The first quarterly Parish Life Meeting was called to order by President Steve Wangerin at 7:10 p.m. Members present included Ron Rice, Dale Lyon, Lynn and Janeen Wallgren, Becky Kirchoff, Tiffini Gross, Tracy and Lauri Smith, Rob Bogart and Pastor Hutson who opened with a prayer. Steve presented what the agenda would be for these meetings, what these meeting were for, when they would be and the importance of these meetings. It was noted by many of the members present that the number of people at this meeting was very disappointing, as it was to be not just a Council meeting but a chance for all the Boards to meet as well.
The main topic of discussion for this meeting was “Sanctuary Expansion Possibilities”. There was excellent and extended discussion on the many aspects not only of our sanctuary, but also our congregation. Tracy and Lauri presented a 3 year study on average attendance since 1-01-06, which showed an average Sunday attendance of 96 – 99, also included in those figures were several Sundays with attendance of over 140. Pastor suggested we get a 10 year study of average attendance to see how far we’ve come. Pastor also asked the question of who we are as a church and where we will be 10 years from now. Discussion also included several items on the remodeling or expansion of the sanctuary, the main one of course being cost. After the discussion, it was decided to set up a committee to further investigate needs and possibilities. The idea was put on the agenda for the council meeting
Becky asked the group about putting together a board of members to oversee the Youth, Youth Activities and CFF to assist her and Liz in managing all the youth activities as her children are growing and she needs to relinquish some of her responsibilities. It was decided to send it to the Board of Education for their assistance and input.
The meeting was concluded at 8:15 p.m.