Barbara (Bobbie) Jordan, a member of Durham Friends Meeting, Durham, Maine, died January 16, 2011,
after a two-year journey with ovarian cancer. Prior to transferring her membership to Durham Meeting
in 1996, she was a member of Mt.Toby Meeting in Leverett, Massachusetts, since about 1987. Bobbie was
born in Bakersfield, California, on September 28, 1942, but grew up in Denver, Colorado, the eldest
daughter of Lorne and Helen Jordan. Family life in the Jordan household consisted of regular camping
trips to fish the mountain streams of the Colorado and its neighboring states. Bobbie visited and
knew all of the best fly-fishing locations, thanks to her father’s avid interest in this sport. Her young life was
filled with outdoor activity, from helping her grandfather on his farm to taking the ski train into the Rockies for
lessons and eventual work on the Ski Patrol. She worked on a dude ranch in her early years, cooking for the
cowboys, and loved entertaining her family with many stories of the cowboys’ pranks. Sports were an early
interest for Bobbie, and she was drawn to a career in Health and Physical Education, graduating from Colorado
State University at Fort Collins in 1964. Her first year of teaching was in rural Wyoming and included teaching
classes at the Wind River Indian Reservation.
Throughout her life, Bobbie seemed to know her path forward, making decisions and taking on tasks and
responsibilities that served to steadily expand her experiences, skills and interest in education. Early in her
teaching career she accepted a summer job as the waterfront director at a Camp Tappawingo, a girl’s camp in
Harrison, Maine. While in Maine, she applied to a Master’s Program at University of Maine at Orono, where
she both studied and taught, and from which she graduated in 1967. Upon graduation she continued teaching at
the college level, working at the State University of New York in Albany teaching and coaching, then moved to
Wellesley College from 1969-1977. At Wellesley she coached the college crew team, staying one lesson ahead
of the team by reading the manual as the season progressed. She had never taught the sport previously, but
Bobbie was always game for a challenge, and failure was never an option. Needless to say, the crew team was a
success.
During her years at Wellesley College, Bobbie continued to work summers directing activities at a girl’s
camp in Hanover Mass., where she made many life-long friends. With no tenure track at Wellesley, Bobbie
found employment directing an alternative high school in Plymouth, Mass., for two years. The work was
challenging, with many troubled students, but once again Bobbie met the challenge head on. Once again,
failure was not an option, and she created many real-life situations to assist the students with developing skills
they could relate to. It was with some relief, however, that she returned to more traditional education at
Brookline High School, serving as Curriculum Coordinator and Teacher of Health and Physical Education from
1977 to 1982.
Bobbie’s love of education kept her advancing in her career, enrolling in advanced studies at University of
Massachusetts in Amherst in 1982, and serving as principal for the Leverett Elementary School from 1985 to
1990. Her continuing commitment to the education of children led her to a job in Maine, as principal of
Williams-Cone School in Topsham where she worked from 1990 to 2001, and later to Augusta where she
worked until her retirement in 2008 as the Director of Curriculum and Instruction for the Augusta Public
Schools. During this time, Bobbie also enrolled and graduated in 2001 from Nova Southeastern University,
Fort Lauderdale, Fla., with a Doctorate in Education.
Bobbie was a leader and an educator in all facets of her life. She served in leadership positions in many
professional organizations, and worked to support peer review among teachers and mentorship programs for
teachers and principals. Bobbie traveled to Eastern Europe, Sweden and Japan to learn and observe teaching
methods of other cultures. Rather than truly retire, Bobbie took on the task of developing an after-school
program for at-risk children in the Augusta area, through the Boys and Girls Club. She traveled to Kenya to
visit and help with a summer camp for AIDS orphans run by the Quaker group Friends of Kakamega. Indeed,
even through the last months of her life Bobbie eagerly took on the supervision of six student teachers, fulfilling
one of her long-time career goals.
Along with a growing career, Bobbie also deeply valued her friends and family. Over the years of job
changes and professional growth, Bobbie developed a wide family of friends, and regularly stayed in touch with
them. Trusted colleagues often became life-long friends. In 1982 Bobbie met her life-partner, Sarah Sprogell,
and together they raised Sarah’s two sons. Their life together was filled with trips to Colorado, camping and
canoeing, a string of family pets, and the joy of seeing both boys grow into fine young men with beautiful
families of their own.
Durham Friends Meeting was Bobbie’s spiritual home, and a place where her leadership and strong work
ethic also found tasks to accomplish. She served on Ministry and Council for six years, and also on Finance
Committee, serving as clerk for both committees. She also served as Meeting Treasurer at a time of transition
for the Meeting. Bobbie was often sought out to serve on Pastoral Support Committees, Pastoral Search
Committees, and Pastoral Evaluation Committees. She served on the Christian Education Committee and
taught Sunday School classes, where she shared with Durham youth her gifts for relating to and understanding
young people; Bobbie served Durham Meeting’s young friends well. While Bobbie’s natural inclination to be
of use to the Meeting kept her actively involved and admired for her leadership, she felt at her core that the
Meeting was most importantly a place of refuge from the busy outside world, and a place of worship that
resonated deeply within her.
Beyond pursuing her career in education and finding her spiritual home with Quakers, Bobbie also sang in a
local women’s chorus, Women in Harmony, for more than 10 years. True to her participation in any group,
Bobbie was involved in the board of directors, serving as chairperson, as well as on the production of
committee, search committee, and as administrative assistant to the director. As with all her endeavors, she
made important and lasting friendships through her involvement with this singing group.
The last two years of Bobbie’s life were years of spiritual deepening and strengthening, as she developed
her own style of living with cancer. As with so many of her personal and professional challenges over the
years, giving up was never an option. There were still things to do, trips to take and people to see. There was
still life to live and work to be done. She continued to face life and its challenges head on, maintaining her
grace and courage until her last days. Many of the nurses and aides at the Gosnell House, where Bobbie spent
the last week of her life, marveled at her spiritual equanimity and lack of agitation as she drew closer to death.
The strength of Bobbie’s spirit was evident at her memorial service, when over 200 people gathered to profess
their love and admiration for a woman who touched them deeply and from whom they had learned much. Her
generosity of spirit was clearly evident in the many testimonials heard on that day.
Our dear Bobbie is survived by Sarah Sprogell, her loving partner of 29 years, their son, Agostino Petrillo,
and his wife, Allegra, and daughters Ariel and Thalia of Northampton Mass., as well as his two daughters
Chelsea and Emily Craine of Blacksburg Va., their son, Dominic Petrillo, and his son, Lincoln, of Freeport,
Maine, her sister Pamela (Jordan) Costa, of Littleton Colo., her niece Angela (Costa) Hawes and her husband
Jason of Littleton, Colo., and her nephew Frank Costa and his wife Sarah of Pensacola Fla. Bobbie is
predeceased by her father Lorne Jordan. Her mother, Helen Irene (Hall) Jordan, passed away six months
following Bobbie’s death, on July 17, 2011, at the age of 100.
Category Archives: Monthly Meeting for Business
Macy Whitehead 1924-2012
BATH — H. Macy Whitehead, died Wednesday, May 16, 2012, at his home in Bath, just two days after his 88th birthday.Born May 14, 1924, in Mt, Vernon, N.Y., to the Rev. Robert Charles Whitehead and Miriam Macy Whitehead. Named for his grandfather, Rev. Herbert Macy, he was known to everyone as “Macy.” Though he grew up in New York his ties to Maine developed quickly when his parents became part of the Brightwater summer community in Phippsburg in 1926.
Over the next decades he and most of his siblings, aunts, uncles, father and mother all moved to Maine. In later teenage years he worked as a summer volunteer at the Three Fevers work camp run by Albert Baily in Phippsburg, helping low-income families in the nearby Sebasco village with improved housing and economic development. Many of these families were the descendants of the 1912 Malalga Island Expulsion. After graduating from high school in Mt. Vernon, Macy went to Haverford College in Philadelphia, where he reconnected with the values of his Quaker ancestors who settled on Nantucket in the 1670s. Intending to become a clergyman like his father and two grandfathers he received a clergy deferment during World War II.
Graduating in 1946, he volunteered to join up with the American Friends Service Committee’s post-war relief effort in Italy. In an interview with The Times Record in 2007 he said, “If there was an opportunity to work in a different way, to heal the wounds of war and to show a different attitude toward people, that was important for me to do that. I didn’t want to just have a free ride through this. If I didn’t participate in the destruction, I wanted to be part of the reconstruction.” In the spring of 1946 he began working with other AFSC volunteers on community-building projects in villages located in the Abruzzi Mountains on Italy’s Adriatic Coast. In 1947, he arrived in Montenerodomo, a mountain village almost entirely devastated during the war. He set up a small work camp and rallied villagers to build a day nursery for the children, enabling their parents to tend their crops in the lower hillsides. The AFSC and its counterpart in England were named co-recipients of the 1947 Nobel Peace Prize. For Macy, that was “no big deal” — he considered it a far greater honor that in 2005 the citizens of Montenerodomo named him an “honorary citizen” in gratitude for helping their village in its time of need.
Completing his divinity studies at Yale Seminary School, he graduated with a Master’s of Divinity degree in 1950. Macy was ordained by the Maine conference of the United Church of Christ and began his ministry back in Phippsburg, where he served three parishes in Popham, Small Point and Parker Head. He also worked as a “character-building teacher” in Phippsburg and other local schools, teaching music and arts and crafts.
It was in Phippsburg that he met his future wife, Edie Lamb, an Irish Quaker, who had come to care for her cousin, a friend of the Baily family, which ran the Three Fevers program where he had worked as a teen. He had heard that this “charming Irish gal” could sing, so he invited her to perform at a service. After a short, but earnest courtship (Edie had to return to Philadelphia), they were married April 22, 1952, in the “manner of Friends” at the Quaker meeting in Westtown, in West Chester, Pa. They remained deeply committed to each other over the 60 years of their marriage, sharing interests in music, theater, animals, the outdoors, and most especially the lives of their children and grandchildren. They became an inseparable team, sharing in the challenges of raising four children in often very challenging environments, and working together in the work of the Church.
Though Macy was often the more public figure, in the pulpit and elsewhere, Edie was both the rock and the glue that held everything together. After they finished their work in Phippsburg, Macy accepted a post at the First Congregational Church in South Portland from 1955 to 1960. In 1961, the family made a big decision when Macy’s ministry took him to Eagle Butte, S.D., the tribal headquarters of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe on the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation — at the time, one of the most impoverished communities in the United States. In addition to serving his parish, he was chairman of the South Dakota Commission for Indian Mission and served on the board of directors of the South Dakota conference of the United Church of Christ.
From 1966 to 1973 the Whitehead family served the Beresford and Centerville communities in eastern South Dakota. In 1973, the family decided to move back to the East Coast, to be closer to Maine and so ended up at what would be Macy’s final parish in Kent, Conn. During his entire pastoral career, Macy was always deeply involved with youth groups and youth-related activities. He ran Sunday schools, organized church-run summer camps and trail rides in the Black Hills, including 10-day backpacking trips for older students in the Big Horn Mountains of Wyoming. He once led a group of college students and his family to a very poor section of southern Missouri, where they helped to build and repair housing.
Macy was a life-long learner and he constantly challenged himself and his convictions about how to best serve humanity. In 1978, he felt his effectiveness in the Church environment was waning, so he returned to school and earned a degree in pastoral counseling at Blanton-Peale Institute and Counseling Center in New York City. During this time, Macy and all four children were in college and Edie supported Macy through her work at a hospital. After finishing this training in 1982, he and Edie then returned to Bath, where he developed a family-counseling practice during the 1980s and into the 1990s. He also continued work on a thesis he had developed while at Blanton-Peale, and this work eventually earned him his Doctor of Divinity degree. Macy’s counseling work evolved over time to include: individual and family counseling; helping people suffering from chronic pain; and those with terminal illnesses. He also worked as a hospital chaplain at the former Bath Memorial Hospital, and continued to officiate at weddings, funerals and other celebrations when asked.
In his later years both he and Edie reaffirmed their Quaker roots and joined the Quaker Meeting in Durham, where he served as the clerk (chairman) of the Meeting for a number of years, and continued to play the organ and give messages to the Meeting right up until he died. He had a great love of animals, once raising a wild mustang from a foal. For a brief time, he raised chinchillas for their fur … then the market crashed.
More recently, upon returning to Maine, he raised Angora rabbits for their wool, which he would spin into yarn, dye and knit hats and other items for sale at craft fairs. An accomplished musician, he played the piano, organ, zither, recorder and auto-harp. He also sang in the Downeasters Barbershop Chorus, the Oratorio Chorale and most recently the Macy Family Band. He is survived by his wife, Edie Whitehead; their four children and spouses, Deirdre Whitehead, Harris Whitehead and Carla Seekins, Heather Whitehead-Sampinos and Phil Sampinos, and Tom Whitehead and Camilla Dunham Whitehead; and five grandchildren, Celia and Kai Whitehead, Sammy Sampinos, and Bevan and Lionel Whitehead. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Macy Whitehead’s honor to The American Friends Service Committee, AFSC Development, 1501 Cherry St., Philadelphia, Pa., 19102. Please make check payable to “AFSC.”
From the Ad Hoc Fundraising Committee
May 27, 2012
Good morning Friends,
These are sad times, having recently lost two dear Friends. It is often at sad times that we are reminded of
the importance of our physical presence, and how we each support and care for the Meeting. At times like this,
it is clear that we are here only through the Grace of God, that it is through God’s Grace that we each provide
the care and support so necessary to sustain our Meeting. So perhaps it is not too big a stretch to consider also
the importance of our financial support of the Meeting. Since it is also through God’s Grace that we have this
building in which to gather.
And so it is that we introduce ourselves to you today as members who are working on the Financial Health
and Care of Durham Friends Meeting. We are members of the ad hoc Fundraising Committee which was
appointed by Monthly Meeting in February. We come to you today to introduce ourselves and to speak about
the need for this committee. Our task is to explore ways to strengthen our weekly giving which supports our
operating budget, and to rebuild our capital funds.
You might ask: Why?
For the past several years we have been falling short in our operating budget, and we have been relying on
savings to fill the gap each year. Using this method, we are steadily depleting our savings. Also, with the
accomplishment of several major building improvements, we have depleted our capital funds.
We want to develop wise practices so that we can move forward toward a bright future for our Meeting.
But where and how to do we begin?
Appreciation: As a committee, we began with deep appreciation for what we have been given. We are
fortunate in many ways at Durham. We know that we have a generous membership, with people giving in
many ways to support our Meeting. We realize that each contributes as they are able. We know that all gifts
are accepted with gratitude. We recognize that all gifts, be they monetary, volunteer or in-kind contributions
come from a sense of spiritual and loving generosity.
Through this loving care we accomplish many things. We pay our bills each month. We have made many
improvements both at the Meetinghouse and at the Parsonage: (Fellowship Room, Library, Children’s Room,
Parsonage boiler). All of this demonstrates our loving care for each other and for the Meeting. The physical
improvements and maintenance of our buildings help ensure us all that Durham Friends will continue to be here
for us, as our Spiritual Home. We know that our ability to continue to function is due primarily to the
commitment to giving that comes from each person active in the meeting. It is this faithfulness that forms the
core of Durham Friends as a vibrant and loving community.
For these things we are deeply grateful. We are all blessed to share in this good fortune.
Current Status: However, our financial strength at Durham Meeting needs careful attention.
A. Operations: Our Operational Budget is like our heartbeat. It keeps us going each day, just like our hearts do
for us. Sometimes it is easy to forget that our hearts are working for us all day, every day. Similarly, we find
ourselves now in a situation where we our weekly giving does not match our operational expenses. We are not
keeping up with our heartbeat. The Heart-blood of our Meeting needs some help. Although we live modestly
at the Meetinghouse and the Parsonage, we find that we will fall short this year by about $15,000.
We currently take in about $42,000 a year in the weekly offering. With about 45 people attending each
Sunday, that averages about $18 per person per week. Some give more; some give less. But, in order to reach
our goal of $57,000 the average individual giving would need to increase to about $25 per week.
We are asking each of you to consider your current giving level, and determine whether you have room to
increase your offering. We realize that this is not an easy task, nor a very tempting one, and we know that there
are some who may not be able to make any changes. But for those of you who do have room for change we
have some ideas…
Page 7 of 14
I recently found a quote that spoke strongly to me on this subject, and I modified it a bit: “There is no set
formula for financial giving. Just as each person is unique, so is their ability and their response to financial
giving.”
That has become my mantra for this committee.
In a few minutes, some of our committee members will speak about ideas that work for them. Perhaps one
of these ideas may inspire you.
B. Capital Fund: Although we come to you today primarily to present and explain our operational needs,
our group will also be working on ideas to re-build our capital fund. Similar to the needs and care of our
physical bodies, our capital needs also require attention to maintain the physical health of our Meeting
buildings.
How can we best support our Meeting?
Just as Durham Friends feeds your Soul, which enlivens your heart, breath and body, may each of you
discern with wisdom how best you can financially support the Heart and Body of Durham Meeting, so that we
may remain spiritually vibrant, active and well-nourished.
Thank you.
— Presented by Sarah Sprogell
Durham Monthly Meeting of Friends Minutes of May 20, 2012
The meeting opened at 12:30 p.m. with 17 people present. Clerk Edwin Hinshaw opened with a reading
from Thomas Kelly’s Testament of Devotion (page 124, “Life from the Center”).
1. It was noted that dear Friend, and member, Macy Whitehead passed away on May 16th. A service to
celebrate his life will be held at the Phippsburg Center Church on Friday, May 25th
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2. Daphne Clement read a memorial minute for Barbara (Bobbie) Jordan. The minute was accepted with
appreciation. The minute will be published and forwarded to Falmouth Quarterly Meeting.
3. Leslie Manning will be traveling this summer with a concern for our sisters and brothers in Indiana
and Western Yearly Meetings. She requested a travel minute from Durham. It was approved that the Clerks
will write a travel minute, which will be sent on to New England Yearly Meeting.
4. Sarah Sprogell reported for the Ad-Hoc Fundraising Committee. The committee sees as its task ways
to address the operational budget and has planned a presentation as a part of meeting for worship, which
will happen May 27. The need to replenish the capital fund will be addressed in the autumn. The Meeting
accepted the report.
5. Katharine Hildebrandt brought the Treasurer Report for April. The total General Fund Income for
March was $7,191.32 and the Expenditures were $4,661.65. The year-to-date finances for the Operational
Fund shows that Income for January 1 – April 30 period was $20,074.22 and the Expenses were $21,760.48.
This means we are running a deficit of $1,686.26 for this four-month period for the Operational Budget.
(This does not include the $22,600 parsonage heating system, which was a capital expense in the General
Fund.) Her report was accepted with gratitude.
6. Dorothy Hinshaw reported for Christian Education. Children’s Day will be held on June 3rd.
Meeting youth will prepare a breakfast for all and will conduct the whole service that morning. The youth
group is requesting a second offering that day for the United Society of Friends Women International
Children and Youth Project. This request was approved. Gift certificates will be given to the Meeting’s
graduates. They are Mitch Newlin, Jessica Sheldon, Reeve Wood, Erik Brooks and Katherine Perkins. An
evaluation of the Youth Minister is in process.
7. Nancy Marstaller reported for Ministry and Counsel. Nancy is now Clerk and Phyllis Wetherell is
now recording clerk. Christian Education, Library Committee, Ministry and Counsel and Peace and
Social Concerns are all now a part of the children’s story rotation.
Scott Barksdale has researched a Sound System (that includes hanging microphones) that should meet
the needs of everyone in meeting. It will have earphones for anyone needing receiver assistance. The total
cost of this system will be between $1,600 and $1,760. Scott and Joe Godleski will install the system and
Scott will help to maintain it and be our contact person for questions. The Woman’s Society is ready to
provide the funds for this up to $2000. This proposal was approved. We are very grateful that a sound
system will finally be happening.
8. Daphne Clement gave her pastor’s report. The contemplative prayer and reading groups that have
been meeting mid-week through the year will be laid down for the summer. Her report was received with
appreciation.
Minutes of the meeting were approved during the meeting.
The Meeting adjourned at 2:05 p.m. with a period of worship.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan Rice
Durham Monthly Meeting of Friends Minutes of June 17, 2012
The Meeting opened with 11 people present.
Clerk Susan Wood read from the section on Integrity (Consistency in Word and Deed) from the
American Friends Service Committee’s booklet, “An Introduction to Quaker Testimonies.”
l. Clerks’ correspondence and business was brought forth by the Clerks.
a) The travel minute for Leslie Manning, written by the Clerks (as requested at the May Monthly
Meeting) was read and received with appreciation.
b) American Friends Service Committee sent an acknowledgement of a gift made to the AFSC by
Amelia Marstaller in memory of Friend Macy Whitehead..
2. A request from Abigail Fortune for assistance from the Equalization Fund to go to New England Yearly
Meeting this summer was received and approved.
3. The Treasurer submitted the May 31, 2012 report. Income for May was $2,481. Expenses were
$4,205.37. The Meeting deficit at this point for 2012 is $4,010.63.
4. The Clerks received a request for $1,000 (to be taken from the Charity Fund) for the Friends of
Kakamega to put lime and cover crop into a much-depleted soil at the Children’s Farm. The Children’s Farm is
six acres and has grown food for the Orphans’ Care Centre. However, because of fertilizer practice there, the
soil is much depleted and needs rebuilding. This request was approved.
5. Dorothy Hinshaw reported for Christian Education Committee.
a) They thank Erin Martin and Wendy Schlotterbeck for the wonderful Children’s Day breakfast and
the meeting for worship conducted by the youth.
b) Next year, starting in September, they plan to have two Sunday School classes of children and youth
that will meet every 1st and 3rd Sundays. Adult Sunday School will continue as is. Daphne Clement and Wendy
Schlotterbeck will share oversight of the children and youth classes.
c) They are looking into two public concerts this fall to help raise money for a possible trip to England
next year. The first concert would be September 8 with Tom Nielson, a folk singer from Monadnock Friends
Meeting and might include a song-writing workshop for teachers on September 9. The second concert would be
in the late autumn with Tom Whitehead. The Nielson concert was approved and it was suggested that they
explore further the options for the concert and workshop. It was approved that we proceed with the Tom
Whitehead concert.
6. The meeting thanks Betsy Muench and Wendy Schlotterbeck for a terrific camp-out for the youth and
families at Betsy’s home in Georgetown over the weekend of June 8-10.
7. David Reed reported that the meetinghouse large furnace is working very well, just in time for the
summer. The electrician will be coming in to fix the phone when he comes as a part of other work on the
speaker system and other electrical needs.
8. Monthly Meeting requests that Trustees proceed to sell the current large stove in the meetinghouse
kitchen and explore the purchase of two propane stoves to replace it. David Reed agreed he will find out from
the stove company how much they will give us for the stove and will look into advertising it in other places.
9. Susan Rice reported for Peace and Social Concerns. They plan on doing two Saturday evenings this
summer, as a mini “Summer Conversations Series.” The first will be on “Acidification of the Oceans and
Climate Change” with Ray Sirois, who works with a local engineering company. It will be held on Saturday,
July 28. The second evening will be on Saturday, Aug. 25, and the focus will be on Community Gardens. Eric
and Laura Evans, who run the community gardens in Camden, will be the guest speakers.
10. Margaret Wentworth reported that Falmouth Quarterly Meeting will be held on Saturday, July 28, here
at Durham Meetinghouse. It was agreed that we will ask Quarterly Meeting’s Committee on Planning and
Revitalization to hold the gathering in the afternoon with a picnic supper, so that their program can be the
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program presented by Ray Sirois. This will be especially helpful, as Peace and Social Concerns was hoping that
friends from the Quarter might attend the evening. Margaret will check with CPR to make sure that this plan
will work.
11. We agreed on the following as representatives for New England Yearly Meeting: Daphne Clement,
Nancy Marstaller, Theresa Oleksiw and Wendy Schlotterbeck. We approve the person that Ministry and
Counsel chooses to serve on the Yearly Meeting M&C.
12. Ministry and Counsel reported that Daphne Clement will be at Friends General Conference on Sunday,
July 1. Peter Crysdale will bring the message that day.
13. Thank-yous were received from Erik Brooks and Jessica Sheldon for the book gift certificates they
were given from the Meeting for graduation.
The meeting ended at 2:10 p.m. with a period of worship and with upon their acceptance thanks to the
Clerks for a job well done.
Recording clerk,
Susan Rice
Durham Monthly Meeting Minutes, April 15, 2012
The meeting opened at 12:30 p.m. with 12 people present.
Clerk Sue Wood opened with a reading from New England Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice: “No Bond But Love and Fellowship” by Rufus Jones (page 122) followed by a period of worship.
1. Clarabel Marstaller reported for Ministry and Counsel. They are working on an Inquirer’s Packet, which should be ready April 22.
2. David Reed reported for Trustees. The windows for the nursery room doors are in and look great. The stove in the meetinghouse kitchen has been serviced and is working now. The pilot lights have all been turned off so there is no propane gas usage except when we are using the stove. The result is that air quality in the meetinghouse is dramatically improved, as well as reducing our use of fuel. People will need to be shown how to light the burners and oven. Please see David for instructions.
3. Susan Rice, Daphne Clement and Wendy Schlotterbeck reported for Peace and Social Concerns (P&SC): a.) Lisbon Area Christian Outreach (LACO): We will have a monthly “shopping list” of the LACO food-
pantry needs that will be available for when friends do their shopping. This April/May we are asking for hearty soups, crackers, brown rice, cereals and cans of fruit. The Meeting will hold a pig-roast benefit dinner for LACO on Sept. 29. There is a spaghetti dinner to benefit LACO on May 19 at the Holy Trinity Church in Lisbon Falls. Friends are being asked to contribute desserts.
b.) There will be a benefit dinner for the Kakamega Orphan Project on Saturday, June 23. It will be a BBQ chicken and strawberry shortcake dinner.
c.) The community garden at the parsonage is coming along very well. David Marstaller has agreed to build a trellis there. P&SC is also planning to have a bench, which we will dedicate in memory of Louis Marstaller. We hope to have this completed by Memorial Day weekend so we can dedicate it after Worship on May 27.
d.) 350.org is calling for a global “Connect the Dots” action on May 5 and May 6, envisioned as a world- wide “action” which calls for a reduction of carbon fuels and for care for our environment. Durham Friends Youth Group and Peace and Social Concerns will be organizing a photo of the Meeting participating in this campaign after worship on May 6. Our environmental action will be to begin planting the community garden on that day, and to plant some fruit trees. We will also encourage carpooling and bicycling to the meeting on May 6, as a first step to further carpooling.
4. It was approved that we should build a commemoration bench using P&SC funds. 5. It was approved that we plant two peach trees and put out a basket to receive contributions to pay for them. 6. Margaret Wentworth reported for the Library Committee. Old periodicals have been recycled. We will save
the boxes for future use. Library Committee would like to hold its meetings on the 5th Sundays.
7. Katharine Hildebrandt brought the Finance Report for March. The total General Fund Income for March was $3,561.89 and the Expenditures were $5,461.94. The year-to-date finances for the General Fund shows that Income for January 1 – March 31 period was $12,881.55 and the Expenses were $17,098.83. This means we are running a $4,217.28 deficit for the first three months of 2012. Her report was accepted with gratitude. 8. Daphne Clement gave her pastor’s report. It has been an active April, especially around Easter time. The
reading group that has been meeting on Wednesdays has been rich. The community garden is proceeding very nicely. Contemplative prayer will be held on Tuesdays in May.
9. Registration has opened for the Friends General Conference Gathering at the University of Rhode Island in Kingston (July 1-7). People planning to go are encouraged to sign up early to get their choice of workshops.
10. Jo-an Jacobus reported for the Website Committee. Wendy Schlotterbeck will be helping on the technical level to get information onto the website. The Committee is very appreciative of this help she is giving.
11. Susan Rice reported that the Ad-Hoc Fundraising Committee is actively meeting. They see that raising consciousness around the operating budget deficit is an important part of raising money to meet that deficit.
12. Quarterly Meeting will be held on April 28 at Portland Friends Meetinghouse. Approved for representatives are Leslie Manning, Clarabel Marstaller and Susan Wood.
Minutes of the meeting were approved during the meeting. The Meeting adjourned at 1:55 p.m. with a period of worship.
By Nancy Marstaller
Fourteen women met at Muriel and Karen Marston’s. Their recent work on the house makes the place just glow.
Margaret Wentworth led the program and devotions on the theme “God Speaks Through Others.” The author of the lesson in our Blueprints quoted Psalm 46: “As the deer panteth for water, so my soul panteth for you, oh God.” We shared how God can speak to us through others or in ways we might not recognize.
We sent many cards: thinking of you, birthday, get well, and thank you. Our treasurer reported a balance of $2,140.94, with $2,000 dedicated to a meetinghouse sound system. The April Tedford meal was chicken and rice, green salad, fruit, brownies and
cheesecake. Angie and her team will provide the May meal.
We are asked to pray for all Friends attending the Friends World Committee for Consultation world conference in Kenya. We planned details of the NE USFW meeting to be held at the meetinghouse on May 12 and the Yard Sale on May 26 (see related articles!). In closing our meeting, we held in prayer all those who could not join us for the evening.
We enjoyed Karen’s fabulous refreshments, the antics of their dog, and each other’s company before heading into the night. Our next meeting will be Monday, May 21, at Nancy’s house, with Angie leading devotions and Dot Hinshaw leading the program. Hope you can come!
Woman’s Society April Meeting Notes
Respectfully submitted, Susan Rice
Woman’s Society April Meeting Notes
By Nancy Marstaller
Fourteen women met at Muriel and Karen Marston’s. Their recent work on the house makes the place just glow.
Margaret Wentworth led the program and devotions on the theme “God Speaks Through Others.” The author of the lesson in our Blueprints quoted Psalm 46: “As the deer panteth for water, so my soul panteth for you, oh God.” We shared how God can speak to us through others or in ways we might not recognize.
We sent many cards: thinking of you, birthday, get well, and thank you. Our treasurer reported a balance of $2,140.94, with $2,000 dedicated to a meetinghouse sound system. The April Tedford meal was chicken and rice, green salad, fruit, brownies and
cheesecake. Angie and her team will provide the May meal.
We are asked to pray for all Friends attending the Friends World Committee for Consultation world conference in Kenya. We planned details of the NE USFW meeting to be held at the meetinghouse on May 12 and the Yard Sale on May 26 (see related articles!). In closing our meeting, we held in prayer all those who could not join us for the evening.
We enjoyed Karen’s fabulous refreshments, the antics of their dog, and each other’s company before heading into the night. Our next meeting will be Monday, May 21, at Nancy’s house, with Angie leading devotions and Dot Hinshaw leading the program. Hope you can come!
Durham Monthly Meeting of Friends Minutes of March 18, 2012
The meeting opened at 12:35 p.m. with 19 people present.
Clerk Sue Wood opened with a reading from New Yearly Meeting Faith and Practice: “Sense of Community.” In it, Fox writes, “Friends are not to meet like a company of people about town or parish business…” but to wait on the Lord. George Selleck writes, “It is important that the meeting for business should begin with a genuine period of worship, with an awareness of the real presence and direction of Christ in the worshipping fellowship.”
1.) Clerk Sue Wood read a letter from Tess Hartford requesting tuition assistance for her granddaughter Ariana Andrews for Friends Camp. This request was approved.
2.) A letter was read from Dorothy Grannell of Friends World Conference for Consultation-New England regarding the April “Salt and Light” Conference in Kenya. There will be people from New England attending that conference who would like to visit Monthly Meetings to share their experiences.
It was approved that we extend an invitation to join us on Sunday, May 13, for a potluck and gathering. This will be following the Saturday United Society of Friends Women-New England meeting during which there will be a report from some of these people.
3.) Katharine Hildebrandt brought the Treasurer’s Report both for February and year to date. It was noted that Income for the two months was $9,318.35. But she will need to dip into the General Savings Account to meet the expenses for March. Income for February was $4,128.67 and expenditures were $6,742.92 for the General Fund. Capital expenses for February were $15,066 which completed the purchase of the pellet boiler system; this came out of the Capital Fund.
4.) Wendy Schlotterbeck reported that Ministry and Counsel will be co-sponsoring a Seder Supper with Christian Education on April 5 at 6:00. All are welcomed. Families especially are invited. There will be an Easter sunrise service at the Weed Simpson Cemetery on River Road in Brunswick this year at 6 a.m. A request is being made that people wear their name tags as there is an increase in new people coming to the meeting.
5.) The Meeting approved that Trustees should use the $100 needed to fix the land-line telephone in the Meeting. Trustees remind people not to park under the basketball net, especially now that the weather is good.
6.) Susan Rice reported for Peace and Social Concerns. They were very happy with the workshop on Transitional Communities that Steve Chase and Katy Locke gave and look forward to continuing with some of the ideas and the spirit of the Transitions movement.
Peace and Social Concerns plans to have two fund raising dinners this year: one for Kakamega at the end of June and one for the Lisbon/Auburn Christian Outreach Food Pantry in the autumn. Holding these two dinners for “sharing the wealth” were approved.
7.) Daphne Clement brought the Pastors’ Report. Reading group will be held on Wednesdays in April at 6:30 p.m. (reading the Gospels of Thomas and Mary Magdalene) and Contemplative Prayer gatherings will continue again at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays in May.
Daphne is looking forward to the Meeting’s having a community garden by the parsonage. She has great plans for it and looks forward to a large participation by Meeting members and attenders.
It was approved that Markus Schlotterbeck be invited to bring the message on April 22 following his three and a half month visit to Palestine. He will be asked to speak at a pot-luck on that date. We hold Markus in prayer for his safety.
8.) Sally Skillman reported that Special Events Committee is preparing for Easter.
9.) Wendy Schlotterbeck reminds us that that Jonathan Vogel-Borne has resigned as Secretary of New England Yearly Meeting, effective as of the end of December. Wendy is on the search committee for a new Secretary and welcomes ideas and applications for the position.
Minutes of the meeting were approved as the meeting was held. The Meeting adjourned at 1:55 p.m. with a period of worship.
Respectfully submitted, Susan Rice
Durham Monthly Meeting Minutes, July 17, 2011
July 17, 2011
Durham Monthly Meeting of Friends convened on Sunday, July 17, 2011, at 12:15 pm with 16 people present. Co-Clerk Edwin Hinshaw read a quote from Thomas Kelly: “Social concern is the dynamic life of God at work in the world.”
1. Theresa Oleksiw and Leslie Manning reported for Ministry and Counsel.
a) Ministry and Counsel recommends that the new sound system be provided by Confield Associates. This system means there will be hand held microphones so that everyone will be able to hear. (It was determined that the hanging mics would not work in our meeting room.) It will cost between $1900 -$2100. Woman’s Society has $2000 earmarked for this. Finance Committee is asked to suggest how any cost over $2000 should be met. This recommendation was approved.
b) Because of child safety concerns for child care in the meetinghouse, M&C recommends having half windows installed in the nursery room doors for both of the access doors. Finance Committee is asked to look into how the costs for this would be met. This was approved.
c) The telephone tree is now available and will be distributed to all who are on the tree with extra copies available on the table in the library.
d) A questionnaire to assist in the annual evaluation of the Pastor will be done by forms that will be made available in the August newsletter as well as on the table in the library. Daphne Clement will also be filling out an evaluation. There will be a place on the form where members and attenders can say what they would like in the way of program offerings and when they might be available to attend such programs. M&C will bring a report of the evaluation and a recommendation coming from it to Monthly Meeting in November.
2. The Treasurer’s Report (attached) was distributed by Katherine Hildebrandt and was accepted with great thanks. Income for June was $2,936.03 and Expenses for June were $6,523.41. The significantly lower amount in contributions in June reflects seasonal differences.
a) It was noted that we budgeted $42,000 for contributions for 2011 and at the half-way point of the year, we have brought in $20,690, so we are very close to the budgeted projection. However our income for the first 6 months of 2011 is $4980 short of our expenses in the same period.
b) The Rise Up Singing benefit concert of the youth group brought in $1650. $650 went to pay the musicians. $250 has gone to sponsor a child at the Kakamega USFW Orphan Project. The youth group is still deciding how to allocate the rest of the money.
c) Finance Committee is still working on developing the method of making electronic transfers for people who want to make their contributions through automatic bank transfers.
d) $1261.26 is available as part of the compensation package for Daphne Clement to go to conferences. We approved allocating $500 of that to assist Daphne with her costs for going to New England Yearly Meeting sessions.
3. Susan Rice and Leslie Manning reported for Peace and Social Concerns.
a) They wish to hold a second benefit dinner for Lisbon Area Christian Outreach (LACO) food pantry on Saturday, October 1. It would be a “Harvest Dinner and Pies” event. Shiloh and Church of the Brethren would be asked to carry this event with us. This recommendation was approved. Daphne Clement is offering to be the liaison for Durham’s connections to LACO for fundraising. This was quickly approved
b) On Saturday November 12th, Peace and Social Concerns is recommending that we hold a Kenya Crafts Sale and Tea. The crafts would be brought back from Kenya by Susan and the sale of them will directly benefit the Orphan Project. At a particular point in the day, there would be a “Kenyan Tea (and biscuits)” and a reporting from those who were part of the trip this summer. This was heartily approved.
c) On Sunday, January 29, 2012 (the 5th Sunday of the month) Peace and Social Concerns would like to invite Brunswick and Lewiston Friends for worship and a pot luck with a program on how war spending has affected our job economy.
4) Dorothy Hinshaw reported for Christian Education Committee:
a) The special offering taken on Children’s Day (for the Children and Youth projects of United Society of Friends Women [USFW]) was $215. Durham’s Woman’s society has contributed further funds to make it a total of $500.
b) Rally Day will be on September 11. Plans for the year will be reviewed at that time.
c) At the end of August there will be a training workshop called Our Whole Life (OWL) Training, for middle school and high school curriculum. Daphne Clement’s conference fees are already covered in her compensation package. The Meeting approved funding for Wendy Schlotterbeck and Katharine Hildebrandt through the Christian Education budget and Conference funds.
5) Daphne Clement gave the pastors’ report.
a) She attended Friends General Conference Summer Gathering in July where she co-led a “Spiritual Journey and Writing” workshop that was very well received. Nearly 1000 Friends from all over the world were in attendance and she appreciated living for a week in a “village of Friends.”
b) Pastoral visits continue. She gives special thanks to Bill Curtis who does an exceptional job on our lawns. The community garden is coming along very well.
c) Jim Douglas will be bringing the message on August 7.
d) The sign is a work in progress. It was decided that the sign will have the website on it instead of the telephone number.
5) The Meeting decided to give $1200 (a 10% tithe from our Charity Fund) to the Brunswick Unitarian Universalist Church to help the rebuilding of their church following the fire.
6) It was approved that Elizabeth Muench will serve as our Ministry and Counsel representation to NEYM until or unless another person is appointed to undertake this responsibility
7) Monthly Meeting will not be held in August.
8) The minutes of the Monthly Meeting were approved during the meeting.
9) The Meeting adjourned, continuing in the spirit of worship, at 1:40 P.M.
Susan Rice, Recording Clerk
Woman’s Society July 18, 2011
By Nancy Marstaller
We met on a perfect summer evening at Helen Clarkson’s lovely home with its fantastic view. Margaret Wentworth led us in devotions and the program – taking highlights from the last two programs from our Blueprints lessons book. One was based on the story of Jesus healing the man who had been crippled for 38 years. Jesus asked if he wanted to be healed.
We pondered how sometimes we cling to old ways of life, even if new ways of being open to us. The known feels safer, even if we know the new way will be better for others and ourselves. We wondered how we might need to change our Woman’s Society so that we continue to be a group that meets women’s spiritual needs.
We talked about the past split in New England Yearly Meeting of Friends, and what might have happened if we had lived up to our ideals and the split never occurred. It’s sometimes hard to remember that we are looking for God’s will in our lives, not our own will’s desires.
In the business meeting, we sent “thinking of you” cards to several. Our treasurer reported a balance of $3540.93, of which $2000 is earmarked for the meeting sound system.
We decided to donate to several of the USFWI projects: $150 each to Keys to the Kingdom, Four Funds, Peace and Christian Social Concerns, and the Christian Service Fund and $100 to the Thanks Offering. Locally, we approved donating $100 each to Opportunity Farm, the Sexual Assault Support Services of Midcoast Maine, and Tedford Housing.
We are asked to pray for those attending the Friends United Meeting Triennial, especially visitors from Kenya, many of whom have been denied visas by our government so won’t be able to attend. We pray for our policy makers, that their hearts be opened.
Our nominating committee reported that most positions have been filled for the coming year. They still have a couple more people to ask. We are so grateful to all who are willing to share in the roles needed to keep our society working. Jo-an volunteered to produce an updated contact list.
The Tedford meal in July was vegetarian and hot dog macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, green salad, watermelon, and cookies.
If you don’t already receive the NE USFW newsletter and would like to, let Clarabel Marstaller know. You may receive it by email or post.
Our August meeting will be our annual eat out on August 15 at 6 PM. We agreed we would like to go back to the Lion’s Pride. Theresa will check out making arrangements.
We polished off our evening with Helen’s delicious raspberry and cherry pies, and other goodies, after that we continued to enjoy each other’s company before heading into the warm summer night.
Durham Monthly Meeting Minutes, June 19, 2011
Durham Monthly Meeting of Friends convened on Sunday, June 19, 2011, at 12:15 pm with 11 people present. Co-clerk Edwin Hinshaw read “Quaker Education Should Be Experiential” from the World Conference, 1937.
1. The Clerk read thank you notes from the Woolman Hill Board members who met at our meeting on the weekend of June 5.
2. The Clerk read a letter to Kris Reed expressing the Meeting’s affirmation of his commitment as a conscientious objector, offering our support for him in his efforts to live a peaceful and nonviolent life.
3. Jo-an Jacobus reported that the Meeting telephone was connected May 20th. She described the full agreement with FairPoint Communications. All agreement information will be held by the Trustees. The meeting thanked Jo-an for all the work she has put into this to tailor our agreement specifically to our needs.
4. We decided to send to the Finance Committee the need for a $360 budget revision to cover the cost of the telephone for 2011, with the suggestion that they transfer some funds currently allocated in the budget for snowplowing to the telephone cost.
5. Daphne Clement gave her Pastor’s Report for May. Along with many visits, hosting Woolman Hill board members, attending the Beacon Hill Friends House board, and the contemplative prayer group, she spent a great deal of time preparing the meeting garden (in which the Youth Group is planting) and preparing to paint the Meeting sign.
The meeting approved the layout for the sign that Daphne presented with minor adjustments. We were very pleased that she has taken on this challenge and we look forward to the new sign with great anticipation.
6. The Treasurer’s Report (attached) was distributed by Eileen Babcock and was accepted with thanks. Income for May was $5,267.61 and Expenses for May were $5,684.05. Requests for NEYM Equalization Fund will be announced from the facing bench over the next three weeks.
7. Eileen Babcock, reporting for Finance Committee, said that Durham Oil Company has published its contract prices for oil for the coming year. Trustees will research the options and will bring their recommendation to Monthly Meeting in July.
8. The Meeting requested Susan Rice write up a report on the Kakamega Project for the newsletter.
9. The Meeting approved the following people to be our representatives at the sessions of New England Yearly Meeting of Friends (NEYM): Daphne Clement, Nancy Marstaller, and, pending their agreement, Wendy Schlotterbeck and Leslie Manning. We approved Theresa Oleksiw as our representative to serve on NEYM Nominating Committee. The Meeting requests that Durham’s Meeting on Ministry and Counsel send to Monthly Meeting its recommendation for the Meeting’s representative for NEYM Ministry and Counsel.
10. Representatives to Quarterly Meeting, Sunday, July 24 at Portland Meeting are Glenice Hutchins, Clarabel Marstaller, Alexandrine and Joseph Godleski and Daphne Clement. The program for the day will be on Global Warming.
11. Daphne Clement will look into the needs of the Brunswick Unitarian Universal Church since its big fire last month. She will report to both Monthly Meeting and Woman’s Society. As we have had the experience of strong support and friendship from other churches when we had a fire in 1986, we want to reach out to the UU church in some way.
12. Monthly Meeting will not be held in August.
13. The minutes of the Monthly Meeting were approved during the meeting.
14. The Meeting adjourned, continuing in the spirit of worship, at 1:55 P.M.
Susan Rice, Recording Clerk
Woman’s Society Report for June
By Angie Reed
The Woman’s Society met on June 20, 2011 for a High Tea (light suppa) at the home of Dorothy and Ed Hinshaw. 12 women dined on cucumber sandwiches, beets, soda bread and jam, strawberries, cheesecake, among other delights, and of course freshly brewed tea. These were served by the beautiful hostess, Dorothy with help from her male family members, Ed and grandson Chris, all with good humor. All women who attended felt like queens for the day and had a wonderful, unforgettable time. A HUGE thank you goes out to Dorothy, Ed, and Chris for providing those gathered with a wonderful way to begin the summer.
Following the tea, we gathered in the parlor for our program and meeting. Jo-an Jacobus lead devotions by reading the children’s book, “Praying with our Feet”. The program for the evening was titled “Working for Peace” and was read jointly by all attendees. It described the work of Charlotte Stangeland and a team of people who are developing a Peace Curriculum to be taught to young people in Kenya.
In business, we were asked to pray for the team of people we had just discussed who are developing the Peace Curriculum in Kenya and have been hindered by government regulations and are doing their best to complete the curriculum before the next presidential elections in 2012. The Tedford meal for June was Sloppy Joes, 2 salads, rolls, ice cream and rhubarb sauce. We discussed the book list for the next season of the reading program. Please let Angie know if you have any books you would like to share with the Meeting for the next reading program which starts in Sept. of 2011. Nancy read a list of donations for Tess Marstallar’s camp program in Cameroon. Items donated included soccer balls, crayons, pens, pencils, 10 jump ropes and lots of stickers. Please check Tess’s blog to see how your items are being used. Thank you to all those who contributed to the care package Tess Marstaller will use in her camp program
Last but not least, we discussed the Yard Sale which made a grand total of $1,789.75 and is a record for us. People were pleased with the new pricing system for Jumble items, and expressed regret that Syretha Brooks was not home to share in the kitchen fun this year. We decided to spend some of these funds to continue contributions to the “Adopt a Nurse Program” and also send monies to the youth funds that were listed as under funded in the last “Advocate”. Some of the money was placed in reserve to fund community needs throughout the year, especially as winters have been so hard on people lately.
The meeting ended by Dorothy Curtis who read silly quotes and messages of friendship. The next meeting will be on July 18 at the home of Helen Clarkson. All are invited to attend.
Durham Monthly Meeting Minutes, May 15, 2011
Durham Monthly Meeting of Friends convened on Sunday, May 12, 2011, at 12:20 P.M., with 14 people present. Clerk Edwin Hinshaw read a gentle prayer by Mary Stewart of Longmont, California (1904).
1. Susan Rice was approved as Recording Clerk for 2011, with thanks.
2. Jo-an Jacobus reported that Durham Monthly Meeting now has a two-year contract with FairPoint Communications for a landline telephone. It will cost approximately $45 a month. It should be hooked up on May 20th. The phone number is: 207.725.0411 and we will be listed as Durham Meeting of Friends. It was agreed that we should have voice mail along with call forwarding and conference calling. It was also agreed that we should have a block on 900 and international calls. It was agreed as well that Clarabel Marstaller and Jo-an Jacobus would be our contacts with FairPoint. Despite our wishes to have a copy of the contract held by the Trustees, there is no contract with FairPoint, only a verbal agreement. Jo-an Jacobus will write a report of all the items agreed to by both parties and provide it to the Trustees so it may be held by them.
3. The Meeting would like to recognize our graduates for this year:
From high school: Kristopher Reed, Amanda Curtis, and Sarah Freshley.
From college: Keegan Brown and Nicholas Gorgone.
From graduate school: Wesley Marstaller.
A gift certificate from Quakerbooks of Friends General Conference (FGC) for each graduate was approved to go with our hearty congratulations.
4. Katharine Hildebrandt, Treasurer, presented the Treasurer’s report for April. Income for April was $4,761.92; expenses were $4,862.55. The report was accepted with thanks. (Report attached.)
New England Yearly Meeting of Friends sent us a $100 donation to help with costs for the wonderful Godly Play Workshop supported by FGC. We agreed to send that $100 to FGC along with $160 from Christian Education Committee and the fees taken in for the workshop.
Katharine has been researching all the Meeting’s funds to determine which were given with restrictions. At this time the only fund that Katharine was able to determine has a restriction is the Goddard Fund, with a restriction on the principle. She requests that someone else do a similar check of all our trustees’ and finance files to confirm this and to help establish the base amount of the Goddard Fund which is being held and invested by the New England Yearly Meeting of Friends Pooled Funds.
5. David Reed reported for Trustees. Saturday May 21 will be clean-up day for the inside and outside of the Meetinghouse.
6. Finance Committee reported:
A. The organ that is in the Meeting Room was donated to us by Friends Camp. Finance Committee encourages anyone who would like to thank Friends Camp for this gift to do so by making a contribution to the Meeting and we will gratefully send it to Friends Camp.
B. There was discussion about having people make their donations to the Meeting through automatic monthly transfers from their bank account to ours. For some people this might be a more regular, manageable way to make their contributions. This method of receiving donations was approved. The Finance Committee is being asked to announce this at Meeting and through the newsletter. They were also asked to create a form for automatic transfers that friends could give to their bank with our bank account and routing numbers included.
7. Susan Rice reported that the Peace & Social Concerns dinner to benefit the Lisbon Area Christian Outreach Food Pantry will occur on Saturday June 25th at 5:30. It will be a pig roast with a locally grown pig. The menu will include vegetarian baked beans, cornbread, a variety of salads, and our famous Strawberry Shortcake. There was a discussion concerning serving pork as it excludes Muslims and Jews. It was decided to proceed with the menu as planned with a request for deeper discussion for future dinner menus. There will be a strong effort to invite people who live in the local area.
8. Clarabel Marstaller reported for Christian Education Committee that June 12 will be Children’s Sunday. It was requested that there be a second offering on that day to go to the United Society of Friends Women International children’s projects. This was approved.
9. Clarabel Marstaller reported on the Quarterly Meeting that gathered on April 30 at Friends Camp. The July 24th Quarterly Meeting will be held at Portland Meeting and the program will be on the Friends World Committee on Consultation theme of “Salt and Light”.
10. Daphne Clement gave a pastor’s report which included special thanks for her support committee. A contemplative prayer group has started on Tuesday evenings at the Meetinghouse. She will begin to repaint our old sign. Hooray!
11. Wendy Schlotterbeck gave a very full Youth Minister report. (Report attached.) We accepted this report with appreciation and admiration.
12. A letter of greeting from Durham Monthly Meeting will be carried by Elizabeth Muench to the Intermountain Yearly Meeting.
13. The minutes of the Monthly Meeting were approved during the meeting.
14. The Meeting adjourned, continuing in the spirit of worship, at 2:10 P.M.
Susan Rice, Recording Clerk
Woman’s Society Newsletter Report for May
By Angie Reed
The Woman’s Society met on May 16, 2011 at Nancy Marstaller’s house. 15 women gathered for a devotional prayer by Dotty DeLoach, and a program by Sarah Sprogell. Sarah shared her experiences with Bobbie Jordan in the last months and moments of Bobbie’s life here on earth. We were all touched by the pure love and devotion these two wonderful women share for each other and join Sarah in prayers for her next steps in her journey.
In business, Prayers were asked for the recipients of the Joy fund who are Christine Wood of Kickapoo Center; Brenda White of Mesquakie Center; and Ann Kendall of MOWA Choctaw Center. We would also suggest you include Joseph Makokha in your prayers. He is the clerk of the Friends Church Peace Team in Kenya and is much involved with the Peace Curriculum being developed for Kenyan schools. The Tedford Meal for May was hot dogs, and buns, green salad and 2 wonderful deserts.
Kitsie Hildebrandt has purchased four platters to be used for Woman Society sponsored events and was asked to purchase a few more in the event of breakage. The new Blueprints for 2011-2012 are available for purchase for $5.00 from Margaret Wentworth. Angie Reed asked that members review the book list for the coming year in the Advocate and let her know if there are any books on this list you would like to read during our next year’s reading program. Final plans were made for this year’s yard sale to be held May 28th at the Meeting House. Please look for new pricing on our Jumble items.
Lastly, Nancy Marstaller read an email from Tess who is in the Peace Corp in Tombel, a province of Cameroon. She has asked for a care package for her students to help her put on a summer camp for girls this coming summer. We will put together a care package similar to that sent to Japan to be mailed out after Father’s day. See newsletter article for more details.
The meeting was closed by Kitsie who read a poem by Mary Oliver which in part said… in life “it is not the weight you carry but how you carry it.” The next Meeting will be hosted by Dorothy Hinshaw on June 20th at her home at 5:30pm.
Youth Minister’s Report Spring 2011
By Wendy Schlotterbeck
1. Durham Young Friends held a very successful “Rise Up singing” sing-a-long concert on March 19th. It seemed that all who came had a wonderful time and the youth made $1001. My highlight of the year was watching the young friends in the front row thoroughly engaged and enjoying both the concert and one another.
2. The April Young Friends Meeting was held at Aunt Bee’s house and the youth, as always, had a fabulous time. Special thanks to Brenda Masse for helping with the group as Wendy was at the Playing in the Light workshop along with Jeanne Baker-Stinson and five others.
3. At our May 20th meeting, we had a sleepover at the Meetinghouse. We held a wonderful, lengthy Quaker discussion about whether we wanted to sponsor a Kakamega child. The sense of the meeting was that we would indeed sponsor a child and accept the responsibility of continuing the sponsorship year by year. The youth were excited about writing letters and hope that in a few years, some of us may participate in the Summer Trip to Kakamega to meet the children.
4. As the school year comes to a close, I am amazed and humbled by our youth who in a short time (the Philadelphia trip was just last year!) have really bonded into a lovely group. Some remarked how Durham Young Friends (DYF) feels like family, they love coming to Meeting, and really enjoy being friends and Friends. We at Durham are so very blessed to have such incredible young people in our midst.
5. Passages has been focusing more on Conscientious Objection this spring, our final gathering on May 22nd featured excerpts from the documentary “Soldiers of Conscience,” and a special guest who is a member of Veterans for Peace. We hold Kris Reed in the Light as he ventures forward in his journey after graduation from high school in June. Next fall, we plan to continue the high school “Passages” group and look forward to more study of faith communities especially Islam and Judaism.
6. Please attend “Children’s Day” on Sunday, June 12th when the youth will have the care of worship. There will also be a picnic after meeting with food, games, and activities.
7. On June 17 – 19 our annual campout will be held at Betsy Muench’s summer home. All of Durham Meeting is warmly invited. If you can’t stay overnight, come for a few hours during the day for kayaking, swimming, beach activities, singing and wonderful conversation. Contact Wendy Schlotterbeck for more details.
Durham Monthly Meeting Minutes, April 17, 2011
April 17, 2011
for every family in every part of the earth, and also for people who are poor and their governments. Durham Monthly Meeting of Friends convened on Sunday April 17, 2011 at 12:30 with 12 present. Co-Clerk, Edwin Hinshaw, read from Daily Readings from Quaker Writings Ancient and Modern, an article by James Newby, p. 84, ed. Linda H. Renfer: “We live in a world of mystery;… deeper faith will produce deeper questions…”
Dorothy Hinshaw was approved as recording Clerk for the day.
1. Margaret Wentworth circulated the Statistical report, prepared by Dorothy DeLoach. The report was accepted with appreciation, to be forwarded to New England Yearly Meeting of Friends [NEYMF]. It was noted that parents need to request junior membership for their children so that they may be counted in the meeting’s annual statistics.
2. A letter from NEYM Young Adult Friends concerning climate change was received and referred to Peace and Social Concerns Committee.
3. Carried over from March Monthly Meeting, the need for a land telephone line was discussed. The Meeting approved a three year contract with FairPoint Communications for $420 per year which enables unlimited calls to numerous towns in this area, provides 911 emergency service and facilitates in-coming calls. The towns included in this calling area are Durham, Lisbon, Lisbon Falls, Brunswick, Freeport, Topsham, Bath, Bowdoin, Bowdoinham, Harpswell, Phippsburg, Woolwich and Georgetown. No long distance calls will be able to be made. Jo-an Jacobus will follow through on this matter.
4. It was reported that a letter of introduction for Markus Schlotterbeck to Philadelphia Yearly Meeting was prepared and given to him by the Co-Clerks.
5. Joseph Godleski for Katharine Hildebrandt, Treasurer, distributed the monthly financial and year-to date reports. They were received with appreciation and are attached.
6. Daphne Clement, Pastor, suggested that we facilitate automatic transfers from a donor’s bank account to the Meeting bank account. It was approved that the Treasurer be asked to arrange for this procedure.
7. A request was received for Ariana Andrews for a campership to Friends Camp. It was approved to provide $250.
8. In response to a letter and photos of Durham Meeting, a letter was received from our sister meeting, Velasco Monthly Meeting, Cuba. This letter was read in Meeting for Worship and Monthly Meeting.
“A thousand thanks for this wonderful Bridge of Love which you share with us Cubans – and more importantly, Quakers – in Velasco. This session of the yearly meeting has been full of love and that is why I’m writing, to extend that love to you all. We never forget you and we pray We hope a group of you will be with us this year, if God permits.”
9. Leslie Manning reported for Ministry and Counsel:
a. In response to NEYM’s request that we consider Friends United Meeting’s personnel policy, Durham Ministry Counsel reports: “Prior to 1988, Friends United Meeting did not have a Sexual Ethics portion of their personnel process. After prayer, discussion and discernment, we recommend that it be replaced with the following:
Recruitment.
Application with references.
Applicant asks for a Clearness Committee from Monthly Meeting where membership is held, which provides a letter of recommendation to Yearly meeting, if approved.
Yearly Meeting (or its interim body) provides a letter of recommendation, if approved.
Friends United Meeting makes final decision in conjunction with applicant.”
The above was approved in principle to be forwarded to NEYMF for further consideration and to QM for their information. Monthly Meeting recommended that the above policy change be set in context of the FUM policy.
b. Friends General Conference Gathering of Friends will be held at Grinnell College, Iowa, July 3-9, 2011. “Yes to the Joy of Love,” Friends General Conference’s 2010 annual report, was circulated.
c. Special mugs will be used to identify members of Ministry and Counsel at “coffee” hour to facilitate inquiries about Friends and Durham Meeting.
10. Peace and Social Concerns Committee reported on the concern from Friends Committee on National Legislation about the fact that 39 cents of every tax dollar goes to war and militarization. The Committee’s major effort will be devoted to supporting Lisbon Area Christian Outreach. Monthly Meeting approved selling tickets to LACO events held at Durham Friends meetinghouse and other local churches.
11. The All Maine Gathering and Falmouth Quarterly Meeting will be held at Friends Camp on April 30, 2011. Representatives approved are Clarabel Marstaller, Daphne Clement, Alexandrine and Joseph Godleski.
12. Daphne Clement, Pastor, reported attending the spring gathering of New England United Society of Friends Women, NEYMF and New York Yearly Meeting of Friends Ministers and Clerks conference, on local pastoral visits, and meeting with Young Friends at “Aunt Bee” Bernice Douglas’ home. She also volunteers at LACO and attends LACO Board Meetings.
13. Clarabel Marstaller reported for the Adult Sunday School Class on a discussion of the Yearly Meeting “Minute of Sending Forth.” The class concluded that the minute was too abstract, that the four priorities were something we can take hold of and work on: the call to forgiveness; the call to strengthen our ability to love and to build our community; the call to name, cultivate, and exercise gifts of ministry, eldership, and leadership; and the call to undertake clear leadings for witness. The following was also suggested by the Class for NEYM consideration:
The call to work together as a Society to become better able to serve the world and to be faithful to the Gospel of love and peace.
Since we are non-creedal and we come from so many different faith backgrounds, we might try to learn more about our Quaker faith, suggesting that for the year ahead each Meeting have a study of George Fox’s Journal and of one of the Gospels.
The Adult Sunday School class will be considering Bill Taber’s pamphlet, Four Doors to Worship in May. Meeting members are encouraged to attend.
The meeting closed with prayer, keeping in mind controversial issues and concerns facing our Meeting and the Society of Friends.
Dorothy Hinshaw, Recording Clerk, pro tem
Woman’s Society Report for April
By Margaret Wentworth
The Durham Friends Woman’s Society met on April 18 at Clarabel Marstaller’s home. Ten women attended. Bee Douglas led devotions, emphasizing the many ways she has felt cared for by her family and f/Friends. Theresa Oleksiw gave the program on care of the elderly. Her presentation of the Blueprints information led to much sharing among the group.
In business, we were asked to pray for Ann Riggs, Principal of Friends Theological College, and her excellent work in Kenya. We had no report on the April Tedford meal. Team F has the May meal. Five Easter pies were ordered. Their baking and delivery to meeting was coordinated. The Yard Sale is set for Saturday, May 28. The plans for advertising were discussed. We noted that the box of toiletries for Japan is filling nicely. Jo-an Jacobus presented information about the Durham Friends Meeting website and we clarified contact information to be used on the site for our group. We appreciate the good work Markus Schlotterbeck and the website committee have done in setting it up, and are grateful for Jo-an’s willingness to keep it up to date.
Six women from our Meeting attended and enjoyed the USFW NE Spring Gathering in Portland. USFWI has asked if New England could host the 2016 Triennial. After discussing the information laid out in the Handbook on hosting those events, as the only organized Woman’s Society in New England, we decided we are not ready to attempt the task. The 2011-2012 Blueprints have arrived and are available from Margaret for $5 each. Our next meeting will be May 16 at the home of Nancy Marstaller. Theresa will lead devotions and Sarah Sprogell will lead the program.
Dorothy closed the meeting with some wildly hilarious quotes from church bulletins, and we adjourned to feast on Clarabel’s delicious goodies.
State of the Society, 2010
Prepared by Ministry and Counsel, approved at Monthly Meeting
March 20,2011
“Let us cherish the seed of God in ourselves and in others, that we may be open to new revelations of truth. Let us look to our meetings to guide and stimulate our spiritual growth.” Advices on Spiritual Life, F and P, NEYM, 1985
How have we been open to truth and how has our meeting guided and stimulated us? At the end of the first decade of the twenty-first century after the birth of Jesus, what do we offer to our families, our community and our world that speaks to “that of God” in each of us?
Our spiritual community has been deeply enriched by the work and messages from our interim pastor, Andrew Grannell. Our Pastoral Search Committee worked diligently and deliberately to call the best qualified Friend to our midst, Daphne Clement. Our Youth Minister and her able assistants provide a rich array of resources and opportunities to our beloved youth. They made a field trip to Philadelphia, worshipped with our Shaker neighbors and visited the Heifer Project. Attendance at Sunday School, Youth Passages and adult religious education has been consistent and strong.
The Woman’s Society has been active, raising more money in their annual yard sale than ever, and thus has more to give away. Our worship time is enlivened by the gifts of music, ministry and silent waiting. We offered Quaker Quest to our neighbors to let them know that they are welcome among Friends.
We have been ably led by our co-clerks, and the faithful stewards of all our gifts, spiritual, financial and material. We have completed extensive work on our buildings, making them more energy efficient, welcoming and as well ordered as resources allowed. We welcomed new attenders and mourned the passing of several of our members who were inspiring in their lives of grace and faithfulness. We grow older and bolder, but take time to offer each other fellowship and support in times of illness and duress. We know the power of love and tenderness and have heard repeatedly the calls to forgiveness.
We need to take the love and concern we experience in our meeting and pour it out in the rest of our lives. We have benefited from the ministry of traveling Friends, from our deepening connections with our Quarter through Quaker Quest. We are distressed to find ourselves without unity in matters that speak directly to our testimonies and pray that unity with all Friends, everywhere, may be found. We rejoice in our connections to Kakamega, Cuba, Kaimosi and Ramallah. We wish to offer more to the needy in our own neighborhoods, to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless and clothe those in need. We pray for peace.
We have found comfort in the metaphor of the potluck. Each of us brings what we are able, and we gather joyfully to share the bounty. It does not matter if we have little or nothing to bring, there is always enough. And being with each other, in light and laughter while giving thanks, is our deepest blessing. We are grateful.
Durham Monthly Meeting Minutes, March 20, 2011
March 20, 2011
Durham Monthly Meeting of Friends convened on Sunday, March 20, 2011, at 12:20 P.M., with 17 people present. Clerk Edwin Hinshaw read a selection from Faith and Practice on: “Proceed in the Wisdom of God” by E. Burrough (pg 114) and “All Are Co-workers” from Pendle Hill (p. 115).
1. In the absence of a Recording Clerk, Susan Rice served as Recording Clerk for the day.
2. Katharine Hildebrandt, Treasurer, presented the report for February. Income for February was $3,734.77; expenses were $5,389.56. The report was accepted with thanks. [Report attached]
3. It was approved that anyone can bring a request to Monthly Meeting for money to be used from the Charity Account, but that the decision regarding this request should be held to the following month.
Durham Monthly Meeting of Friends
4. Finance Committee reported:
A. Eileen Babcock is clerk for the committee.
B. Joe Godleski presented his audit reports for 2009 for both the Cemetery Funds and the Finance Committee Funds. The books for both funds got glowing approval from the auditor. Those audits were accepted by the Meeting with appreciation and are attached.
5. A concern was brought that the NEYM funds are being invested through the management of Bank of America, which has business practices contrary to Friends values. It was agreed that a letter to the Board of Managers of Investments and Permanent Funds for NEYM be written with this concern. Leslie Manning and Betsy Muench will work on this letter together.
6. It was agreed that if a fund is restricted by the donor it should be noted in the fund’s name so as to make it clear to everyone in the future.
7. Markus Schlotterbeck requested a Travel Minute for the purpose of introduction to meetings in the Philadelphia area where he is moving to soon. This was approved with love and joy.
8. Leslie Manning reported for Ministry and Counsel.
A. Leslie is clerk of M&C and Nancy Marstaller is recording clerk.
B. The State of Society Report for 2010 was presented and was approved as amended.
C. Bids for a new Sound System are coming in for us to consider next month
D. The FUM Chain of Prayer day is Easter Sunday, April 24th.
E. M&C has received responses from the survey on un-programmed worship, which showed wide interest for un-programmed worship on the 5th Sundays. It was proposed that these Sundays will be fully un-programmed. It was agreed that there will still be an offering and announcements at the end of those meetings. M&C will decide how to let people coming in be aware of what an un-programmed meeting is and a way for welcoming newcomers.
F. Adult Sunday School has agreed to meet in the Sunday School room which makes it possible for Friends to enter at an earlier time into the meeting room and begin quiet worship.
G. There will be a sunrise service on Easter Sunday at the Simpson Cemetery off the River Road.
H. Following the deep listening the Meeting did on the Personnel Policy of FUM, Ministry and Counsel presented the following:
In regard to the NEYM withholding policy: “We cherish our relationship with FUM and urge full financial support for all of their endeavors. Equally dear to us are Friends who, as a matter of conscience, are unable to unite with us in this support.”
M&C also recommends that FUM remove the current Personnel Policy and replace it with the following: “If the applicant is a member of the Society of Friends:
The applicant asks for Clearness Committee within the Monthly Meeting where membership resides.
The Monthly Meeting provides a letter of recommendation following the Clearness process, if appropriate.
The letter of recommendation goes to the Yearly Meeting, which provides a letter of recommendation to FUM, if approved.
Friends United Meeting makes final decision in conjunction with Applicant.”
It was approved that we hold this in our heart and let it season for one month. In the meantime, anyone who wishes to speak with a M&C member in its regard should do so. And it will come to Monthly Meeting in April.
I. On the fourth Sunday of each month, the pastor, if she wishes, will have a special event or focus after meeting for worship. Committees should check with her if they want to schedule something on the fourth Sundays.
9. Daphne Clement presented the Pastor’s Report, which included many visits and committee work. She noted that work on the website is making major strides forward. Pastor’s Support Committee members are: Sue Wood, Phyllis Wetherell, Macy Whitehead, Betsy Stivers and Margaret Wentworth. Daphne’s report is attached.
10. Wendy Schlotterbeck gave the Youth Minister’s report. First, she thanked everyone who helped out with the Rise Up Singing concert. The young people were thrilled with the concert, which was very well attended and brought in $1000! Attendance at Godly Play is growing. Passages is focusing on conscientious objection. Upcoming events include the Playing in the Light workshop (April 15-17) at the meetinghouse. Michael Gibson, this workshop leader, will be bringing the message on Palm Sunday, April 17.
Big appreciation was given to Wendy for her leadership and all her work on the concert.
11. Susan Rice reported for Peace and Social Concerns. The two primary areas that they would like to focus on are LACO and how the military budget effects human needs. For LACO:
A. They would like to have the meeting fill-to-overflowing the box for LACO each month with recommended items. The items for April are peanut butter and tuna fish. People are encouraged to bring in items through April so that the box will be overflowing by Easter Sunday.
B. A fundraising dinner will take place on Saturday, June 25. There will be a strong effort to invite people who live in the local area.
12. Jo-an Jacobus reported for the newsletter committee. The website is coming along handsomely and an initial version of it is already on line. A lot more is being developed for it. After Markus Schlotterbeck leaves Maine, it will be Jo-an who continues with up-dating it.
13. Dorothy DeLoach presented the Meeting’s Annual Statistical Report being prepared for NEYM and suggestions were made to her. She will get further direction from NEYM for what they want and will bring that back next month.
14. The minutes of the Monthly Meeting were approved during the meeting.
15. The Meeting adjourned, continuing in the spirit of worship, at 2:45 P.M.
Susan Rice, Recording Clerk for the Day
Woman’s Society Report for March
By Angie Reed
The Woman’s Society met on March 21 at the Meeting House. Twelve individuals gathered a few minutes early on that snowy night for a Silent Auction, and meeting. Angie Reed presented the Devotions on letting God’s plan for you reveal itself over time and read a story about a Salt Doll and the Sea. Nancy Marstaller presented the program from Blueprints and discussed how we can learn to forgive others and, with more difficulty, ourselves. Those who attended shared experiences related to both topics.
In Business, prayers were asked for Libya, Japan and for Getry Agizah who is coordinator of Friends Peace Teams in Kenya and is currently traveling in the US. The Tedford Meal for March was chicken and gravy, squash, rice, a veggie or salad dish, garlic bread and a desert. We approved a request from a member to gather toiletry items for Japan. We discussed the need for more juice glasses for the Meeting House. The date of May 28th was set for the Yard Sale. Kitsie ended the meeting with inspirational kitchen quotes. Phyllis Wetherell prepared gingerbread and other goodies. The next meeting will be on April 18 at Clarabel Marstaller’s home. All are welcome to attend.
Please do not t forget to order your pies!
Durham Monthly Meeting Minutes, February 20, 2011
February 20, 2011
Durham Monthly Meeting of Friends, held February 20, 2011. Fifteen people were present.
1. Edwin Hinshaw, co-clerk, presented a reflection on two questions: “Can we believe
what we see? Can we see what we believe?” Three readings were shared.
2. Linda Muller was appointed Recording Clerk for the day.
3. Jo-an Jacobus reported on website design. Our domain name is durhamfriendsmeeting.org
4. A New England Yearly Meeting of Friends Permanent Board letter regarding a mission statement was given to Adult Sunday School for review and comment.
5. Katharine Hildebrandt, Treasurer, reported on year to date, pastor’s package, and account balances. Budget report showed income $5855 and expenses $5699 for January. Reports attached and accepted with appreciation.
6. David Reed presented the annual trustees report (attached). It was noted that interest and dividends from the cemetery funds covered the cemetery expenses for the year. Application forms for lots in Lunt Cemetery are available from the trustees. Report accepted with thanks. Upcoming additions for children’s room: fold down changing table, paint, and shelves, to be paid through donation and Christian Education budget, were approved.
We were reminded that the parsonage lot is in Tree Growth.
7. Nancy Marstaller reported for Ministry and Counsel: State of Society report should be
forthcoming next monthly meeting. Pastor welcome dinners are continuing. REMINDER:
upcoming panel/potluck/discussion on the Friends United Meeting personnel policy is on 3/6/11, beginning directly after rise of meeting; clerks will plan to activate phone tree prior.
Wendy will arrange child-care for the panel
time.
8. Pastor, Daphne Clement reported on many activities: including sharing with other Friends’ pastors, visit to Portland Friends School, pastor’s support committee, meeting with individuals. Report accepted with thanks.
9. Wendy Schlotterbeck, Youth Minister, reported on the youth newspaper (Forever
Friends), which is greatly appreciated by Monthly Meeting, and youth activities such as a
get together with our new pastor, practice of Quaker listening, and making pretzel dough for Quarterly Meeting. Proceeds from the “Rise Up
Singing” concert on Saturday, March 19th, will benefit the Kakamega Orphan Project and
support for youth attending New England Yearly Meeting of Friends sessions this
summer.
Wendy reported about the Passages program, Young Friends, and Children’s Sunday School.
Our Meeting is hosting a “Playing in the Light” training to be held 4/15-17. MORE
TEACHERS are NEEDED for next year as an additional class may be added for the middle
school age, and more help is needed for the Godly Play® curriculum. We accepted Wendy’s
report with thanks.
10. A Friends Camp scholarship was requested. We approved a scholarship of $250.00 for
Abigail Fortune.
11. Susan Rice reported that the Peace & Social Concerns committee is being revitalized. She is its clerk at present.
12. The Newsletter Committee met and is considering how to coordinate with website, Joan Jacobus reported.
13. Special Events Committee member, Angela Reed, requested that we have an
intergenerational discussion on Greg Mortenson’s books and a potluck, which was
approved. A possible date of the 4th Sunday in May (5/22) was suggested. Seasonal birthdays celebration were enjoyed today!!
14. A landline telephone for this building is needed for safety reasons. Cell phone coverage
is poor inside the building. Jo-an Jacobus will check into this and report back next month.
Linda Muller, Recording Clerk pro tem.
Woman’s Society Report for February
By Angie Reed
The Durham Friends Woman’s Society met on February 21 at the home of Dorothy
Curtis. Twelve women attended. Theresa Oleksiw did a devotional reading. Susan Wood
presented the program. The topic was answering the call to do a new thing in life, and many of us shared times in our lives when that has happened.
In other business, we were asked to pray for Sylvia Graves who has just retired as the
General Secretary of FUM and for Colin Saxton who has just started in this position. The
Tedford meal for February was Beef Stew, Minestrone Soup, a green salad, rolls and apple
berry soup. Funds were allocated for the “Adopt a Nurse” program, and plans were approved for fundraisers for this and other programs supported by Woman’s Society. The annual Treasurer’s report, prepared by Margaret Wentworth, was distributed. Woman’s society received $6980.18 and distributed $5017.50.
The majority of funds were acquired through memorial donations, and the annual yard sale.
Money, $2000.00, is in reserve for the new Meeting Room sound system.
A silent auction will be held at the Meeting House at our next meeting on March 21. We will also be conducting an Easter Sunday Pie Sale. Please see separate article for details. Many of these funds will be earmarked for the Adopt-a-nurse program. Angie Reed requested and received support from Woman’s Society for our first intergenerational book discussion to be held on May 22. Please see related newsletter article. Kitsie Hildebrandt closed the meeting with a quote on peace. Our next meeting will be on March 21 at the Meeting House. All invited to attend.
