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Emanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church 60 Church Street Manchester, CT 06040 860.643.1193 www.emanuelmanchester.org info@emanuelmanchester.org

Annual Report 2015

God’s work. Our hands.

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Table of Contents Emanuel’s Mission ······································································································· 3

Council and Staff Members ···························································································· 4

Pastor Cady’s Report ···································································································· 5

Associate in Ministry Report ·························································································· 6

Director of Music Report ······························································································· 7

Director of Family Ministries Report ················································································ 9

Parish Nurse Report ····································································································· 11

Congregation Council Report ························································································· 12

Listening Team Covenant ………………………………………………………………...………………..13

Constitution and Bylaw Committee Report ………………………………………………………..…....14 Report from our Seminarian……………………………………………………………...………..……….15

Nominating Committee ……………………………………………………………………………………...16

Mutual Ministry Commission …………………………………………………………………...………….17 The Parish Registry ······································································································ 18

National Youth Gathering…………………………………………………………………………………...19 Worship and Arts Commission ······················································································· 20

Education Commission ································································································· 22

Caring Commission ······································································································ 24

Fellowship Commission..…………………………………………………………………………………...26

Seasonal Sharing……………………………………………………………………………………………..28

MACC Samaritan Shelter……………………………………………………………………...…………….29 Assets and Resources Commission ··············································································· 30

Proposed Operating Budget 2016 ··················································································· 34

Statement of Funds and Groups ····················································································· 35

Benevolence Report ····································································································· 36

Property Commission ··································································································· 37

Friends of Music at Emanuel……………………………………………………………………………….39

Emanuel Housing Corporation…………………………………………………………………………….40

Creative Living Community of CT ………………………………………………………………………...41 Emanuel’s Partners in Ministry ······················································································· 43

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Emanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church is a welcoming Christian community that cultivates Disciples:

To study and live out the Word of God

To celebrate the Gospel through worship with a variety of musical expressions

To love and serve our neighbors, both locally and worldwide

To learn at all stages of life what it means to be a follower of Christ

To connect faith experiences across generations and stages of life

To discern and utilize the spiritual gifts of each member

To seek others to grow with us as a community

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The Congregation Council

Terms Expiring January 2016 Sylvia Hellstrom (1-year term)

Kristi Maulucci (3-year term; served 1-year term) Jenifer Minicucci

Ray Purtell (second 3-year term) Susan Tracey (1-year term; served 3-year term)

Terms Expiring January 2017 Ann Cook

Eric Haaga

Terms Expiring January 2018 James Blair

The Church Staff

Ministers The People of Emanuel Pastor The Rev. Dr. G. Scott Cady Associate in Ministry Cynthia Hall, AIM Director of Family Ministries Christine Carlson

Director of Music Brett Judson Secretary Anne Heinrich Administrative Assistant Nancy Whiton Parish Nurse Lynne Gustafson, RN

Property Supervisor Kathy Hatch Financial Secretary Carl E. Benson II Co-Treasurer James Hamilton Co-Treasurer Rosemary Johnson Worship Support Specialists Rachel Hansen, Eric Heinrich, Berkley Little

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Annual Report of the Pastor This has been a record year for baptisms! I did 19, which is far more than I have ever done in my 31 years in ministry. Most years, it has been between 7 and 11. It speaks well for the future of the congregation and the wider Church. In terms of the bottom line, our membership has actually grown during the past year! Good work, Emanuel! There is no question that our deliberate hospitality and warmth as a congregation has been part of the attraction these young families feel. Here are some concrete plans we have to move into the new year: Use Thrivent Action Team money to host a Stewardship workshop early in the spring, especially for families with kids still at home. The money will pay for an outside speaker, who will lead at least one, maybe two Saturday sessions, one more general and one for those who will volunteer to be the Stewardship Team for ’16. Last year’s Stewardship Team has agreed to stay on, but I’d like another 2 or 3 to assist them in a year-‘round program. Review the Mission Statement and identify any changes. Then look closely at how our present network of paid staff and volunteers can most effectively move us toward those mission commitments. Have a few Council meetings a year that are in LH and focused on a few central topics. Open the whole conversation to the whole congregation. For example, we might have one just on the topic of Welcome, exploring together all the strategies we might consider to do a better job of drawing new people into our ministries. Continue, but in a more focused way, conversations with Concordia, St. Mary’s, Faith and maybe others, about ways to consolidate or coordinate ministries, either to save money or to be more effective. These could lead to joint office work, joint youth or Sunday School programs, shared clergy positions, or shared technology and office machines. Develop a series of fun fundraisers that can grow into a predictable income source. Promote our space to non-member weddings to increase the “use of church” income line. Council will need to work closely with me and Cindy to identify new members for most of our teams, including Mutual Ministry/Personnel; Endowment; Finance; Property; Nominating; the 2017 Council; Social Ministry; and Worship & Arts. I hope some of you reading this will be willing to come forward for some of these. There has been interest expressed in doing a new and substantial Social Ministry project. Refugee resettlement is one such idea. I’m looking for more input and feedback so that we can find a strongly supported focus for our ongoing concern for our neighbors, far and near.

Taken together, and with many other projects that either occur as part of our regular ministry (Stephen Ministry e.g.), or offer new opportunities (mission trips, e.g.), Emanuel should continue to be a strong Christian community, invested in doing truly effective ministry in the world. Your enthusiastic participation will be the key to the future here. If it is high, we’ll do very well.

In Christ, Pastor Scott Cady

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For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them. Matthew 18:20 Emanuel is a wonderful place to build relationships! This past year, the people of Emanuel have engaged in the ministry of the church both within the church walls, in the local community and throughout the world! I am so grateful for each and every one of you who is a partner in this ministry and share Christ’s light in the world. As we look forward to the year ahead, please be encouraged to join one of the many groups who share their story in this report. The relationships that you will develop among fellow Lutherans will be life giving through the good and difficult times along the journey. Thank you for your partnership! I give thanks for the following people and programs that happened in 2015! Christine Carlson, Director of Family Ministries, in her development of many wonderful family fun activities that

invited the entire church community into relationship with each other through some very fun activities! We appreciate the time and energy that you have given to the program. Many folks have given a lot of positive feedback about getting to know each other.

The Adult Leaders of the National Youth Gathering—Marina Halmers, Susan Leach Hebert, Eric Heinrich and Brett Judson. These leaders joined together and shared their gifts to accompany our group of youth to the National Youth Gathering in Detroit. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity to experience faith with youth from all over the world and help them realize how wonderfully God works in and through their service, faith and

fellowship. The Adult Leaders of the Hammonasset Youth Camp Out—Laura Dolcelli, Marc Polito and Kenny Hebert. We

are grateful for your willingness to make that weekend memorable for our youth. To all of the folks who hosted a Gather Group this fall and shared their gift of hospitality in a warm and inviting

way so that we could get to know each other in a more intimate way! Sallie D’Attilio, Linda and Dave Jackson have shared their gifts of leadership, organization, enthusiasm and

care with the Seasonal Sharing program for those in need for over 16 years! We are very thankful for all your efforts.

The Head to Heart Confirmation Families who are committed on a weekly basis to bringing their middle school youth to the confirmation program so that they can grow in their faith, build friendships and begin to discover the gifts that they will have to offer the world as they mature into young adults. These families are also a great gift to our extended church community as we serve the Manchester Area Conference of Churches Food Pantry and deliver Christmas cookies to all of the homebound members of the congregation.

Ruth Lehrach and her team of altar guild volunteers who work behind the scenes each and every week to make our worship experience such a positive one. Did you know Ruth has been sharing her gifts for over 16 years?

Tammy Kearney, Lynne Gustafson, Linda Anderson and Vyrjil Buus who continue to support and develop Creative Living Community of CT whose mission is to establish a farmstead community for adults with and

without developmental disabilities to live, work and play. To each and every one of you who have served in some way at a Sunday morning worship service as an usher, greeter, lay minister, reader, communion assistant, musician, singer, youth or acolyte. To each and every one of you who have brought food for the food pantry, made a meal for a committee or

group, donated to the ELCA World Hunger Appeal or purchased a “good gift.” To each and every one of you who have served on the church council, a committee, a mission team, a task

force or volunteered to support the mission and ministry of Emanuel Lutheran Church!

Annual Report of the Minister of Programs Cindy Hall

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Annual Report of the Director of Music Brett Judson

It is my joy, as Director of Music, to serve alongside each and every one of you as we create Emanuel’s

musical and worship life. Thank you to everyone who offers time, talent, and energy in this effort. It is through your generosity that we are able to welcome our friends and neighbors to a worship environment that celebrates the Gospel with a rich variety of musical expressions.

Thank you to the Anthem Choir, New Day Singers, and Youth Choir, who allow us to showcase the musical talent of Emanuel’s members. The choirs seek to build a community where they get to know one another outside of worship at events like the annual Epiphany potluck.

Whether you serve as an assisting minister, choir member, soloist, or an instrumentalist, thank you for your contribution! Thanks to: Marjorie Andersen, Rod Andersen, Pete Baron-Krieger, Charles Billmyer, Jim Blair, Kim Boerner-Mercier, Ann Cook, Ron Erickson, Bev Fuss, Adela Garmendia, Diane Gawlinski, Edward Gawlinski, Tommy Gracy, Justin Guerrero, Betsy Grupe, David Halmers, Joyce Halmers, Marina Halmers, Spencer Hamlin, Rachel Hansen, Ken Hebert, Susan Hebert, Rebekah Hebert, Grace Helmke, Rachel Helmke, John Helmke, Linda Helmke, Linda Jackson, Joe Jauss, Doug Johnson, Sirkka Johnson, Jeannine Johnson, Rosemary Johnson, Karen Kissman, Carol Kohl, Jessica Polito, Kathy Purtell, Pam Rowett, Allison Savage, and Raymond Wilcox.

I would like to give a special thanks to Carol Kohl (Choir Music Librarian), Pastor Scott Cady, Cindy Hall, Nancy Whiton, Anne Heinrich, the entire staff, the Worship and Arts Commission, Kathy Hatch, Matthew Heinrich, the entire Property Commission, the Church Council, and the congregation, for all of the support they provide to the music ministry. Thanks to all who participate in and sustain the musical life of Emanuel.

Some of the many highlights of 2015’s worship services include a joint Epiphany Lessons and Carols service presented at Emanuel, Holden Evening Prayer, summer soloists and instrumentalists, and a St. Lucia procession led by the youth.

Generous donations to the Special Music Fund enabled Emanuel to present the Passion According to St. John by Heinrich Schütz with string players, harpsichord, and soloists; to support Emanuel’s choirs with a tenor and soprano section leader; to have a program offered by the Hockanum Valley Ringers; and to present a significant portion of Handel’s Messiah in cooperation with Bethesda Lutheran Church (New Haven). A disbursement from the Music Endowment Fund helped support a portion of the tenor section leader position for the choirs. The Worship & Arts budget enabled Emanuel to have a brass quartet for Easter.

The Anthem Choir prepares music that requires 4-parts, sung by sopranos, altos, tenors, and basses. Because the Anthem Choir at present does not have volunteer tenors, we may have to make dramatic changes to the choir’s identity. I continue to look for music that can be done by smaller groups, but the great majority of our music library is written in 4-parts. Four-part music is an indispensable part of our tradition, history at Emanuel, and of our musical worship as Lutherans. Currently, we are able to continue with 4-part music because of the support from our soprano and tenor section leaders.

Please join me in looking for ways to continue providing this kind of choral leadership at weekly worship services. One way you can help the choir fill this gap is to consider joining a choir in the coming year. Invite your musical friends to come and learn about the choirs. You may also make a charitable contribution to the Special Music Fund, to support the choir and Emanuel’s musical life. If you are interested in making a donation, please make checks out to “Emanuel Lutheran Church” with the memo “Special Music Fund.”

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In June, a joint choir of over forty-five singers presented Handel’s Messiah with members from area

symphony orchestras and soloists from Yale’s Institute of Sacred Music. In preparation for this presentation, a group of more than twenty-five people gathered every week during Advent and Lent to reflect on the music and deeper meaning of the biblical texts used in Messiah. Thanks to Pastor Scott for co-leading discussions and providing insight into biblical interpretation. In May, the Ruth Circle invited me to give a lecture on Messiah. Thanks to Thrivent Financial for their support and to the choir members who hosted a bake sale at the 2015 Annual Meeting in support of the choirs. Thanks to the generous donors who helped to make this project a reality.

In July, I attended the Association of Lutheran Church Musicians’ conference in Atlanta, Georgia, which was combined with the Worship Jubilee of the ELCA. The conference theme was “Called to be a living voice of the Gospel.” I had a fantastic time and enjoyed hearing and meeting many well-known speakers, one of which was Nadia Bolz-Weber.

In August, I taught a series of adult forums that surveyed a thousand years of Christian Hymnody, with a combined total of over forty-five people attending the four sessions.

This past summer, I enjoyed attending the National Youth Gathering in Detroit, Michigan. Thank you to everyone who made it possible for everyone from Emanuel to attend such a powerful event. I believe that we will all remember our experience in Detroit for the rest of our lives.

I relish teaching hymns to the Sunday School youth during the second service sermon time. I teach them songs that we sing in church and that I hope they will remember for the rest of their lives. A video on Emanuel’s Facebook page shows our youth singing “Jesus Loves Me,” which has reached 671 people! I have noticed the youth more engaged in worship, and other people are beginning to take notice on social media.

Over the course of 2015, I have met with a group of lay preachers, who discussed and prepared sermons that they would deliver in Pastor Scott’s absence. I was honored to preach at Emanuel in November, calling the congregation to “Find a need and fill it, find a hurt and heal it.” Soli Deo Gloria! Respectfully submitted, Brett Judson Director of Music Epiphany, 2016

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Annual Report of the Director of Family Ministries Christine Carlson

The Sunday School children participated in a stewardship project in February, learning about Manchester Area Conference of Churches (MACC). This concept was reinforced through crafts, role playing, and storytelling. The Sunday School’s offerings collected in January and the first Sunday of February was for the MACC service project and $67.00 was collected from the children. The congregation donated $482.50 towards the collection for MACC and an additional $844.36 was collected by the kids in the big pots on “Souperbowl” Sunday. In total, $1,393.86 was collected for MACC. The children worked very hard to raise money by educating the congregation with a temple talk, hosting a coffee hour and challenging the congregation to join them in their mission to fight world hunger. The Early Communion Workshop took place in April this year. This unique, fun and informational experience was held for children and their families. During the workshop, we opened with a prayer, ate a light lunch, en-joyed a puppet show skit, participated in a walkthrough and explanation in the sanctuary, had a question and answer session, and closed with a prayer and a take home activity book for the children to reinforce what they had learned. Parents also received a handbook as a good resource for starting to talk to their children about Communion. Some children received communion for the first time on Easter Sunday while others when it was convenient for their families. We had yet another very successful Easter egg hunt following the service on Easter Sunday. All kids were invited to listen to a story and search for 300 hidden eggs in the sanctuary. The kids had a blast and we even had 3 golden egg winners: Graydon Vyse, Jamie Kline and Mark Sumner. Always a pleasurable way to celebrate the rising of Christ! The Sunday School children continue to have their Sunday School lessons during the 2nd service. This format has continued to be successful for both the children and the parents as they worship as a family. As part of their Christian education, I feel it is important to familiarize the kids with all portions of the worship service. By having the kids attend portions of the service, they learn the opening liturgy, hear a variety of hymns, and feel more a part of the congregation while still allowing learning time that speaks to them at their levels. The children also continue to rejoin the service at the sharing of the peace which allows families to commune together. I believe that this format will continue to help children now, and in the future, participate and feel welcome in worship. Family Fun Nights were a huge hit this summer! We encouraged families to join in faith, fun and fellowship as we hosted various family fun events from May through August. We had fun at Launch Trampoline Park, camp sing along, roller skating, dinner with alpaca, swimming and more as we helped families from various towns unite together in fun, building relationships and bonding people together of all ages. We had a great turnout for these events and got great feedback from Sunday School parents, who with their very busy schedules, loved having different events on different nights that the whole family could attend. Feedback was also given that people appreciated it being in various towns and after working hours and that there was enough variety for everyone. We are so very blessed to have a church that brings together families from surrounding towns and it was great to provide families with several options over the summer to share in fellowship while accommodating their busy schedules.

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Since the Family Fun events were so successful we decided to host a couple in the fall as well. Rally Day and the church picnic (Sunday School registration), make your own prayer box night, Halloween/Harvest night, and of course St. Lucia. Children at Emanuel have so many wonderful opportunities for faith, fun and fellowship! Thank you to all my wonderful parents, Sunday School children, church staff and the congregation for their continued support. I feel truly blessed to experience this ministry with great love surrounding the children and families of our church!

Christine Carlson Director of Family Ministries

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Annual Report of the Parish Nurse Lynne Gustafson RN, BS, FNASN

Activities for 2015 include: Submitted seven Visitor articles related to health and spirituality. Direct services and consultation were provided to 12 parishioners. A Flu Clinic was held on October 18, 2015. Vaccines were given to 25 people by the Visiting Nurses

Association. Healing service continues on the first Sunday of each month at both services. The members of the Healing Teams are Pastor David Halmers, Marianne Wilcox, Sylvia Hellstrom, Jennifer

Davis, Lynne Gustafson, Ann Linda Bray, Doti Dienst, Kim Boerner-Mercier, Peter Baron-Krieger, Meg DePrato and Susan Plese.

The series “Journeying Through Grief” were mailed to 9 people who lost love ones during this year. The book Widow to Widow is given to each widow about three weeks after the death of their spouse.

Attend meetings of the Connecticut Parish Nurse Coordinators. Meetings are held at Griffin Hospital in Derby. Treasurer of the Parish Nurse Coordinators State of Connecticut. Attended a day long Parish Nurse Symposium entitled: Caring for the Caregiver’s Spirituality. Partnered with the Manchester Family and Adult Services to help parishioners find needed resources. Provided equipment to two church members. Member of the Stephen Ministers Ministry. Member of the Eucharistic Ministers’ program. Chlake Raineau presented a program on the importance of exercise and cardiovascular health for Ruth Circle.

Members of the congregation were invited to attend. Surveyed the congregation to ascertain the number of people interested in an exercise program taught by

Chlake Raineau. As of last count 10 people expressed interest in this program. Goals for 2016: To increase the number of Healing Ministers. Continue the annual flu clinic. Continue the mailing of the Stephen Ministry grief material and Widow to Widow books. Meet with individual members as needed. Initiate an exercise program that incorporates exercise into one’s daily activities. In conclusion I wish to thank all who have contributed to the Parish Nurse Fund. This fund enabled 5 individuals the resources they needed. I also wish to thank the staff and members of Emanuel for their continued support and prayers.

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Annual Report of the 2015 Congregation Council

Dear Fellow Members of Emanuel, Our teams as well as our council have been tackling some challenging tasks this year. This has been a building year of sorts. We have had several long term projects that have developed over this year, including the work of the Listening Team and the work of bringing our Constitution and Bylaws into a new age. We had a committee headed by Lynne Gustafson which included past council presidents as well as pillars of our Emanuel community who are knowledgeable about our church and its history, working on modernizing and “refreshing” our Bylaws and Constitution to bring us into a new era. We are now bringing to you changes that will help our congregational communications along with clarification of our organization as well as reaping some possible savings in our budget. Our Council diligently worked on updating the job descriptions for all members of our staff. Our Council and staff has worked on finding new avenues of funding for our work. We, along with the staff, as well as our teams have creatively used Thrivent action team monies to do some important work in our stewardship, music, and education areas, just to name a few, to make our budget dollars stretch a little further. We have also increased incoming funds in the area of use of our facilities to not only Chestnut Hill Preschool and AA, but other groups in our community as well, to boost our revenue. We, along with our finance team with the aid of congregational member Joe Ferron (who is extremely knowledgeable in the investment field), have enacted investment alternatives for a portion of our pastoral housing fund which was previously gleaning very little return in order to put those monies to work for our budget. I would like to gratefully acknowledge all my fellow executive team and Council members , Pastor Cady, Cindy Hall, along with the amazing staff members, committee members, and this entire congregation that I have worked with throughout the years for all their love, support and prayers as we close out this year. Thank you and God’s peace to all. Kristi Maulucci Council President

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Emanuel Lutheran Church Listening Team Covenant

In response to God’s call for all believers to be disciples of Christ and witnesses to the world, the Emanuel Congregation Council hereby covenants with each other, the congregation staff, elected and appointed leaders, and all members of the congregation as follows. Decision-Making Processes and Procedures

To follow all prescribed processes and procedures detailed in the congregation’s Constitution and Bylaws. To publish the current copies of the Constitution and Bylaws on the congregation’s website so that it is a

readily available reference document for all. New members will be directed to the resource as part of new member classes.

Acting on recommendations developed by the appointed ad hoc committee currently reviewing the Constitution and Bylaws, the Council will forward its recommended changes to the congregation for review and action at the Congregational Meeting in January 2016.

To review the Constitution and Bylaws, Personnel Policies, and Job Descriptions with all newly elected Council members.

To publish Council meeting agendas and minutes and distribute them to the congregation via the weekly email distribution and maintain a paper file of the same documents for reference in the church office and library.

To periodically remind members of the congregation that all regular Council meetings include a time set aside for members to offer input and to communicate directly with the Council.

To review annually, at the February Council meeting, the role, responsibilities, and expectations of Council members as elected leaders of the congregation.

To clarify the roles, responsibilities and authority of both the Executive Committee and Congregation Council as defined and articulated in the Constitution and Bylaws.

In all things, to conduct the work of the church in ways that are healthy, productive, and respectful of a wide range of viewpoints, understanding that differences of opinion and conflict are an inherent part of any healthy, high functioning church family.

To create a central file in the church office for all Council approved policies and resolutions.

Communication, Member Input & Shared Responsibility for Ministry

To invite members of the congregation to participate in Council meetings as part of announcements made the Sunday before scheduled meetings.

To create a Council section of the website to publish meeting agendas and approved meeting minutes. To treat all members with courtesy and respect and to listen to all points of view when making decisions. To work intentionally to nurture a culture of mutual understanding and respect at all times, but, especially

during times of disagreement. Adopted on September 15, 2015

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Constitution and Bylaw Committee Report

Following the 2015 Annual Congregational meeting, the Church Council voted to establish a committee to review and update Emanuel’s Constitution and Bylaws. They asked Lynne Gustafson, Past President of the Council, to chair this committee. Lynne asked several recent past presidents to join the committee. Kim Boerner-Mercier and Joe Jauss accepted. Bruce Johnson who has served on past Constitution and Bylaws committees and is an expert on both the ELCA model Constitution and Emanuel Constitution agreed to serve. Their first committee meeting was held on April 22, 2015; they presented their recommendations to the Church Council on October 20, 2015. The committee sought information from staff, members of committees, parishioners, and Pastor Tim Oslovich, the New England Synod Parliamentarian. The Committee is required by the National Church to align the local congregation’s constitution with the Model Constitution for Congregations of the Evangelic Lutheran Church in America 2013. For Emanuel’s Constitution the changes are found: Chapter 6: Church Affiliation Chapter 9: the Pastor Chapter 15: Discipline of Members and Adjudication Other Chapters: Addition and word changes and clarifications Emanuel’s Constitution was updated in accordance with the National Church’s document and the Committee further recommended: Pastor(s) voting members of Council Conflict of interest clause Council membership changed Decrease the quorum for congregational meetings from 75 to 50 Delete the words Commissions, Missions and Mission teams and replace with the word Committee Clarification regarding Council replacements Authorized the use of e-mail or USPS for notices of meetings Electronic attendance at meetings permitted with voting rights. Recommended Changes to the Bylaws: Added committees omitted from the 2015 revision Changed some verbiage to become consistent with the Constitution Defined agenda notices and reporting requirements for committees Added Endowment and Designated Giving Committee members as ex-officio members to the Finance Committee Outlines several Council responsibilities defined in the Constitution Outlined Executive Committee responsibilities including annual evaluations, training for new council members and reporting

emergency actions to the council.

Once the Council reviewed the documents, they requested clarification on several items. Pastor Oslovich was consulted and the council was informed of his advice. The recommended Constitution and Bylaws were approved and in accordance with Emanuel’s present Constitution, copies were mailed to members of the congrega-tion on December 16, 2015. They will be presented to the Annual Congregation meeting on January 24, 2016. If approved they need to be voted on at a second congregational meeting that will be called by the Church Council. If approved at the second meeting, they will be sent to the Synod for their approval. I wish to thank the committee for their extreme dedication and knowledge in accomplishing this task. A special thanks to Pastor Tim Oslovich for his help. Respectfully submitted Lynne Gustafson, Chair

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Report from our Seminarian Crystal Hall Thank you for the opportunity to report back about the work of which I have been a part in 2015. I am continually grateful for Emanuel’s support and prayers! I’m working toward the completion of a doctorate in New Testament at Union Theological Seminary. I completed final comprehensive exam in the spring, which was an exploration of contemporary Lutheran reinterpretations of justification theology. With the completion of my exams I graduated in May with a Master of Philosophy, which is an intermediate degree on the way to the PhD. The working title of my dissertation is “From Cosmos to New Creation: The Justification of Earth with the Nations: An Ecological Rereading of Galatians 6:15.” Paul’s core concern in Galatians is that human beings live in right relationship with the Other—the poor, the marginalized, the oppressed. What I will be exploring is whether Paul’s concern for right relationship with the human Other can be applied to Earth as Other. While I’m not trying to make the claim that Paul was a budding eco-theologian, I am exploring what it means for us as human beings to live in right relationship with Earth as God’s Creation. I anticipate completing my dissertation by May 2017. In addition to my dissertation, I will be working on a second writing project from 2017 to 2018. In April I signed as an author with Fortress Press, an academic publishing house. The working title of the book is “Insights From Reading the Bible with the Poor,” and will be part of a larger series of books published on the same theme. This book will largely be a reflection on the experience I’ve accumulated over the past several years working in Baltimore on developing and implementing Bible study curricula as a way of connecting faith communities with grassroots community organizing. Related to this community-based Bible study work, I was blessed to participate in a week long workshop in Bogotá, Columbia in January sponsored by the Global Network on Contextual Bible Reading. During this workshop, participants from Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America and North America shared experiences from their respective contexts about how they’ve used the Bible for transformative social change. Through building relationships with this network I have become an assistant researcher with the Ujamaa Center for Biblical and Theological Community Development and Research, which is based at the University of Kwa-Zulu Natal in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa—the same city were I served as an ELCA Young Adult in Global Mission volunteer from 2008 to 2009. At the very end of 2015 I moved to Baltimore to be closer to the community organizing with which I have been connected through United Workers, a human rights organization committed to building up the leadership of the poor to build a movement to end poverty, led by the poor. I’ve taken a part time position as a leadership organizer, in which I will continue my role working with the faith community and developing educational curricula.

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Nominating Committee Chair: Judy Polito Members: Eric Heinrich, Carol Kohl, Joe Jauss The Nominating Committee met four times in 2015. We also hosted a luncheon in October to meet with prospective nominees. We worked this year to fill positions on the Congregational Council, Nominating Committee and Endowment Committee. Our goals were to increase the number of members on these committees and to balance the members to ensure representation from both first service and second service members. The Council had eight members in 2015, with five terms expiring in January 2016. Two Council members agreed to stay on for another term and we were able to add five new members to be nominated for terms beginning in 2016. Additionally, we are pleased to nominate a Youth Representative. We have increased the total number of Council members to 11. The Nominating Team had four members in 2015, with one term expiring in January 2016. Three new members will be added in 2016, increasing the total number of Nominating Team members to six. The Endowment Committee began 2015 with six members. One member resigned in May 2015. There are two members with terms expiring in January 2016. Three new members will be nominated for terms beginning in 2016, bringing the number of members back to a total of six. Respectfully submitted, Judy Polito

Nominating Committee Terms Endowment Committee Terms Expiring in January 2016 Resigned in 2015 Judy Polito Karen Pinheiro John Reed (second 3-year term) Expiring in January 2018 Jim Eddy Eric Heinrich Joe Jauss Carol Kohl Expiring in January 2017 Lynne Gustafson (second 3-year term) Expiring in January 2018 Ray Purtell Sylvia Hellstrom

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MUTUAL MINISTRY COMMISSION

The Mutual Ministry Commission is the personnel committee of the church. It provides an arena for the congregation and staff to address their differences and still love and respect each other as partners in ministry. It is a “safe place” for church leadership to engage in mutual conversation and consolation. It is a place of forgiveness, absolution and renewal. Areas in which Mutual Ministry can be of help to the congregation and the staff include: Opening communication about the expectations, attitudes, and concerns of the congregation, the community, and

the staff. Identifying early warning signs of misunderstandings. Becoming a “Listening Post” for leadership and the congregation without the risk of damaging relationships between

the two. Serving as a group where leadership can test new ideas. Affirming leaders in their ministry. Recommending compensation, housing, benefits packages with the cooperation of the Finance Mission Team.

Mutual Ministry Commission Annual 2015 Report: My thanks to the two members of Mutual Ministry who stayed on during 2015 to complete the job of finalizing job descriptions for all staff. They have completed their service. We now look forward to 2016 to create a new Personnel Committee, which will take up the work of the Mutual Ministry Mission Team. Please let me know if you would like to be part of this important work. In Christ, Pastor Scott Cady

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The Parish Registry Membership at end of 2014: 1,149 Members Gained in 2015: Baptism (15 years or younger): 19 Adult Baptism 0

Affirmation of Faith: 11 Affirmation of Baptism: 0 Transfer from other denomination: 0 Transfer from other Lutheran: 0 Transfer from Evangelical Lutheran: 2 Total Members Gained in 2015: + 32 Members Removed in 2015 Death: 5 Inactivity: 0 Removal Requested: 0 Transfer: 5 Total Members Removed in 2015: - 10 Membership Total at End of 2015 = 1,171 Attendance Record Pastoral Acts Total Sunday worship services: 78 Baptisms: 19

Total weekday worship services: 31 Adult Baptisms: 0

Total Holy Communion services: 98 Confirmations: 7

Average weekly worship attendance: 164 Weddings: 4

Funerals of members: 3

Funerals of non-members: 11

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National Youth Gathering Report Emanuel's youth, their families, and adult leaders spent several months fundraising and planning to attend the ELCA's National Youth Gathering in Detroit, Michigan. With the support of the congregation; 4 adult leaders and 12 youth traveled to Detroit in July for a week of community, service, and story. The theme for the 2015 gathering was Rise Up. In the month or so before the gathering the adult leaders and youth met to explore the gospel of Mark and to learn more about our host city. We learned about the challenges the

people are facing and also about the history that made this city great. On July 14th we flew into Detroit and began our week of exploring, identifying and crossing our boundaries. We arrived in our host city a day ahead of time and took the opportunity to explore the city as we traveled to the African American History museum. We saw first hand a city in the midst of revitalization but also saw how far the city has to go. Once we arrived at the museum we were presented with the realities of slavery and the power of a people to push the boundaries of their captors. Our first full day of the gathering had us exploring community while bonding with each other. Some of us faced a great fear during a leap of faith, while others experienced the difficulties of being differently abled. Several members of our group walked a mile in another's shoes as they experienced what it is like to have to walk for daily water. For us the second day of the gathering was a day of service. While it started out with a soaking rain and some confusion about our destination, we were able to use our hands for God's work as we cleared a parking lot of debris in the hopes that local businesses would benefit from added parking. We gathered with others from our synod on the next day to explore our own stories and to examine how our story is weaved into God's greater story. Each night we traveled with the other participants of the gathering to Ford Field for evenings filled with inspirational speakers and musicians. The Gathering closed with worship on Sunday morning. Our group was selected for the honor of assisting in the distribution of communion. This was a first for Emanuel and our youth represented our congregation very well. It was an amazing, inspirational week and I encourage the members of Emanuel to engage any of those that attended the gathering in conversation about their experience. Respectfully Submitted by Marina Halmers

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WORSHIP & ARTS COMMISSION Worship and Arts Mission Team Report

Worship and Arts is the team responsible for evaluating and planning most worship events at Emanuel. The members this past year were: Ron Erickson; Susan Plese; Linda Jackson; Adela Garmendia; Ruth Lehrach; Marjorie Andersen; Ann Cook, Kathy Purtell, Joe Jauss, Carol Kohl, Brett Judson as Director of Music and myself as chair. We usually meet 6 times each year, going over issues related to special services, looking at schedules, discussing liturgical options, and offering suggestions about joint services with other parishes. This group is intended to be representative of some of the demographics of Emanuel, to make sure that a variety of perspectives on worship are routinely brought forward in discussions. Our meetings are brief, usually happening the hour before Anthem Choir rehearsal on Thursdays. We would be pleased to invite anyone to attend this team as we continue to explore ways to utilize all our many gifts in worship together. Pr. Scott Cady Lay Preachers Team

During the calendar year of 2015, we reconstituted the Lay Preachers Team. Partly to give laity a chance to study Scripture and bring fresh voices to Emanuel, and partly to offset the cost of supply preachers, it seemed good to nurture the desire of some of our members to preach on occasion. The three regular members are: Joe Jauss, Susan Plese, and Brett Judson. Each chose a Sunday to deliver a sermon and began to prepare. Our early meetings were centered around the texts that each preacher would be using, and some preliminary thoughts on those. Using a variety of resources, and some one-to-one conversation with me, each member prepared a first draft of a homily. We would gather as a team to hear a refined version of the sermon a week or two before it was to be presented in worship. Further refinements finally resulted in a solid presentation. Joe preached twice, and Susan and Brett once each. Their efforts were met with positive reactions and support for this program. We will continue into 2016 with our Lay Preaching Team. If anyone is interested in joining, please contact me for details. We would love to expand this team to enrich the faith of the preachers themselves and the congregation as a whole. In addition to the regular team, we also had Dan Purtell offer a sermon upon his return from Hungary. We invited Crystal Hall to preach as well, but her schedule did not permit it this past year. As with the regular team, we will continue to reach out to our theologically trained young people to bring us the Word from time to time. This coming year, we already know that I will be out of town on April 3rd and June 12. You can look forward to hearing from one of our lay preachers on those Sundays and other times during the year.

Pr. Scott Cady

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Ruth Lehrach, Lay Leader 860-633-0575 rlehrach9@aol.com Carol Adams, Linda Anderson, Kim Boerner-Mercier, Alice Carlson, Linda Eckblom, Julie Griffin, Mel Hellstrom, Linda Hempstead, Roberta Irish, Lisa Little, Judy Polito, Gail Porter, Elsa Robinson, Barbara Soares, and the “indispensable” assistants: Nelson, Berk, Kent, Martin, Doug, Jack, Hemp, Carl, Jessica and Ron. The members of Altar Guild serve Emanuel proudly as part of the Worship and Arts Commission. The Lord’s Supper brings all of us together as believers in Him who died and rose again for our sake. To be a part of the church’s ministry that makes this sacrament possible each week is truly a pleasure. Our role as caretakers, primarily “behind the scenes”, is to prepare the chancel for corporate worship, communion, and to see that all is kept in good order. The sanctuary has been beautifully decorated for each Church season with appropriate paraments, candles, flowers and banners. We arrange the donated flowers for Easter, Pentecost, and Christmas, for example. The duties of the Altar Guild, like the work of so many involved in preparing for a service, may go unnoticed or taken for granted unless they are not done. “Thank you” to all members past and present for all you have done. During 2015, Alice Carlson and Julie Griffin asked only to substitute in 2016. They have faithfully served on Altar Guild. We welcomed Carol Adams, a new ELC member, to our Altar Guild team. One of our 2016 goals will be to add additional members to our team so we are looking to have YOU join us! In particular, we would appreciate one or two new AG members who attend Sunday’s 8:30 AM service to reset the communion ware before the 10:30 AM service. It is not a very time consuming, extra night out, or lots of meetings commitment! What you do have is a chance to share in our ministry and fellowship and feel involved in a meaningful part of your church life. Training will be provided. If you are interested in joining us, please contact Pastor Cady or Ruth Lehrach. Thank you also to the Emanuel staff, particularly Nancy Whiton, Anne Heinrich, and Kathy Hatch for their continued support. I appreciate Kim, Elsa, and Lisa who are now sharing in the tasks! It has been my pleasure to serve as lay leader for another year, 16 years and counting.

Altar Guild Mission Team

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Sunday Church School “Whirl” from Augsburg Fortress is a faith formation program that hosts children ages Pre-K through Grade 5 each Sunday during the school year. Whirl lessons are lectionary based. Every Whirl lesson follows a four-part sequence: Welcome, Hear, Respond, and Launch (WHRL!). Each week, kids and leaders start their time together by identifying where they are in the church year and watching an animated video to set up the lesson. Next, they dive into the Whirl Story Bible or Whirl NRSV Bible together, respond to the scripture lesson with creative leaflet activities, and circle up to review the lesson and pray before being sent out. The students are dismissed to Sunday School from the second service and return at the passing of the peace to participate in communion with their families. On holiday weekends, a Children’s Sermon is offered by Pastor Cady.

Faith Stepping Stones The intention of the Faith Stepping Stones program is to bless the child, gift the family, and call the parents to the promises of baptism. Emanuel hosts several of the Faith Stepping Stones including: Bonded into the Body - Parents and sponsors are invited to learn about baptismal promises with the pastor as they prepare for their child’s baptism. It is an opportunity to learn about resources in place at Emanuel for families. Splash! - Families that have been baptized at Emanuel receive a monthly, age appropriate newsletter to support the faith development of children up to 36 months of age. It’s a wonderful resource and comes with a CD each year. Entry into Sunday Church School - On Rally Day in September, all three-year old children are invited to come and be blessed at the altar as they begin their Church School years. Families are gifted with a Bible for Preschoolers. My Bible - Students in Grade 3 are invited to receive the Whirl Children’s Bible on Rally Day in September. The children are encouraged to bring this bible to the Sunday Church School program.

Contact: Christine Carlson ccarlson@emanuelmanchester.org or 860-643-1193 for more information.

EDUCATION COMMISSION

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Head to Heart Confirmation Grades 6, 7 & 8

Hosted on Wednesday evenings September through April, Head to Heart is a well-loved program for 6th, 7th and 8th grade students. Ninth grade students are also part of the program until their Affirmation of Baptism service on Reformation Sunday each fall. Worship at the conclusion of the Wednesday evening event continues to be an important component of the program. Through student led prayer, music and communion, the youth, guides and even some parents experience a mid-week worship. Affirmation of Baptism is typically held in October to confirm our youth. The small group philosophy that “bonds kids into the body of Christ” with the help of caring guides and the hands-on experience of theater, art, and community service projects has nurtured these middle school students on their faith journey. Contact: Cindy Hall 860-643-1193 or chall@emanuelmanchester.org Communion for all God’s People Education on Holy Communion occurs in March or April each year. Emanuel’s curriculum has three themes—Circle of Forgiveness; Come, Lord Jesus; and the Welcome Table. One theme is explored each year through hands-on learning experiences. Families receive several resources during these courses to use at home. Christine Carlson and the Pastor lead the workshop as well as engage a dialogue with the families to answer any questions. All baptized children are encouraged and invited to the table each Sunday and also to come each year to this education process. Adult Education

Emanuel has a good tradition of ongoing Christian Education for adults. During 2015, we had our normal Thursday morning Bible study/prayer group. This group meets in the library, prays through the prayer list, and then looks in some depth at the lessons appointed for the coming Sunday.

During Lent, we used the Wednesday evening sessions to focus on study of the Messiah, and ended each evening with Holden Evening Prayer.

I continue to publish Pastor’s Perspectives, a monthly sheet of reflections on many topics.

The Women’s Retreat offered an opportunity for several women to reflect on their faith and life.

We will continue to seek avenues for deeper spiritual growth through adult education. If you have expertise in some area of Christian life that you’d like to share though a class, please let me know. Pastor Scott Cady

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Prayer Shawl Ministry

This wonderful ministry brings joy to those who knit or crochet shawls and to those who are the recipients of their products. We strive to have shawls available for anyone in need of God's comfort. Started here in 2003, we have distributed over 900 prayer shawls not only to members of Emanuel but to the wider community. Meetings of this group are held on the third Monday of every other month beginning with September and ending with May. We thank all who have contributed. All are welcome to join us. Doris Johnson (860-871-1498) and Norma Wirta (860-875-5163) are the coordinators.

Ministry to the Bereaved

When the loss of a loved one occurs in our Emanuel family, we try to be helpful by offering to prepare a reception in Luther Hall after the funeral service. This provides a place and time for the bereaved to gather and console and support one another. We would like to thank all those who volunteered to help us make these receptions run smoothly. Doris Johnson (860-871-1498) and Norma Wirta (860-875-5163) are the coordinators.

The Cards for Caring

The Cards for Caring Team consists of seven dedicated and caring individuals who take the time to connect to our homebound members by sending cards. The members of this group are Marge Andersen, Alice Carlson, Jane Jauss, Irene Hughes, Ruth Lehrach, Jennie Macione, and Barbara Soares. Currently 22 recipients receive cards each month. The members and friends of Emanuel who receive these cards are very appreciative and often send thank you notes to the Church Office to let us know the importance of this connection with their church family. We would like to give a special thank you to Jean Reed who stepped down from coordinating this group after many years.

Please call (860-643-1193) or email (nwhiton@emanuelmanchester.org) Nancy Whiton in the Church Office if you know of any senior or homebound member of our congregation who would like to be on the receiving end of these caring cards.

CARING COMMISSION

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Stephen Ministry Program Emanuel Lutheran Church has had a Stephen Ministry program for several years. In January 2015, the church sent Amy Cady to Orlando, Florida for a week of intensive training in Stephen Ministry. Emanuel now has three formally trained Stephen Leaders, Pastor and Amy Cady and the Rev. David Halmers. Cindy Hall and Lynne Gustafson also serve as team leaders given their knowledge of congregational members’ needs and gifts. The Leader Team and Small Group Peer Supervision with Emanuel’s four Stephen Ministers, Marge Andersen, Jenn Davis, Doti Dienst and Sylvia Hellstrom, meet on the fourth Wednesday of each month. The Leader Team discusses potential care receivers, their needs, who would best serve as their caregiver and plans the overall Stephen Ministry for Emanuel. In early 2015, it developed Action Plans for the Mission, Vision, People and Actions for Emanuel’s program. In Small Group Peer Supervision, the Stephen Ministers review their contact(s) with their individual care receivers in a confidential and respectful manner. The group facilitator, Amy Cady, and other Stephen Ministers listen, ask questions, comment and support their peers. Each meeting opens with devotions and end with a closing prayer. During the last half hour (1.5 hour meeting), the facilitator, a pastor or nurse presents a special activity or in-service topic. In 2015 topics included: Why privacy matters Who is the Curegiver in Stephen Ministry? Depression 101 More role playing practice Leaving Home a Second Time Holidays and Loss Emanuel’s Stephen Ministry program is always looking for and recruiting new members to serve as caregivers. We hope to offer the required, 50 hour training over 2 weekend retreats in April and May. As you consider your volunteer ministry time for Emanuel, please seriously think of serving as a Stephen Minister. “Stephen Ministers are laypersons-Christian women and men-trained to provide one-to-one care to people in its congregation who are experiencing a difficult time in life such as grief, divorce, job loss, chronic or terminal illness, moving into a nursing home or rehabilitation facility, separation due to military deployment or job relocation or other personal issues. Stephen Ministers are assigned to a care receiver of their same gender and receive ongoing supervision, support and training.” Please contact Pastor Cady or any of the above listed team leaders and Stephen Ministers to chat with them about becoming a caregiver. You are truly needed. Submitted by, Amy Cady Stephen Leader

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Visitor Volunteers

Our dedicated group of members gathers once each month to assemble, fold, label and stamp the VISITOR. We enjoy each other’s company, have coffee/tea and a baked treat, and share devotions once the work is finished. In addition to the VISITOR, we may do additional projects when the church office has need of assistance. With so many of our members receiving the VISITOR electronically, the time we spend has lessened. We now start at 9:30 AM each month, so there is no conflict with parking during nursery school drop-off. We look forward to continuing this fellowship and work in 2016. New recruits are always welcome. It is not necessary to commit to each month in advance, just look for the date in the calendar or the bulletin insert. For more information, please contact Sylvia Hellstrom at 649-6306, or email, feboct3436@att.net

Ruth Circle Ruth Lehrach, Co-Coordinator of Ruth Circle, 860-633-0575, rlehrach9@aol.com Marianne Wilcox, Co-Coordinator of Ruth Circle, 860-646-0455, rowfamily@att.net Ruth Circle had an interesting year in 2015 with monthly programs planned by our Circle women but enjoyed by many in the congregation when some of the programs were open to all (men, women and children). As part of the Fellowship Commission, the Ruth Circle enables Emanuel’s women to meet the first or second Tuesday evenings of at least eight months to share friendship, faith, and service. We invite new members to join, as was the case in 2015. Welcome Carol, Kris, Elsa, and Linda, as we mourn the loss of long time Ruth Circle member, Chris Rothe. Ruth Circle members choose outreach projects yearly which are made possible using the collection money from our monthly “pass the basket”. This year the Ruth Circle Self-Funded Mission Team Fund paid for the Emanuel Christmas tree and also a commercial grade kitchen can opener used at church functions. We also support MACC each year with a financial donation using these funds.

FELLOWSHIP COMMISSION

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Highlights of 2015’s programs were: Unfortunately, snow cancelled our February and March meetings. Fortunately, we were able to reschedule Brett Judson to our May 5th meeting when he shared information about George Frideric Handel’s Messiah prior to the concert which was presented at Emanuel in June. Also at the May meeting, we planned our programs for the September 2015-May 2016 meetings, elected/re-elected officers and enjoyed a potluck dinner together. Guests were invited to share a meal too. Our April 7th meeting brought Pastor Scott Cady to speak to members and guests about his “work-in progress” book. During Pastor’s sabbatical he has been reading and researching Washington Irving’s writings and life during that period of history. We look forward to learning more. September was “kicked off” with another potluck dinner….we love to get together over food and just enjoy each others’ company and ‘catch-up’, especially after the summer months. Next it was October 6th with a business meeting which preceded Pr. David Halmers’ presentation, this one “T’ai Chi Chih”. David made it easy for us to learn about this spiritual, relaxing, and gentle exercise program as we practiced the various movements in Luther Hall. On November 3rd, the members of Ruth Circle and some members of the congregation learned about “Health and Fitness Exercises” presented by Chlake Szuch Raineau, a Manchester fitness specialist. She demonstrated and distributed flyers of the exercises and numerous program opportunities offered by the Manchester Senior Center. The Annual Ruth Circle Christmas Luncheon was held December 5th at the Manchester Country Club. Our guest speaker, Beth Stafford, the director of MACC, joined us again this year. She gratefully accepted our monetary donation for diapers and our array of donated new layette and baby clothing which she distributes to clients of MACC throughout the year. Her service to the greater Manchester area is always educational and heartwarming to hear about. Hope YOU join us in the coming months of 2016. You won’t be disappointed!

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Seasonal Sharing Annual Report 2015 During the 2015 Holiday Season, the parishioners of Emanuel once again extended their generosity to provide Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners, ShopRite gift cards, and Christmas gifts to local families. Each year I am humbled by the enthusiastic giving and support that our congregation provides for MACC and Head Start families. Without the financial and incredible hands on support (folks who donate their time to pick up, pack, and distribute the ShopRite food) we would not be able to provide this service to our community. The 2015 Emanuel donations were $ 2550.50 . Thanksgiving 2015: We provided dinners for 27 families from MACC and Head Start. In total we fed 60 adults and 53 children! This year after the ShopRite order was placed, we were notified that 13 additional families from Head Start needed a basket so it was decided that they would receive $50 gift cards in place of food. This brought the total of gift cards purchased to 18 (including 5 purchased for Emanuel parishioners). Pies and rolls were purchased from Seabird Enterprises, a Colchester bakery which employs the disabled. The total cost for Thanksgiving food and gift cards from ShopRite was $2,986.04. We were provided 4 gift cards @ $250 each (total $1000) from Thrivent. This brought the ShopRite total to $1,986.04. The cost of the pies and dinner rolls from Seabird Enterprises was $ 307.50. . Christmas 2015: Emanuel supported 5 families from MACC. The five families included 10 adults and 9 children. Each family was provided with a similar meal that they received at Thanksgiving; however, delivery of the food also included delivery of the Giving Tree gifts for family members. In addition to support for the MACC families, Pastor Cady and Cindy Hall distributed 5 ShopRite gift cards of $50 each to parishioners. The total cost for Christmas food and gift cards was $705.93. Linda Jackson 1/5/2016

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As most of you know, MACC (Manchester Area Conference of Churches) closed its overnight shelter early last summer. The MACC Shelter had been one of the direct Social Ministries that our members had participated in a few times each year. MACC still operates its other programs: the Community Kitchen, the Pantry, and the Thrift Shop. Each of these missions continues to need volunteer support. Their phone number is 860-647-8003. Or you can contact Berk Little, our member who coordinates some of our volunteer efforts there at 860-568-5008. Emanuel was one of the founding congregations of MACC, which has grown over the years to include over 34 congregations. Their work is excellent, and consistently reflects Christian compassion. I strongly encourage anyone interested in local, hands-on service to consider offering time to MACC, as well as gifts of food, clothing and cash. Pr. Cady Men’s Breakfast

On the Second Wednesday of each month, all men of Emanuel are welcome to come to breakfast at Friendly’s on Buckland Rd., just west of Buckland Hills Mall. On any given month, between 8 and 12 men have been attending. There is no agenda; just a time for men to spend easy time together. The conversation might revolve around jobs, cars, sports, politics, church issues, or favorite jokes. We meet at 8:30am and are usually on our way by 9:30. This is a very pleasant way to begin the day, and helps build up the relationships that are so important to the overall ministry of Emanuel. We hope you can join us. Pr. Scott Cady Woman’s Breakfast

On the first Wednesday of every month, a small group of women meet at 8:30 AM at The Gathering, 471 Hartford Road, Manchester for fellowship and delicious breakfast food. This is a great opportunity to meet women of our congregation and get to know each other better. We welcome anyone who would like to join us.

Submitted by Carol Kohl

MACC Samaritan Shelter

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Stewardship Mission Team Report The Stewardship Team for 2015 included Susan Plese, Meg DePrato, Marina Halmers and myself. I am grateful for the work these three did in planning the fall pledge campaign. They planned all the details, including the design of the cards, the timing of the letters, Temple Talks and the meal, and coordinated the meal itself. Their work was fruitful and important. They have all agreed to continue into 2016. This coming year, we expect to begin our work much earlier. We would also very much like some additional support from 2 or 3 other members, in order to put together an even more effective program. We were able to cover the cost of the brunch we put on using Thrivent Action Team dollars, so no budget money needed to be used to cover that. Some people think that Stewardship is only about asking people for money. It is not. Instead, Stewardship seeks to help Christians develop the spiritual gift of generosity, and a joyful sense of putting one’s gifts to use for Christ’s mission. It can be a genuinely uplifting effort. Generally speaking, congregations which have a well developed stewardship ministry are strong and effective; those that do not tend to struggle much more. Please consider joining out team this coming year as we strengthen our response to God’s grace. Pr. Scott Cady We have received 128 pledge cards for 2016 in the total amount of $297,575.

ASSETS & RESOURCES COMMISSION

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Designated Giving Mission Team The objective of the Designated Giving Team is to disburse money from the Emanuel Memorial Fund and the Emanuel Benevolence Fund. Requests for funding come from church members and other sources. The team attempts to divide disbursements into three equal parts aimed at the following categories:

Church: Disbursements are used to improve conditions or assist members and staff at Emanuel. Local: Disbursements are directed toward causes which impact conditions in our town, state or country. Worldwide: Disbursements may be used to fund needs of global organizations.

In 2015 the Designated Giving Mission Team distributed:

At the January 11, 2015 meeting of the Designated Giving Mission Team they decided to make the following distributions totaling $2,000. The Congregation Council approved these disbursements at their meeting on January 13, 2015. $ 500.00 to the LGBT Asylum Task Force $1,200.00 to help cover the cost of the National Youth Gathering adult leaders $ 300.00 to the ELCA-Lutheran Disaster Response Endowment Mission Team

The four endowment funds of Emanuel had some good gains in 2015. The team is happy to report that we were able to make disbursements of some of the earnings of the funds. Each fund disbursed an amount of its earnings to the respective committees’ requests for monies to accomplish project(s) not provided for in the church’s operating budget. These checks were given out during the church services on a Sunday in May. This sharing of a percentage of the earnings is required by the operating guidelines in Emanuel’s by-laws. The team was pleased to note that the earnings were being put to good use. We are grateful to those, who through their contributions to the funds, were responsible for these disbursements.

The team is looking forward to another good year. We hope that more of our members will join us in making contributions to one or more of the funds. The four programs that are represented in the funds are; Christian Education, Extended Ministries, Music and Structural Preservation. We encourage Emanuel’s members and friends to consider making a donation to whichever fund is closest to their hearts. The gift does not have to be large and can memorialize a loved one, or honor another person or ministry. It will help Emanuel plan for the future.

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Finance Mission Team

Members

James Hamilton (Co-Treasurer), Rosemary Johnson (Co-Treasurer), Carl Benson (Financial Secretary), Stephen Quatrocelli (Chair), Bruce Johnson, Leonard Johnson, Ronald Lehrach, Thomas Leo

Mission Description The congregation’s Treasurers and Financial Secretaries are congregational officers who are elected by the Congregational Council with duties specified in the congregation’s Bylaws. The Finance Mission functions include: 1. Assisting Council and staff in assembling information for the estimation of the income and expenditures for the current and following years. 2. Overseeing the insurance program and financial affairs of the congregation. 3.Making recommendations to the Council for the positions of Financial Secretaries, Treasurers and Auditors. 4.Providing recommendations for the source of unbudgeted fund requests to Council.

A Finance Mission Team member provides monthly reports to the Congregational Council. When significant expenditures arise, the Finance Mission Team solicits assistance from congregation members who have expertise in evaluating proposals. Perspectives on 2015 Congregation Finances In 2015, total expenses were $438,948 while total income was $437,582, resulting in a deficit of $1,366 as compared to the projected deficit in the 2015 budget of $26,308. This is in part to an unusually high income for the month of December. 2015 Benevolence Emanuel’s 2015 benevolence includes $43,563 to the New England Synod and $6,000 to MACC. Details of the congregation’s total benevolence for 2015 are in the Benevolence Report found at the end of this annual report. 2015 Memorial Gifts and Legacies Emanuel received the final distribution of the bequest from the estate of Anne L. Beechler in the amount of $2,365.66 in November of 2014. Council voted in March 2015 to use these funds for Property Commission Repairs as needed.

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2015 Activities

Finance continued providing the congregation members with monthly updates of Emanuel’s financial status in the Visitor.

Recommendation to Council regarding allocation of the generous memorial funds/legacies received by Emanuel in 2014. Recommendation to Council regarding disbursements of funds from Thrivent Fund. Reviewed and monitored status of off-budget funds. As requested by the Council, Finance worked with Joseph Ferron, of Ferron Financial LLC to develop an investment portfolio for some of Emanuel’s assets to improve the current rate of return

without significant risk of principle. Review of Portico Health Care Plans and recommendations for adoption of Emanuel’s healthcare

plans for 2015.

Perspectives on 2016 Budget Anticipated pledge income for 2016 totals $284,960; actual pledge income for 2015 was $273,739. Projected total income for 2016 is $435,029, and total projected expenses are $449,882, resulting in a deficit of $14,854. The budget includes a 2% raise for staff. Finance and Council agree that we need to work towards achieving a balanced budget. Council will continue its efforts to achieve this goal. We acknowledge and thank our Treasurers, Jim Hamilton and Rosemary Johnson, our Financial Secretary, Carl Benson, and our Administrative Assistant, Nancy Whiton, for their dedicated service to Emanuel. We acknowledge and thank the Emanuel Housing Corporation for its continued support of Emanuel’s extended ministry. Let us continue to prayerfully consider our stewardship and, with God’s blessings, we will continue to meet our congregation’s financial challenges. Stephen Quatrocelli Finance Mission Chair

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Benevolence Report 2015

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Chairman: Matt Heinrich Members: Matt Heinrich, Mel Hellstrom, Sylvia Hellstrom, Berk Little, Paul Maulucci, Nelson Robinson, Dean Soares, Ray Wilcox and Kathy Hatch

During 2015, the Property Committee continued the various activities required to maintain, preserve and enhance the buildings and grounds of Emanuel. The efforts of the Committee were supported by our conscientious and skilled Property Supervisor, Kathy Hatch. Generally the tasks were performed by members of the Committee, however, when necessary contractors were utilized.

In addition to pursuing projects that had been planned, the Committee also performed many tasks that were identified during 2015. A partial list of activities is shown below:

Conducted a radon test

Replaced a timer and installed indicator lights for the snow mats that remove snow and ice at multiple entrances

Replaced several broken windows

Replaced obsolete fire extinguishers and ensured others were inspected and operational

Repaired the “Emanuel Lutheran” sign at the entrance to the parking lot on the east side of Church Street

Replaced the sand box used by Chestnut Hill Preschool

Removed dead and dying trees along the west side of the parking lot near the entrance to Luther Hall

Restored the counter in the Ladies Room in Luther Hall

Made electrical repairs and upgrades in the Parish House

Installed a new commercial can opener in the kitchen

Replaced several sections of the sidewalks

Installed storm windows in the handicapped accessible restroom and in the office of the Director of Music

Performed maintenance and upgraded the heating system

Replaced the hot water heater in the Parish House

Installed an additional emergency exit light in the sanctuary

Replaced the booster heater that serves the dishwashers Installed “gutter guards” on the gutters of the Parish Wing

During 2015, the usual inspections were conducted by the state agency that monitors nursery schools as well as the Health Department and Fire Marshall of the Town of Manchester. A small number of minor issues were found and they were addressed by the Committee at minimal cost.

Once again during 2015, several members of the congregation assisted the Committee with specific tasks. Their assistance is recognized and appreciated.

In an effort to expand the strength of the Committee and to share the projects, the Committee is actively seeking to expand its membership. Anyone who has applicable skills or who would like to develop such talents is welcomed to join. People who are interested should contact the Church Office or a member of the Committee.

In 2016, the members of the committee will continue to address various projects that will be required to maintain and improve our facilities. Projects planned include painting the cabinets in the kitchen and repairing chairs used in Luther Hall. Respectfully submitted, Matt Heinrich Tel: (860) 643-2668 Email: fmheinrich@snet.net

Property Commission

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PROPERTY COMMISSION

MAJOR MAINTENANCE ITEMS AND CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS FIVE YEAR PROJECTED EXPENDITURES (ESTIMATED)

October 12, 2015

MAINTENANCE

Task by Priority Total Estimated Cost ($) 1. Parish Wing Roof 20,000 2. Parish House Chimney Repair 4,500 3. Roof Repair – Sanctuary 8,000 4. Tile or Carpet Youth Room 2,000

CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS

Task by Priority Total Estimated Cost ($) A. New system of snowbrakes/snowguards – sanctuary roof 50,000 B. Air Condition Chapel/Community Room 10,000 C. Air Condition Parish Wing Classrooms, Offices, Library, Nursery 20,000 D. Elevator 300,000+ Prepared by Property Commission Matt Heinrich, Chairman

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Friends of Music at Emanuel

The concert season 2015-2016 marks the Fifth Anniversary of the Friends of Music at Emanuel (FME). Since 2011, FME has been successful in bringing the finest quality chamber music to Emanuel Lutheran Church, the Manchester community and the greater Hartford area. Each year, FME has sponsored six—in some years, seven—free concerts, which have been widely publicized in the media. To be able to offer these concerts free to the public, FME’s board sends out an annual letter of appeal to music lovers, soliciting contributions. The board is very grateful to all of those who respond with their generous contributions. To supplement those dollars, FME also submits grant applications to foundations. FME is happy to report that The Hartford Arts Council granted our request for $2,000. All of the funds received support the series in paying for performers’ fees, administrative costs, publicity, and the maintenance and tuning of Emanuel’s instruments prior to each concert in which they are to be played. The board members receive no compensation for their efforts. The concert series is totally independent from Emanuel’s operating budget. The concert series runs from October to May; consequently, the 2015 calendar year began midway through FME’s fourth concert series (2014-2015). The year in review: February 7, Noriyo Fukui, flutist, and Susan Knapp Thomas, harpist, played selections of Romantic music; March 7, Jurate Svedaite, soprano, and the CT Virtuosi Orchestra presented a program of Prayer in Opera with sacred selections from well-known operas; May 2, the brilliant cellist, Sergey Antonov, and his accompanist, Ilya Kazantsev, pianist, performed works by Popper, Mendelssohn and Rachmaninoff; October 10, Brazilian pianist, Luiz de Moura Castro, opened FME’s fifth concert season, showcasing Emanuel’s magnificent 1893 Steinway piano and playing works by Mendelssohn, Liszt, Chopin and Villa-Lobos; November 7, voce Concitato, a five-member early music vocal ensemble and harpsichordist, performed a program featuring the music of Monteverdi; December 12, the distinguished American Brass Quintet was featured in an afternoon concert, performing works for brass by Renaissance and contemporary composers, including newly-commissioned works. After each concert, a reception, hosted by the board, was held in Luther Hall where concertgoers had the oppor-tunity to meet the performers. At FME’s annual meeting in July, Ronald Erickson resigned as president. FME accepted his resignation with regret and thanked him for his years of service; Ron will continue to serve on the board. Terry Flowers was elected president. Terry and the board look forward to the continued growth of the concert series and the four remaining concerts of the 2015-2016 series. Please visit www.friendsofmusicatemanuel.org for updates and concert schedule. The roster of artists for our next season will be announced soon. Again, FME would like to thank Emanuel's staff and all of its contributors for their past and ongoing support. Respectfully submitted on behalf of the Friends of Music at Emanuel, Marjorie M. Andersen, Secretary

Board of Directors: Rod Andersen, Ann Cook (Treasurer), Nick DuBaldo, Ron Erickson, Terry Flowers (President), Rod Johnson, and Susan Lionberger Artistic Director: Matthew Burry Artistic Director Emeritus: Woosug Kang

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Emanuel Housing Corporation - (EHC)

EHC continues its mission to provide “rental housing to elderly members of Emanuel and/or other elderly or needy people of Manchester, Connecticut and surrounding communities.”

The EHC maintains two properties each with four rental apartments located close to the church. One or two apartments normally are available during the course of a year. (Individuals desiring to be on a Waiting List for an apartment should make this known by writing to the Emanuel Housing Corporation at 60 Church Street, Manchester, CT.)

For a number of reasons the planned demolition of the front part of 34-36 Church Street was only partially accomplished. However, the demolition is still scheduled to be finished in the near future. The garage portion will be retained. Other repairs were necessary to a number of units including outside steps and porches. Some furnace electrical controls were also replaced with combined effect of repairs exceeding our normal budget. Snow removal costs were also unusually high for this year.

Even with the added expenses EHC was able to maintain its commitment to the congregation by contributing $27,000 during the course of the year.

Kathy Hatch continues to serve as EHC Property Manager, and James Wilhoft, CPA, continues to provide bookkeeping and tax preparation services.

The EHC Annual Meeting was conducted by the Emanuel Lutheran Church Council on April 21, 2015. At that meeting Bruce Johnson was voted to rejoin the board after being off for one year. Rodney Andersen was reelected to the board for a second three year term. Kathy Hatch resigned as a voting board member.

Current members and officers of the EHC Board of Directors are:

Rodney Andersen - President - term expires April 2018

Gail Porter - Treasurer - term expires April 2016

Paul Berg - Secretary - term expires April 2017

Eric Haaga - term expires April 2017

Bruce Johnson – term expires April 2018

The Board of Directors may have up to seven (7) members. Evening meetings on the fourth Tuesday of each month are held at Emanuel. Individuals interested in serving on the Board are encouraged to contact any member of the EHC Board for further information.

All units are in good living condition. However, the buildings are approximately 100 years old and need continual maintenance to meet current housing codes. The buildings’ fire safety requirements continue to be met following the annual November inspections by the Town Fire Marshal.

Respectfully Submitted,

Rodney Andersen, President

Board of Directors

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Creative Living Community of Connecticut, Inc. (CLCC)

Vision: CLCC envisions adults in Connecticut with and without developmental disabilities as valued and contributing members of our society, exemplified in a model community to be created in eastern Connecticut where all members experience a sense of belonging, share resources, and enjoy a happy life.

Mission: CLCC seeks to create a shared, inclusive living experience for individuals with and without developmental disabilities in a farmstead village, by focusing upon the gifts of all in mutually rewarding relationships.

History: CLCC was established as an Emanuel mission team by its Council in March 2007, which provided the IRS 501(c)(3) status required to apply for grant funding. In July 2007, CLCC was awarded a $25,000 grant by the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) Deaconess Community for project start-up activities. In September 2008, CLCC became a CT not-for-profit corporation. In November 2008, CLCC was awarded a $70,000 grant over three years from Church in Society, Lutheran Services for the Elderly Endowment, of the ELCA Foundation to develop and implement the proposed Greenhouse Entrepreneurial Program. In February 2009, the nonprofit 501 (c)(3) status was obtained from the Internal Revenue Service. The financial functions provided by Emanuel’s Treasurer were successfully transitioned in March 2009 to the CLCC Treasurer and CLCC became an independent entity. Early in 2012 a lease agreement was finalized with the Tolland County Agricultural Center, Inc., (TAC) Board of Trustees to place the greenhouse program on its property in Vernon. The greenhouse was ordered in March and constructed in April and May with the help of many volunteers. Growing of micro greens began in June of 2012. Propane heat and the inside water farm hydrant were installed in November of 2012. In 2014 CLCC hired three part-time employees, a Greenhouse Coordinator, a Greenhouse Program Manager, and an Executive Director.

Key accomplishments during a productive year include the following:

Continued to develop the greenhouse program hosting about 15 “growers”, their support persons, and over 90 volunteers.

Continued to provide micro greens to many restaurants including Francesca’s, Max Fish, Pond House at Elizabeth Park, and Take Five Cookery.

Provided micro greens to the following new restaurants – At the barn, Carbone’s, Cavey’s, Deanston House Banquet Facility, Fire Box, Vito’s by the Park, and Windham Golf Club.

Participated in the farmers markets at Billings Forge, Coventry, South Windsor, and Feast & Fiddle Harvest Market in Windham.

Greenhouse was open for visitors for major events at TAC, including the Sheep and Wool Festival and Tolland County 4-H Fair.

Other greenhouse tours and open house events include a visit by Nancy Wyman and Steve Reviczky, May Day open house, American School for the Deaf, and Journey Found.

Renewed membership and participation in the CT Association of Nonprofits, the Manchester Community Services Council (MCSC), CT Northeast Organic Farmers Association, the Tolland County Chamber of Commerce, and North East Family Credit Union.

Continued to develop relationships with several organizations including many that support individuals with developmental disabilities - MARCH, Inc. of Manchester, Community Child Guidance Clinic of Manchester, Bristol ARC, Autism Speaks, Tolland County Agricultural Center, Center Congregational Church in Manchester, Vernon Rotary Club, East of the River Chambers of Commerce Association, CT Land Conservation Council, UCONN Extension program, CT Fair Trade Housing, and Innovative Autism Network.

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Attended or participated in 2015 Harvest New England Ag Marketing Conference and Trade Show in Sturbridge, NPR’s Words to Give By program in Manchester, Hartford Business Expo training, Coventry Economic Development Commission meetings, Nonprofit Advocacy Day at the State Capitol, CECP Summit in NYC, Hartford Foundation for Public Giving Donor Communication Plan workshop, CT Business Expo., Manchester Volunteer Opportunities Fair, Development Connect, and Aetna’s 2015 Giving Campaign Showcase.

Continued participating in Leaders on Board Express Match.

Visited unique housing communities including Favarh in Canton, CT and Innisfree Village in Virginia.

Distributed a Spring Newsletter, and sent several news e-mail blasts.

Revised financial processes as a result from implementing Quickbooks on the cloud.

Held the second annual Farm to Table dinner in July at Arrigoni Winery in Portland, CT.

Held the fourth annual Farmstead Fair in September at the TAC grounds.

Completed policies and procedures required for DDS vendor application to be submitted at a later date and utilized for the Farmstead Community.

Entered into an agreement with Housing Enterprises, Inc.in September to assist CLCC in pursuing property for a Farmstead Village.

Received revenue from many individuals, corporate and foundation donations, green house product sales, the Farm to Table dinner, the Farmstead Fair, the Travelers Championship “Birdies for Charity”, Thrivent Financial Action Teams, greenhouse grant transfers, FILL-anthropic event at Willimantic Brewing Company, “Clip and Chip” fundraiser, and other miscellaneous sources.

Distributed the sixth Annual Giving letter in November.

Active committees include Advancement, Finance, Governance, Green House Safety, and Program.

An Advisory group was formed during the year to become familiar with CLCC and assist as needed.

Continued board development activities at monthly board meetings and held a retreat in January.

CLCC’s primary objectives for 2016 are to continue and expand the green house entrepreneurial program, pursue identification of property for the farmstead working in conjunction with Housing Enterprises, Inc., and continue organizational development and capitol building. The board and team appreciate the nurturing support of the Emanuel community. Your support is very important to the successful achievement of CLCC’s vision and mission.

Respectfully submitted,

Tamara D. Kearney, President and Board Chair

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Chestnut Hill Preschool Chestnut Hill Preschool (CHP) began on September 16, 1974, as part of the weekday social ministry at Emanuel Lutheran Church. CHP is a state licensed preschool that serves 3-5 year old children. Our goal is to help children become enthusiastic learners. CHP provides the essential components of a positive beginning school experience: a child-oriented environment; a developmentally appropriate curriculum; a professional teaching staff; and family involvement. The school is open to all children regardless of race, nationality, or religion. The CHP staff has more than 90 years of combined teaching experience. It is our privilege to help children begin their educational journey based on the love and joy of learning. Our community involvement includes Manchester School Readiness Council, Manchester Early Childhood Fair and the Relay for Life. The CHP Relay for Life team has raised $46,531 for the American Cancer Society since 2003. Special thanks to Lynne Gustafson, RN, Consultant, the Property Committee and the people of Emanuel Lutheran Church for their support of early education! Contact: Linda Wiley, Director 860-649-8383

Manchester Area Conference of Churches (MACC) MACC’s mission is to provide food, clothing, shelter and advocacy for the unmet basic needs of people in our community. Established on January 19, 1973, Emanuel was a charter member of the Manchester Area Conference of Churches (MACC), which has grown to become Manchester's primary social services agency. MACC serves residents of the towns of Manchester and Bolton and is the largest private, nonprofit social services agency in the state located east of the Connecticut River. Currently, 36 area churches govern MACC policy. MACC employs a dedicated staff of professionals and relies on thousands of volunteers every year to fulfill its mission. Every day, 365 days a year MACC provides needed social services to the community.

The HGLHC East The former MANA programs located in the Parish House are now under The Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective (HGLHC). The HGLHC’s mission empowers individuals of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions to lead healthy lives through the provision of health and support services, education and advocacy. The vision of the HGLHC will continually address, anticipate and respond to the comprehensive health needs of people of diverse sexual orientations, gender identities and gender expressions in Connecticut, while maintaining a financially stable and viable organization.

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Emanuel Evangelical Lutheran Church is a member of New England Synod of the

“…called, gathered, sent out into the world…”