Minutes, Meeting for Worship with a Concern for Business, May 9, 2010
In Attendance: Helen Dickinson, Judy Erickson (Acting Recording Clerk), Rosalind Larsen, Patricia McMillen, Wil Rutt (Clerk), Burke Shipley, Pam Timme.
We opened with silent worship.
QUAKER PRACTICE IN ACTION. As she prepares to move to Fort Collins, CO, we thank Rosalind Larsen for her many years of faithful service to Oak Park Friends Meeting, especially for her creation and years of dedication to First Day School. Rosalind expressed her appreciation to OPFM for many years of blessings.
COMMITTEE REPORTS (See also the non-action-item committee reports on their respective web pages.)
Finance Committee. In addition to the written report (see below), Patricia McMillen reported in Valerie's absence that there was a significant change to the Domini Money Market Fund in which OPFM recently invested our surplus funds. At the time of the decision to invest, the Domini MMF had its investments in Shorebank, which does microlending in low income businesses and neighborhoods in Chicago, among other places. However, it announced it had pulled its funds out of Shorebank and into a conventional bank. The Finance Committee decided to take its investment back and return it to Community Bank, which has been done, until some other investment decision is made.
Nominating Committee. The following nominees were approved for the term June 1, 2010 through May 31, 2011.
OFFICERS
Clerk: Wil Rutt
Co-Clerk: Patricia McMillen
Recording Clerk: Donna Cech
Treasurer: Valerie Lester
Auditor: Kim Jorgenson
Librarian: Adrian Fisher
COMMITTEE CLERKS AND COMMITTED COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Children’s Religious Education: Sue Beckman, Sarah Shirk, Pam Timme (needs a clerk)
Teens Religious Education: Patricia McMillen (Clerk)
Adult Religious Education: Judy Erickson (Clerk), Ann Chase
Spiritual Support Group: Helen Dickinson (Clerk/Convenor)
Quakerism 101: Denise Jacob (Convenor)
Ministry & Oversight: Pam Timme (Clerk), Ann Chase, Patricia McMillen, Wil Rutt, Burke Shipley
Peace & Justice: Kelly Maynard (Clerk)
Nominating Committee: Donna Cech (Clerk), Judy Erickson, Wil Rutt
Newsletter: Pam Timme (Editor), Bob Southworth
Website Committee: Judy Erickson, Denise Jacob, Pam Timme
Finance Committee: Valerie Lester (Treasurer, Clerk), Judy Erickson, Kim Jorgenson, Patricia McMillen
LIAISONS TO OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
MCGM: Helen Dickinson
ILYM: Helen Dickinson
Art League: Jim Holmes
Community of Congregations: Valerie Lester, Patricia McMillen
SPECIAL PROJECT COORDINATORS
PADS: Valerie Lester
Holiday Gift & Food Baskets: Sue Beckman, Donna Cech
Food Pantry Volunteers: Sue Beckman, Judy Erickson, Kelly Maynard, Valerie Lester
Trailside Museum Herbaceous Garden: Donna Cech, Patricia McMillen
Crop Walk: Judy Erickson
Among Friends Writer: Patricia McMillen
Email Message Contact: Helen Dickinson
Phone Message Contact: Laura Maddox
Ministry & Oversight Committee.
A description of the new Children’s Religious Educator position was distributed. Friends are encouraged to post it in appropriate places in the community. Wil agreed to post it on the MCGM and ILYM listservs. Pam will post one at the River Forest Community Center. Judy has posted it on our website. The newly formed Children’s Religious Education Committee will select the individual from among the applicants.
It was decided to not participate this year in “A Day in Our Village” (June 6, 2010).
M&O meetings will change to the second Thursday before business meetings each month. There will be no business meeting in June so no M&O meeting in June. The next M&O meeting will be on July 1, which is the second Thursday before the next business meeting (on July 11).
NEW BUSINESS
Per her request, we will maintain the membership of Rosalind Larsen here at Oak Park Friends Meeting. Wil will provide her with a Letter of Introduction to take with her to Fort Collins Friends Meeting, with Friendly greetings from our Meeting to theirs.
We closed with silent worship.
Lovingly Submitted by Judy Erickson
Filling in for Recording Clerk Donna Cech, who could not be with us today
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Minutes, Meeting for Worship with a Concern for Business, April 11, 2010
Present: Wilmer Rutt (clerk), Donna Cech (recording clerk), Rosalind Larsen, Judith Erickson, Pam Timme, Valerie Lester (Treasurer), Burke Shipley, Helen Dickinson
NOTE: Please listen deeply to each person who speaks. If you sense a need to speak, please leave sufficient time after the previous speaker. In general, all should have the chance to speak before any speak for a second time. Please request permission from the clerk before speaking. Do not repeat what has already been given. Please remember that this is a Meeting for Worship.
Worship
Quaker Practice in Action – The continued presence of the anti-war demonstrators at Harlem and Lake Street in Oak Park.
March Minutes, previously approved (go to website for review)
Committee Reports (ACTION ITEMS ARE IN BOLD)
Treasurer’s Report -- given by Valerie Lester
IYM Building Fund contribution - at the beginning of the year, Oak Park Friends decided to hold off making a $500 Building Fund contribution to IYM to see how income came in through the year. Due to current year deficit spending and OPFM's support of the increased assessment (to cover maintenance of the expanded property), I recommend that we do not make this contribution. Action: Meeting concurs with treasurer recommendation and the additional $500.00 contribution to IlYM Building fund will not be made this year.
Clarification given that Patricia McMillen and Valerie Lester are signatories for the Domini Money Market fund.
Website Committee -- given by Judy Erickson
We continue to update the website as requested. Please send photos to Denise and send to me any textual information that I can cut & paste onto a page for any organization that we support, and any OPFM-related report/event that you would like added to the website.
Adrian Fisher has started an online blog called “Ecological Gardening: Practicing Reconciliation Ecology in the Chicago Wilderness Area.” Although it is not overtly Quaker or spiritual, would it be OK to add a link to it in our Green Pages section? Action: Link to Adrian’s blog will be added to green pages of website.
Our “privacy policy” is to not use first and last names in public areas of the website, but to use first names with just the initials of the last names. However, when we are including information that is publicly available, such as in a printed publication or another website, should we make an exception to this policy to use published names?
Action: If information will be publically available, it is approved that the full name can be published on the website.
Ministry and Oversight Committee Minutes -– given by Pam Timme (entire report will be handed out at meeting)
Proposal: Religious Education, Children pre K-12th grade, Oak Park Friends Meeting
Objective: To Rebuild the Religious Education Program for Children pre K-12th grade
Background: Oak Park Friends Meeting has had a progressive decline in the number of children and youth coming to meeting, from 7 or 8 to essentially 0. The long term strength of meetings is related to the strength of child care and religious education. A number of experienced Quakers state that a program must be in place to attract attendees. During the last six months at least eight persons in this age group have attended at least once. It is important to provide religious education to this age group. Some of this is done during meeting each week from 10:10-11:00 AM. Other opportunities may be available to children and youth and their parents during other times of the week.
Proposal: A children’s education coordinator be hired.
Preferred Skills: A Quaker or a person sympathetic to Quaker ideals. Some formal training in educational principles. Experience with child development. Experience with religious education in preK-12th grade group.
Job Title: Children’s Educator.
The educator will be present from 9:45-11:45AM at least 80% of the weeks. The children’s program is offered on the second floor of the building. The program will include coordinating with members of the Meeting, talking with parents, providing enjoyable activities for children and basic religious instruction. If very young children are present, the meeting has volunteers that can assist as needed. If she/he will not be present, they will be responsible to recruit a substitute volunteer from the meeting at least two weeks in advance. In the case of unforeseen illness or an emergency, a Meeting volunteer will be ask to step in on an emergency basis. As the program is developing, and children have not as yet begun to attend, time can be given to assembling teaching resources and preparing activities. This includes accessing materials on Quaker websites, organizing existing curriculum materials and identifying children’s social network opportunities. All resources must be approved by an ad hoc committee of the meeting before implementation. A payment of $100 will be made each month. This arrangement can be terminated by either party with 30 days written notice.
Action: Wording related to “ad hoc committee” for approval of all curriculum resources should be changed to a more permanent format such as a subcommittee of Ministry and Worship Committee. Also consideration should be given to performance review of the employee and who should perform that action. It is recommended that Children’s Religious Education Committee be reinstated if possible on this year’s nominating process. Recommended wording change to paragraph above to state: “All curricular resources must be approved by the Children’s Religious Education Committee, or by default the Ministry and Oversight Committee.” The recruitment and interview of candidates process has been discussed and members of the meeting have volunteered to complete this process, reporting the outcome to Ministry and Oversight Committee. Clarification needs to made as to if this person will be an employee of the meeting or an independent contractor. Issues related to liability insurance also need to be clarified. The meeting will seek clarification from the IRS website as to employee versus contractor status. The Meeting and Oversight committee agrees that they will pursue further clarification of job status and liability insurance and bring a recommendation to the meeting.
Action: Approved hiring a Children’s Educator for the OPFM.
The State of Society Report needs to be written. Action: Judy Erickson volunteered to write State of Society Report for OPFM, and attempt to have the report approved by the meeting in time for Rosalind Larson to read it at the 5/1 MCG. in Downers Grove.
Peace and Justice Committee Report, Minutes of Meeting on March 28, 2010
Crop Walk (Hunger Walkathon West) -- by Judy Erickson, Coordinator
OPAL has kindly agreed to let us keep the yard sign up until the date of the Walk (May 2). I have received walker packets and other information, and will continue to provide materials as needed by walkers and donors. Please see me if you want to participate or donate. Valerie Lester will walk and is also happy to accept donations. Thanks for helping to feed hungry people in great need of our assistance!
New Business
A Day in Our Village is June 6, 11AM-6 PM. We need volunteers to lead the project. Recommendation: If logistics can be arranged, the OPFM would like to have a presence at A Day in Our Village. But a coordinator needs to be recruited and someone needs to have ability to carry the tent, tables, chairs, … Valerie will also inquire as to if the OP Art League would like to collaborate on a booth.
Nominating Committee will meet in the next 2 weeks. E-mail of the current opportunities will be sent to the membership this week.
New sign for our meeting- Lois Platt has presented the proposal to the Village of Oak Park. The process appears to be in process.
April Potluck. Action: The potluck will be held next Sunday at OPAL at 11:30. Valerie will come early to set up for it, and Burke will coordinate closing up at the end of potluck.
Donna was called away because 911 was called for her aunt (who lives next door to her mother). We held Donna and her family in the Light.
We ended with silent worship.
Respectfully submitted by: Donna Cech, Recording Clerk
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINUTES, MEETING FOR WORSHIP WITH A CONCERN FOR BUSINESS, March 14, 2010
Those in attendance were: Wilmer Rutt (clerk), Judith Erickson, Patricia McMillen, Burke Shipley, Donna Cech (Recording clerk), Valerie Lester, Pam Timme, Ann Chase, George McCoy
Silence
Quaker Practice in Action: Marti Matthews has been working with the Proviso Robotics Team. The team is focusing on peace education and robotics mission.
Treasurer’s report: Donations decreased 28% from last year, expenses up 3%, sufficient reserves exist at this time to continue OPFM work. Detailed report appears following these Minutes.
Finance committee: Socially responsible investment options explored. As current checking account earns minimal interest, group explored new options, considering
Liquidity
Safety and security
Consistency with Quaker values – supporting positive work
Recommendation: Invest in Domini Social Investments Money Market Account – which invests in community development related to housing, small business, etc in cities such as Chicago and Detroit.
Recommendation approved.
Tax free letter for meeting has been updated and is available from the Treasurer.
Website Committee: Report appears following these Minutes.
Adult Religious Education: The April and May programs will focus on Pendle Hill Pamphlet #382, "Holding One Another in the Light" by Marcelle Martin. All are encouraged to participate in these sessions. A suggestion was made to add “adult religious education” to weekly sign-up sheet for someone to lead adult religious education or worship sharing.
Ministry and Oversight Committee: Report appears following these Minutes.
Findings of the Direction of the Meeting session; discussed input. The Ministry and Oversight committee encourages more opportunity for worship sharing. Ann Chase will work with the committee to develop worship sharing.
Child Care recommendation made – Hire routine child care provider/teacher to come every week. If children are not in attendance, the child care provider would work on curriculum materials. Members have volunteered to interview applicants for this position and to review curricular materials to support consistency with Quaker values.
Discussion of several components of the proposal included:
Payment method (hourly versus retainer)
Level of responsibility with the position
Concerns related to individual who is not a Quaker developing curriculum
Encourage hiring someone who has work experience with children and has understanding of mandatory reporting and other child care issues
It was encouraged that wishes of members with children be considered regarding child care versus religious education priorities. Clarification of this issue will assist in development of the job description and contract for the individual hired.
Sense of meeting not reflected and suggestion made to proceed with further seasoning of the proposal.
Clarity on compensation will improve once the job description is complete. Currently meeting does not have experience with worker’s compensation and withholding taxes; support would be needed to assist in learning these skills. Judy Erickson can possibly provide support in this area. As current advertising reflects availability of child care, it is important for meeting to resolve the child care issue at this time.
Recommendation: Ministry and Oversight further season proposal and bring it back to meeting.
The Ministry and Oversight Committee recommends that the ad in the Wednesday Journal be placed weekly rather than every 2 weeks. Thanks given to Penny Murad for supporting the ad for the past several years. At this time the meeting would assume the expense of the ad (which is $13.00/week). Discussion related to whether the Wednesday Journal is the most widely distributed local paper at this time. Oak Leaves and Tribune Oak Park weekly edition might be more favorable. The Wednesday Journal does post our information on their website.
Recommendation: Ministry and Oversight Committee consider these issues and further season this recommendation.
Peace and Justice Committee: The committee brings recommendations on the FCNL legislative priorities for the next 2 years (report attached). Each priority proposed by Peace and Justice was considered by the OPFM. Discussion resulted in approval of:
Final recommendation was to add North Korea and Iran to list provided in bullet 2
Insert “take positions against use of torture by the federal government and the federal death penalty, …..” into the first bullet.
Group approved the five priorities, as amended.
New Business:
Lois Platt is working with Village of Oak Park on new signage for the meeting
A Day In Our Village, June 6, 11:00 am - 6:00 pm: look for volunteer to lead, and treasurer will hold application until volunteer is identified
Volunteer request related to campfire leader for ILYM will be pursued over the next month.
Suggestions needed for next “Among Friends” edition – considering our recent hosting of MCGM; beginning new Quakerism 101 session; Domini social investments. Please give further suggestions to Patricia.
Feinstein Challenge is ongoing. OP Food Pantry has requested participation by the OPFM. Options for donations discussed.
Recommendation: OPFM advertise the challenge to members and attenders. Food can be dropped off at meeting or at Valerie’s house.
Judy has volunteered to organize the meeting participation in the Crop Walk this year. Approved by meeting
Close with silent worship
TREASURERS REPORT & MINUTES OF FINANCE COMMITTEE, 2/20/10
WEBSITE COMMITTEE REPORT
ADULT RELIGIOUS EDUCATION REPORT
MINISTRY & OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE MINUTES
PEACE & JUSTICE COMMITTEE MINUTES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINUTES, MEETING FOR WORSHIP WITH A CONCERN FOR BUSINESS, February 14, 2010
Those in attendance were: Wilmer Rutt (clerk), Helen Dickinson, James Holmes, Judith Erickson, Rosalind Larsen, Patricia McMillen, Laura Maddox, Kim Jorgenson, Debra Sparling, Burke Shipley, Donna Cech (Recording clerk)
Silent Worship
Quaker Practice in Action: 50th Anniversary of the Student Non-violent Coordinating Committee this year. This group worked very hard on civil rights and should be held in the light.
Committee Reports:
Audit Report, Kim Jorgenson – The records, deposits and expenditures made by the Oak park Friends meeting were verified and the treasurer information appeared to be accurate for the June 2008-May 2009 fiscal year..The audit report was approved.
Adult Religious Education – Adrian will not be able to give her workshop on March 7th, but would be willing to lead an environmental action worship sharing on that date. Several people have suggested more worship sharing in the adult religious education program. Other possible topics for 3/7 were discussed (worship sharing, IlYM Faith and Practice Meeting Structure section). Meeting would like to ask Adrian to lead the worship sharing on 3/7, but if she is not available, Rosalind Larsen will prepare a query for 3/7.
Teen Religious Education – Teens have not met in February. Several activities are planned. Quake over Memorial Day Weekend at IlYM clean up weekend. Patricia has informed parents of the event, but has not yet heard from any teens who are planning to attend. Christina has completed her high school requirements, and her accomplishment was recognized by the meeting.
Phone message request – OPFM has an electronic phone answering service at this time and the meeting for business recommended that it be checked twice/week. Patricia McMillan requested assistance in checking for messages. It is especially important to check on Saturday. Laura Maddox volunteered to assist Patricia in checking for messages.
Website Committee Report – Committee would like feedback from people who have gone to the website (www.oakparkfriends.org; password – simplegifts), specifically comments, suggestions, etc. Some members gave positive feedback on the website. A concern was raised to having activities being held in peoples home being listed without further information or mechanism to get feedback on number of people attending. Meeting phone number is listed in the contact form and when events are listed readers can be referred to the phone number for more information.
Pot Luck will not be held in February.
Ministry and Oversight Committee – Beth Schobernd (IlYM) has requested that she reschedule her visit to the OPFM on 3/21/10. Hospitality host is needed.
M and O confirmed need for some privacy on website, which has been acknowledged with password protected segment.
Member has requested clarification on our current child care plan for each meeting. At this time, when a child attends, a member/ or attender volunteers to care for the child. The Wednesday Journal currently advertises the OPFM as providing childcare and religious education. Concern was raised as to if we are not advertising in accordance with testimony of integrity.
It was recommended that Wednesday Journal listing be changed to reflect current practice. Suggestions were also made to consider hiring a regular child care provider and not provide religious education. It was also acknowledged that very few families with children are involved in the meeting and children do not regularly attend. It was also suggested to seek advice from other meetings who may have had this problem.
Proposal: M and O discuss and bring recommendations to the Meeting with a Concern for Business. Specific topics to be considered are hiring a regular childcare provider and consider mandatory reporter status.
Recommendation: Wednesday Journal listing be revised to remove religious education portion for the next month.
Ministry and Oversight referred Patricia McMillen’s suggestion regarding the book Suburban Promised Land to the business meeting. Adult Religious Education welcomes the suggestion and is requesting a volunteer to host the meeting.
Ministry and Oversight will review Direction of the Meeting minutes and bring report to the March Meeting with Concern for Business.
New Business: An antiwar march will occur in March. Judith Erickson has requested the Meeting for Concern for Business consider if we should become a co-sponsor of this march. Meeting for Business agreed to co-sponsor the event and the flier will be sent to Valerie Lester so that she can send a check for $35.00.
Silent worship
Meeting was adjourned at 12:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Donna Cech (Recording Clerk)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINUTES, MEETING FOR WORSHIP WITH A CONCERN FOR BUSINESS, January 10, 2010
Present: Ann Chase, Helen Dickinson, Judy Erickson (Adult Religious Education Coordinator, temporary Recording Clerk), Rosalind Larsen, Valerie Lester (Treasurer), Marti Matthews, George McCoy, Patricia McMillen (Teen Coordinator), Wilmer Rutt (Clerk), Pam Timme (Ministry & Oversight Committee Clerk, Newsletter Editor)
1. We began with silent worship.
2. Quaker Practice In Action: Lisa Madigan (IL Attorney General) was commended for defending local gun control laws.
3. Wil described his new agenda format which includes the Minutes from the previous month and committee reports.
4. December Minutes as printed in the agenda were reviewed. Corrections/additions of last names are noted as follows: Helen Dickinson, Patricia McMillen, Meredith Morris, & Beth Schobernd.
5. Valerie Lester presented the Treasurer’s Report as printed in the agenda. The Sufferings Fund is now set up as a savings account at Community Bank.
6. Judy Erickson presented the Adult RE report as printed in the agenda. She requested approval to hold an organizational meeting at 11:30 am on Jan. 31st for a new Quakerism 101 series. This request was approved. Helen Dickinson reported that the Spiritual Support Group has been suspended until March because of the inclement winter weather.
7. Judy Erickson & Pam Timme reported for the Website Committee, which also includes Denise Jacob. The December report was printed in the agenda; a correction was made on p. 5, 4th paragraph as follows: “-- In general, we will post photos without the names of people appearing in them.” She distributed a separate January report (which did not make it into the agenda).
Two questions, related to calendar event listings, were raised for seasoning by the Website Committee.
-- Can the website be set up to automatically email calendar updates directly from the website to the list of recipients?
-- The current policy for listing events in the email calendar is to list only events directly related to our Meeting. Should the website calendar have a more inclusive policy to include events hosted by associated organizations, such as the Community of Congregations?
Until these questions are answered, Wil agreed to continue to send out the email calendar to his list, and to learn how to upload the weekly calendar to the website.
A decision was made to add the AT&T Voicemail feature to the Meeting’s AT&T telephone service. This change was made to allow the telephone number to be added to the website. Patricia McMillen agreed to listen and respond to messages on each Saturday and on one other day each week.
Helen agreed to continue answering email from the Community of Congregations webpage, and to answer email from the new website.
The Committee requested guidance regarding website privacy issues raised in the report, particularly as they apply to the Newsletter and Minutes. Because of Committee concerns that arose at their last meeting, the Minutes have been password protected. (There are no Newsletters on the website yet.) The following suggestions were given.
-- There could be two versions of the Newsletter, a print version as currently published, and a redacted online version that does not include personally identifiable information such as last names, addresses, or birthdates. Pam will further consider these and other Newsletter-related issues.
-- The Website Committee could host a special meeting to provide Meeting members and attenders more time to learn about the website and to season issues.
It was noted that the business of the Meeting is relevant to Meeting members and attenders, while the Newsletter is relevant to outreach.
The unresolved issues need more seasoning. Judy gave the password to those in attendance, and requested that any other website questions or comments be directed to any member of the Website Committee.
8. Pam Timme gave a report for the Ministry & Oversight Committee (M&O). M&O has mailed out a survey to current attenders and members, and hopes to get responses in advance of the Direction of the Meeting (DOM) meeting on 1/24. They will also provide paper copies at the DOM meeting.
Friends Journal is in dire financial condition, and is in danger of ceasing operations. It has asked for support from Quaker Meetings. M&O brings a proposal to pay for a 1-year subscription to FJ for any Meeting member or attender who wants one. Each subscription costs $43.50 including postage. Twenty subscriptions would cost $870. Because there are other Quaker organizations experiencing financial difficulties, further seasoning is needed to discern whether we are being led to make this commitment. Members and attenders are asked to submit our thoughts to Pam for the M&O Committee, and to keep these needs in mind at the DOM meeting.
9. Patricia McMillen reported that the teen group will have a bowling outing at 1 pm on Jan. 23rd. Parents and teens have all been contacted and permission forms are being submitted. She continues to encourage teens to be active in Quaker events, and is hopeful for teen participation in the ILYM Memorial Day Work Weekend.
10. Adrian Fisher, Meeting Librarian, requested a budget of $200 to purchase new books. This request was approved.
11. Having moved from the Chicago area many years ago, Loren Lybarger was found to be living in Ohio and was contacted by the Oversight Committee. After some correspondence, he requested termination of his membershipbecause he has discontinued his involvement with Quakers. About a year ago he was asked whether he would like to transfer his membership to the local Quaker Meeting, but he has not contacted us again. The Meeting feels led to accept termination of his membership. Wil Rutt will mail a copy of this Minute to him, along with our prayers for his spiritual and physical well being.
12. Wil Rutt requested a 3-month trial of a new format for Meeting for Worship with Attention to Business. His suggestion, which came to him during the Clerking Worshop at Pendle Hill last November, is to incorporate it into Meeting for Worship on the second Sunday of the month (as described in the agenda). Reasons for this suggestion include increasing participation in decisions and having more time to season decisions.
Discussion included the belief that all of life is worship to Quakers; any changes need to be communicated thoroughly (including reasons for changes); and some people do not settle into worship for 15-20 minutes, leaving less time for what is most meaningful to attenders.
Valerie has agreed to consider today’s discussion, feedback from the M&O survey, and any relevant discussion at the DOM meeting. With this she will bring a seasoned proposal to a future Meeting for Worship with Attention for Business.
13. A draft version of these Minutes was read back and approved.
14. We ended with silent worship.
Lovingly submitted by Judy Erickson
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
December 2009 Business Meeting Minutes
December 23, 2009
Those in attendance were: Wilmer Rutt (clerk), Helen Dickenson, Valerie Lester, Judith Erickson, Rosalind Larsen, Patricia McMillan, Pam Timme, Donna Cech (Recording clerk)
Silent Worship
Quaker Practice in Action: We appreciate Patricia McMillan for her activities with the Teens, and for her willingness to participate as a “Friendly Adult Presence (FAP)” at the coming youth quake.
Review of November Minutes: November, 2009 minutes were read. A correction to the treasurer’s report clarified that a $1000 saving account for the suffering account was established and the PAX fund dollars remains in the PAX fund as meeting reserve funds. A question was raised whether Beth was invited to the Direction of the Meeting meeting and Judy Erickson will invite her to attend and also confirm her participation in the MCGM meeting. A suggestion is made that minutes be written in active voice so that task assignments are clarified.
Clarification: Beth is invited for 1/24 for the Direction of the Meeting meeting and on 2/6-7 for the MCGM meeting. Valerie will offer Beth hospitality on 1/23. Patricia McMillan will offer hospitality on 2/5-2/6.
Committee Reports:
Treasurer’s report: Report attached
Ministry & Oversight Committee – Pam Timme read 12/7/09 committee minutes (see attached). Three issues for action.
Should the OPFM phone number be added to the OPFM website. The M & O Committee is in favor of this. The website committee also supports this action. Currently the phone is in Judith Erickson’s home and it rarely rings, but when it does it is often a solicitor. Judy is concerned that if the number is listed on the website, increased calls will be difficult. Patricia McMillan suggested that voice mail on the phone be obtained so that the phone can be unplugged, but any messages will be accessible on voice mail. Recommendation go back to Website Committee to explore voice mail and come to next business meeting with a definitive recommendation, including consideration of annual phone expenses.
Friend’s Journal – should the Journal be ordered for all members and regular attenders for 1 year so that they could consider whether they want to renew the subscription for another year. This would help Friend’s Journal, which is experiencing financial difficulty, and expose members and attenders to the broader Quaker community. A proposal will be seasoned and brought to Meeting for Business in January.
Should more Faith and Practice books be purchased? Further investigation has to be made as to how many copies we currently have. Consideration of Illinois Yearly Meeting plans to develop a Faith and Practice should be considered in this investigation. It is recommended that the Religious Education Committee complete this investigation and report back to the Worship with Attention to Business meeting
Nominating Committee Report – Rosalind Larsen reported that the committee has contacted several members related to open positions. The committee recommends that the Co-Clerk of the meeting not be filled at this time. Ann Chase has volunteered to be a member of M & O committee. Action: Ann Chase was welcomed as a member of the Ministry and Oversight committee.
Planning for Direction of the Meeting. A recommendation from M and O is to have Paul Buckley make a brief presentation related to developing deeper spirituality in the meeting. Will has contacted him and is waiting for a response. Valerie suggested he be asked to speak on “spirit led consensus” for the Direction of the Meeting meeting. Patricia is interested in including a “teen caucus” for the Direction of the Meeting Meeting. Action: Season these ideas and bring definitive agenda to next Worship with a Direction to Business meeting (January)
Planning for the Metropolitan Chicago General Meeting. Communication with Northside meeting has indicated that they may not be able to coordinate luncheon. Based on this concern, pizza, salad, fruit platter was recommended. Further discussion indicated that potluck has worked in the past for other meetings and is more welcoming than commercially ordering food. It was requested that pot luck be reconsidered. The Conservatory has small refrigerator, full stove, microwave, sink. Plates and cups need to be provided. Discussion continued and was supportive of combining ordering of pizza and pot-luck for other meal contributions. February is “chocolate month” at the conservatory which can provide educational opportunities related to fair trade, etc.
It is important to give programming information to other members and meetings early enough to generate interest in attending the meeting. Will has sent general information to IlYM about the program and time frame. It is recommended that a post be made to the MCGM e-list. Will will verify that Martha Turner, clerk of MCGM has posted. If she has not done so, Will will post on the MCGM website. It is recommended that Adrian write a brief description of her presentation and it be posted to the MCGM website and MCGM list serve. Patricia will post both Adrien’s description and a description of children’s activities to the MCGM list serve and IlYM. Action: Menu and program will be finalized at next business meeting.
New Business:
Will brought a concept for consideration to the Worship with Attention to Business meeting. Will will bring a proposal to the next meeting related to a 3 month trial of adjusting the meeting schedule for the weeks we have “Worship with Attention to Business” to shorten the meeting worship to 30 minutes, then move into the “Worship with Attention to Business” for 60 minutes. This would be followed by social time, then continuation of the Business meeting if necessary.
MCGM Donations for Proviso Math and Science Academy may not be as robust as originally hoped. Can a donation from this meeting be made from OPFM to MCGM to support this donation. Concerns have also been raised related to church funding for public school activities. The issue was not seasoned by the M and O meeting and a request was made to consider today at business meeting, because donations to MCGM need to be committed by 12/15.
Recommendation made to make contribution of $150.00 to support teen development and non-violent community activities. Further discussion raised continuing objection to donating money to public education and a second concern that robotics are very related to development of possible weapons and we would need to be assured that the donation would not be seen as supporting development of war-like uses. Discussion continued and informed the group that war-time use of robotics was discussed at MCGM and multiple peace-time uses of robotics were also identified. MCGM also worded a cover letter to go with the donation supporting the development of the young people in the robotics club with an underlying peaceful message.
Action: Meeting members and attenders will be informed that personal contributions can be made for this initiative. The address for donations to Ill. Math and Science academy for donations will be provided at the next meeting for worship.
Renewal of tax exempt letter has to be completed. Patricia McMillan will renew the letter.
Judith Erickson will take minutes on 1/10/2010.
Silent Worship
Respectfully submitted by : Donna Cech, recording clerk
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meeting for Worship with a Concern for Business
November 8, 2009
Those in attendance were:
Wil Rutt, Patricia McMillen, Helen Dickinson, Pam Timme
Valerie Lester, Judy Erickson, Meredith Morris, Denise Jacob
Silent worship.
Quaker Practice in Action:
The meeting thought of Rosalind Larsen’s dedication; though not feeling well today, she showed up before meeting to insure there would be someone to do child care, if needed. The meeting holds her in the light.
Minutes: Minutes of the previous meeting were approved.
Ministry and Oversight Committee
Valerie asked that it be noted that the treasury currently holds $9,000 in reserve apart from budgeted needs, and that a visioning meeting could be held to discuss the Meeting’s thoughts about this. It was decided such a meeting would be supported.
Approval was granted for a general appointment of a website/publications group. The Nominations Committee will move to set up a group of no more than six members. Three nominations for this group exist in the members who attended the recent web building workshop in Normal, Ill. (Pam Timme, Denise Jacob, Judy Erickson) and these names were approved. The Nominations Committee is requested to come up with one or two additional names. Denise will convene the first meeting of this group.
Peace and Justice Committee
The Peace & Justice Committee was asked to do the program for the Feb. 6, 2010 MCGM meeting that OPMM is hosting. Adrian Fisher will do an environmental presentation. Patricia will coordinate activities for children on that day, and contact the ILYM youth coordinator for assistance. She will also ask Marty Matthews to help.
Wil reported that the Oak Park Conservatory could be rented for this event, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with docents also provided, at a cost of $350. This location was approved; Valerie will send a $100 deposit to the Conservatory to hold the space.
Religious Education. Adult religious education continues, led by Judy Erickson.
Three teens met October 18 at Patricia’s home, baked cookies and listened to jazz. They will also bake several dozen cookies for the Nov. 22 Interfaith Thanksgiving Service. Donations of canned goods and cash to benefit the Food Pantry will be taken at this service.
Childcare and Children's Religious Education. Wil pointed out that this committee still is in need of several volunteers. Valerie mentioned that, so far this season there has not been a demonstrated need for children’s religious education. At the moment, only a child care clerk is being sought by the Nominating Committee. Valerie added that perhaps we should revisit the possibility of hiring outside help for childcare. We were reminded that at a previous meeting we decided to provide quiet toys and books to enable children to stay in the Gallery with the adults during meetings for worship.
Treasurer’s Report. The Finance Committee would like to remind members that incremental funds can be requested at any Business Meeting. The Meeting approved the transfer of $1,000 from the Pax sufferings fund to a Meeting savings account.
Old Business. Helen mentioned that she toured the new house and barn at McNabb, and that at MCGM a grants program was discussed. Pam Timme will host the November potluck.
New Business
Patricia brought a proposal to MCGM that they help support the Proviso Robotics Team’s effort to go to the regional robotics competition. MCGM approved a $400 sponsorship.
In lieu of the regular meeting of Peace & Justice, Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010 was approved as a Direction of the Meeting meeting. Paul Buckley of ILYM will attend; pizza and salad will be provided. The January Peace & Justice meeting will be held on January 17 instead of a potluck.
Beth Schobernd from Clear Creek Meeting will join us February 7 in her capacity as Ministry & Advancement Visitor. It was suggested that Beth also be invited to the Direction of the Meeting event.
As Meeting Librarian, Adrian requested permission to sell a proportion of our accumulated books. OPAL space allows us only two shelves for books, and we have about 800. These could be sold to members and at ILYM. The Meeting asked that Adrian discuss her criteria regarding what to keep and what to sell with us before proceeding. Jim Holmes has built an additional shelving unit next to our current one.
The Meeting closed with silent worship. Respectfully submitted,
Denise Jacob, Acting for Donna Cech
In Attendance: Helen Dickinson, Judy Erickson (Acting Recording Clerk), Rosalind Larsen, Patricia McMillen, Wil Rutt (Clerk), Burke Shipley, Pam Timme.
We opened with silent worship.
QUAKER PRACTICE IN ACTION. As she prepares to move to Fort Collins, CO, we thank Rosalind Larsen for her many years of faithful service to Oak Park Friends Meeting, especially for her creation and years of dedication to First Day School. Rosalind expressed her appreciation to OPFM for many years of blessings.
COMMITTEE REPORTS (See also the non-action-item committee reports on their respective web pages.)
Finance Committee. In addition to the written report (see below), Patricia McMillen reported in Valerie's absence that there was a significant change to the Domini Money Market Fund in which OPFM recently invested our surplus funds. At the time of the decision to invest, the Domini MMF had its investments in Shorebank, which does microlending in low income businesses and neighborhoods in Chicago, among other places. However, it announced it had pulled its funds out of Shorebank and into a conventional bank. The Finance Committee decided to take its investment back and return it to Community Bank, which has been done, until some other investment decision is made.
Nominating Committee. The following nominees were approved for the term June 1, 2010 through May 31, 2011.
OFFICERS
Clerk: Wil Rutt
Co-Clerk: Patricia McMillen
Recording Clerk: Donna Cech
Treasurer: Valerie Lester
Auditor: Kim Jorgenson
Librarian: Adrian Fisher
COMMITTEE CLERKS AND COMMITTED COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Children’s Religious Education: Sue Beckman, Sarah Shirk, Pam Timme (needs a clerk)
Teens Religious Education: Patricia McMillen (Clerk)
Adult Religious Education: Judy Erickson (Clerk), Ann Chase
Spiritual Support Group: Helen Dickinson (Clerk/Convenor)
Quakerism 101: Denise Jacob (Convenor)
Ministry & Oversight: Pam Timme (Clerk), Ann Chase, Patricia McMillen, Wil Rutt, Burke Shipley
Peace & Justice: Kelly Maynard (Clerk)
Nominating Committee: Donna Cech (Clerk), Judy Erickson, Wil Rutt
Newsletter: Pam Timme (Editor), Bob Southworth
Website Committee: Judy Erickson, Denise Jacob, Pam Timme
Finance Committee: Valerie Lester (Treasurer, Clerk), Judy Erickson, Kim Jorgenson, Patricia McMillen
LIAISONS TO OTHER ORGANIZATIONS
MCGM: Helen Dickinson
ILYM: Helen Dickinson
Art League: Jim Holmes
Community of Congregations: Valerie Lester, Patricia McMillen
SPECIAL PROJECT COORDINATORS
PADS: Valerie Lester
Holiday Gift & Food Baskets: Sue Beckman, Donna Cech
Food Pantry Volunteers: Sue Beckman, Judy Erickson, Kelly Maynard, Valerie Lester
Trailside Museum Herbaceous Garden: Donna Cech, Patricia McMillen
Crop Walk: Judy Erickson
Among Friends Writer: Patricia McMillen
Email Message Contact: Helen Dickinson
Phone Message Contact: Laura Maddox
Ministry & Oversight Committee.
A description of the new Children’s Religious Educator position was distributed. Friends are encouraged to post it in appropriate places in the community. Wil agreed to post it on the MCGM and ILYM listservs. Pam will post one at the River Forest Community Center. Judy has posted it on our website. The newly formed Children’s Religious Education Committee will select the individual from among the applicants.
It was decided to not participate this year in “A Day in Our Village” (June 6, 2010).
M&O meetings will change to the second Thursday before business meetings each month. There will be no business meeting in June so no M&O meeting in June. The next M&O meeting will be on July 1, which is the second Thursday before the next business meeting (on July 11).
NEW BUSINESS
Per her request, we will maintain the membership of Rosalind Larsen here at Oak Park Friends Meeting. Wil will provide her with a Letter of Introduction to take with her to Fort Collins Friends Meeting, with Friendly greetings from our Meeting to theirs.
We closed with silent worship.
Lovingly Submitted by Judy Erickson
Filling in for Recording Clerk Donna Cech, who could not be with us today
-----------------------------------------------------------------
Minutes, Meeting for Worship with a Concern for Business, April 11, 2010
Present: Wilmer Rutt (clerk), Donna Cech (recording clerk), Rosalind Larsen, Judith Erickson, Pam Timme, Valerie Lester (Treasurer), Burke Shipley, Helen Dickinson
NOTE: Please listen deeply to each person who speaks. If you sense a need to speak, please leave sufficient time after the previous speaker. In general, all should have the chance to speak before any speak for a second time. Please request permission from the clerk before speaking. Do not repeat what has already been given. Please remember that this is a Meeting for Worship.
Worship
Quaker Practice in Action – The continued presence of the anti-war demonstrators at Harlem and Lake Street in Oak Park.
March Minutes, previously approved (go to website for review)
Committee Reports (ACTION ITEMS ARE IN BOLD)
Treasurer’s Report -- given by Valerie Lester
IYM Building Fund contribution - at the beginning of the year, Oak Park Friends decided to hold off making a $500 Building Fund contribution to IYM to see how income came in through the year. Due to current year deficit spending and OPFM's support of the increased assessment (to cover maintenance of the expanded property), I recommend that we do not make this contribution. Action: Meeting concurs with treasurer recommendation and the additional $500.00 contribution to IlYM Building fund will not be made this year.
Clarification given that Patricia McMillen and Valerie Lester are signatories for the Domini Money Market fund.
Website Committee -- given by Judy Erickson
We continue to update the website as requested. Please send photos to Denise and send to me any textual information that I can cut & paste onto a page for any organization that we support, and any OPFM-related report/event that you would like added to the website.
Adrian Fisher has started an online blog called “Ecological Gardening: Practicing Reconciliation Ecology in the Chicago Wilderness Area.” Although it is not overtly Quaker or spiritual, would it be OK to add a link to it in our Green Pages section? Action: Link to Adrian’s blog will be added to green pages of website.
Our “privacy policy” is to not use first and last names in public areas of the website, but to use first names with just the initials of the last names. However, when we are including information that is publicly available, such as in a printed publication or another website, should we make an exception to this policy to use published names?
Action: If information will be publically available, it is approved that the full name can be published on the website.
Ministry and Oversight Committee Minutes -– given by Pam Timme (entire report will be handed out at meeting)
Proposal: Religious Education, Children pre K-12th grade, Oak Park Friends Meeting
Objective: To Rebuild the Religious Education Program for Children pre K-12th grade
Background: Oak Park Friends Meeting has had a progressive decline in the number of children and youth coming to meeting, from 7 or 8 to essentially 0. The long term strength of meetings is related to the strength of child care and religious education. A number of experienced Quakers state that a program must be in place to attract attendees. During the last six months at least eight persons in this age group have attended at least once. It is important to provide religious education to this age group. Some of this is done during meeting each week from 10:10-11:00 AM. Other opportunities may be available to children and youth and their parents during other times of the week.
Proposal: A children’s education coordinator be hired.
Preferred Skills: A Quaker or a person sympathetic to Quaker ideals. Some formal training in educational principles. Experience with child development. Experience with religious education in preK-12th grade group.
Job Title: Children’s Educator.
The educator will be present from 9:45-11:45AM at least 80% of the weeks. The children’s program is offered on the second floor of the building. The program will include coordinating with members of the Meeting, talking with parents, providing enjoyable activities for children and basic religious instruction. If very young children are present, the meeting has volunteers that can assist as needed. If she/he will not be present, they will be responsible to recruit a substitute volunteer from the meeting at least two weeks in advance. In the case of unforeseen illness or an emergency, a Meeting volunteer will be ask to step in on an emergency basis. As the program is developing, and children have not as yet begun to attend, time can be given to assembling teaching resources and preparing activities. This includes accessing materials on Quaker websites, organizing existing curriculum materials and identifying children’s social network opportunities. All resources must be approved by an ad hoc committee of the meeting before implementation. A payment of $100 will be made each month. This arrangement can be terminated by either party with 30 days written notice.
Action: Wording related to “ad hoc committee” for approval of all curriculum resources should be changed to a more permanent format such as a subcommittee of Ministry and Worship Committee. Also consideration should be given to performance review of the employee and who should perform that action. It is recommended that Children’s Religious Education Committee be reinstated if possible on this year’s nominating process. Recommended wording change to paragraph above to state: “All curricular resources must be approved by the Children’s Religious Education Committee, or by default the Ministry and Oversight Committee.” The recruitment and interview of candidates process has been discussed and members of the meeting have volunteered to complete this process, reporting the outcome to Ministry and Oversight Committee. Clarification needs to made as to if this person will be an employee of the meeting or an independent contractor. Issues related to liability insurance also need to be clarified. The meeting will seek clarification from the IRS website as to employee versus contractor status. The Meeting and Oversight committee agrees that they will pursue further clarification of job status and liability insurance and bring a recommendation to the meeting.
Action: Approved hiring a Children’s Educator for the OPFM.
The State of Society Report needs to be written. Action: Judy Erickson volunteered to write State of Society Report for OPFM, and attempt to have the report approved by the meeting in time for Rosalind Larson to read it at the 5/1 MCG. in Downers Grove.
Peace and Justice Committee Report, Minutes of Meeting on March 28, 2010
Crop Walk (Hunger Walkathon West) -- by Judy Erickson, Coordinator
OPAL has kindly agreed to let us keep the yard sign up until the date of the Walk (May 2). I have received walker packets and other information, and will continue to provide materials as needed by walkers and donors. Please see me if you want to participate or donate. Valerie Lester will walk and is also happy to accept donations. Thanks for helping to feed hungry people in great need of our assistance!
New Business
A Day in Our Village is June 6, 11AM-6 PM. We need volunteers to lead the project. Recommendation: If logistics can be arranged, the OPFM would like to have a presence at A Day in Our Village. But a coordinator needs to be recruited and someone needs to have ability to carry the tent, tables, chairs, … Valerie will also inquire as to if the OP Art League would like to collaborate on a booth.
Nominating Committee will meet in the next 2 weeks. E-mail of the current opportunities will be sent to the membership this week.
New sign for our meeting- Lois Platt has presented the proposal to the Village of Oak Park. The process appears to be in process.
April Potluck. Action: The potluck will be held next Sunday at OPAL at 11:30. Valerie will come early to set up for it, and Burke will coordinate closing up at the end of potluck.
Donna was called away because 911 was called for her aunt (who lives next door to her mother). We held Donna and her family in the Light.
We ended with silent worship.
Respectfully submitted by: Donna Cech, Recording Clerk
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINUTES, MEETING FOR WORSHIP WITH A CONCERN FOR BUSINESS, March 14, 2010
Those in attendance were: Wilmer Rutt (clerk), Judith Erickson, Patricia McMillen, Burke Shipley, Donna Cech (Recording clerk), Valerie Lester, Pam Timme, Ann Chase, George McCoy
Silence
Quaker Practice in Action: Marti Matthews has been working with the Proviso Robotics Team. The team is focusing on peace education and robotics mission.
Treasurer’s report: Donations decreased 28% from last year, expenses up 3%, sufficient reserves exist at this time to continue OPFM work. Detailed report appears following these Minutes.
Finance committee: Socially responsible investment options explored. As current checking account earns minimal interest, group explored new options, considering
Liquidity
Safety and security
Consistency with Quaker values – supporting positive work
Recommendation: Invest in Domini Social Investments Money Market Account – which invests in community development related to housing, small business, etc in cities such as Chicago and Detroit.
Recommendation approved.
Tax free letter for meeting has been updated and is available from the Treasurer.
Website Committee: Report appears following these Minutes.
Adult Religious Education: The April and May programs will focus on Pendle Hill Pamphlet #382, "Holding One Another in the Light" by Marcelle Martin. All are encouraged to participate in these sessions. A suggestion was made to add “adult religious education” to weekly sign-up sheet for someone to lead adult religious education or worship sharing.
Ministry and Oversight Committee: Report appears following these Minutes.
Findings of the Direction of the Meeting session; discussed input. The Ministry and Oversight committee encourages more opportunity for worship sharing. Ann Chase will work with the committee to develop worship sharing.
Child Care recommendation made – Hire routine child care provider/teacher to come every week. If children are not in attendance, the child care provider would work on curriculum materials. Members have volunteered to interview applicants for this position and to review curricular materials to support consistency with Quaker values.
Discussion of several components of the proposal included:
Payment method (hourly versus retainer)
Level of responsibility with the position
Concerns related to individual who is not a Quaker developing curriculum
Encourage hiring someone who has work experience with children and has understanding of mandatory reporting and other child care issues
It was encouraged that wishes of members with children be considered regarding child care versus religious education priorities. Clarification of this issue will assist in development of the job description and contract for the individual hired.
Sense of meeting not reflected and suggestion made to proceed with further seasoning of the proposal.
Clarity on compensation will improve once the job description is complete. Currently meeting does not have experience with worker’s compensation and withholding taxes; support would be needed to assist in learning these skills. Judy Erickson can possibly provide support in this area. As current advertising reflects availability of child care, it is important for meeting to resolve the child care issue at this time.
Recommendation: Ministry and Oversight further season proposal and bring it back to meeting.
The Ministry and Oversight Committee recommends that the ad in the Wednesday Journal be placed weekly rather than every 2 weeks. Thanks given to Penny Murad for supporting the ad for the past several years. At this time the meeting would assume the expense of the ad (which is $13.00/week). Discussion related to whether the Wednesday Journal is the most widely distributed local paper at this time. Oak Leaves and Tribune Oak Park weekly edition might be more favorable. The Wednesday Journal does post our information on their website.
Recommendation: Ministry and Oversight Committee consider these issues and further season this recommendation.
Peace and Justice Committee: The committee brings recommendations on the FCNL legislative priorities for the next 2 years (report attached). Each priority proposed by Peace and Justice was considered by the OPFM. Discussion resulted in approval of:
Final recommendation was to add North Korea and Iran to list provided in bullet 2
Insert “take positions against use of torture by the federal government and the federal death penalty, …..” into the first bullet.
Group approved the five priorities, as amended.
New Business:
Lois Platt is working with Village of Oak Park on new signage for the meeting
A Day In Our Village, June 6, 11:00 am - 6:00 pm: look for volunteer to lead, and treasurer will hold application until volunteer is identified
Volunteer request related to campfire leader for ILYM will be pursued over the next month.
Suggestions needed for next “Among Friends” edition – considering our recent hosting of MCGM; beginning new Quakerism 101 session; Domini social investments. Please give further suggestions to Patricia.
Feinstein Challenge is ongoing. OP Food Pantry has requested participation by the OPFM. Options for donations discussed.
Recommendation: OPFM advertise the challenge to members and attenders. Food can be dropped off at meeting or at Valerie’s house.
Judy has volunteered to organize the meeting participation in the Crop Walk this year. Approved by meeting
Close with silent worship
TREASURERS REPORT & MINUTES OF FINANCE COMMITTEE, 2/20/10
WEBSITE COMMITTEE REPORT
ADULT RELIGIOUS EDUCATION REPORT
MINISTRY & OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE MINUTES
PEACE & JUSTICE COMMITTEE MINUTES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINUTES, MEETING FOR WORSHIP WITH A CONCERN FOR BUSINESS, February 14, 2010
Those in attendance were: Wilmer Rutt (clerk), Helen Dickinson, James Holmes, Judith Erickson, Rosalind Larsen, Patricia McMillen, Laura Maddox, Kim Jorgenson, Debra Sparling, Burke Shipley, Donna Cech (Recording clerk)
Silent Worship
Quaker Practice in Action: 50th Anniversary of the Student Non-violent Coordinating Committee this year. This group worked very hard on civil rights and should be held in the light.
Committee Reports:
Audit Report, Kim Jorgenson – The records, deposits and expenditures made by the Oak park Friends meeting were verified and the treasurer information appeared to be accurate for the June 2008-May 2009 fiscal year..The audit report was approved.
Adult Religious Education – Adrian will not be able to give her workshop on March 7th, but would be willing to lead an environmental action worship sharing on that date. Several people have suggested more worship sharing in the adult religious education program. Other possible topics for 3/7 were discussed (worship sharing, IlYM Faith and Practice Meeting Structure section). Meeting would like to ask Adrian to lead the worship sharing on 3/7, but if she is not available, Rosalind Larsen will prepare a query for 3/7.
Teen Religious Education – Teens have not met in February. Several activities are planned. Quake over Memorial Day Weekend at IlYM clean up weekend. Patricia has informed parents of the event, but has not yet heard from any teens who are planning to attend. Christina has completed her high school requirements, and her accomplishment was recognized by the meeting.
Phone message request – OPFM has an electronic phone answering service at this time and the meeting for business recommended that it be checked twice/week. Patricia McMillan requested assistance in checking for messages. It is especially important to check on Saturday. Laura Maddox volunteered to assist Patricia in checking for messages.
Website Committee Report – Committee would like feedback from people who have gone to the website (www.oakparkfriends.org; password – simplegifts), specifically comments, suggestions, etc. Some members gave positive feedback on the website. A concern was raised to having activities being held in peoples home being listed without further information or mechanism to get feedback on number of people attending. Meeting phone number is listed in the contact form and when events are listed readers can be referred to the phone number for more information.
Pot Luck will not be held in February.
Ministry and Oversight Committee – Beth Schobernd (IlYM) has requested that she reschedule her visit to the OPFM on 3/21/10. Hospitality host is needed.
M and O confirmed need for some privacy on website, which has been acknowledged with password protected segment.
Member has requested clarification on our current child care plan for each meeting. At this time, when a child attends, a member/ or attender volunteers to care for the child. The Wednesday Journal currently advertises the OPFM as providing childcare and religious education. Concern was raised as to if we are not advertising in accordance with testimony of integrity.
It was recommended that Wednesday Journal listing be changed to reflect current practice. Suggestions were also made to consider hiring a regular child care provider and not provide religious education. It was also acknowledged that very few families with children are involved in the meeting and children do not regularly attend. It was also suggested to seek advice from other meetings who may have had this problem.
Proposal: M and O discuss and bring recommendations to the Meeting with a Concern for Business. Specific topics to be considered are hiring a regular childcare provider and consider mandatory reporter status.
Recommendation: Wednesday Journal listing be revised to remove religious education portion for the next month.
Ministry and Oversight referred Patricia McMillen’s suggestion regarding the book Suburban Promised Land to the business meeting. Adult Religious Education welcomes the suggestion and is requesting a volunteer to host the meeting.
Ministry and Oversight will review Direction of the Meeting minutes and bring report to the March Meeting with Concern for Business.
New Business: An antiwar march will occur in March. Judith Erickson has requested the Meeting for Concern for Business consider if we should become a co-sponsor of this march. Meeting for Business agreed to co-sponsor the event and the flier will be sent to Valerie Lester so that she can send a check for $35.00.
Silent worship
Meeting was adjourned at 12:50 p.m.
Respectfully submitted by Donna Cech (Recording Clerk)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINUTES, MEETING FOR WORSHIP WITH A CONCERN FOR BUSINESS, January 10, 2010
Present: Ann Chase, Helen Dickinson, Judy Erickson (Adult Religious Education Coordinator, temporary Recording Clerk), Rosalind Larsen, Valerie Lester (Treasurer), Marti Matthews, George McCoy, Patricia McMillen (Teen Coordinator), Wilmer Rutt (Clerk), Pam Timme (Ministry & Oversight Committee Clerk, Newsletter Editor)
1. We began with silent worship.
2. Quaker Practice In Action: Lisa Madigan (IL Attorney General) was commended for defending local gun control laws.
3. Wil described his new agenda format which includes the Minutes from the previous month and committee reports.
4. December Minutes as printed in the agenda were reviewed. Corrections/additions of last names are noted as follows: Helen Dickinson, Patricia McMillen, Meredith Morris, & Beth Schobernd.
5. Valerie Lester presented the Treasurer’s Report as printed in the agenda. The Sufferings Fund is now set up as a savings account at Community Bank.
6. Judy Erickson presented the Adult RE report as printed in the agenda. She requested approval to hold an organizational meeting at 11:30 am on Jan. 31st for a new Quakerism 101 series. This request was approved. Helen Dickinson reported that the Spiritual Support Group has been suspended until March because of the inclement winter weather.
7. Judy Erickson & Pam Timme reported for the Website Committee, which also includes Denise Jacob. The December report was printed in the agenda; a correction was made on p. 5, 4th paragraph as follows: “-- In general, we will post photos without the names of people appearing in them.” She distributed a separate January report (which did not make it into the agenda).
Two questions, related to calendar event listings, were raised for seasoning by the Website Committee.
-- Can the website be set up to automatically email calendar updates directly from the website to the list of recipients?
-- The current policy for listing events in the email calendar is to list only events directly related to our Meeting. Should the website calendar have a more inclusive policy to include events hosted by associated organizations, such as the Community of Congregations?
Until these questions are answered, Wil agreed to continue to send out the email calendar to his list, and to learn how to upload the weekly calendar to the website.
A decision was made to add the AT&T Voicemail feature to the Meeting’s AT&T telephone service. This change was made to allow the telephone number to be added to the website. Patricia McMillen agreed to listen and respond to messages on each Saturday and on one other day each week.
Helen agreed to continue answering email from the Community of Congregations webpage, and to answer email from the new website.
The Committee requested guidance regarding website privacy issues raised in the report, particularly as they apply to the Newsletter and Minutes. Because of Committee concerns that arose at their last meeting, the Minutes have been password protected. (There are no Newsletters on the website yet.) The following suggestions were given.
-- There could be two versions of the Newsletter, a print version as currently published, and a redacted online version that does not include personally identifiable information such as last names, addresses, or birthdates. Pam will further consider these and other Newsletter-related issues.
-- The Website Committee could host a special meeting to provide Meeting members and attenders more time to learn about the website and to season issues.
It was noted that the business of the Meeting is relevant to Meeting members and attenders, while the Newsletter is relevant to outreach.
The unresolved issues need more seasoning. Judy gave the password to those in attendance, and requested that any other website questions or comments be directed to any member of the Website Committee.
8. Pam Timme gave a report for the Ministry & Oversight Committee (M&O). M&O has mailed out a survey to current attenders and members, and hopes to get responses in advance of the Direction of the Meeting (DOM) meeting on 1/24. They will also provide paper copies at the DOM meeting.
Friends Journal is in dire financial condition, and is in danger of ceasing operations. It has asked for support from Quaker Meetings. M&O brings a proposal to pay for a 1-year subscription to FJ for any Meeting member or attender who wants one. Each subscription costs $43.50 including postage. Twenty subscriptions would cost $870. Because there are other Quaker organizations experiencing financial difficulties, further seasoning is needed to discern whether we are being led to make this commitment. Members and attenders are asked to submit our thoughts to Pam for the M&O Committee, and to keep these needs in mind at the DOM meeting.
9. Patricia McMillen reported that the teen group will have a bowling outing at 1 pm on Jan. 23rd. Parents and teens have all been contacted and permission forms are being submitted. She continues to encourage teens to be active in Quaker events, and is hopeful for teen participation in the ILYM Memorial Day Work Weekend.
10. Adrian Fisher, Meeting Librarian, requested a budget of $200 to purchase new books. This request was approved.
11. Having moved from the Chicago area many years ago, Loren Lybarger was found to be living in Ohio and was contacted by the Oversight Committee. After some correspondence, he requested termination of his membershipbecause he has discontinued his involvement with Quakers. About a year ago he was asked whether he would like to transfer his membership to the local Quaker Meeting, but he has not contacted us again. The Meeting feels led to accept termination of his membership. Wil Rutt will mail a copy of this Minute to him, along with our prayers for his spiritual and physical well being.
12. Wil Rutt requested a 3-month trial of a new format for Meeting for Worship with Attention to Business. His suggestion, which came to him during the Clerking Worshop at Pendle Hill last November, is to incorporate it into Meeting for Worship on the second Sunday of the month (as described in the agenda). Reasons for this suggestion include increasing participation in decisions and having more time to season decisions.
Discussion included the belief that all of life is worship to Quakers; any changes need to be communicated thoroughly (including reasons for changes); and some people do not settle into worship for 15-20 minutes, leaving less time for what is most meaningful to attenders.
Valerie has agreed to consider today’s discussion, feedback from the M&O survey, and any relevant discussion at the DOM meeting. With this she will bring a seasoned proposal to a future Meeting for Worship with Attention for Business.
13. A draft version of these Minutes was read back and approved.
14. We ended with silent worship.
Lovingly submitted by Judy Erickson
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
December 2009 Business Meeting Minutes
December 23, 2009
Those in attendance were: Wilmer Rutt (clerk), Helen Dickenson, Valerie Lester, Judith Erickson, Rosalind Larsen, Patricia McMillan, Pam Timme, Donna Cech (Recording clerk)
Silent Worship
Quaker Practice in Action: We appreciate Patricia McMillan for her activities with the Teens, and for her willingness to participate as a “Friendly Adult Presence (FAP)” at the coming youth quake.
Review of November Minutes: November, 2009 minutes were read. A correction to the treasurer’s report clarified that a $1000 saving account for the suffering account was established and the PAX fund dollars remains in the PAX fund as meeting reserve funds. A question was raised whether Beth was invited to the Direction of the Meeting meeting and Judy Erickson will invite her to attend and also confirm her participation in the MCGM meeting. A suggestion is made that minutes be written in active voice so that task assignments are clarified.
Clarification: Beth is invited for 1/24 for the Direction of the Meeting meeting and on 2/6-7 for the MCGM meeting. Valerie will offer Beth hospitality on 1/23. Patricia McMillan will offer hospitality on 2/5-2/6.
Committee Reports:
Treasurer’s report: Report attached
Ministry & Oversight Committee – Pam Timme read 12/7/09 committee minutes (see attached). Three issues for action.
Should the OPFM phone number be added to the OPFM website. The M & O Committee is in favor of this. The website committee also supports this action. Currently the phone is in Judith Erickson’s home and it rarely rings, but when it does it is often a solicitor. Judy is concerned that if the number is listed on the website, increased calls will be difficult. Patricia McMillan suggested that voice mail on the phone be obtained so that the phone can be unplugged, but any messages will be accessible on voice mail. Recommendation go back to Website Committee to explore voice mail and come to next business meeting with a definitive recommendation, including consideration of annual phone expenses.
Friend’s Journal – should the Journal be ordered for all members and regular attenders for 1 year so that they could consider whether they want to renew the subscription for another year. This would help Friend’s Journal, which is experiencing financial difficulty, and expose members and attenders to the broader Quaker community. A proposal will be seasoned and brought to Meeting for Business in January.
Should more Faith and Practice books be purchased? Further investigation has to be made as to how many copies we currently have. Consideration of Illinois Yearly Meeting plans to develop a Faith and Practice should be considered in this investigation. It is recommended that the Religious Education Committee complete this investigation and report back to the Worship with Attention to Business meeting
Nominating Committee Report – Rosalind Larsen reported that the committee has contacted several members related to open positions. The committee recommends that the Co-Clerk of the meeting not be filled at this time. Ann Chase has volunteered to be a member of M & O committee. Action: Ann Chase was welcomed as a member of the Ministry and Oversight committee.
Planning for Direction of the Meeting. A recommendation from M and O is to have Paul Buckley make a brief presentation related to developing deeper spirituality in the meeting. Will has contacted him and is waiting for a response. Valerie suggested he be asked to speak on “spirit led consensus” for the Direction of the Meeting meeting. Patricia is interested in including a “teen caucus” for the Direction of the Meeting Meeting. Action: Season these ideas and bring definitive agenda to next Worship with a Direction to Business meeting (January)
Planning for the Metropolitan Chicago General Meeting. Communication with Northside meeting has indicated that they may not be able to coordinate luncheon. Based on this concern, pizza, salad, fruit platter was recommended. Further discussion indicated that potluck has worked in the past for other meetings and is more welcoming than commercially ordering food. It was requested that pot luck be reconsidered. The Conservatory has small refrigerator, full stove, microwave, sink. Plates and cups need to be provided. Discussion continued and was supportive of combining ordering of pizza and pot-luck for other meal contributions. February is “chocolate month” at the conservatory which can provide educational opportunities related to fair trade, etc.
It is important to give programming information to other members and meetings early enough to generate interest in attending the meeting. Will has sent general information to IlYM about the program and time frame. It is recommended that a post be made to the MCGM e-list. Will will verify that Martha Turner, clerk of MCGM has posted. If she has not done so, Will will post on the MCGM website. It is recommended that Adrian write a brief description of her presentation and it be posted to the MCGM website and MCGM list serve. Patricia will post both Adrien’s description and a description of children’s activities to the MCGM list serve and IlYM. Action: Menu and program will be finalized at next business meeting.
New Business:
Will brought a concept for consideration to the Worship with Attention to Business meeting. Will will bring a proposal to the next meeting related to a 3 month trial of adjusting the meeting schedule for the weeks we have “Worship with Attention to Business” to shorten the meeting worship to 30 minutes, then move into the “Worship with Attention to Business” for 60 minutes. This would be followed by social time, then continuation of the Business meeting if necessary.
MCGM Donations for Proviso Math and Science Academy may not be as robust as originally hoped. Can a donation from this meeting be made from OPFM to MCGM to support this donation. Concerns have also been raised related to church funding for public school activities. The issue was not seasoned by the M and O meeting and a request was made to consider today at business meeting, because donations to MCGM need to be committed by 12/15.
Recommendation made to make contribution of $150.00 to support teen development and non-violent community activities. Further discussion raised continuing objection to donating money to public education and a second concern that robotics are very related to development of possible weapons and we would need to be assured that the donation would not be seen as supporting development of war-like uses. Discussion continued and informed the group that war-time use of robotics was discussed at MCGM and multiple peace-time uses of robotics were also identified. MCGM also worded a cover letter to go with the donation supporting the development of the young people in the robotics club with an underlying peaceful message.
Action: Meeting members and attenders will be informed that personal contributions can be made for this initiative. The address for donations to Ill. Math and Science academy for donations will be provided at the next meeting for worship.
Renewal of tax exempt letter has to be completed. Patricia McMillan will renew the letter.
Judith Erickson will take minutes on 1/10/2010.
Silent Worship
Respectfully submitted by : Donna Cech, recording clerk
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Meeting for Worship with a Concern for Business
November 8, 2009
Those in attendance were:
Wil Rutt, Patricia McMillen, Helen Dickinson, Pam Timme
Valerie Lester, Judy Erickson, Meredith Morris, Denise Jacob
Silent worship.
Quaker Practice in Action:
The meeting thought of Rosalind Larsen’s dedication; though not feeling well today, she showed up before meeting to insure there would be someone to do child care, if needed. The meeting holds her in the light.
Minutes: Minutes of the previous meeting were approved.
Ministry and Oversight Committee
Valerie asked that it be noted that the treasury currently holds $9,000 in reserve apart from budgeted needs, and that a visioning meeting could be held to discuss the Meeting’s thoughts about this. It was decided such a meeting would be supported.
Approval was granted for a general appointment of a website/publications group. The Nominations Committee will move to set up a group of no more than six members. Three nominations for this group exist in the members who attended the recent web building workshop in Normal, Ill. (Pam Timme, Denise Jacob, Judy Erickson) and these names were approved. The Nominations Committee is requested to come up with one or two additional names. Denise will convene the first meeting of this group.
Peace and Justice Committee
The Peace & Justice Committee was asked to do the program for the Feb. 6, 2010 MCGM meeting that OPMM is hosting. Adrian Fisher will do an environmental presentation. Patricia will coordinate activities for children on that day, and contact the ILYM youth coordinator for assistance. She will also ask Marty Matthews to help.
Wil reported that the Oak Park Conservatory could be rented for this event, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with docents also provided, at a cost of $350. This location was approved; Valerie will send a $100 deposit to the Conservatory to hold the space.
Religious Education. Adult religious education continues, led by Judy Erickson.
Three teens met October 18 at Patricia’s home, baked cookies and listened to jazz. They will also bake several dozen cookies for the Nov. 22 Interfaith Thanksgiving Service. Donations of canned goods and cash to benefit the Food Pantry will be taken at this service.
Childcare and Children's Religious Education. Wil pointed out that this committee still is in need of several volunteers. Valerie mentioned that, so far this season there has not been a demonstrated need for children’s religious education. At the moment, only a child care clerk is being sought by the Nominating Committee. Valerie added that perhaps we should revisit the possibility of hiring outside help for childcare. We were reminded that at a previous meeting we decided to provide quiet toys and books to enable children to stay in the Gallery with the adults during meetings for worship.
Treasurer’s Report. The Finance Committee would like to remind members that incremental funds can be requested at any Business Meeting. The Meeting approved the transfer of $1,000 from the Pax sufferings fund to a Meeting savings account.
Old Business. Helen mentioned that she toured the new house and barn at McNabb, and that at MCGM a grants program was discussed. Pam Timme will host the November potluck.
New Business
Patricia brought a proposal to MCGM that they help support the Proviso Robotics Team’s effort to go to the regional robotics competition. MCGM approved a $400 sponsorship.
In lieu of the regular meeting of Peace & Justice, Sunday, Jan. 24, 2010 was approved as a Direction of the Meeting meeting. Paul Buckley of ILYM will attend; pizza and salad will be provided. The January Peace & Justice meeting will be held on January 17 instead of a potluck.
Beth Schobernd from Clear Creek Meeting will join us February 7 in her capacity as Ministry & Advancement Visitor. It was suggested that Beth also be invited to the Direction of the Meeting event.
As Meeting Librarian, Adrian requested permission to sell a proportion of our accumulated books. OPAL space allows us only two shelves for books, and we have about 800. These could be sold to members and at ILYM. The Meeting asked that Adrian discuss her criteria regarding what to keep and what to sell with us before proceeding. Jim Holmes has built an additional shelving unit next to our current one.
The Meeting closed with silent worship. Respectfully submitted,
Denise Jacob, Acting for Donna Cech
