Clerk’s Corner

The stated session meeting of September 20, 2021 was held as an in-person meeting in the Parlor. Session:

Heard an update on the search for a candidate to fill the new Communication position
Heard a report regarding how our use of technology in worship has evolved during this pandemic period and approved further research into the issue of how to improve this aspect of worship and outreach while also preserving the appearance and atmosphere of the sanctuary.
Approved, with regret, the resignation of elder Dr. Tom Miller II from session and the Worship and Music Committee.
Voted to approve Session committee members, Faith Formation teachers, the clerk and associate clerk of Session for the coming year.
Approved hosting of an Erie Philharmonic concert on March 12, 2022, if the way be clear.
—W. D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their August 16, 2021 stated meeting (in-person), the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

Approved the baptisms of Annette Austin and Malachi James Knight.
Had a time of study and reflection relating to evangelism focusing on people outside the church, Book of Order selections dealing with unity in diversity and openness, and the four pillars emphasized in our mission study.
Heard that Campus Minister Rachel Moldovan has submitted her resignation effective August 22nd. The Personnel and Campus Ministry teams are addressing both the immediate and the on-going needs.
Heard that the Faith Formation Team is working toward having Sunday morning programming in place for all ages beginning September 12th.
Approved a special offering to go to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance for work in the aftermath of the most recent earthquake in Haiti. The Mission Team will match up to $1,000.00 in congregational giving.

-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their July 19, 2021 stated meeting (hybrid: in-person/Zoom), the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

All participating elders took part in-person.
Called for a special meeting of the congregation to be held on a selected Sunday in August for the stated purpose of filling a vacancy on the Board of Deacons. The specific date will be determined based on the other previously elected officers to be available for installation on the same date.
Spent discernment time studying what several Bible passages (Jeremiah 32:1-27 and Acts 4:32 – 5:17) have to say about property
and what the Book of Order has to say about church property. This discernment has been prompted by someone’s expressed interest in purchasing several spaces in one of our parking lots. Discernment and discussion continue with no decision or recommendation at this time.
Heard reports from Pastor Weichman and Pastor Knight regarding the sermon series that will begin in the fall, an increasing number of memorial services that have been delayed due to the pandemic now being held, and plans for in-person faith formation classes this fall including Confirmation. Attendance at in person worship is increasing and we are gradually opening up to weekday and evening use of the building. The ever changing Covid details continue to be monitored.
Heard that the previously approved Samaritan Counseling Service office hopes to be open sometime in August.
Approved a motion from the Worship and Music Committee that the 8:30 a.m. Chapel Service be shortened in structure to 30 to 40 minutes.
– W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their June 21, 2021 stated meeting (Zoom),the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

Heard from our commissioners to the last meeting of Lake Erie Presbytery that Rev. Kieth Sundberg has been elected as the new moderator of presbytery.
Began a study centered on the Book of Order. This first session focused on the tension between order and freedom in our Presbyterian system. There is a need for greater understanding of the role of discernment guided by the Holy Spirit in the making of decisions.
Heard a very positive report on the recent youth Work Week Camp from Rev. Knight.
Acted to approve a new full-time staff position of Communication Associate as recommended by the Personnel Team. This is not a traditional secretary/administrative assistant position; the person employed will be expected to be a member of the ministry team focused on communicating the church’s story with the skill set to do so across a broad range of platforms including the bulletin, Covenant Chimes, social media, and the website.
Acted to approve a three day work week for JoAnn Peters from July 1st through August 31st. Her pay to be adjusted for the hours worked.
-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their May 17, 2021 stated meeting (Zoom), the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

Elected elder Ellie Zimmer as one of our commissioners to the May 25thpresbytery meeting
Returned to previous conversation regarding Covenant Preschool.
Heard and shared positive feedback from our first Sunday return to in-person worship. Discussion and changes will continue in accord with changing CDC guidelines.
Heard a positive report of the Covid vaccine clinic held in the sanctuary on May 16 in conjunction with UPMC Hamot, Gannon, and Our West Bayfront. At least 160 people were vaccinated.
Approved the baptisms of three children and one adult with the dates and times to be determined based on CDC guidelines.
Approved a Sunday service, off site, at the Cook House on Presque Isle Bay, near beach 7 to be held on August 22, 2021. Time and food to be determined.
Approved a worship service time change to 10:00 a.m. effective Sunday, May 30, 2021 thru Sunday, September 5, 2021.
Approved Rev. Graham Standish to preach on Sunday, June 6, 2021 and retroactively approved the preaching of Rev. Dr. John Welsch, Rev. Julia DiFiore, and Rev. Josh Heikkila.
-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their March 15, 2021 stated meeting (Zoom), the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

Approved the celebration of communion during the worship service on Maundy Thursday, April 1, 2021.
Agreed that the Annual meeting of the Congregation, Part II and the Annual Meeting of the Corporation that are scheduled for Sunday, April 25 will be held as Zoom meetings due to the Covid–19 pandemic.
Continued the discussion of the Nonprofit Partnership’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Pledge from the February meeting. There was a question and answer period with Erin Yates of the Nonprofit Partnership as part of this discussion. No action was taken regarding First Covenant signing the pledge.
Discussed the seventh ordination vow taken by all teaching and ruling elders, “Do you promise to further the peace, unity, and purity of the church?”, as part of the Study and Reflection Time. That study time con-cluded with a reference to the following from the study material: “Peace, unity, and purity are derived, not from the constant adolescent need to define the identity of members of the community or to determine who is right or who is wrong, but as Ephesians 4 tells us, from spiritual maturity that centers on the call of Christ, ’the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.’”
-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their January 18, 2021 stated meeting (Zoom), the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

Heard a report from our commissioner to a recent special meeting of the Presbytery of Lake Erie that Rev. Anita Bernhardt has been called to be our new General Presbyter following the retirement of Rev. David Oyler. Rev. Bernhardt will begin in early February.
Learned that the on-site work on the elevator will begin in early February.
Voted to continue the celebration of communion on the first Sunday of each month during 2021.
Approved the youth group’s Souper Bowl of Caring fundraiser to be held on Sunday January 31. Funds raised will go to a neighborhood non-profit chosen by the youth.
-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their November 16 stated meeting (Zoom), the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

Heard from Rev. Knight that the youth group had packed 144 StudySpace snack bags on Sunday afternoon for Gannon students.
Acted to call a special meeting of the congregation and corporation for Sunday, January 31, 2021 immediately following the 8:30 worship service. The business of this meeting will include the business for the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part I as stipulated in the By-Laws as well as consideration and action on several proposed amendments to the By-Laws.
Acted to establish Sunday, April 25, 2021 as the date for the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part II and the Annual Meeting of the Corporation.
Elected elders Tracey Townsend and Michael Burns as our commissioner to the November 21 meeting of Lake Erie Presbytery.
Learned that a Thanksgiving Devotional Program is being recorded and will be available on Facebook Live beginning on Wednesday, November 25.
Voted that Covenant Preschool will not open for in-person instruction in January as previously anticipated.
Heard that the Deacons have donated $500.00 to a care fund to purchase nonperishable food for the Children’s Specialty Care Center at UPMC Hamot. The goal of the program is to help families with food insecurities that come to the center from northwestern PA, western NY, and northeastern OH.
-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their October 19 stated meeting (Zoom),the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

Approved a motion to amend the by-laws of the congregation to reduce the quorum for a session meeting from 9 to 7. This change is a companion to the approval last month to reduce the size of session from 15 to 12.
Approved motions to amend the by-laws of both the congregation and the corporation to explicitly state that “In the event of extreme circumstances including, but not limited to pandemic illness, quarantine, severe weather, or urgent timing; session (trustee) meetings may be conducted entirely over the internet via Zoom or similar apps with both audio and video available live.”
(It is important to note that these changes to the by-laws are not effective until approved by the congregation/corporation.
Heard positive reports from Rev. Weichman and several others relative to the recent memorial service for a member which was held in the sanctuary. The emphasis of these comments was that the protocols that have been adopted relating to covid-19 generally worked well. Lessons learned will help shape decisions as we look forward to gathering for limited in-person activity.
Voted to approve protocols relating to Our Neighbors’ Place returning in the near future.
Voted to approve a motion from the Worship and Music Committee to “reopen church, following state and CDC guidelines, on January 10, 2021 with the 8:30 a.m. service in the sanctuary. Worshipers would be welcomed by reservation. The
11:00 a.m. service would continue to be livestreamed on Facebook.
Voted to approve appointments to session committees for the coming year.
Voted to approve the following Faith Formation teachers: Rev. Chris Weichman, Rev. Britney Knight, Rob Baker, Monty Service, Kaitlyn Falk, Zach Taylor, and Kristin Headley.
-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their September 24 stated meeting (Zoom), the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

This was the first meeting following a somewhat different format that allows more time for discernment.
Heard reports from Rev. Weichman and Rev. Knight relative to the start-up of fall programing in the Covid-19 environment as well as related decisions that will need to be made in the next several months.
Had a letter from the session of the Chapel Lane Presbyterian Church in Midland, Michigan and Rev. Timm High for funds First Covenant sent to aid them with relief efforts related to the flood several months ago.
Had a lengthy zoom conversation with Rev. Graham Standish of the Samaritan Counseling Service discussing various issues related to the possibility of the counseling service opening a branch office in First Covenant. No action taken as session desires more information.
Approved a motion from the Nominating Committee to amend the church by-laws to reduce the number of elders on session from 15 to 12. This action will not take effect until acted on by the congregation. No date set for a required congregational meeting
-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their August 17 stated meeting (Zoom), the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

Heard a report from Bill Tauber, president , Board of Trustees, regarding the age and condition of the elevator, and the need for significant repairs and upgrades. Session approved a motion to take up to $87,500.00 from the Tiffany Window Fund in 2020 as this work begins and budget up to $113,750.00 in the 2021 budget to pay for the remainder of the work. The work is tobegin later this year and take an estimated 29 weeks.
Heard a report from the Budget Committee that First Covenant received $67,600.00 during the Erie Gives day. This does not include the matching grant amount that has not yet been determined.
Heard a report from the College Ministry Committee that there are 6 Gannon University students living in the Kirk House as the school year begins. They were recently welcomed with a dinner hosted by the committee.
Heard a report from the Mission Committee that the
congregation donated a total of $3,660.00 for the flood relief effort in Midland Michigan where our former interim pastor Timm High is now serving.
Voted to table a motion from the Nominating Committee that would reduce the size of Session from 15 elders to 12 elders over the next three years. The clerk has been directed to write such a revision to the By-Laws for discussion at the September session meeting.
Began a discussion considering a proposal for Samaritan Counseling, a Christian counseling service, to open a satellite office in First Covenant. No action was taken and discernment continues.
Rev. Knight reported that Haley Fabich was awarded a scholarship from the Benedict Scholarship Fund. Haley is starting her freshman year at Allegheny College.
-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their July 20 stated meeting (Zoom), the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

Approved a motion from the Personnel Committee to share the financial benefits of the 2020 Adair Award among all full-time FPCC staff in recognition of outstanding service during the Covid-19 pandemic.
After extensive discussion, approved a motion to have no in the building worship services prior to the first Sunday in Advent.
Approved a motion calling for the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part II and the Annual meeting of the Corporation to be held on Sunday, August 9, 2020. Due to the Covid-19 situation, these meetings will be held in the church parking lot beginning at 11:45 a.m. and the agenda for these meetings will be limited to the necessary business of electing elders, deacons, and trustees to
the class of 2023 and filling other vacancies as necessary.
Approved a motion to consider the re-opening of Covenant Preschool for in-person instruction for the second
semester of the 2020-2021 school year.
Moved to approve Rev. Dr. John Welch as the guest pastor for Sunday, July 26, 2020.
-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At their June 15 stated meeting (Zoom), the Session of First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

Voted to contribute to a purse being gathered for Rev. David Oyler who is retiring June 30 after 17 years as General Presbyter of Lake Erie Presbytery
Discussed the possibilities of having a “Parking Lot Meeting” of the congregation and corporation to meet requirements of FPCC by-Laws . Those meetings were not held in April (as required) this year due to Covid-19 restrictions. We have been consulting with presbytery officials, general assembly office, and several congregations so we can hold the election of new officers to session, deacons and trustees.
Elected elders Tracey Townsend and Diane Sutton as our commissioners to the June 30th meeting of presbytery, a first-time virtual meeting
Voted to direct the business office to file a new application for federal government’s Payroll Protection Program, working with a local bank.
Voted to donate up to $2,000.00 from the renovation mission set aside fund as a matching gift to benefit the Chapel Lane Presbyterian Church in Midland, MI. Our former interim pastor, Rev. Timm High, is now serving as transitional pastor at the
Chapel Lane church. The church itself was not damaged by the recent flooding in Midland, but many members as well as Timm, suffered significant losses. Checks can be sent to the business office with“Chapel Lane” on the memo line, by July 19th.
Approved Marcus Atkinson, guest preacher 6/21.
Approved the continuation of only live-streamed worship services through the end of July.
Approved a motion requiring outside groups to abide by church Covid-19 protocols re: entry and sanitation of the spaces used once building reopens.
-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

The May 18, 2020 stated meeting (Zoom) of the Session of the First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant:

The scripture reading was Acts 15:1-21, the Jerusalem Council, when apostles and elders in the early church gathered to confront and consider a radical change. The discussion focused on how Covid-19 has brought us face-to-face with possible radical changes: live streaming worship and Zoom gatherings, how we minister & witness for the kingdom in months and years going forward.
Voted to approve a request to use special funds from the Brittain Library Fund to purchase and install equipment needed to continue to livestream worship services, Bible studies, etc.
Reviewed a five-phase outline for returning to more normal activity; what each phase would look like for staff, congregation, and “outside”groups; and what would trigger moving from one phase to another. Decisions will be made by session, with an abundance of caution, upon the recommendation of staff. The fact that we can resume more normal activity according to the governor, county officials, and others does not necessarily mean that we should.
Heard a report from the Budget Committee that we are still operating in the black for the year due primarily to reduced expenses and advanced pledge receipts. Our application for funds from the federal government’s Payroll Protection Program has been submitted, no response yet.
Rev. Knight reported that at the request of students the Confirmation Class is taking a recess until they can meet together again.
Approved a motion from the Worship & Music Committee to go to a summer worship schedule of one service at 10:00 a.m. beginning on June 7 and going thru Labor Day Sunday, September 6.
-W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At the stated meeting on March 23rd Session:

The stated monthly meeting of the Session of the First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant was held as a Zoom gathering over the internet.
The livestreaming of communion during this extraordinary time of suspension of physical gathering for worship due to COVID-19 was approved. The next celebration of communion had previously been scheduled for Sunday, April 5, 2020. Details will be provided to the congregation via email and the church’s web site. In general, those staff members leading in live worship in the sanctuary will celebrate communion with members encouraged to participate at home with their own bread and juice.
Voted to postpone the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part II and the Annual Meeting of the Corporation, previously scheduled for April 26, 2020, until further notice due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Approved a request from the deacons for a total of $6,000.00 from the Reed and Epply Funds. The stated purpose of these two special funds is to fund the work of the Board of Deacons.
Affirmed the previous elder endorsement of the staff recommendation “to suspend physical gathering for worship in the chapel and sanctuary until further notice and/or updated recommendations from the CDC. Worship will continue to be held and led by staff only (Chris, Britney, Seph, Leslie, and Monty) and be live-streamed on all Sundays while this suspension is in effect.”
Defeated a motion to hold only one service at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 17 for Children and Youth Sunday. Rev. Knight will work on developing an alternative program given the COVID-19 situation and livestreaming worship.
Defeated a motion to celebrate Music Appreciation Sunday for Sunday, May 10. There was consensus that this motion could be brought back to the stated April session meeting in the then current context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Approved, with regret, a motion to remove Julia Campbell from the church roll as she has moved to North Carolina and joined another church.
Rev. Weichman expressed his thanks and appreciation for the staff, Britney, Seph, Monty, Leslie, Luba for developing the live-streamed service for Sunday, March 22 and the related communications of the opportunity to the congregation. Rev. Knight provided an update on staffing and activities in the building during this situation. The building is essentially shut down.
No programming involving physical gathering are being conducted in the building. Pre-school staff members have cleaned and sanitized the pre-school rooms and equipment. One staff member is in the office each week day with the others working from home. Luba is working Monday-Wednesday-Friday. PRI is scheduled to clean and sanitize the Knox Landing, Knox Hall, Kitchen and related areas. A number of measures, including reducing the building temperature to 60 degrees have been taken to aid in reducing expenses.
Heard a report from elder Diane Sutton, chair of the Personnel Committee, that the committee supports continuing the regular payment of all staff members whether they are working at home, at the church; full time or part time.
Approved making $3,000.00 from the Tiffany Window Fund available to be used at the discretion of the ministry staff to assist individuals who may call upon the church for emergency assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rev. Weichman reported that there were approximately 50 household connections to the live-streamed service on March 15 and 105 connections on March 22. Connections included current members, West Bayfront neighbors, and former members.
—W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

Reports from the Clerk of Session

February 2020

At the stated meeting on February 17th Session:

Approved the celebration of communion at Britney Knight’s ordination and installation service on Saturday, March 7, 2020.
Learned of the coming retirement of General Presbyter Rev. David Oyler effective July 31, 2020.
Approved changing the date of the stated March session meeting from Monday March 16th to Monday March 23rd.
Elected elder Dale Shidemantle as a commissioner to the March meeting of Lake Erie Presbytery.
Heard a positive budget report from the Budget Committee chair, elder Greg Cooper.
Heard a report from the Christian Education Committee that the January Souper Bowl lunch raised a bit over $300.00. The youth group voted to donate that money to the International Institute. There was also a reminder that the youth spaghetti lunch and desert auction will be coming in late March.
Tabled a motion from the Worship and Music Committee proposing the holding of only one Sunday worship service at 9:30 a.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Shared feedback regarding the February 16th worship service at the peninsula.
~ W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

January 2020
At the stated meeting on January 21st , Session:

Approved the minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part I and the Special Meeting of the Corporation held on Sunday, January 12th. In the congregational meeting, Laura Cooper, Ray Fritts, Bonnie Ginader, Sharon Harrington*and Pat Headley* were elected as congregational members of the Nominating Committee for 2020. (An * following a name indicates election for a second or third consecutive term.) The congregational meeting also voted to approve Rev. Weichman’s terms of call for 2020. The terms of call were unchanged from 2019. In the corporation meeting, a motion to withdraw up to $104,600.00 from the principal of the Endowment Fund in order to balance the 2020 General Fund budget was approved.
Approved the use of an “Incident Report Form” to be completed in the event of “injury, altercation, vandalism, accident, theft, loss/damage, or forced removal” on First Covenant property.
Continued discussion regarding several possible changes to congregational by-laws. The most significant of the changes being considered would reduce the size of session from 15 to 12. The other changes being discussed would reduce the quorum for a session meeting if the size of session is reduced, and make our by-laws consistent with the current Book of Order.
Approved requested funds for the summer youth mission trip to Washington D.C.
Heard a very positive report from elder Greg Cooper, chair of the Budget Committee, regarding church finances at the end of the 2019 budget year. Elder Greg Copper, chair, reported that the financial summary for 2019 was positive in several ways. Pledge revenue came in only slightly ($647.63) below budget for the year while non-pledge revenue exceeded the budgeted amount by over $18,000.00. Total expenses for the year came in under budget by $45,545. While the congregation had approved the withdrawal of over $200,000 from the principal of the Endowment Fund to balance the 2019 budget, only $179,983.95 was actually withdrawn. At year end the budget closed in the black by $4,748.64. These results were made possible by: a significant increase in congregational giving, many committees cutting back on their spending, a major reduction in electric usage due to the LED lighting project and rebates, less gas usage due to a milder winter, more usage of volunteer hosts and a reduction of two months personnel expenses associated with the Kirk House.
Additionally, 2019 was an exceptional year with our investment funds. Overall our investments increased by $1,021,210 or $403,386 net after withdrawals.
Heard a report from the Personnel Committee that the search has begun for a new part time administrative assistant.
~ W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

At the stated session meeting on October 28th session:

Voted to approve the celebration of catholic weddings in the First Covenant sanctuary at the discretion of the pastor during the renovations at St. Peters Cathedral. The couple would be expected to engage the amenities and expenses customarily related to a wedding at First Covenant.
Elected elders Tim Campbell and Diane Sutton as our commissioners to the meeting of Lake Erie Presbytery at the Elmwood church on November 23^rd. It is anticipated that Britney Knight will be examined on the floor of presbytery at that meeting as the final step leading to her ordination and installation as our associate pastor.
Approved a request for $300.00 from the Johnson Fund for expenses related to the youth retreat at Church of the Cross.
Heard a brief positive report on the recent review of our financial records by the outside auditors. There was also a recommendation from the auditors regarding the creation of separate accounts for restricted and unrestricted special funds in order to provide better tracking.

At the stated session meeting on November 18th session:

Approved the baptism of Rowan James Zwigart, son of John and Jenna Zwigart, to be celebrated on December 8, 2019. Rowan’s grandmother, an elder in the Hampton Presbyterian Church, will be participating in the baptism.
Received correspondence from Rev. Elizabeth Affsprung of the Covenant Central United Presbyterian Church in Williamsport, PA thanking us for our mission support that allowed her to participate in a recent Wee Kirk Conference. The Wee Kirk Conference is a denominational program specifically designed for pastors of small congregations who may not otherwise have access to continuing education and other resources.
Continued conversations around staffing questions.
Heard a preliminary report from the Budget Committee regarding the 2020 budget. Projected 2020 revenue at this time is $704,801.82 without additional funds from the principal of the Endowment Fund or the Tiffany Window Fund. Projected expenses are $808,177.67.
Approved a youth Souper Bowl fund raiser to be held on Sunday, January 26, 2020 and the youth Spaghetti luncheon and dessert auction to be held on Sunday, March 29, 2020.
Elders were encouraged to support and participate in Study Space and Our Neighbor’s Place, both of which will be starting in the next several weeks.
Approved a motion from the Worship and Music Committee to hold only one worship service on Sunday, December 15^that the 11:00 a.m. service that day will be the Youth and Children Advent service.
Gave approval to a program in which elders and deacons would be trained to celebrate communion with shut-ins.
Began a conversation around the appropriate size of the three boards (Session, Deacons, Trustees) given the current membership of the congregation (428) as well as the level of programing and activity.

W.D. Holmes / Clerk of Session

At the stated session meeting on Monday, September 16th session:

Heard a report from Marlene Spires and Chad Vilushis of the Associate Pastor Nominating Committee (APNC) concerning the committee’s process and progress.
Following that report, session voted to establish a date for the committee’s candidate, Britney Knight, to lead in worship and for a congregational meeting to be held following that worship service for the purpose of voting on a motion to call the candidate and the terms of call.
Discussed the recent session and trustee retreat with Rev. Ellie Johns-Kelley of the Presbyterian Foundation and ideas to follow-up and perhaps implement at First Covenant.
Voted to set the 2020 dates for those congregational and corporation meetings that are required by our By-Laws. The Congregational Meeting, Part I will be held on January 12, 2020 and the Congregational Meeting, Part II as well as the Corporation Meeting will be held on April 26, 2020.
Voted to approve a winter off-site worship service, similar to the recent service at Lake Erie Arboretum, to be held at the Rotary Pavilion on Presque Isle State Park on Sunday, February 9, 2020, if the way be clear.
Voted to approve a request from the Episcopal Diocese of Northwestern Pennsylvania to hold a traditional communion service in our sanctuary on Friday, October 25, 2019 as part of their Joint Diocesan Convention with the Episcopal Diocese of Western New York.
Voted to move the stated October session meeting from October 21st to October 28th due to Rev. Weichman’s planned vacation.
~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At the stated session meeting on Monday, August 19th session:

Voted to continue the effort to obtain information from First Covenant Preschool and return to the historic relationship specified in preschool by-laws.
Voted to hold a Thanksgiving eve service on November 27th at 6:30 p.m. in McBrier Chapel
Voted to approve elder assignments to session committees for the coming year as follows:
~ Personnel: Diane Sutton, Atchley Holmes
~ Budget: Greg Cooper, Atchley Holmes
~ Communications: Nancy Irwin, Richard Sheasley,
~ Hospitality & Membership: Dale Shidemantle, Tracey Townsend, Tim Campbell
~ College Ministry: Matt Allen, Richard Sheasley, Rosemond Anim-Somuah
~ Education: Linda Majewski, Greg Cooper, Ellie Zimmer
~ Mission: Michael Burns
~ Worship & Music: Nancy van den Honert, Tracey Townsend, Tom Miller
~ Nominating: Diane Sutton, Richard Sheasley
Voted to elect W. D. Holmes as Clerk of Session and Dale Sweet as Associate Clerk of Session for the coming year.
Voted to elect Tracey Townsend and Ellie Zimmer as our elder commissioners to the September meeting of Lake Erie Presbytery
Voted to approve numerous individuals as teachers and/or nursery helpers for the coming year.
~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At the stated session meeting on Monday, July 15th session:

Heard a report from the Associate Pastor Nominating Committee (APNC) and approved the Ministry Information Form (MIF) that the committee had created. Once approved by the presbytery’s Commission on Ministry (COM), this document will be posted on both the presbytery’s website and the synod’s job opportunities website. Interested persons will then be able to submit their Personal Information Form (PIF) to the committee for consideration.
Voted to remove eighty-two members who have neither attended worship nor contributed to the church for a significant time from the membership roll of the church. Each of these individuals had been contacted previously regarding this impending action.
Authorized Rev. Weichman to contact the Brittain family concerning the possibility of using proceeds from the Brittain Library Fund to pay a person with an MLS degree to work in the church library several hours each week. Having a librarian with an MLS degree is a requirement established in the Brittain Library Fund.
Approved a Letter of Transfer to the Hampton Presbyterian Church in Gibsonia, PA for Charles and Jean Kibler.
Was encouraged to support First Covenant through Erie Gives Day on August 13th.
Was informed that our new campus minister, Rachel Kennedy, started on July 15th. Also, the Campus Ministry office will be relocating to the general church office area.
Approved a motion from the Worship and Music Committee for Faith Formation classes to resume on Sunday, September 15th.

At a special session meeting on Sunday, June 9th session:

Voted to receive the following new members: Myrna Hart, Deborah Hiscott, James Miller, Danielle Edkin, Eric Hall, Emma Howell, and Marylyn Lessnau.

At a special meeting of the congregation on Sunday, June 9th the congregation:

Voted to elect the following individuals to the recently approved Associate Pastor Nominating Committee (APNC): Laura Cooper, Kristen Headley, Marlene Spires, Scott Steva, and Chad Vilushis.
Voted to elect W. Atchley Holmes and Ellie Zimmer to fill vacant positions on the Session in the class of 2022.
Voted to elect Luann Shidemantle to fill a vacant position on the Board of Deacons in the class of 2020.

At the stated session meeting on June 17th session:

Voted to have Rev. Weichman speak with members of the Adair family concerning the future of the Adair Award.
Voted to approve Rev. Philomena Ofori-Nipaah to preach on Sunday, June 30th aswe are joined in worship with members of the Ghana Mission Network and also approved other members of the Ghana Mission Network to join in the serving of communion during that service.
Voted, with regret, to accept the resignations of Seth and Kia Howell from the Board of Deacons.
Voted to approve the baptism of Amelia Hall, daughter of Eric Hall and Marylyn Lessnau.
Voted to elect W.D. Holmes and Allen Sheasley as First Covenant commissioners to the presbyterymeeting in Oil City on June 25th.
Briefly discussed a number of topics to bring newly installed elders up to speed with on-going session work.
(Note: The approved complete minutes of all session meetings, congregational meetings, and corporation meetings can be reviewed in the church library by church members. The records have been made available since 2013. In addition, there is a copy of the congregation’s by-laws and monthly financial reports that are also are available for review in the church library.)

At the Special Congregational meeting on Sunday, May 19th:

Heard a report from elder Diane Sutton, chair of the Personnel Committee, explaining Session and committee rational for creating a staff position of Associate Pastor.
Engaged in significant discussion of several topics relating to the proposed position including the following:
~ The job description is focused on youth and family ministry and is further shaped by the four
pillars from our recent mission study; neighborhood relevance, better usage of our building, connecting with youth, focus on hospitality.
~ The procedure for filling this position would be a modified pastoral search as now permitted by the Book of Order. The position would need to be approved by the Presbytery, posted in the Presbytery for a relatively limited time, though not on the denominational search site; suitable applicants other than Britney Knight would be interviewed and seriously considered by
the Associate Pastor Nominating Committee (APNC), when the APNC has settled on a candidate that person will be interviewed by the Commission on Ministry (COM) and the Presbytery as appropriate, the candidate will then lead in worship and be voted on by the congregation.
~ The estimated additional cost for this ordained position compared to the present Director of Youth/Family Ministries position is approximately $7,100.00 per year. We would benefit from a denominational action to reduce pension fund contributions for new pastoral positions by approximately 50% for a period of 5 years.
~ Yes, there is cause for concern raised when we increase expenses by $7,100.00 with our continuing annual budget deficits. The Personnel Committee continues to study possible staff re-configuration. Members also need to step up to the plate with their giving.
Voted by written ballot, 80 yes, 11 no, to create a staff position of Associate Pastor. The complete minutes of the congregational meeting are available in the notebook in the church library.

~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At the stated Session meeting on May 20th:

Approved a motion from the Worship and Music Committee to hold only one worship service on Sunday, August 18 at 10:00 a.m. That service will be held off-site at the Lake Erie Arboretum in Frontier Park. More information and details will be forthcoming.
Heard a report from the Trustees detailing problems in multiple locations on the building’s roof allowing water to leak in and cause significant damage. The Trustees are developing plans to remedy the situation.
Voted to call a Special Meeting of the Congregation to be held on Sunday, June 9, 2019 for the purpose of electing members to an Associate Pastor Nominating Committee (APNC) and filling vacancies on the Session and Board of Deacons.
~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At the stated meeting on April 15th Session:

Acted to call a special meeting of the congregation as follows:
The Session of the First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant calls for a special meeting of the Congregation to be held on Sunday, May 19, 2019. The stated purpose of this meeting is to consider and act upon a recommendation of the session to create a staff position of Associate Pastor and to elect an Associate Pastor Nominating Committee if appropriate. The meeting will be held in the Sanctuary immediately following the 11:00 a.m. worship service.
Authorized non-elder participants in the coming Maundy Thursday re-enactment to serve communion.
Elected Allen Sheasley and W.D. Holmes as our commissioners to the April 30th meeting of Lake Erie Presbytery.
Reviewed the recent Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part II and suggested several changes that might result in a more efficient meeting while also providing members with better and more complete information.
Voted to hold only one service on Sunday, June 30th at 10:00 a.m. in which we will be joined by guests from Ghana and the Lake Erie Presbytery Ghana Partnership.
Tabled a motion from the Worship and Music Committee to hold an off-site worship service at the Lake Erie Arboretum in Frontier Park at 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 18th.
~ W.D. Holmes / Clerk of Session

At the stated meeting on March 25^th Session:

Elders began the meeting by reading and reflecting on John 10:1-10. During the reflection it was noted that yes, Jesus is the good shepherd and always cares for and protects His flock. However, the flock must follow him out of the safety of the sheepfold in order to find nourishment and grow. Where is First Covenant being asked to follow now?
Approved the baptism of Willa Rose Austin, daughter of Peter and Amanda Austin on May 26, 2019.
Approved Letters of Transfer for Vic and Judy Glembocki to the Cumming First United Methodist Church of Cumming Georgia.
Approved several requests for money from various special funds to support Rev. Weichman’s recent trip to the Dominican Republic and the work of the deacons.
Approved a joint retreat with the trustees on September 14, 2019. The retreat will be led by Rev. Ellie Johns Kelly from the Presbyterian Foundation and will focus on a Culture of Generosity.
Held an extended discussion concerning finances and programming. During this discussion information was shared on significant savings realized from actions that have already been taken as well as estimates of further savings from possible future actions. Some of these possible future actions have implications for programs and activities. Thus a reminder that we need to focus on discerning what it is that we as a congregation are being called to do now.
The next meeting of Session is April 15 at 5:30 p.m. in the parlor.

~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

At the stated meeting on February 18th Session:

Briefly discussed the possibility of re-instituting the practice of a trustee attending session meetings as a liaison and an elder attending trustee meetings as a liaison. The idea would be to improve communications between the two boards.
Briefly discussed the need to study the financial aspects of our relationship with Covenant Preschool.
Approved the baptism of Lila Jean Seifert, daughter of Shaun and Meghann Seifert on March 10, 2019.
Was reminded that First Covenant will be hosting a gathering of the Lake Erie Ghana Partnership in late June. Session acted to change the date of communion from July 7th to June 30th that we might celebrate with our partners in the Ghana Mission Project.
Learned that Lake Erie Presbytery is organizing a mission trip to Kinston, NC in late June to aid in continued hurricane relief efforts. Check the presbytery web site if you are interested in participating.
Set the date for the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part II and the Annual Meeting of the Corporation for Sunday, April 14, 2019 in Knox Hall following the 11:00 a.m. worship service.
W.D. Holmes/ Clerk of Session

At the stated meeting on January 21st Session:

Approved the minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part I and the Special Meeting of the
Corporation held on Sunday, January 20th. In the congregational meeting, Mary Concoby, Sharon Harrington,
Patrick Headley, Holly Murphy-Allen, and Chad Vilushis were elected as congregational members of
the Nominating Committee for 2019. The congregational meeting also voted to approve Rev. Weichman’s
revised terms of call for 2019. In the corporation meeting, a motion to withdraw up to
$275,000.00 from the principal of the Endowment Fund in order to balance the 2019 General Fund
budget was approved.
Elected elders Diane Sutton and Richard Sheasley as our commissioners to the February meeting of Lake
Erie Presbytery.
Spent a significant amount of time reflecting on Sunday’s congregational and corporation meetings and
discussing how to proceed regarding our on-going budget difficulties. This needs to be an on-going
conversation that includes the entire congregation.
Voted to approve the youth Souper Bowl fund raiser to be held on Sunday, January 27th.
Approved a motion from the Worship and Music Committee to hold the Children and Youth Sunday
Service at 11:00 a.m. on May 19, 2019. There will be one service only that day.
W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

At the stated meeting on December 17th Session:

Approved the adoption & use of an on-line giving program through the Presbyterian
Foundation.
Voted to continue celebrating communion the first Sunday of the month
throughout 2019.
Voted to approve a job description for a new position of Associate Pastor as
presented by the Personnel Committee.
Voted to approve the 2019 General Fund Budget as presented by the Budget Committee. This budget
shows total anticipated revenue of $588,726.84 & total anticipated expenses of $863,983,04.
Voted to call for the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part I to be held in the sanctuary on Sunday,
January 20, 2019 immediately following the 11:00 a.m. worship service. According to the revised By-Laws
of the Congregation & Corporation Article VI, Section 1, the stated purpose of the meeting is “…electing
the Nominating Committee, informing the congregation of the budget, approving pastoral terms of call &
filling existing vacancies on the Session & the Board of Deacons.”
Voted to call a special meeting of the corporation to be held in conjunction with Part I of the Annual
Meeting of the Congregation on January 20, 2019. The stated purpose of this special meeting of the corporation
is to hear and act upon a recommendation from the session to withdraw up to $ 275,000.00
from the principle of the Endowment Fund in order to balance the 2019 General Fund Budget.
Voted to approve the Youth Spaghetti Luncheon & Desert Auction to raise funds for all 2019 summer
youth trips.
Voted to approve the Children & Youth Protection Policy as presented by the Christian Education Committee.

November 2018

At the stated meeting on November 19th Session:

Began by considering the question “As you read, hear, see, talk with others, how do you see God challenging the church in new ways?”
Received a letter from the Board of Trustees reporting that the report of our outside auditors found everything to be in order and that an annual review of our insurance policies determined that we are adequately insured at this time.
Received a letter from Rose Marie Lackey of the Erie City Mission thanking us for our agreement to offer our facilities and work with the mission again this coming summer in their Urban University program.
Approved all non-elder members of various committees.
Accepted the resignation of Dr. Tom Miller from the Nominating Committee.
Heard a tentative 2019 Budget report from the Budget Committee. While the 2019 pledge tally is not yet complete, at this time it appears that approximately $205,000.00 will be needed from the Tiffany Window Fund or the Endowment Fund to balance the 2019 General Fund Budget.
Elders were encouraged to spend some time in the parlor with Gannon students during the coming Study Space time; talk with students and just listen. What is their perception of First Covenant and the role of the church in their lives?
Voted to call for special meetings of the congregation and corporation on Sunday, December 9th immediately following the second service for the purpose of filling a vacancy on session and a vacancy on the Board of Trustees.
W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

October 2018

At the stated meeting on October 15th Session:

Began with a reading and discussion of Mark 11:15-17, Jesus turning over the tables of the temple money changers, and considered what obstacles to worship may exist at First Covenant.
Heard an updated report from the Budget Committee that both revenue and expenses are less than budgeted for 2018 at this time. The committee is in the preliminary stages of soliciting input from other committees and preparing the 2019 budget.
Heard a report that the new arrangements for organizing and providing the after-worship fellowship time are going well. The Membership & Fellowship Committee is exploring a variety of additional ideas including a framework for working with outside groups. There also is growing evidence of the positive results of our emphasis on hospitality over the past several years.
Heard that the college ministry year is off to a busy and good start. Have you noticed the number of college students regularly attending the second service? Have you greeted any of them, perhaps when passing the peace?
Elected Michael Burns and Matt Allen as our commissioners to the November meeting of Lake Erie Presbytery

~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

September 2018
At the stated meeting on September 17th Session:

Approved the baptism of Naomi June Knight, daughter of Zachary and Britney Knight.
Approved underwriting a portion of Abby Blankenship’s medical insurance through CCO.
Heard from the Budget Committee that the commitments from Erie Gives Day that have substantially closed gap between year-to-date budgeted revenue and year-to-date actual revenue.
Heard from the Christian Education Committee that the nursery refurbishing work is nearly complete (and should reopen soon).
Received information about a proposal to enable online giving to First Covenant.
Approved a proposal from the Worship and Music Committee to hold a Thanksgiving Eve service on Wednesday, November 21.
Approved a request for the use of the sanctuary and other areas of the building on Friday, December 7 in conjunction with Downtown D’Lights/Art Gallery Tour.
Approved a motion for the Children’s Christmas Musical to be presented on Sunday, December 16.
Approved a request from the Properties Committee to cut down two trees near the Kirk House. One tree is clearly dying and begins to pose a danger to the house and the other tree must come down to enable access to the dying tree.

~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

August 2018
There is nothing to report of the stated meeting on August 20th from Session.
~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

July 2018

At the stated meeting on July 16th Session:

Approved a request from the Properties Committee to use $1,194.00 from the Foundation Fund to replace and update wireless microphone equipment in Knox Hall. This project is necessitated both by the condition of some of the present Knox Hall equipment and FCC action reassigning the use of various broadcast bands that previously caused the replacement of microphones in the sanctuary.
Approved a request from the Board of Deacon to transfer funds from the Emeline Reed Memorial Fund and the Dorothy L. Eppley Fund to the Deacons as needed to carry out their charitable work. The stated purpose of both of these special funds is to support the work of the deacons both within the church membership and outside the church membership.
Heard brief progress reports from multiple committees, Budget, College Ministry, Education, Mission, Worship and Music, regarding their preparations for activities and programming for the remainder of the summer, this fall and beyond.

~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

June 2018
The June Session meeting scheduled for Monday, June 18th had to be cancelled due to the Moderator being out of town. Look for an extended Clerk’s Corner next month.
~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

May 2018

At the stated meeting on May 21st Session:

Voted to receive into membership the following members of the 2018 Confirmation Class: Anna Koebe, Caitlyn Koebe, Colin Fabich, Ethan Holmes, Rachel Holmes, Paige Irwin, Keegan Vilushis, Bryliegh Paluchak, and Will McBrier. Voted to receive the following new members Kaitlyn Falk, John “JD” Zwigart, Jenna Zwigart, Peter Austin, and Amanda Austin.
Approved the use of up to $5,000.00 from the Foundation Fund for partial payment of expenses for this summer’s youth trips to North Carolina and Tennessee.
Voted to approve the following dates related to 2018-2019 Faith Formation programing: Begins September 16th and ends May 19th; no classes on November 25, 2018 and December 30, 2018 or April 21,2019.
Approved the use of the sanctuary by the Erie Philharmonic Chamber Series for rehearsals and a concert on September 7th and 8th.
Voted to accept the resignation of elder David Doupe from session with regret and appreciation for his service to First Covenant and the kingdom.
Thanked elders Sandy Herman, Scott Sesler, Marlene Spires, Richard Sheasley, and Phyliss Tarno for their service as their terms on session come to an end.

~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

April 2018
At the stated meeting on April 16th Session:

Voted to ordain and install newly elected officers during Worship on Sunday, June 3rd
Continued the discussion from the March meeting concerning the possibility of creating an associate pastor position and calling Britney Knight to that position.
Elected elders David Doupe and Scott Sesler as our commissioners to the April 24th meeting of Lake Erie Presbytery in Bradford.
Voted to remove Beth McCarthy from First Covenant’s membership roll at her request.
Approved Campus Minister Kyle Schumacher as the pulpit supply preacher for Sunday, June 10th.
Voted to begin summer Worship hours on Sunday, May 27th and resume regular worship hours on Sunday, September 9th. Beginning on Sunday May 27th the first service will begin at 8:30 a.m. as usual and the second service will begin at 10:00 a.m.
Voted to have members of the Confirmation Class participate in the serving of communion on Sunday, June 3rd.
Approved the use of the Sanctuary and Parlor by the Erie Philharmonic Chorus on Saturday, December 8th for rehearsal, concert and reception.
~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

March 2018
At the stated meeting on March 19th Session:

Welcomed General Presbyter Rev. David Oyler and COM (Commission on Ministry) member Rev. James Bernhardt as we initiated a conversation about the possibility of creating an associate pastor position on our staff.
Approved the addition of a Parental Leave Policy to our Personnel Manual.
Voted to remove Richard and Jeanie Long from the membership roll at their request as they are moving out of town.
Heard very positive reports about our recent hosting of a college group on their alternative spring break and the recent sanctuary tours by several Gannon classes. There were also over fifty Gannon students in Worship on March 18 as we celebrated their efforts in support of the December Study Space.
Approved a motion to replace all of the Sanctuary wireless microphones at a cost not to exceed $7,661.00. This action was necessitated by FCC action reassigning the use of various broadcast bands.

~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

February 2018

At the stated meeting on February 19th Session:

Set Saturday, May 5 as the date for a session retreat with Rev. Graham Standish that will focus on learning discernment.
Approved the request of Chris DeCrease that her name be removed from the membership roll of the church.
Voted that the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part II will be held following worship on Sunday, April 15, 2018. Lunch will be provided.
Was informed that Britney Knight has passed her last ordination exam. She has several more requirements to meet with both Lake Erie and Pittsburgh presbyteries before she is eligible for ordination.
Received very positive feedback from numerous Gannon students through the College Ministry Work Group regarding Study Space.
Also heard that the College Ministry Work Group is forming an adhoc study group to explore the question of what college ministry should look like going forward given our growing relationship with Gannon, new developments with CCO, and changes at First Covenant.
Approved a special offering to be taken on Sunday, April 15 in support of Lake Erie Presbytery’s partnership with the Upper Northern Presbytery of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana. Money raised in this offering will be combined with other funds from the presbytery and other congregations to assist in funding the purchase of a new vehicle for Rev. Joshua Heikkila to support his work with multiple congregations.
Voted to designate the second worship service on Sunday, June 3 for the recognition of members of the Confirmation Class.
Voted that the proceeds from the Easter Lilly sale would be designated for organ maintenance.

~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

January 2018

At the stated meeting on January 15 Session:

Reviewed our recent experience with the weather caused cancellation of the 8:30 worship service and then passed a motion authorizing the pastor, in consultation with other staff members, to make decisions regarding the cancellation of services in the event of severe weather or other emergencies.
Approved several fund raisers to be held in coming months for youth activities including this summer’s mission trip
Approved a Mission Committee request for $1,500.00 from the McGeary-Morrow Fund to partially support of Rev. Weichman and daughters Emma and Noel participating in a mission trip to the Dominican Republic, if the way be clear.
Approved a motion designating the first Sunday of every month in 2018 as a Sunday for the celebration of Holy Communion.
Approved a motion establishing 6:30 p.m. as the starting time for worship services on Ash Wednesday, Maundy Thursday, and Good Friday.
Approved a motion to designate May 6, 2018 as Music Appreciation Sunday and May 20, 2018 as
Children and Youth Sunday.

~ W.D. Holmes, Clerk of Session

December 2017

At the stated meeting on December 18th Session:

Met with Rev. James Bernhardt, Senior Pastor at Wayside. Rev. Bernhardt was visiting in his capacity as a Congregational Advocate for the Presbytery’s Committee on Ministry (COM). The Congregational Advocate program is meant to replace the traditional Triennial Visit COM representatives have with each church in the Presbytery. The goal of the Congregational Advocate program is to form ongoing proactive relationships with congregations dealing with various issues.
Continued the discussion of weekday use of the church parking lot during business hours by members while they are involved in non-church activities in the downtown area. The majority of our parking spaces are rented to people who work downtown during business hours and the rental money contributes significant revenue to the General Fund Budget. Other parking spaces, particularly those near the office entrance, are needed for preschool parents and others engaged in church business. Session approved a motion that requires those members who regularly park in the church parking lot during weekday business hours while involved with non-church activities to make arrangements with the church business office to rent a parking space at a reduced rate.
Discussed the recent Church Leadership Conference held at the Smith Chapel at Penn State Behrend and
led by Graham Standish. An ad hoc group will explore the possibility of inviting Rev. Standish to First Covenant at some time in the future.
Heard a report from the Budget Committee that the stewardship campaign returns to date show a total of 147 pledges returned for a total of $329,897.00 This is an increase of 40 new pledges and $35063.00 over pledges for 2017.
Voted to call the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part I for Sunday, January 21, 2018 immediately following the 11:00 a.m. Worship Service. The congregation’s By-Laws stipulate that the only business to be conducted at this meeting is the election of at-large members to the Congregational Nominating Committee; filling existing vacancies on the Session and Deacons; approving of the pastor’s terms of call; and informing the congregation of the budget.
Voted to approve the 2018 General Fund Budget showing total revenue of $648,502.71 and total expenses of $844,739.57. After considerable discussion regarding the $196,236.86 deficit indicated by those revenue and expense numbers, Session voted to continue discernment and postpone action until a special session meeting on Sunday, January 7, 2018. At this time the options appear to be taking the necessary funds from the principal of the Endowment Fund as we have done for the past several years or taking funds from the sale of the Tiffany Window.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

November 2017

At the stated meeting on November 20th Session:

Approved revised By-laws for the Board of deacons.
Approved a Letter of Transfer for Shirley Nelson to the Mechanicsburg Presbyterian Church. Voted to remove Sheldon van Deventer and Lauren Schweiger from the church rolls at their request.
Continued discussion, but took no action on, a question concerning the weekday use of church parking facilities by members for non-church activities and the possibility of all church members being issued parking permits.
Discussed, but took no action on, a preliminary 2018 General Fund Budget showing a shortfall on the order of $200,000.00. The conversation included discussion of the advantages and disadvantages of taking funds from the principal of the endowment vs. using funds from the sale of the Tiffany Window.
Approved a motion that on the four Sundays each year when a special denominational offering is collected the loose offering collected during those services would also be designated for the special cause. A lectern statement to the effect will be made prior to the offering collection on each of those Sundays.
Was informed that the McBrier Chapel organ has been repaired and is now working.
Approved a motion from the Worship and Music Committee that the proceeds from the Christmas poinsettia sale go towards organ maintenance.
Was informed that Britney Knight, Director of Youth/Family Ministries, has recently passed ordination exams in the areas of Theology as well as Worship and Sacraments. She has one more exam and a few other requirements to meet before she will be eligible for ordination.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

October 2017

At the stated meeting on October 16th Session:

Received the following people into membership: Joanna Ream, Angela Mendez, Becky Veith, Daniel Veith, Karen Weichman, Emma Weichman, and Noelle Weichman.
Was informed that Emma Shimek has applied to be a YAD (Youth Advisory Delegate) to the June 2018 meeting of General Assembly in St. Louis.
Tabled action regarding the issuing of parking stickers to all members.
Continued discussion on the need for nursery attendants at various times on Sunday mornings.
Expressed continued commitment of support to Britney Knight in her efforts towards ordination. Britney has several ordination exams scheduled for late October.
Reconsidered previous action regarding the starting time of the Christmas eve worship service and acted to change the time of that service to 6:30 p.m. on December 24th
Voted to accept the resignation of John Gregory from the Board of Deacons with regrets and thanksgiving for his many years of service
Voted to amend the wedding policy such that hence forth only approved ordained clergy may officiate weddings in First Covenant.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

September 2017

At the stated meeting on September 18th Session

Began with a joint meeting with the Board of Trustees. The joint portion of the meeting included no action items, but was for the purpose of improving communications between the two boards. The discussion was primarily focused on an updating of Endowment funds, including those from the sale of the Tiffany window; a look at trends in pledge and non-pledge revenue; and dealing with unexpected/unbudgeted expenses. Financial plans and actions going forward need to be consistent with the four focus areas identified in the congregational mission study completed as part of our recent pastoral search.
Briefly reviewed activities related to the beginning of the new program year. There were generally positive responses to the large turn-out and organization of the Block Party. Involvement in Faith Formation classes and activities for the first two weeks by people of all ages is encouraging.
Approved the baptism of Edward Paul Masharka V, son of Edward Paul Masharka IV and Irena Masharka, in mid-October.
Received a card from former Temporary Supply Pastor Rev. Timm High. Rev. High who expressed his thankfulness for his time with First Covenant; the way that he was embraced by the congregation and our growing willingness to listen to, learn from and be led by the Holy Spirit.
Gave formal approval to the solicitation of hurricane relief funds which will be forwarded to Presbyterian Disaster Assistance (PDA).
Approved several people for leadership/instruction roles in college ministry during the 2017-2018 program year.
Approved the holding of only one worship service on Sunday, December 17 at 10:00 a.m. This service will include the children’s Christmas pageant.
Approved 6:00 p.m. as the time for the single Christmas Eve Worship Service on December 24.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

August 2017

At the stated meeting on August 21st Session:

Acted to accept the audit report of Felix & Gloekler, our outside auditors, for the years ending December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2016.
Elected elders Scott Sesler and David Doupe as our commissioners to the September meeting of Lake Erie Presbytery in Pleasantville.
Approved a request for a Letter of Transfer for Ronald and Patricia Hoffman to the First Presbyterian Church of Irwin, PA
Voted to hold a joint meeting with the Board of Trustees in September.
Continued discussion on possible changes to First Covenant wedding policy and fees.
Had an extended discussion regarding our need as a church to understand, develop, and implement a workable policy which provides for the safety of our children and youth. Background checks on all employees and volunteers working with children and youth are now mandated by law.
Approved numerous people to teach and assist in a variety of classes and programs during the coming year.
Received a positive update and feedback from the Kirk House kitchen renovation project.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

July 2017

At the stated meeting on July 17th Session:

Elders shared thoughts on how we have been challenged to think in new ways; how we are being “transformed by the renewing of (our) minds, so that (we) may discern what is the will of God” (Romans 12:1-2) as individuals, as a session, and as a congregation.
Was brought up to date regarding the on-going review of wedding policy, room rentals, and the use of First Covenant facilities by outside groups and individuals. While making better use of our facilities and increased neighborhood relevance are two major points of emphasis identified in our mission study, there is also a need for consistency and an appropriate concern for the related costs.
Endorsed a motion from Trustees to use $9,580.00 from the Tiffany Window Fund to pay a portion of the Kirk House kitchen renovation expenses.
Endorsed a motion from the Trustees to use up to $37,000.00 from the Tiffany Window Fund, along with money from the Mission Set Aside Fund, Our Neighbors Place Fund, and a William Sesler memorial gift to pay for the renovation of the Knox Hall landing restrooms. Both of these motions are consistent with the commitment to use money from the sale of the Tiffany Window in ways that are consistent with the four areas of emphasis identified in our mission study.
Voted to receive Tracy Townsend into membership by Letter of Transfer.
Approved a motion from the Worship and Music Committee that we would not have the Christmas with First Covenant program in 2017 due to the scheduling of numerous other seasonal program offerings.
Approved a motion from the Worship and Music Committee that “…henceforth the sung Call to Worship, Doxology, Gloria Patri, and Lord’s Prayer be printed in full along with any appropriate hymn or page numbers, in the Sunday worship bulletins.”

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

June 2017

At the stated meeting on June 19^th Session:

Approved the baptisms of Gray Fidley Zdaniewski, daughter of James Zdaniewski and Adrienne Wright and granddaughter of Phyllis and Joseph Zdaniewski, and Charlotte Stoczynski, daughter of Tyler and Carrie Stoczynski and granddaughter of Neal and Rebecca Stoczynski on July 16, 2017.
Approved the invitation to Josh Heikkila, missionary to west Africa, to preach on Sunday, July 23, 2017.
Approved the recommendation of the Personnel Committee to establish the position of Coordinator of Missional Music effective August 1, 2017. The expense associated with this position to be capped at $44,000.00 per year.
Voted to remove John Betcher, Lorraine Vitt, and Nevin Wintode from the church membership roll; each at their own request.
Voted to support and approve Kirk House kitchen renovation proposal with the lowest responsible bidder to be accepted.
Approved using $6,000.00 from the McGeary/Morrow Account for partial payment of the expenses of Seph Kumer and Bill Tauber to join in the presbytery delegation trip to Ghana this fall.
Approved the use of the sanctuary on December 11 and 12, 2017 by the Erie Philharmonic Chorus for their Messiah concert and directed the trustees to draft a rental agreement and set an appropriate fee.
Approved the holding of only one worship service in the morning and one worship service in the evening on Christmas Eve, Sunday, December 24, 2017. Starting times of the services to be determined.
Approved dates for the celebration of communion for the remainder of 2017. The next celebration of communion is scheduled for Sunday, July 2, 2017.
Voted to direct the trustees to prepare for session approval legally binding documents and fee schedule for the use of the building. This schedule should include weddings, funerals, outside profit and non-profit groups, and the like; and address issues regarding deposits, liability, fees, alcohol and drug use, etc.
Voted to elect W.D. Holmes as clerk of session and Dale Sweet as associate clerk of session for 2017-2018.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

May 2017

At the stated meeting on May 15^th Session:

Had an exit interview with two representatives from the presbytery’s Committee on Ministry in which our experience and progress during Rev. High’s interim /temporary supply ministry and prospects for ministry in the near future with Rev. Weichman were both discussed.
As a follow-up to RoseMarie Lackey’s Moment for Mission on May 14^th, charged Seph Kumer to explore ways in which First Covenant might support the City Mission’s Bonkers for Jesus program given the closing of several schools where that program has been operating.
Referred a memo discussing the potential development of addition youth, education, and music programming to the Personnel Committee for further exploration.
Had a report from the Budget Committee that the Trustees have now started to move proceeds from the sale of the Tiffany Window out of the money market account and into a separate fund within the Endowment Fund. This will enable the earning of significantly more income while our discernment process continues.
Heard a very positive report from the College Ministry Working Group relating to the recently completed Study Space. Also, learned of the need for significant work to be done in the Kirk House kitchen.
Heard from Britney Knight that the recent spaghetti luncheon and desert auction was a wonderful success and the youth summer mission trip is fully funded.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

April 2017

At the stated meeting on March 20th Session

Had an opportunity to introduce themselves to and become better acquainted with pastor-elect Rev. Chris Weichman who was a guest at the meeting.
Had a discussion, prompted by a staff email, considering how to expand our idea of what it truly means to welcome the stranger, what the primary purpose of fellowship might be, and how we are doing, both individually and as a community, regarding these concerns. First Covenant will continue to attract more strangers so long as we continue to stress genuine hospitality.
Voted to approve letters of transfer for John Lindner, Lindsey Steiner and Kathy Steiner to Elmwood Presbyterian Church.
Voted to have the installation worship service for Rev. Chris Weichman the afternoon of Sunday, June 11, 2017, if the way be clear. A service of installation is an act of the presbytery, not the individual congregation, and as such needs the approval of presbytery.
Heard that the Mission Committee has changed the date of the annual block party to Wednesday, August 30, 2017.
Heard that the Mission Committee has contributed $2,000.00 from local mission funds to Lamb of God Lutheran Church to help repair their roof. This small Lutheran congregation has been very supportive of Our Neighbors Place and Sunday Suppers.
Heard that the Mission Committee has committed $6,000.00 from global mission funds to assist with the expenses of Seph Kumer and Bill Tauber for their mission trip to Ghana in September. This trip is in conjunction with the presbytery’s sister relationship with the Upper Northern Presbytery of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Ghana.
Voted to establish a single uniform fee for the use of any First Covenant venue for weddings of non-members.
Voted that there would be only one worship service at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, May 14^th (Mother’s Day) and that the day would be designated “Children and Youth Sunday: A Service of Light”. Children and youth will be leading worship.
Voted that the summer worship schedule would begin on Sunday, June 4, 2017. The first service time will remain at 8:30 a.m. and the second service time will move to 10:00 a.m.
Voted to approve the baptism of Lena Elizabeth Carlson, daughter of Eric and Leanne Carlson, on Sunday, May 28, 2017.
Voted to accept the resignation of Robert Chambers from the Board of Trustee effective May 1, 2017 with the thanks of the congregation for his faithful service.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

At a special meeting on March 12, 2017 session:

Voted to receive the following individuals into membership: Heather McBrier, Crystal Gleason, Scott Steva, and Heather Steva.

At the stated meeting on March 20th Session:

Voted to endorse a proposal from the Board of Trustees that the net proceeds from the sale of the Tiffany Window, approximately $1.7 million, be invested in a separate unrestricted account within the Endowment Fund using a dollar cost averaging approach. The entire investment to be completed by December 31, 2017.
Voted to change the date of the stated April session meeting to Monday, April 10, 2017. Pastor elect Chris Weichman will be a guest at that meeting.
Had an extended conversation about anxiety for some members of the congregation and staff during this time of transition and our continuing need for reconciliation with one another.
Was informed that Rev. High has moved out of the third-floor apartment. The apartment is now being spruced up a bit. Rev. Weichman will be living in the apartment beginning in early May until his family joins him in Erie after the school year is over.
Voted that the chancel lily display at Easter will be handled in a fashion similar to the poinsettia display at Christmas. That is the lilies displayed will be representative and not a one-for-one match with financial contributions. The net proceeds from financial donations will be used to begin to replenish the now depleted Vicary Organ Fund. The purpose of that fund is to pay for maintenance of the Vicary Organ.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

At the stated Session meeting on Monday, February 20 Session:

Voted to postpone the Session retreat previously planned for February 26th. The purpose of the retreat is to consider further the four points included in the Our Future Direction portion of the 2015 Mission Study and Mission Information Form that was the basis for the work of the PNC: neighborhood relevance, plans for better usage of our building, connecting with youth, and continued focus on hospitality. The action to postpone was taken in order to be able to include our newly called pastor, Chris Weichman, in that discussion.
Reviewed actions and progress to date in the four areas outlined in the Our Future Direction section of the Mission Information Form (MIF) and associated scripture passages.
Voted to call the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part II and the Annual Meeting of the Corporation for Sunday, April 2, 2017 following the 11:00 a.m. Worship service.
Approved Sunday, May 21, 2017 as the date for the ordination and installation of new officers elected at the annual meeting.
Tabled action on a motion from the Board of Trustees to move proceeds from the recent sale of the Tiffany window out of a money market account into an unrestricted managed fund within the Endowment Fund until the March session meeting.
Approved a motion from the Personnel Committee clarifying that “…the approval of the pastor is required before the use of any pastoral services in the church. In the absence of the pastor, the clerk of session is empowered to make such approval.”
Approved a motion from the Personnel Committee to amend the previously approved separation agreement with Rev. High to include reimbursement for the cost of keeping his personal belongings in a storage unit for up to four months.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

January 2017

At the stated Session meeting on Monday, January 16:

Had an extended conversation with members of the Board of Trustees concerning the use of the proceeds from the sale of the Living Waters Tiffany Window and the best placement of proceeds that would not be spent in the immediate future.
Approved a motion to use approximately $211,000.00 from the sale of the Tiffany Window to pay off the line of credit.
Voted not to use approximately $284,000.00 from the sale of the Tiffany Window to pay back funds taken for the principal of the Endowment Fund to balance the General Fund Budget from 2012 – 2016.
Approved a motion to use up to $168,000.00 from the sale of the Tiffany Window to balance the 2017 General Fund Budget.
Approved a motion to place the remainder of the proceeds from the sale of the Tiffany Window in a money market account while discernment of further disposition of the proceeds continues.
Voted to elect elders David Doupe and Linda Majewski as our commissioners to the February meeting of Lake Erie Presbytery.
Voted to hold a session retreat on the afternoon of Sunday, February 26, 2017 for the purpose of considering further the four points included in the Our Future Direction portion of the Mission Information Form that is the basis for work of the PNC: neighborhood relevance, plans for better usage of our building, connecting with youth, and continued focus on hospitality.
Voted to change Seph Kumer’s job title to Director of Community Engagement.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

November & December 2016

At a special session meeting on Sunday, November 20, 2016:

Session approved the baptism of Pearl Cora Han Jue Murphy-Allen. Pearl is the daughter of Holly Murphy & Matthew Allen.

At the stated session meeting of Monday, November 21, 2016:

Approved a request from the Covenant preschool for additional classroom space. Beginning in January 2017 the Witherspoon Room on the second floor will be turned into a classroom for the Covenant pre-school for the remainder of the 2016-2017 school year and for the 2017-2018 school year. The Sunday morning adult class that has been meeting in the Witherspoon Room will be moved to a third floor classroom.
Approved the revised Employee Personnel Manual for First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant as presented by the Personnel Committee.
Amended the terms of our covenant with Rev. High to provide him with an additional four months of compensation following the termination of his service at First Covenant and the beginning of service for our new installed pastor.
Heard a report that the sale of the 711-713 Myrtle Street property had closed for $69,000.00. Previous session action had established that net proceeds from the sale are to be used to support initiatives aligned with the four areas identified in the “Our Future Direction” section of our Mission Study. Those areas are: Neighborhood Relevance, Plans for Better Usage of our Building, Connect with Youth, and Continue a Focus on Hospitality.
Approved a recommendation from the Music and Worship Committee that there will be a chancel display of poinsettias this advent along with a listing of the names of those being memorialized or honored being printed as a bulletin insert, but that the financial gifts received from members will be directed to and benefit the Laundry Love Fund for Our Neighbor’s Place.

The stated December session meeting began as the annual combined meeting of the Session, Trustees and Deacons:

The three boards spent time in discernment around I Kings 17-1-24, the story of Elijah prophesying against Ahab and eventually being sent to the widow Zarephath, and then Matthew 11:1-6, in which the disciples of John the Baptist were sent to inquire of Jesus if he was the one to come or should they wait for another. The key question was, “How is this like First Covenant in 2016?”
The trustees offered a power point review of their 2016 accomplishments: special funds, parking and meeting space revenue, and sale of property; an analysis of the current state of the Endowment Fund with several possible scenarios going forward; pledge and revenue trend for the last five years; and several suggestions regarding the net proceeds from the auction of the Tiffany window
After a brief recess, the session meeting continued with additional discernment time focused on Matthew 25:14-30, the parable of the talents, and implications for First Covenant in 2016 and beyond.
Approved the proposed 2017 budget showing total revenue of $650,434.12, total expenses of $812,883.00, and a deficit of $162,448.88. As presented, this budget did not include any withdrawals from the principle of the Endowment Fund.
Approved the dissolution of our contract with Rev. Stephen Morse as Parish Assistant effective January 1, 2017.
Approved the removal of several members from the rolls at their own request.
Approved an amendment to the contract with the Schantz Organ Company for the repair of the Vicary Organ increasing the “not to exceed” amount by $7,135.00 for a new maximum contract amount of $19,385.00. This action corrects an omission in the original contract.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

October 2016

At the stated meeting on October 17th the Session:

Tabled action on a request from Covenant Preschool to expand into classroom space on the third floor of the Christian education building until such time as representatives of the Preschool can meet with the session for discussion.
Approved December 19, 2016 as the date for the annual combined meeting of session, deacons, and trustees.
Approved January 22, 2017 as the date for the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part I.
Approved First Covenant participation in the Erie Gives program with the matching funds received to be used for designated ministries and not incorporated into general church funds.
Approved a motion that the net proceeds from the sale of the 711-713 Myrtle St. property will be used to pay off the debt associated with that property and then the balance be used to fund Youth and Family Ministries.
Approved a motion that the proceeds from the sale of the third floor Tiffany Window will be used to fund programing that promotes the four goals outlined in the Mission Study of 2015: neighborhood relevance, plans for better usage of our building, connecting with youth & continued focus on hospitality.
Approved a proposal from the Mission Committee for an advent program leading up to and including a “fully traditional turkey dinner and all the trimmings (to be) served in Knox Hall on Christmas day (Sunday December 25, 2016)”.
Approved leaders for the College Ministry Restore program.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

September 2016

At the stated meeting on September 19th the Session:

Welcomed Britney Knight to our staff as the new Director of Youth and Family Ministry.
Heard a request from Deb Loney, president of the Board of Trustees, that session would consider First Covenant participation in the Erie Gives program in the future.
Heard a report from Geoff Ginader, PNC co-chair, about the progress the committee is making in the pastor search and discussed the recent announcement that Rev. High would not be nominated by the committee to be our next installed pastor.
Heard a report from elder Scott Sesler and the ad hoc committee that has been exploring options for dealing with the Tiffany Landscape Window on the second floor of the Christian education building. A representative from Sotheby has given an auction estimate of $250,000 – 350,000 and perhaps considerably more for the window. Session approved a motion to remove the window and send it to Sotheby’s in New York City for inclusion in their December auction devoted to works by Tiffany Studios.
Approved a motion calling for a special meeting of the corporation to be held on Sunday, October 9, 2016 immediately following the 11:00 a.m. worship service. The stated purpose of the meeting is to hear and act upon a report of the Nominating Committee to fill two unexpired terms on the Board of Trustees.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

August 2016

At the stated meeting on August 15th the Session:

Approved a request from the deacons for a special offering to be collected on September 25^th to the support Laundry Love Fund. This offering assists our guests at Our Neighbor’s Place in getting laundry done at Denny’s Laundry.
Acted to call a special meeting of the congregation and corporation for Sunday October 2, 2016 immediately following the 11:00 a.m. worship service. The purpose of this meeting is to act on a motion to amend the by-laws of the congregation and corporation to explicitly allow virtual attendance at meetings of the session and trustees. This action is a follow-up to the overture which originated with our session and was taken to the recent General Assembly in Portland.
Elected elders David Doupe and Scott Sesler as our commissioners to the September meeting of Lake Erie Presbytery.
Concurred with trustees to approve replacing the sign at the 6^th Street entrance with a new digital sign.
Approved the following as teachers for various classes starting in September: Greg Cooper, Linda Majewski, Geoff Ginader, Lauren Fabich, Nancy Irwin, Timm High, Bill Sesler, and Bill Holmes.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

July 2016

At the stated meeting on July 18th the Session:

Was moderated by General Presbyter Rev. David Oyler while Rev. High was on study leave.
Once again focused discernment time on the parable of the fig tree from Luke 13:6-9. If we see First Covenant as the fig tree, are we fruitful? What fruit should we be expecting? What are we doing that should be discontinued or cut down? What fertilizer do we need if we are to be more fruitful?
Heard a report from clerk W.D. Holmes of his time at General Assembly advocating for an overture to amend the Book of Order and some Face-to-Face conversations with several pastors who could be candidates for our called and installed pastor position.
Voted to call a special meeting of the congregation for Sunday, August 7, 2016 immediately following the 10:00 a.m. worship service. The purpose of that meeting is to hear a report and act upon recom- mendations to sell the apartment house property at 711-713 Myrtle Street.
Created and ad hoc committee to develop an amendment to the congregational by-laws that would explicitly allow electronic participation in session meeting so long as appropriate technology is available.
Heard a brief report on the success of the recently completed Vacation Bible School.
Approved a contract with the Schantz Organ Company of Orville, Ohio in the amount of $12,250.00 for repairs to the Vicary Organ. The Schantz company built the Vicary Organ originally.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

May 2016

At the stated meeting on May16^th the Session:

Heard a presentation from trustee Buzz Tarno concerning the rental property at 711- 713 Myrtle Street. This report included the current condition of the building, a cost estimate for numerous repairs, an estimate of the cost to demolish the building, and an offer to buy the building in its current condition. Session requested that the trustees confirm some of the data, obtain answers to several additional questions, and report back to session before session takes any action.
Heard an initial presentation regarding the future of Farrell’s Superette at 363 W. Fourth St. The store’s owner is dealing with serious health issues and needs to retire. The store is a well-respected fixture in the West Bayfront and one of the last stores in the area where residents can buy fresh meat and produce. Is God calling First Covenant to reach out and work with our West Bayfront neighbors in a new hands on way?
Approved Letters of Transfer for Betsy Deimel (to Wayside) and Ben and Lauren Fillmore (to Langhorn Presbyterian Church).
Approved June 12, 2016 as the date for the ordination and installation of newly elected officers.
Approved a Mission and Ministry Fair to be held in Knox Hall on Sunday September 11, 2016 following the 11:00 a.m. worship service.
Approved a reduction of Rev, High’s Effective Salary (salary and housing) from $70,000.00 to $65,000.00 effective June 1, 2016. This was done at Rev. High’s suggestion and brings his effective salary into line with information being used by the PNC as we search for our new pastor.
Approved Abby Blackenship as pulpit supply for June 5^th and the leaders and children from VBS aspulpit supply for July 17^th.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

April 2016

At the stated meeting on April 18th the Session:

Examined and received into membership the members of this year’s Confirmation Class: Marrick Bauer, Haley Fabich, Alec Reese, and Laura-Alexandra Shandi Taylor. The confirmands will be publicly received in worship services in May.
There were no other official actions taken at this meeting because session attendance did not meet the quorum requirements of First Covenant By-Laws. The reception of the confirmands was possible because the Book of Order specifically sets a lower quorum requirement for the reception of new members.
However, there was discussion on several other topics: plans to schedule a Ministry and Missions Fair in September, a decision by the Music and Worship Committee that there should be no alteration to the customary schedule of two Sunday worship services at this time. the complexities of providing gluten free bread for communion and a second, male, Campus Minister coming to the Kirk House in August

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

At a special meeting on March 20^th:

Session received the following new members: Sharon Harrington, Scott Vincent Palermo, Meghann Seifert and Elizabeth Spriegel. At the same meeting session also approved the baptism of Stella Elizabeth Seifert, daughter of Shaun and Meghann Seifert.

At the stated meeting on March 21st the Session:

Heard a presentation by Bill Jackson & Michael Jaruszewski of United Way. The presentation & discussion was focused on various programs United Way has either created or supports to develop strong neighborhoods & community. Special emphasis was given to the West Bayfront neighborhood & Strong Vincent High School. Much of the philosophy & information paralleled what session had heard from the Mercyhurst Civic Institute in February. Once again the goal in inviting these organizations to speak to session is to provide session with data concerning needs, programs currently in place & plans others are developing for new programs. The intention is to use this information to inform First Covenant decisions about programing & use of our facilities going forward.
Received and approved the Mission Information Form (MIF) from the Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC). The MIF has previously been approved by the presbytery’s Committee on Ministry & will now be submitted to Louisville. After it has been reviewed in Louisville it will be posted on line to provide potential pastor candidates with an introduction to First Covenant.
Elected Allen Sheasley & Scott Sesler as our commissioners to the April 19^th meeting of presbytery.
Approved ruling elder Stephanie Rose Briggs to preach on Sunday April 24^th.
Approved a request from the Music & Worship Committee to survey the congregation concerning worship services.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

At the stated meeting on February 15th the Session:

Heard a presentation by Amy Eisert and Andrea Bierer of the Mercyhurst University Civic Institute. The presentation and discussion was anchored around the summary report from the Neighborhood Concerns Survey that was conducted by the institute. The goal was to provide session with data concerning needs, programs currently in place and plans others are developing for new programs. The intention is to use this information to inform First Covenant decisions about programing and use of our facilities going forward.
The most attention grabbing data from the presentation was the importance of “Religiosity” – defined as attending structured religious activity one or more hours per week – as one of the three most important buffers in keeping young people from getting involved in various anti-social and/or criminal behaviors.
After our guests left, session voted to donate $10,000 from the renovation “Set Aside Money” to help pay costs for an advertising campaign the institute is already developing to encourage mothers to get their children involved in some type of structured religious program. There was much more to the discussion than can be included here, but one firm conclusion is that there is much hard data here to consider as we work to develop programing for First Covenant families and youth as well as expand outreach to the west bay-front neighborhood.
Voted that there will be only one church service on Sunday, April 10^th, 2016. Worship will be at 10:00 a.m. that Sunday with the Christian education hour starting at 9:00 a.m. The Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Part II and the Annual Meeting of the Corporation will be held immediately following the 10:00 a.m. worship service.
Voted that there will be only one worship service on Sunday, September 18^th, 2016. Worship will be at 10:00 a.m. that Sunday with the Christian education hour starting at 9:00 a.m. A Mission Fair will be held in Knox Hall immediately following the 10:00 a.m. worship service.
Approved Rev. High’s terms of call for 2016. Terms approved were the same as shown in the packets distributed at the January 31^st congregational meeting.
Approved Judy and Brian Stollatis as church school teachers for the spring term and Lori Fritts as a Children’s Church leader.
Approved the baptism of Hannah Stumpf, daughter of Ben and Colleen Stumpf , on Sunday, May 8^th, 2016.
Voted to remove Jamie LeSuer and Michael LeSuer from the membership roll at their request.

W.D. Holmes/Clerk of Session

Note: Minutes of earlier Session meetings can be found in the Brittainn Library.

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