At its regular meeting on May 13, 2021, the Session:
- Read Psalm 51:10-12 and Romans 12:2-3, and reflected on examples of renewal and hope in this season and in the life of Grace Church.
- Expressed gratitude for the work of the Pastoral Care Deacons, Communications outreach, the New Members’ Class, Grace Kids’ ministry, opportunities for connection, and the planning ahead.
- Prayed for the Spirit’s guidance during and following the June 6-9 General Assembly, for peace in light of the escalating violence in the Middle East, and for individuals in the congregation.
- Received correspondence relating to the flags in the Sanctuary and directed the Spiritual Growth Committee to recommend a process for congregational conversations on the topic.
- Agreed with the Budget for the remainder of 2021 to be presented to the congregation for its approval at a meeting on June 13.
- Received an update on the church financials to the end of April 2021, which noted overall results are encouraging. Overall revenues are higher than expected and expenditures are lower than budgeted. The receipts for 2021 are comparable to last year, while expenditures are approximately $120,000 less than the same period last year.
- Approved the extension of the Rev. Christian Persaud’s stated supply agreement as Interim Pastoral Care leader to the end of 2021.
- Received details of the Rev. Jake Van Pernis’ study leave, which focuses on Eco-Ministry.
- Approved appointments to the Presbytery of Calgary-Macleod of David Caldwell as Alternate Elder and Bob Ermter as Equalizing Elder until April 2022. Mary Lil Rosa de Coquet will end her term as Representative Elder in April of 2022.
- Agreed to take action to change the status of the Grace Church Housing Society from a society to a registered charity under the Charity Directorate. This change will allow for the potential development of Grace Church properties into a social housing opportunity and gain access to funding supports from government bodies.
- Approved the Baptism of Amelia Cristia Ingram to occur when COVID restrictions are lifted.
- Was informed that Ian Charter would be stepping down as Interim Music Director this summer. Gratitude was expressed for Ian’s faithful service over the last 14 months as well as wishes for a wonderful retirement for Colleen and him. A position description for an Interim Music Coordinator was approved and potential candidates will be approached.
- Received updates from the Session Committees detailing their progress in strengthening existing ministries and plans for new ministry initiatives.
- Closed with prayer and a benediction.
