As 2008 began, changes were emerging for the Bishop's Committee, we worried over the perennial questions of a new budget, a multi-generational Inquirers' Class was under way, and we were amidst the snowiest winter in New Hampshire history. For the past twenty years, I have been honored to have the care, support and leadership of fine, thoughtful senior wardens: Now Donna King has brought her own faithful, joyous, quiet and steady ministry to this position. I remember her first questions, "When am I supposed to find you, and how doI find you?" and the symbolic covenant to be there for each other that was sealed by programming all available numbers into our respective cell phones. Our new treasurer, Rob Landry and assistant treasurer, Tricia Mellor, took on these new ministries with diligence and care, and John Hodge has given the Bishop's Committee an extra gift as the "at large" member -- he has joined the Wheeler Chapel Trustees and is our liaison with those leaders. Rita MacAuslan has chaired the Southern Convocation-Diocesan Convention delegation, facilitating our communication and participation.
The 2008 budget was presented with the vicar's position at 50% time, which allowed both a balanced budget and positive cash flow. Although this move brought careful scrutiny from the diocesan Clergy Compensation Committee, it has worked out well for both our church and for me. We also discovered additional pledged money as we moved into February, so in spite of the many challenges to the economy our own situation has stayed steady and healthy.
The Inquirers' Class was fabulous! I decided to refresh the materials and topics I had used for much of two decades, and took my cues from the curriculum of Harry Potter's alma mater, Hogwarts. I also made my first real efforts using power point presentations -- I was not only delighted by the creative outlet this afforded for instruction, but also discovered this made the classes "portable." I truly appreciated the active interest and participation of those who came to classes, and those who invited me to bring presentations and discussions into their homes. My congratulations and blessings again to all who were baptized, confirmed and received when Bishop Robinson visited us.
Lent came quickly in 2008, giving way to the earliest Easter the calendar permits. Adults spent the spring discussing Bill Clinton's book, Giving. Clinton's insights emphasize that we should give because we enjoy giving; that we need to give according to our concerns and to those we trust to use our resources well; and that very wealthy donors repeatedly note their deep respect for those whose gifts may be smaller but are much more sacrificial. I was glad and humbled to hear one of our members explain that she hears people call our congregation, "The giving church." I am very moved by all of your many efforts to reach out into our community and world, and I am so grateful for our partnership with 4 Directions Outreach to offer help and hope to Native American peoples. I also appreciate the opportunities 2008 brought me to grow in awareness and ministry in our prisons and jails.
Vacation Church School always brings me a remarkable time with the young people of our church. I enjoyed our science and faith themes last summer -- My personal favorite was experimenting with dry ice, especially with Simon's commentary, "We made SNOW?!? We're going to be FAMOUS!" There was also that great moment when the group in the kitchen was working on transformation of substances -- and of our lives -- through baking when they broke three eggs into a large measuring cup. Voila! There was a giant Smiley Face looking back at them! Wall-E was a great flick -- and when else would we have planted flowers in our shoes and boots? Can you guess the context of Dillon Landry's offer, "I'll trade you two bananas for a turtle"?
Late summer into fall brought continued attention to stewardship using the theme, "The Butterfly Effect" to acknowledge the power and influence of even small acts of goodness and generosity. Meanwhile, I devoted myself to three continuing education projects: I returned to Louisiana to build again with the Bayou Area Habitat for Humanity group -- only to have the profound experience of evacuating home as Hurricane Gustav approached. Then I spent three days attending lectures given in honor of Elie Wiesel's 80th birthday. Next I launched something I call, "The Vicar's Film Festival." for which I have purchased documentaries related to my continuing education interests, and I have been watching them with various members of our congregation.
Throughout the year our worship and prayerfulness have been inspiring and sustaining. Special occasions have dotted the year, including Lisa King's marriage to Chris Duval, the blessing of Lois and Lyn Amidon's civil union, and Donna and Steve Webster's totally unique wedding amidst the December power outages. Celebrating Austin, Brady and Chase Couture's first birthdays and baptisms as well as acknowledging Brady's passing was a time filled with love. George Jones was buried with quiet, Christian dignity. And the music -- oh the music! Dixieland Sunday was spectacular, the Russian Mens' Ensemble came back to us, and Nancy Jamrog-Couret pulled together a beautiful Christmas concert and sing-a-long that capped our year.
2008 ended with the restoration of power following the December 11th ice storm, somewhat different holiday lessons and activities instigated by the Sunday School's "Lunch with the Vicar", a positive financial report, and appreciation for all who have helped lead our congregation's ministry and mission. I especially want to thank Pete Linkroum as he completes a term as our clerk, and Debby Granberg as she completes two terms as an at large member of the Bishop's Committee. Chris Wright has continued his joyous musical offerings, and Nancy somehow manages to bring freshness and creativity to all of our worship. John LeSueur contributes so much as our deacon that I cannot find suitable words to thank him. All of you contribute in so many, many ways to the wholeness that is Faith Episcopal Church.
Finally, a word about the world in which we live: I write as companies announce layoffs, stores announce closings, the stock markets are shaky to say the least and scandal has rocked the financial world. These things do more than make people nervous and afraid -- these things bring real hardship and suffering rippling all over the globe. I believe it is a time when we must be there for one another. We must heed the calling to love one another as Christ has loved us -- for every small act of kindness, every supportive arm and helping hand carries the true meaning of our lives.
Respectfully submitted,
Patricia E. Henking+, Vicar
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