We are fortunate to have a special ministry carried out by Eileen MacLeod who reports she has mailed out 64 cards over the year: 5 sympathy cards, 35 birthday cards, 7 get-well cards, 7 anniversary cards and 10 other cards marking important events in the lives of people at Glebe-St. James. Eileen also makes telephone calls to those church members and others who are ill or would appreciate a call to cheer them.

Flower Delivery during Easter and Advent

On Easter Sunday sixteen (16) spring tulips and daffodils were delivered to shut-ins who are part of our extended Glebe St. James family and on the second Sunday of Advent twenty-five (25) poinsettias were delivered to those who cannot always attend church or have experienced recent loss or grief.

Thank you to all who helped deliver the flowers and visited with the recipients.

The Pastoral Visitation Committee is inviting new members to join us in this rewarding work. If you are interested.please speak to Adele MacLeod in person, by telephone at 613-231-2965 or by email,, [email protected].

GSJ Privacy Policy

Committee members receiving, using and saving personal information of others on behalf of Glebe-St. James are reminded they are subject to the federal Personal Information Privacy and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA) and to such provincial privacy legislation recognized under PIPEDA as being substantially similar to it.


HEALING PATHWAY

The Healing Pathway is a separate prayer group coordinated by Hilda Sabadash. Healing Pathway sessions are held on the second and fourth Monday afternoons and evenings of the month in the sanctuary. In addition, Rev. Teresa has requested a Healing Pathway prayer during the prelude to each church service

Submitted by Adele MacLeod

PRAYER CIRCLE

Members: Mary Capehart, Barb Coyle, Nancy Daniels, Marion Dunning, Nancy Huggett, Stephanie Langill, Olga Lee, Adele MacLeod, Beverley Pidduck, Hilda Sabadash, Karen Smith, andJanice Vennos

Donna-Fay Mailhot and Susan Burns resigned during 2016. We thank them for the time they spent with the prayer circle and for their caring concern for those who receive our prayers.

The prayer circle is under the umbrella of the Pastoral Care Committee.

Prayer requests are received through contact with a member of the circle, from the clergy, or the office. Individuals stay on the list a minimum of one month and no one is taken off without agreement from the person making the request. Privacy of all information is carefully protected.

All prayer circle members are expected to pray each day for those on the list.

Each member of the prayer circle takes a turn as a monthly coordinator. As such, this coordinator is responsible for contacting the other members with any changes which occur during that month.

The prayer circle usually meets once a year. The last meeting was in January, 2016.

Submitted by Janice Vennos


PRESBYTERY AND THE WIDER CHURCH

The United Church of Canada, like very many other churches and institutions, is facing a choppy sea of change and challenge. The 2015 Comprehensive Review Report on the state of the Church, which clearly exposed the resource challenges, both people and financial, was examined and voted upon at General Council in 2015. General Council decided that a series of Remits (referenda—see separate Annual Report notes) would be put to the Church for decision because the steps proposed require significant changes to the UCC 1925 Basis of Union (for details, consult UCC website: http://www.united-church.ca and follow the links). Beginning now, the next several years will require decisions on major issues of mission and direction, ministry and membership, structure and resources; in short, on basic theological, spiritual, and ethical directions, and on priorities. You will hear more about this process elsewhere; suffice it to emphasize that its outcome, whatever it is, will deeply affect the future of this part of God’s Church. Ottawa Presbytery, as well as Montreal and Ottawa Conference, will remain involved in many ways and will be affected by all decisions, as will each congregation. It is important to add that however wrenching some decisions may feel, in God’s economy there is opportunity and potential in every moment if we are open to the Spirit’s urgings.

Each year the incoming Presbytery Chair selects a Theme. Current Chair, Phyllis MacRae, a layperson from Emmanuel United, chose Regeneration. Designated sessions of Presbytery, beginning in November 2016, are looking at objectives, techniques and tools for regeneration and renewal for congregations, whatever their situation; Presbytery Office can provide more information on planning for follow-up including special tailoring to respond to individual congregations’ needs and hopes.

An important responsibility of Presbytery is oversight, assistance and support for congregations, as appropriate and needed. This can include changes in the Constitution; new mission, aims and direction; its internal or external relationships (e.g. amalgamation or comparable changes); finances; and indeed even with its possible demise. Should there be a breakdown in a congregation, it can be taken over by Presbytery and run by Commission; one such case in this Presbytery was brought to a conclusion this year. There have also been major sales of church property (some still pending), each of which requires Presbytery oversight and authorization. An exciting example was the new creation (not amalgamation) this fall of one congregation, Grace United in Gatineau, from five small congregations in that region. The Mission Strategy Ministry Team is responsible for reflecting on, planning for, and supporting Presbytery’s efforts to look ahead with the eyes of the Spirit.

Presbytery is also involved in major social issues, either directly or in coordinating/supporting efforts by congregations and individuals (through the Church in Society (CiS) and Global Partners (GP) Ministry Teams). There has been strong support within Presbytery for refugee resettlement, encouraged actively by longtime Presbyter and GP Ministry Team Chair Norma McCord of Mackay United. Her reach on refugee issues extends throughout the Ottawa community and beyond. Presbytery letters to those affected have deplored cases of racist graffiti on churches, synagogues and mosques, and affirmed Presbytery’s stance with them. Presbytery adopted a motion last spring declaring its intention to accompany and support the implementation by the UCC of the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: a response to the specific request to churches in the Report of the 2015 Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Presbytery has also established a Ministry Team on the Environment and Climate Change (co-chaired by Rev David White of Centretown and “our” Jessica Hetherington), that


http://www.united-church.ca/

http://www.united-church.ca/

is charged with advancing a program of education, church action to get its house in order, and partnership and advocacy on a broader front; and in particular to seek a 25% reduction of carbon emissions overall by the Presbytery over five years.

Presbytery youth were deeply involved with many youths from other presbyteries and elsewhere in the annual Worshiplude weekend in February (including some who stayed/worshipped at Glebe St. James). A group of area youth exchanged transformative visits with youth from Haida Gwaii. In July, Ottawa Presbytery hosted the annual general meeting of AFFIRM UNITED (at Glebe St. James); it was attended by and preached to by UCC Moderator, the Right Rev. Jordan Cantwell.

Presbytery website is http://www.uccanottawa.org/ . David Sherwin, Presbytery Minister, is at 613 224 5318 x 11.

Glebe St. James’ Presbyters comprise our ministers, and our lay representatives:Dietlind Gardell

David LeeTom Tanner

Margaret Torrance.

REMITS: A STUDY GUIDE Remits are invitations that the United Church of Canada sends out to all Presbyteries and Congregations across Canada to implement decisions of General Council. A Remit is like a referendum, it is a decision that is important enough that it must be decided by a vote across the whole church and not just by a vote of the Commissioners of General Council. In this case a series of decisions must be made on structural and fiscal changes to the 1925 Basis of Union.

General Council has asked presbyteries and pastoral charges to consider and vote on eight Remits that will come before the 43rd General Council in July, 2018. Five of these Remits are of highest importance and thus must be considered and voted on by both presbyteries and pastoral charges. The remaining 3 Remits must be considered and voted on by presbyteries, but not by pastoral charges.

In every case, a Remit passes only if an absolute majority of the eligible votes are in favour, otherwise the Remit fails. In practice, this means that a failure to vote counts as a vote against. For example: in a vote by presbyteries only, if 42 presbyteries vote in favour of a Remit, and only 20 vote against, but 22 do not cast a vote, that Remit fails, because the 22 abstentions are counted with the 20 votes against the motion.

So it is very important that Pastoral Charges cast their votes on all Remits requiring their votes. The proposed schedule spaces out Ottawa Presbytery’s votes on the 8 Remits (of which only 3 need Pastoral Charge votes) in order to allow time for both presbytery and pastoral charges to consider prayerfully each Remit before voting on it.

While pastoral charges are free to follow their own schedule and vote on each Remit at any time before the deadline, a public study process has begun to help presbyters and members of pastoral charges work through the implications before voting.


http://www.uccanottawa.org/

The results for Remit 6 (One Order of Ministry) must be returned by February 28, 2018. We will revisit this Remit in next year’s Annual Report.

Remits 1, 2, 3, and 4 must be returned by June 30, 2017: Remit 1 (Three Council Model) Remit 2 (Elimination of Transfer and Settlement) Remit 3 (Office of Vocation) Remit 4 (Funding a new Model)

Remit 1: proposes replacing the present 4-court system (General Council, regional Conferences, local Presbyteries and individual Pastoral Charges) with 3 redefined councils (Denominational Council, Regional Councils and Faith Groups).

Remit 2: proposes eliminating the process of candidates for Ministry being assigned to specific Pastoral Charges; instead, all candidates will follow the more popular mode of seeking employment with Faith Communities who seek such ministers.

Remit 3: proposes establishing a denominational office of vocation overseen by a mixture of elected ministers and lay persons to accredit and discipline ministry personnel, to establish standards for continuing education, formation, and professional development, approve candidates for ministry, maintain a registry of accredited ministry personnel, support and respond to requests for assistance from regional councils, administer the Discontinued Service List, maintain lists of trained conflict resolution facilitators, Interim Ministers and those trained for the Ministry of Supervision, and establishing and implementing standards for admitting ministers from other denominations and re-admitting ministers.

Remit 4: proposes embarking on a new system of clearer and more equitable funding of UCC resources (spending only the money received). Funding cuts are inevitable, regardless of whether this Remit is adopted, or not.

Submitted by David Lee


REMIT 1: COUNCILS, COURTS and CONFERENCES

Remit 1 is certainly one of the more important remits on this occasion. It is responding to the financial situation facing the Church nationally, but more importantly it asks us to permit major changes to UCC governance structure intended to make it more flexible, more inclusive, with fewer levels between the national church and the local faith communities. This would have large and long term ripple effects beyond the immediate and obvious.

Embracing the Spirit Error! Hyperlink reference not valid. is one of the background documents behind all the remits. Embracing the Spirit is a development of the first chapter of the Comprehensive Review Report of 2015 that confronted a sense of loss of way. It invokes the Spirit of Christ to help the Church find a new route forward.

Embracing the Spirit urges congregations to become communities that change lives. “When we support and strengthen our congregations for ministry, their radical hospitality reverberates in their communities and beyond. They are key witnesses to God's inclusive love in the world. We can invigorate our congregation’s ministry and mission by deepening our understanding of belonging, hospitality, compassion, witness, and hope.” There are lots of resources on offer that can help congregations to faithfully and vibrantly live out God’s mission at http://www.united-church.ca/community-faith/being-community/strengthening-congregations.

Another of the background documents deals with UCC organization: Error! Hyperlink reference not valid.. Of particular interest is the already founded Aboriginal Ministries Council, a decision-making body composed of representatives from Aboriginal constituencies across The United Church of Canada that gathers twice a year. It names six of its members, including the chair, to serve on the Executive of the General Council, which governs the denomination between triannual meetings of the General Council. The Aboriginal Ministries Council receives direction from Aboriginal communities of faith through the National Aboriginal Spiritual Gathering, which also occurs every three years. General Council has recognized the need to build a relationship and structure inclusively with the indigenous community, one that is based on mutuality, respect, and equity. These considerations are among those reflected in Remit 1 that repurposes “Courts” as “Councils” and would effectively move our governance system closer to harmony with the heritage and aims of our native brothers and sisters.

Remit 1 is dependent upon the acceptance of Remits 2-4 that assign current duties to other church bodies, or discontinue funds and services. It is not a perfect document. It sees itself as a way station on a journey, a stepping-stone for our congregations who are not yet comfortable with the current direction of our leadership. But is it the right way? For example, could we discard regionalism in favour of linking individual congregations in widely separated parts of Canada so that the more privileged will find the joy and satisfaction of working closely with those who suffer isolation and lack of opportunity?

Your thoughts and prayers are needed. Don’t just expect Council to vote one way or the other. Please investigate the background documents and think creatively, then tell us what needs to be done. Council members are expected to consult widely, ponder deeply, pray and listen to the Spirit – and then vote accordingly.

Submitted by Andy Hamilton, Chair of Council


http://www.united-church.ca/community-faith/being-community/strengthening-congregations

http://www.united-church.ca/community-faith/being-community/strengthening-congregations

WORSHIP MINISTRY

Members: Christine Burbridge, Jim McCulloch, Jim Richardson, Hilda Sabadash, Judy Wolanski, Rev. Teresa Burnett-Cole (Minister), Robert Palmai, (Minister of Music).

We welcomed Dr. Jessica Hetherington as our new Christian Development Minister. She has led several worship services (including intergenerational worship) and preached as part of her field placement as a student at the Montreal School of Theology and a candidate for ordination.

Worship is enhanced by projection of words to hymns, songs and responses, as well as images, illustrating the sermon and other parts of the service. Announcement slides are also projected before and after the service. A welcome statement at the beginning of every service also highlights the most important announcements. Teresa continues to receive the Healing Pathway prayer from two Healing Pathway facilitators as each service begins. At each communion, Healing Pathway is offered to the congregation by 2 or 3 trained facilitators at 2 or 3 stations at the front of the church. Healing Pathway sessions are also offered the second and fourth Mondays of the months with the option of afternoon and evening sessions. The Minute for Mission during worship informs the congregation of United Church activities and those of Glebe-St. James members in the community and worldwide on topics including:, refugees, Victoria Island, climate change, First Nations display at Carleton University, and finances. Videos are used on occasion.

Summer services were shared with the congregations of Southminster United, St. Giles Presbyterian and Fourth Avenue Baptist. Special Sunday services occurred on:

May 1 Rev. Dr. Jack Nield spoke on Anniversary Sunday April 3 Sue Martin spoke on Aboriginal Issues and presented Teresa with an Eagle feather July 24, the moderator Right Rev. Jordan Cantwel preached on the Sunday during the National

Affirm United conference which Glebe-St. James hosted.

New candles on the communion table that will last longer and easy to refill with liquid wax were purchased. These candles fit into the same candle base that was previously used.

Bulletin design changes are being discussed, tried and feedback is ongoing. The purpose is to save paper and printing costs and the time required by administration staff to design and print each week.

Throughout 2016, sessions were given to persons outside our congregation and also members. Appointments are to be booked by Friday of the previous week by contacting Hilda at 613-234-8929 or [email protected].


A big thank you goes out to the makers of lists, Chris Burbridge for recruiting scripture readers, communion servers and Sunday coffee hour preparers.

The Labyrinth is open to the community the third Sunday of each month from 3 to 5 pm. People living in the community but not part of our congregation also come to walk the Labyrinth. Christine Burbridge and Judy Wolanski coordinate this form of worship.

Birthday cakes are offered one Sunday of each month during coffee hour for those having a birthday that month. Volunteers are needed to provide the cakes. Cake box, pan and platter are available along with suggestions from experienced cake makers. Judy Wolanski is the coordinator of the birthday cakes.

Rebecca Hyland is the Sunday sexton with Christian Capehart as back-up when Rebecca is unavailable. The job description was updated with consultation from Jim and Kylie.

Bible Study, led by Teresa and Jessica met prior to the service from late October through Advent and was well attended.

Inclusion of baptisms, funerals, lay worship leaders, and pulpit supply by Allison Sales are the responsibility of the Worship Committee.

Jim McCulloch is the coordinator of the usher teams who shake our hand and welcome us to the sanctuary each Sunday.

Many other volunteers and committees all help to bring a meaningful worship service to Glebe St. James at which God’s presence is felt on Sunday and sustained throughout the week.The Worship Committee is organized and efficient and would welcome other congregational members to help share the volunteer hours.

Can you help?Submitted by Hilda Sabadash, Chair


VIOLENCE IN THE WORKPLACE POLICY

Policies

Scope

This policy applies to all full-time, part-time, fixed term, contract, temporary employees and volunteers of Glebe-St. James Pastoral Charge. For the purposes of this policy the Glebe-St. James United Church is referred to as, “The Church.”

Policy

We, as Christians have a sincere wish to reflect our duty under God to protect the vulnerable, to love even the unlovely, and to assist even the undeserving; but we also recognize that we live in a society that continues to uphold different standards of behavior, and that we occasionally may be influenced by circumstances or emotions to neglect this duty. We also live in a world governed by the laws of society, both just and unjust, and that in these circumstances we may sometimes do the right thing for the wrong reasons, thus inadvertently undoing what we had intended through ignorance, intolerance or hypocrisy. It is for these reasons that we must face the necessity of looking evil in the face, and admitting that sometimes we act for selfish or cowardly reasons in ways that hurt or do not protect others. This statement therefore defines how to recognize the many faces of harassment and violence, and how we must deal with them whenever we meet them, even in a church environment.

The church believes in the prevention of workplace violence and is committed to a violence-free workplace in which all people respect one another and work together to achieve common goals. The church does not tolerate violence or any unacceptable behaviour in the workplace against any of our employees, volunteers, visitors or other third parties. This policy applies to all church activities that occur while on ministry business, activities or social events. The church is committed to working with employees to maintain a workplace free from violence, threats of violence, harassment, intimidation, and any other disruptive behaviours.

The purpose of this policy is to:

1. Establish procedures to prevent violence and unacceptable behaviour in the workplace.2. Enable employees to work in a safe and healthy workplace.3. Provide a consistent and focused approach to reducing the risk of workplace violence.4. Provide the framework for an appropriate response to workplace violence or threats.5. Require prompt and accurate reporting of all workplace violence or threats of violence.


Definitions:

1. Workplace - Workplace means, any place where an employee is engaged in any ministry work-related or social activities.

2. Workplace Violence - Our policy defines workplace violence as any unacceptable behaviour where:a. the exercise of physical force by a person against a worker, in a workplace, that causes or could

cause physical injury to the worker,b. an attempt to exercise physical force against a worker, in a workplace, that could cause physical

injury to the worker,c. a statement or behaviour that it is reasonable for a worker to interpret as a threat to exercise

physical force against the worker, in a workplace, that could cause physical injury to the worker.3. Minor Incident means, incidents which did not result in actual physical harm but, except for

circumstance, had the potential to result in physical harm.4. “Serious Incident” means an incident in which someone was physically harmed (whether requiring

medical attention or not).

Unacceptable Behaviour

Unacceptable behaviour means physically or psychologically aggressive behaviours including but not limited to:

hitting, kicking, punching, pushing, shoving, slapping, pinching, grabbing, biting carrying or brandishing weapons of any sort throwing objects at an individual with a view to cause physical injury or fear destruction of workplace or co-workers’ property threats or violence intimidating behaviour that causes the recipient to have a fear of physical violence obscene or harassing telephone calls

Compliance

Compliance with this policy is mandatory and in accordance with all existing legislation and other policies and initiatives of the church. Infractions of this policy will be considered to be misconduct and appropriate discipline will be imposed up to and including termination for cause.

Training

Violence prevention training is mandatory for all church leaders and all employees. This training will include review of the policy and procedures, and the Workplace Emergency Plan. The training will include, as required, violence prevention strategies including complaint resolution, listening and communication skills.


Procedures

1. Reporting

a) Complaints of workplace violence should be reported immediately to the Ministry and Personnel Committee. Complaints can be made in person, through email or by telephone.

b) All complaints will be treated confidentially in an attempt to protect personal information. However, confidentiality may be compromised in cases where it is perceived that imminent danger exists or in cases required by law.

c) The Occupational Health and Safety Act requires employers to disclose personal information to a worker about individuals with a known history of violent behaviour if (i) the worker is likely to encounter the individual in the course of their work, and (ii) there is a risk that the workers will be exposed to physical injury.

2. Minor Incident

a) The Ministry and Personnel Committee shall immediately make the appropriate inquiries of the victim and /or witness to determine if the incident is minor or serious.

b) If the incident is minor: the Ministry and Personnel Committee will i) determine if conflict resolution is appropriate and if so, mediate or arrange for a trained Conflict Resolution facilitator

ii) conduct the appropriate investigation as soon as possible

iii) prepare a written report outlining the details, facts and witness of the incident and submit the report to the church Council.

c) If the assailant is an employee the Church Council shall apply appropriate disciplinary measures based on the facts of the incident and the assailant’s employment record. (Note that the disciplining of members of the Order of Ministry is adjudicated and enforced by Ottawa Presbytery).

3. Serious Incident

a) If the incident is serious; another staff person or first contacted member of the Council or the Ministry and Personnel Committee shall

i) first ensure the safety of employees and him/herself;

ii) ensure proper medical treatment is provided or sent for;

iii) contact the authorities as soon as possible, (Police or Ministry of Labour, where appropriate), to report the incident

As soon as possible, the M&P Committee must ensure that the proper treatment was sought, and in the case of police, to verify that the report was made and support the staff members involved.


b) The Ministry and Personnel Committee shall then

1. contact the Council leadership, Presbytery and Conference as soon as possible to assess who should be involved in the investigation;

2. in consultation with Council, Presbytery and Conference decide whether the incident requires an outside investigator

3. following the completion of the investigation write and submit a detailed report of the incident to the church Council and any other parties required by law. Both parties will be kept up-to-date with timelines.

4. consult with the church Council regarding any disciplinary action to be applied.5. where appropriate the Council must notify the insurance company. 6. review the incident and, if appropriate, make recommendations to Council to increase

workplace safety

Responsibilities

Employees:

All Employees are responsible for contributing to maintain a safe work place by refraining from behaviour that constitutes workplace violence. This will include:

Completing risk assessments as required. Participating in education and training sessions when requested; Reporting any incidents of workplace violence, threats, or violence or any other violation of this

policy; Cooperating with and provide input into investigations regarding any alleged violation of this

policy.

Ministry and Personnel Committee and the Church Council:

Members of these groups are responsible for taking steps to ensure that our workplace is free from violence and for intervening if any violations of this policy occur.

The Church Council must work with staff to create a plan for dealing with potentially violent situation in the workplace (Workplace Emergency Plan)

Members of the Church Council and Ministry and Personnel Committees shall:

Become familiar with reporting, investigation and documenting proceduresused with reporting, investigation and documenting procedures.


Ensure that the employee is advised to consult a healthcare professional of the employee’s choice for treatment or referral if the employee reports adverse symptoms resulting from workplace violence, as appropriate.

Provide input into risk assessments. Encourage reporting of workplace violence or other violation of this policy. Seek advice and assistance from the Presbytery and Conference when appropriate to deal with

and resolve the situation.

They are also responsible for providing guidance and support to all employees in interpreting and understanding this policy. This will include:

Ensuring that employees are trained in recognizing and responding to situations involving workplace violence or threats of violence. This training includes the Workplace Emergency Plan.

Ensuring that every incident of workplace violence or threats of violence are reported, investigate, and documented.

Ensuring confidentiality is maintained at all time, unless legislation dictates otherwise or imminent danger exists.

HARASSMENT IN THE WORKPLACE POLICY

Our policy defines workplace harassment as, engaging in a course of vexatious comment or conduct against a worker in a workplace that is known or ought to reasonably be known to be unwelcome.

Complainant and Respondent: For the purposes of this policy, “complainant” and “respondent” are terms which describe the person bringing the complaint and the person who is accused of harassment.

Unacceptable Behaviour:Harassment is not defined by an individual’s intention, but rather it should be known, or ought reasonably to be known to be offensive.

Unacceptable behaviour under the policy includes but is not limited to: Verbal abuse or threats Unwelcome remarks, jokes, innuendo or taunts about a person’s body, race, colour, attire, marital

status, sexual orientation, ethnic or religious origin, criminal record or handicap Displaying or distributing offensive material Practical jokes which cause embarrassment Unwelcome invitations or requests / Inappropriate physical contact.

Compliance


Compliance with this policy is mandatory and this policy is in accordance with all existing legislation and other policies and initiatives of the local ministry. Infractions of this policy will be considered to be misconduct and appropriate discipline will be imposed up to and including termination for cause.

Training

Harassment prevention training shall be mandatory for the Ministry & Personnel Committee and employees. This training will include; a review of the policy and procedures. As required, training may include workplace harassment prevention strategies and complaint resolution.

Covenant

Glebe St. James staff members and Council members are guided by the Covenants which must be reviewed and renewed each year. In particular, all are reminded to “Acknowledge and address in a timely manner any conflict in which I am involved, speaking directly to any person with whom I have conflict.

Procedures:

If you believe that you are a victim of workplace harassment the next step is to immediately inform the person that you are not comfortable with their comments/ language/ actions and inform them to stop immediately. Use the Covenant as necessary to guide your conversation.

1. If asking the person to stop does not solve the issue you should contact the Ministry and Personnel Committee which has a role encouraging conflict resolution or, if necessary, mediation. When concerns are raised or conflicts identified, fair hearing of all sides is essential. The M&P Committee can serve that need by having a confidential discussion of the legitimacy of the concerns and conduct an investigation.

2. If the situation is still not resolved, the Ministry and Personnel Committee will first advise the Ottawa Presbytery, and refer the situation to the Council which is the local court of accountability. They will examine the allegations, advise the respondent of the proceedings and request the respondent to respond to the allegations. They will then determine the most appropriate manner of dealing with the harassment, if in their opinion the allegations are founded. This may include obtaining an apology of the respondent, and suggesting counseling and/or education for the respondent. If it is determined that, in their opinion, no harassment has taken place, the confidentiality of all parties shall still be maintained.

3. Discipline may be imposed. (Note that the disciplining of members of the Order of Ministry is adjudicated and enforced by Ottawa Presbytery).

Responsibilities


Employees:

All Employees are responsible for contributing to maintaining a safe workplace by refraining from behaviour that constitutes workplace harassment. They will:

Complete risk assessment as required, Participate in education and training sessions when requested; Report any incidents of workplace harassment or any other violation of this policy; Cooperate with and provide input into investigations regarding any alleged violation of this

policy Ensure that confidentiality is maintained at all times, unless legislation dictates otherwise or

imminent danger exists.

Ministry and Personnel Committees; Church Boards/Councils:

Church committees and governing bodies are responsible for taking steps to ensure that our workplace is free from harassment and for intervening if any violations of this policy occur. They are responsible for providing guidance and support to all employees in interpreting and understanding this policy. The individuals in these groups will:

Learn about and comply with reporting, investigation and documentation procedures Comply with reporting, investigation and documentation procedures. Encourage reporting of workplace harassment or other violations of this policy. Seek advice and assistance from the Presbytery and Conference in dealing with and resolving

situations. Ensure that employees are trained in recognizing and responding to situations involving

workplace harassment. Ensure that every incident of workplace harassment is reported, investigated, and documented. Ensure that confidentiality is maintained at all times, unless legislation dictates otherwise or

imminent danger exists.

INTERFAITH COOPERATION

Glebe response to hate crime: On November 26, 2016 faith groups represented in the Glebe community and community members gathered at the Quaker Meetinghouse, 91A Fourth Ave. to show support to Anna Maranta, who leads the Glebe Minyan faith community and lives in the Glebe. She woke up on November 15 to find a swastika and a racial slur spray painted on the door of her house (see the CBC story here: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/rabbi-ottawa-racist-graffiti-1.3851350). We wanted to show that we stood for safety rather than violence, for community rather than divisiveness, for reaching out across difference rather than racism, and to offer support for Anna. We felt that we could not let any such acts pass unchallenged. This one happened right in our


neighbourhood, and we felt the need to respond with swift action in our neighbourhood, too. Below are notes from the gathering.

Groups represented (50 people): Community members, Glebe Minyan, Glebe St. James United Church (Teresa, Andy and Marilyn Hamilton), The Journey, New Covenant Apostolic Church, Ottawa Monthly Meeting (Quakers), Southminster United Church and St. Giles Presbyterian Church

From Anna Maranta: Anna spoke of her experience of being faced with anti-Semitic graffiti on her own home, and described the sense of “this is what it feels like,” followed by “why now?” and “why me?” People in the Jewish community were uncertain whether to answer in a public way; some felt threatened or afraid, some didn’t want to talk about it, some thought it might encourage the individual who did this, or lead to other similar acts. The purpose of such acts is to shame and create fear, so Anna decided not to react in that way and stay silent, but rather to go public, and was inundated with support.

The US elections showed that, when somebody with power speaks in hate and intolerance without being censored, others then could feel emboldened to do the same. At the same time, this also creates an opportunity for people to come forward and speak to their beliefs against misogyny, racism, hate speech, and for the first time in a long time we are talking about such things openly. What do we do with it, how do we counter those hate beliefs at this time? How do we talk about it and move through it, how do we come together when such things happen?

We need to acknowledge and take responsibility for the fact that hate is very much part of our society. We don’t want to eliminate the haters, but we do want to eliminate the hate and restore people to right relationship with others. We need to be aware that there are people with such feelings, it’s part of the society we love. We need to talk about it and deal with the ills that lead to this kind of behaviour.

How can we have the person who did this be with us today, to speak with them and understand them? Anna is a proponent of restorative justice. This act didn’t just hurt one person; it hurts all of us. Anna asks all the faith groups represented to speak publicly in support of a restorative justice approach to how the government will deal with this case. Anna will draft a letter for the Crown and share with all the faith groups so we all can sign it.

From the other faith groups represented: Speakers described the embodied experience of being faced with such an act, from personal encounters with acts of hate (misogyny, homophobia, racism) and from hearing about Anna’s experience. All of us have to have that churning in our stomach when something like this happens, even if it does not happen to us directly.

Ottawa is fairly intermixed, but we haven’t done as well with the inter-faith. At the same time, Canadian society is becoming more secular, so we need to include scholars and public intellectuals in our gatherings and discussions, and make space for all to be part of the important discussions we need to have. It’s not enough to speak out when something goes wrong. We need to be relentless in looking for every opportunity to build bridges and to find channels of mutual understanding and connection, both as individuals and as communities.

We need to be aware that there are radical groups that target youth, with intention and focus, to radicalize them.

Female religious leaders didn’t get to have a voice in much of the public discourse that followed during the week when a series of such hate crimes happened. So we’re talking against cultural prejudice but promoting gender prejudice – how can we be so clear about one aspect but not about the other? All


such prejudices are connected. Trisha Elliott, Southminster United Church, is putting together a multifaith list of women religious leaders willing to speak, to share with the media – contact her with suggestions or to be added (contact info at www.southminsterunitedchurch.com).

Whoever committed this crime is also a child of God, a child who has been infected with the disease of hatred and fear. We also hold this person in our prayers. We gathered with the same intent: love and acceptance of all humankind. Although the act hurts us, we think of the perpetrator as a child of God, suffering. We can’t remain silent, but the only way to respond is through love and forgiveness. We speak in a single voice as a community, saying that we stand together.

Whatever we had to fight for in order to have it now, our rights and liberties and diversity, we have to keep fighting to keep.

From community members: We need to reach people in the school system, speak to the young ones and the youth. At the same time, we cannot blame this on our youth – they are a reflection of ourselves and of our laws.

Insidious, small things start to happen that become ok, that weren’t ok before, until one day we wake up in a different world. We mustn’t let any small thing slip by. If you see something, do something, be there for those affected.

It is important to make the links between the different oppressive structures that are intersecting, i.e. learn about and apply intersectionality1. For example, the swastika is not just an anti-Semitic symbol, it is a symbol of White supremacy; misogyny and racism intersect, as do ableism and homophobia. We cannot speak up against just one, or just support one effort but not another. We may not even know how we play into discrimination. Ottawa is small and progressive enough that we can come together and uplift each other in all our efforts. For example, let’s all show up for events on the Transgender Day of Remembrance (November 20), or when Cindy Blackstock (First Nations Child and Family Caring Society) holds the government accountable for discriminating against First Nations children.

One can easily fall into a sense of despair, feel hopeless, but coming here, coming together is a bit hopeful. Let’s not be defeated by our own sense of inadequacy, let’s have faith in God and in ourselves.

Manuela Popovici [email protected], Religious Society of Friends (Quakers)

Here is a definition and explanation of intersectionality, from the Ontario Human Rights Commission: http://www.ohrc.on.ca/en/intersectional-approach-discrimination-addressing-multiple-grounds-human-rights-claims/introduction-intersectional-approach.

1


http://www.ohrc.on.ca/en/intersectional-approach-discrimination-addressing-multiple-grounds-human-rights-claims/introduction-intersectional-approach

http://www.ohrc.on.ca/en/intersectional-approach-discrimination-addressing-multiple-grounds-human-rights-claims/introduction-intersectional-approach

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