Council Minutes

Rooted in faith, and mindful of our abundant blessings from our heavenly Father, we seek God’s vision for our community. As wise stewards, we pledge to labor together to receive God’s gifts gratefully, cultivate them responsibly, share them lovingly in justice for others, and return them with increase to the Lord. By doing so, we build the Kingdom of God today and for generations to come.

Agenda 1.

Opening Prayer– Mass at 7PM at St. Mary’s – Please make every effort to attend.

a. Walk of Unity – The combined council will be invited to walk, as they are able, t St. Hedwig FF Center for the council meeting.

2. Role Call

3. Minutes

4. Additions to the Agenda

5. Finance Report

*6. Letter to the Bishop

7. Building a Strong Community & Vibrant Parish Life

a. Role of the Council

i. Be people of prayer, good listeners, good messengers

ii. Be a visionary, a leader, assist in the bringing the community together

iii. Be a positive voice in the community

iv. Be a proactive Council Member – get involved – share ideas – inspire and invite others

b. Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present, Making plans for the Future

8. Voice of the People – Fr. Mark will decide whether to discuss or add to future agenda.

9. Future Agenda Items

a. Next Meeting: ?

10. Final Prayer & Blessing

Minutes of Holdingford Council MeetingOf

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Numbers refer to agenda items.

1. Mass was celebrated at St. Mary’s Church at 7:00PM – many council members walked in unison to the St. Hedwig Faith Formation Building for the meeting.

2. Members present: Kathy Ebnet, Patty Becker, Dick Struzyk, Wally Waletzko, Ken Warzecha, Bob Pueringer, Kathy Bruns, Don Breth, Rodney Adolph, Josephine Waletzko, Shirley Konsor, Joan Frie, Wally Waletzko, Jeanette Stodolka. Cindy Schwinghammer joined later. Absent: Gerard Wentland, Bob Warzecha, Sharon Hadrich. Also present: Fr. Mark Stang and Deb Rudolph.

3. Minutes: Fr. Mark made a correction to the statement on the last page re: Benedictines. He stated the Benedictines has petitioned Rome in order that they (Benedictines) would no longer provide priests for diocesan parishes, rather than that they petitioned Rome for their priest to return to the monastery. Change noted , minutes accepted.

4. Additions to Agenda: Bob Pueringer asked that cemetery maintenance be added. Rodney Adolph asked that maintenance item be added. So done.

5. Finance Reports: These reports were read by Dick Struzyk for St. Hedwig and Donnie Breth for St. Mary.

Maintenance Report: These were the items added to the agenda. Bob Pueringer asked if Charlie Stalberger was going to be maintaining the lawn at the cemetery for SH. He suggested that something be put in writing so that he knows exactly what to do. Deb Rudolph said that she had conversation with Wally W. and Rodney A. and had copies of a job description that included both Holdingford cemeteries and lawns around the churches. She gave copies to Wally, Rodney and Bob P. They will review, and make changes as necessary , then it will be given to Charlie. There was some discussion on what the lawn mower cost was with the contract that provides a new John Deere mower every two years. Rodney asked that we read the contract again before making any decision. Bob P. stated he had talked to Donnie May about the number of hours that it took to do all the yard and cemetery work. Rodney brought up the shingling of the parish house. Fr. Mark reported that shingles were being blown off but as yet there is no water damage. There was some discussion and a consensus to get bids for re-shingling. Fr. Mark asked that any further discussion be had at a maintenance committee meeting and then just reported to the council.

6. Letter to the Bishop: Fr. Mark thanked Deb R. for composing the letter that is required by Canon Law to petition the Bishop for the St. Hedwig and St. Mary to become one parish. Fr. Mark stated that this was an historical moment and then read the letter aloud. He asked that we continue to pray as this letter will now be sent to the Bishop and we will await his instructions. He asked that all members present stay at the end of the meeting for the signing of the official letter. There was some discussion of the important notation that are in the letter. The council asked that those notations be printed in the bulletin.

7. Building a Strong Community and Vibrant Parish Life: Fr. Mark addressed the council stating that we had a lot of work ahead of us and that he appreciates the role of each member at this historic time. He stated that the council members were the ones that are to get the feedback from the people and be a voice for the people as we plan for the future. He spoke to them about being a positive voice, a good listener, compassionate and sympathetic to the grieving that many people will be experiencing. He stated the council will be focusing only on being proactive – no would of , should of, could of, as it will not help us to move forward. He said it was the role of the council to gather information that can help us in the future. Wally W. asked the trustees how many phone calls they have had from parishioners; Dick – 0, Kathy – 2-3 but very positive, commenting on the process that was being used was very good. O complaints. Donnie -0.Josephine W. asked if the Bishop knows what is going on out here. Fr. Mark shared that the Bishop is not a micromanager and he allows and entrusts the work in the parishes to the Pastor. He also said that we have sent the Bishop everything that the people have received, Fr. Mark has had personal contact with him re: the two parishes becoming one. A comment was made that the information about the bishop knowing should be in the bulletin. Joan F. stated that it has been in a number of times. Kathy B. made a comment that many people have talked to her expressing that they wished we would have gone five to one and that there is a lot of positive talk out there. Fr. stated right now our priority is two to one, five to one may be in the future. Fr. stated he missed having the assistance of a Parochial Vicar (Fr. Greg) and that even though it is expected that a new priest will be assigned to the cluster to the north of us, Fr. Greg is returning home for a visit this summer and will not be available until Sept. Fr. continued to review agenda item #7 saying that all need to remain positive, if you personally need to grieve, do so with a friend, but as a council member be a positive voice. Shirley K. stated there must be joy found in this process. Others commented it will take time, but it will be okay. We need to be patient, it is like blending a family. Bob P. stated that the comments that have been made is what everyone is feeling, and we all know there is going to be change, when? 10 yrs. 15, 20?We have to look forward and set the way. Kathy E. shared comments from people about what is taking so long, why don’t we just get this done? Some people would like it done overnight. The Canon Law and civil law process takes time. Fr. Mark shared that other priests often ask how he is doing with the five parishes and the work we are doing. He stated that he is so appreciative of the staff, of this council. He said at times it is overwhelming especially without the help of another priest. He said he appreciates being here because of the faithful people and their love for the Church and the love of the Lord. Father encouraged all to continue to work together , to gather and celebrate together , to build community.

8. No other items were heard.

9. Future Agenda & Next Meeting: Fr. Mark felt there was no reason for another meeting until the first five parish meeting in the fall – Thursday, September 10, 2009 at 7PM at Opole. There was question about elections – they will proceed as last year. Council terms are up for Kathy Ebnet, Rodney Adolph and Kenny Warzecha.

10. Fr. Mark led closing prayers. All members stayed for the signing of the letter to the Bishop. A picture of the signing was taken and will be sent to the Bishop and will be in the new pictorial directory.

Respectfully submitted by Deb Rudolph in the absence of a recording secretary.

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Minutes of Holdingford Council Meeting

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Finance Councils of St. Mary and St. Hedwig met with Deb Rudolph at 7:00 PM to review reports. Decision was made to set up property insurance on a monthly payment plan to assist in budgeting.

Following Mass and Adoration at 8:05, Council President, Kathy Ebnet called the meeting to order.

Item numbers per Agenda

1.Fr. Mark led all in prayer.

2. Members present: Kathy Ebnet, Don Breth, Joan Frie, Shirley Konsor, Rodney Adolph, Bob Warzecha, Dick STruzyk, Kathy Bruns, Wally Waletzko, Cindy Shwinghamer, Josephine Waletzko, Kenny Warzecha, Bob Pueringer. Members absent: Sharon Hadrich

3. Minutes were approved and accepted.

4. Additions: SH Centennial Report by Deb Binsfeld, Letter by Bob Pueringer

5. Finance Reports were given by Don Breth and Dick Struzyk

6. Maintenance Reports were given by Rodney Adolph – all okay, nothing major. And by Wally Waletzko – would like to thank a number of people who assisted with snow shoveling before Charlie Stalberger took over the job: thanks to: Dwain Pilarski, Gene Cipala, George Bieniek, Greg Waletzko, Wally Wlaetzko, Robert Jarnot, Ray & Joanne Fussy, Bob Pueringer.

Concerns were raised re: the icy steps at SH – a number of people including a father and baby have fallen. Fr. asked that ice melt be used generously. An ice spot on the sidewalk near the basement door at SM was also addressed.

7. Parish Life Report: Parish life committees met re: Lent and were also asked to plan activities to build up parish life. The idea is to try to do more and more together – side by side – SH/SM. The Palm Sunday breakfast was an example – “we need to do it together, not one year SH and one year SM – we aree one”. Bob Pueringer will talk to wife Donna about helping to encourage the working together.

8. Building Strong Community:

· Fr. asked that the council continue to be active in encouraging the working together to build up community. He asked for a committee with representatives from each council to be part of exploring combined social and fellowship opportunities. He stated that these people would not be doing the organizing of events as much as identifying people in their parish who could. Joan Frie, SM, offered to help find people and Dick Struzyk, SH, offered to do the same.

· Comments were made that the people from SM are invited and encouraged to be part of the planning for SH Centennial Celebration in 2010.

· Concern was stated re: the busyness of everyone’s schedule and it’s hard to give more time to church activities. Fr. Mark replied that he wants some of the options for family activities to be church related so as to build community. He cautioned we cannot go negative about the time issue, but remain positive and KEEP INVITING.

· Comments were made regarding the many things that are already happening in the five parishes and that we all should make an effort to support all parish’s activities, i.e. breakfasts, dinners, card parties.

· Positive comments were made re: the turnout of 100 people for the Marriage weekend breakfast at SH, the Mardi Gras celebration

· Bob Warzecha commented how important it is for our children to want to be at church, not because I have to be, but because I want to be – we need to build that up with families.

· Ken Warzecha commented about not feeling like he belonged when going down for rolls and coffee – there seem to be cliques of people. There was discussion about how all people, especially council members as models, reach out to new people and enter into new relationships so that all feel included and welcomed. Fr. stated that it is often easier to sit and be with our “regular” group but we need to stretch and reach out to others.

· Fr. suggested that the positioning of the tables keeps people segregated and perhaps the use of some round tables would encourage a more open feeling. SH will try that in coming weeks.

· Centennial Report by Deb Binsfeld: She first thanked Florence Voss for sharing in the work and travel involved in having rolls and coffee – she stated SH appreciates working together. The date for the Centennial has been set for Sunday, September 12, 2010. A one day celebration beginning with Mass at 10 or 11AM. An invitation has been sent to the Bishop and to former pastors. The theme will be “polish heritage” – greeters to be dressed in authentic polish dress. We extend an invitation to SM to join us in planning and working. The next planning meeting is set for March 15^th at 7PM at SH. The day will include a dinner, music, games for children, bingo, wagon rides, maybe beer and bratz, and an evening bonfire to end the day. The history of the parish will be displayed in pictures. A Centennial book is being planned including parish history and heritage, polish recipes, prayers and songs in Polish, etc. The committee is open to all ideas and wants to encourage people to join in the fun.

9. Fr. and Deb Rudolph passed out a “Process of Canon Law” that needs to be followed to combine the two corporations of SM and SH. This is in preparation for the first step of writing a formal letter to the Bishop to request combing parishes (this is a formality that we must do for Canon Law). Fr. explained that he needs to make the decision to include in that letter the two parishes to become one or will it be the five parishes to become one. There was much discussion and many comments:

· What are the pros and cons of 2to1 or to1? Certainly the number of council and finance meetings would be reduced, the money counting procedure could more easily be refined.

· Disadvantages might include fewer people on a five parish council from any one parish. Only two trustees for five parishes.

· Many stated how five becoming one would be good to continue to build up the unity we already have come to know over the past 13 years. Fr. stated that parishes in many parts of the country are already doing this - combining into one parish with multi worship sites. We could be one parish, with one name and corporation, who own and operate four worship sites.

· We could be like that for many years. Or we could have to become one sooner than we think if the Bishop cannot give us the assistance of a priest.

· If we combine as five into one, wouldn’t that give us a jump on things? Otherwise we might have only 6 years to do it and then we would have to push ourselves.

· Cindy Schwinghamer stated as in Sirach, “Be prepared” I am for moving forward with 5 to 1.

· What do the other parishes think? Fr. shared that the feelings were mixed, but after the last five parish mtg, and the members writing down their feelings, there were more that wanted to move to five to one – not many more , but more.

· I think we need to do 5 to 1 because we will have to eventually.

· We could fund raise together, its all about togetherness and unity.

· We might get many Fr. Gregorys, we might not get even one more – we don’t know.

· Won’t it save time and headaches to do it all at once?

· We have time now, let’s get prepared.

· How many other parishes also need priests? It would be selfish to think that we should always get the help.

· It is a more powerful statement to the people and to the diocese to go 5 to 1. We have to be strong.

· I need clarification – if we don’t have six years with Fr. Greg or another priest, will churches be closed? Fr. stated going five to one will not include closing churches.

· Fr. Greg will be here only until September 2010. We need to be proactive.

· There was a short discussion on the number of priests – one to be ordained this year in our diocese, perhaps three in 2011, 17 in the seminary. Many more reaching retirement age. Fr. stated that the priests are stretched very thin. He also shared that the Benedictines have petitioned Rome to have their priests return to their monastery. If that is approved, the diocese will need to cover many more parishes that are now served by Benedictine priests: Avon, Richmond, St. Joseph, etc.

Father Mark stated he felt a consensus of this council that we should move to incorporate all five parishes into one parish. The council indicated agreement.

10. Bob Pueringer read a letter from Deb and John Binsfeld who expressed feelings that we ought to be less concerned with any building of a new church and more concerned with getting our people, especially our young people back to the Church. They feel this is where our energy should be. To pick up those people that we have lost. Father thanked Bob for reading it, and because Deb was present thanked her for sharing their feelings. Deb restated their intent and stated that she feels that they have a voice – that all people do. Fr. Mark was thanked for his excellent homilies of late. Deb stated that we must be ready to speak our love for the Church.

There was a question asked regarding whether or not ushers should be approaching parents of children who are disruptive at Mass. Fr. cautioned we must be very, very careful so as not to offend families. Could something be put in the bulletin about that and about people leaving church early.

Fr. Mark concluded the meeting by asking that all get involved in building community, not to wait for staff to provide opportunities but to involve the people of the parish in planning and carrying out activities to continue to nurture relationships.

11. Next meeting is planned for a Five Parish Combined Meeting on Thursday, March 26^th at SM at 7:00PM.

12. Motion to adjourn followed by blessing by Fr. Mark at 10:05 PM

Respectfully Submitted by Deb Rudolph in absence of recording secretary.

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Minutes to the Combined Five Parish

Pastoral Council Meeting

December 11, 2008, St. Columbkille, St. Wendel

Finance Councils met with Deb Rudolph at 6:00PM

Received parish profit and loss statements, balances in all accounts and notations on

accounts payable. Deb presented information on contributions for the months of July thru October.

Pastoral council meeting began in the upper church with opening prayer by Fr. Mark who then introduced Jane Marrin, from the diocese, who gave a presentation on the Role and Responsibilities of finance and pastoral council members. She had handouts outlining Canon Law and procedures for choosing or appointing trustees and finance council members. Some notes:

Trustees are appointed by the Bishop of a diocese after the Pastor suggests names to him.

Finance council members are to be chosen for their expertise in finance - they are chosen by the Pastor from advice given by parishioners including council members

Pastoral councils are advisory only. They are to advise the Pastor in any area he asks for advice. They are not a decision making group.

There was discussion of voting, Jane stated that the diocese highly recommends that Pastors refrain from voting as a means to decision making. Rather, she said, it is important to come to a consensus after honest and open discussion. She defined consensus as, “I can live with that.”

Jane stressed the importance of a council members not being there for their own agenda, but that all members had the responsibility of caring for the common good of the whole parish, not a select few, not a single person’s desires.

A few questions of clarification were asked then all moved downstairs for the Combined Pastoral Council Meeting.

Pastoral Council Meeting

Father Mark opened with a prayer then turned the meeting over to Deb Rudolph to do a visual and verbal presentation. The contribution comparisons to last year for the months of July-October were shared. In the end, she stated, we are thankful for the generosity and stewardship of the parishioners as we move through changes in Mass schedules and locations.

Deb then presented information on merging of parishes – both the civil procedures for corporations to dissolve and the erecting of a new corporation and the Canon Law procedure for merging and forming a new parish. (The presentation will be sent to the Five Parish Website.)

The next item on the agenda was the questions that were discussed at the last combined meeting regarding the necessary merging of the two Holdingford parishes and the question about just merging the two or is the time right for all five parishes to become one corporation with four worship sites.

Father Mark shared information about Fond du Lac, WI, cluster of parishes – very large parishes – that gathered six parishes under one corporation and now have four priests serving together. Father asked for discussion by councils at their individual tables on these matters.

Fr. and Deb then passed out a worksheet instructing all council members that they could use this to write their personal response and advice to the questions. This was suggested by Jane Marrin as way to allow for all members of a council to advise the Pastor. Many good responses were received. Fr. Mark then asked if anyone wanted to share from each council the consensus of their group. Some believed it was time to move the five parishes to one, some thought only do the two that the Bishop is asking for. Fr. Mark posed the question about whether this is a decision they wanted to hand on to our children and grandchildren. Some agreed that we need to be responsible and make some decisions.

Some suggestions were made regarding getting input from more members of the community:

Survey the whole population? Put suggestion boxes in all churches? Have another town-hall type meeting?

Wally W. shared concern for the older generation and posed a question about how they can become more involved in the process of planning for the future. He stated it is very hard for many of them to accept the changes.

Father stated he would consider all of those options and encouraged the council members to continue to be in conversation with the people of our parishes. The staff will also do their part to keep parishioners informed whenever and however possible.

Father concluded the meeting by asking members to be and remain pro-active, to initiate parish gatherings so that we all continue to build relationships so that we might learn more and more about the gifts of the people and encourage them to use those gifts to build up this community and the Kingdom of God.

Fr. led closing prayer and blessing.

A few of the councils met for a few minutes longer to discuss some issues, all adjourned by 9:45PM.

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Holdingford Pastoral Council Special Meeting

St. Mary’s November 11, 2008

1. Fr. Mark opened the meeting with prayer and faith sharing.

Members present: Rodney Adolph, Donnie Breth, Shirley Konsor, Sahron Hadrich, Kathy Ebnet, Joan Frie, Jeanette Stodolka, Dick Struzyk, Ken Warzecha, Kathy Bruns, Wally Waletzko, Josie

Waletzko,Bob Pueringer,Gerard Wentland

Members absent: Bob Warzecha, Patty Becker

2. Roll call and introduction of new council members – Sharon Hadrich for St. Mary’s, Wally Waletzko and Josie Waletzko for St. Hedwig’s – Kathy Ebnet will serve as President.

3. Deb Rudolph introduced Sharon and Emily Stanoch who agreed to act as recording secretary and take minutes. They will attend the meetings and forward the minutes to Deb who will send them to Deb

Binsfeld to be posted on the Five Parish Website.

4.Legal Information Re: New Corporation

A. Canon Law- Fr. Mark and Deb will meet with Fr. Bob Rolfes, Chancelor, on December 2, 2008 to learn about the Canon Law process of suppressing parishes and raising a new one.

B. Civil Law- Deb reported that she has met one time with the diocesan lawyer – she reported that the first step in combining parishes is to name a new corporation. There must be an existing corporation in place so that the assets of the suppressed corporations can be placed there.

The Bishop’s letter was reviewed – that Holdingford parishes must begin immediately to combine one parish and choose one worship site. Also, the Articles of Incorporation for each parish must be

submitted to the lawyer for legal language and descriptions.

Naming of a new parish will involve all five parishes, not just the Holdingford as the new parish will potentially become the one for the five parishes in the future according to the Bishop’s letter when he

can not longer offer the support of one Mass each weekend by another priest, the five parishes will have six years to become one.

Fr. Mark and Deb explained that the naming of new parish will involve all members of the parishes and will be a process that could take a few months.

The parishes can submit up to three names to the Bishop who then chooses one of those names or one that he chooses – it is a Bishop’s role to name new parishes in his diocese.

Fr. Mark stated that Jane Marrin has been invited to the December five parish council meeting on the 12^th and she will do a presentation on the role and responsibilities of the finance and pastoral

councils.

5.Clarification of One Site in Holdingford.

Fr. Mark explained that there has been no decision to date regarding the choosing of the one site for the future in Holdingford. He also made it clear that St. Mary’s is not going to be closing.

Rather that the process of combining the two parishes into one corporation is just beginning. Today we are still using two physical plants (St. Mary‘s & St. Hedwig’s), and what was chosen in May was simply the church that would host the one Sunday Mass for the new Mass schedule. Fr. stated that a decision as to the future site could not have been made at one meeting, rather it will take a number of meetings and planning and research to make that decision.

Concerns from Pastoral Council Members:

Why wouldn’t we use St.Hedwig’s if there is more seating capacity?
Why does it matter which church we chose?
Last council meeting says that St. Mary’s is going to close.

What is the real plan? Fr. Mark asked that this person clarify what they meant, he said I think there are plans we are not hearing about. Fr. assured him the people know everything that he and the staff know. Every effort is being made to share everything we learn as soon as possible. Fr. questioned why there is a sense of distrust.
Fr. wants to have worship at St. Hedwig’s.
One corporations two physical plants, it will take a while to decide if that is what will happen.
Didn’t we already make St. Hedwig’s the physical plant? We can have some services at St. Mary’s. Keep both parishes active. Bring the parishes to act as one.

Get the focus on the big assets and put them in one pot.

Let’s give it a year see how the mass counts turn out.
Thought it had to be one site with one name. Bishop has no hurry to close a site. Eventually we have to make the decision.
Four worship sites lead to one parish one worship site in Holdingford.
Council has to inform the priest the priest brings it to the bishop to make the decision. Counsel is an advisory board not a decision making board.
Last meeting wasn’t saying St. Mary is closing.
Why is everything scheduled at St. Mary’s ? St. Hedwig’s never had a mass for the Blessed Virgin Mary. (There is one on January 1, 2009)
Don’t wantl the parishes to be spoken as a “plant“. would like it to a site.

Fr. Mark asked council members, “How can we get people engaged in coming together as one parish?”
Participating together in leading the Rosary at the morning Masses.

Sharing responsibility for Rolls & coffee on Sundays.
Planning Lunches.

But our people need to work together, not SH doing one event, then SM doing the next. We need to plan together, work together.
People can’t be naïve. Keep in mind one site means one site.

Fr. Mark asked council members, “What will the one Parish in Holdingford look like…..In Two years? Five Years? Ten Years?”
Everyone working together.
Coming together in St. Hedwig’s having St. Mary’s as weekly Mass’s and special occasions
Plan more things to get the parishes to get together socially.
Wants definition of one site.
Flexibility for use of other Church’s.
Have to get together and do something together.

St. Hedwig’s and St. Marys will be doing things together; Pancakes and sausage breakfasts or suppers.

Christian Mother’s from other parishes should get together.

Some people are going to go to different spots no matter what happens.
What happens if we have a serge in Priests, would it all go backwards? (Priest could work together and support one another.)

Once people become one parish/church they won’t want to go back if we get more Priests.

Would miss not participating in mass in the old churches.

One corporation four worship sites? Is now the time? Holdingford parishes have to come together as one corporation, but is now the time for all five to come together as one with four worship sites?

If Holdingford becomes one and raises a new name would that name have to be dissolved if the other parishes would join the new corporation?

Deb Rudolph answered that if the Holdingford parishes become one new corporation and then the other three would want to join that corporation, there would not need to be another new name, the thre could simply be merged into the new corporation. This was information given to her at the meeting with the lawyer. Deb stated that this is a correction to the same question that was in the booklet that we published, but the booklets were printed already and the correction could not be made in print.

So, whatever name is chosen for Holdingford will be the name for the five parishes. The naming of a new parish needs to involve all five parishes.

This will be discussed again at future meetings. In December at the combined meeting the question of whether to go with two parishes to one, or five parishes to one corporation with four worship sites will be discussed and Fr. Mark will be asking for advice from all members of the five parishes.

Fr. Mark closed the meeting with prayer and blessing.

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Five Parish Catholic Community Combined Council Meeting

Thursday, September 11, 2008 - 7:00 PM

St. Anna

Opening Prayer and Faith Sharing: This was done by Father Mark.
Welcome and Introduction of New Members/ New Trustee
Five Parish Staff Issues
1. Cathy Lyon – up to 12 hrs/week in addition to confirmation
2. New Coordinator for St. Anna
Dates for Combined Meetings for 2008-2009
1. Reports to be done with all councils: Faith Formation, Youth, Vision & Stewardship, Christian Mothers, Mission Work, Outreach to Elders, etc.
2. Hand out to be completed by each : Faith Parish Catholic community Council Worksheet
3. Record who will host each date.
Finance Report – Annual Reports
Power Point Presentation – Discussion and Q&A Presented by Deb Rudolph. Mass counts, populations, collections, funds, investments, bills, and heating were presented and discussed.
Proposal for Holdingford Churches: Can we only have one Holdingford church building heated this winter? Both churches will be able to hold the projected mass counts for the winter. Most of the office and youth equipment is located in St. Mary’s Church. Will the buildings or statues etc., be ruined if no heat is provided. What if we need both churches in Holdingford for the Christmas mass because of large mass counts? We need to get the youth more involved to ensure a happy future. How can we get more youth involved? How will we ever have enough money to start a new church if we can’t afford to heat the five now? Financial information will be made available to parishioners.
Proposal for Consolidation – Five to One: Should we consolidate the five parishes now instead of consolidating the Holdingford churches now and then do it again when all four dissolve? What if the Bishop changes his mind and we do the five to one for nothing? Will one main checkbook defer people from giving money? Should we be making changes while the new Community Country Church is being built; will they take away our parishioners?
Closing Prayer & Blessing: Closing prayer led by Father Mark.
Individual Meetings

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St. Hedwig's/St. Mary's

PARISH COUNCIL MINUTES

SEPTEMBER 11,2008

St. Anna Church Basement following the 5 Parish Council Mtg.

Kathy Ebnet called the meeting to order.

AGENDA ITEMS

Election of Parish members as Wally Waletzko, Lenore Dawson and Jo Anne Christenson’s terms are up at the end of 2008.

Election will go as follows:

Names will be put in box at the back of church

These people will be notified of their being nominated and asked if they’d accept the position

Names will then be put on a ballot for final voting by the people

St. Hedwig’s Rosary Sodality group has informed the P. C. members that they will no longer be hosting the Social/Fellowship meeting that takes place after mass.

Discussion held :

Transportation of the goods from St. Cloud needs to take place as the person who has been doing it (at no cost to the parish for gas) is not able to anymore.

Rosary Sodality has many times had absorb the expenses of the coffee and juice etc. due to lack of donations

Lack of help with serving and clean-up

Suggestions:

Ask the Confirmation students to help, this also builds fellowship with them and encourages involvement in the church when at this point in their lives they’re looking to see “How do I fit in the church?” ? After Confirmation many of the youth think now they are done with the church which leads to low attendance at masses later on . We need to be finding ways to get our Youth involved.

Deb Rudolph mentioned that there is money in the Parish Life Fund for things like this also

Consensus was to blend our efforts and monies to make this work.

Youth Fundraising:

Gloria has asked if the Pizza fundraiser was available . The youth are always looking for ways to raise money for their organization. Consensus was an Over whelming YES!!

Donny May is retiring at the end of September, 2008.

Wow , we are going to miss him!! He’s done a phenomenal job maintaining our church grounds and cemeteries in the past. He’s got a big pair of shoes to fill but we are looking for someone to be his replacement as soon as possible. Please notify the Parish council members of anyone that would qualify.

HEATING THE CHURCHES!!(whew!)

Charts were presented at the meeting monitoring the heating costs of the parishes. From 2005 to now the heating bill has doubled !

Discussion of what to do took place.

Consensus: We need to inform the people of our parishes of this cost.

A proposal to turn the heat off in one of the churches in Holdingford to save cost. We would blow the lines and winterize it like you would a cabin. The cost of fuel to heat the church was approximately $20,000.

If you do this there is risk involved.

Right now steam runs thru the lines . If you open them up you could end up with a pocket of water in there causing freezing which can cause a busted line, rust can build up , go into the radiator into the pop up valve, which can get clogged with rust. Replacement of these valves would need to take place every 1 to 2 years.

To start the heat up again for the April masses it could take a little time which also effects the cost of fuel being saved.

What about the statues? The walls? They would not be hurt by the coolness. It’s when you heat/cool which causes condensation to happen that erosion of the statues takes place.

Weekday masses would still be said at St. Mary’s basement

Have a professional Plumbing and Heating Co. for their advice

Keep the church @45 degrees to maintain it.

Consensus was to get a professional opinion from Plumbing and Heating Co . and keep the church at 45 degrees if that’s what it takes to maintain the church.

Fr. Mark said much prayer is needed : Novena’s and Adoration time.

Jennifer Gerads was able to creatively come up with ways to have all Religious Ed classes at one time. This allows us to only heat one of the churches. Thanks Jennifer for all your hard work!

What about funerals? Holidays?? Seating capacity to consider . Last Christmas we were over by more than 100 people. We will use one site

Get the facts and put the information on the table and move forward as ONE.

We are together now, We own both properties, we decide what to do with them ,

Consensus is what is best financially

Meeting Adjourned @ 10:10p.m.

Next meeting- Nov. 11, 2008,@ St. Mary;s Basement following the 7 p.m. Mass

Next 5 parish meeting will be held on December 11, 2008 at 7 p.m at St. Wendel.

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Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church

Pastoral Council Meeting

Thursday, September 11, 2008 7:00 PM--

Agenda 1. Opening Prayer and Faith Sharing: Father Mark opened us in prayer. Everyone shared one good thing about the Five Parish Faith Community.

2. Roll Call:

Members Present: Cathy Lyon, Judy Bialka, Jim Guck, Shari Grebinoski, Ken Trettel, Jean Zwilling, Todd Schwartz, Sam Bialka, Pat Maciej

Members Absent: Gerry Johannes, Deb Determan, Krista Kutzman,

3. Approval and/or Additions to the Agenda: Judy Bialka motioned, Todd Schwartz seconded.

Pat Maciej asked to add the issue of snow removal to Other Business.

4. Approval of Minutes:A. Minutes from the last combined meeting can be viewed on the web site.

B. Emailed OLMC minutes

5. Committee Reports:

A. Finance – Deb Determan was absent. The annual parish reports were prepared by Terri Struzyk and presented to members. They will be available in the back of the church this coming weekend. Contributions were discussed. We discussed what a welcoming church means.

B. Maintenance – Jim Guck reported that he and Elmer inspected the building. There is a leak above a window in the rear of the church due to shingle problems. To fix that would be about $300-400. More research is needed before we hire someone. Elmer plans to fix the ceiling in late fall. Cathy reported that no water was leaking in the bell tower. An attempt will be made to seal the windows and doors better. There are five windows behind the alter that need to be sealed. The heaters are leaking and need to be cleaned. Jeremy Dombrowski has donated a lot of time doing maintenance. He plans to help with the heaters. They are going to plug any cracks or leaks in the building to try and help with heating costs this winter. Jim recommended the furnace be turned to 50 degrees all the time. It was suggested that we get an alternative source of heat in the north wing of the church. We should look at on demand heating sources for the bathrooms. For Wednesday nights, an alternate heat source should be used in the basement instead of the furnace. Jim wants to know the flow heat for the boilers. The thermostats should be locked. There are two electric heaters in the back foyer that could possibly be used to heat the bathrooms. Circulation may be the best method for keeping the pipes unfrozen. A proposal is needed for the bathroom pipe issues and the roof repairs. Repairs should be made on the inside of the church, no proposal needed. Cathy will talk to Tammy Butler about not using the church for Wednesday nights.

C. Parish Life – Cathy Lyon reported that the meeting for parish life is coming up. Cathy is concerned about parish life because there are no new people coming to parish life. Efforts have been made to increase membership, but people do not like coming to meetings. We need a creative solution to increase numbers. Evangelization is needed to increase membership. Parish life helps create a sense of community in the parish. The committee only has five members, but needs many more. 6. Other Business:

A. Election of new members – one woman and one man. Elections should have been completed already. Pat Maciej and Krista Kutzman’s terms are up and new members are needed. Pat Maciej chose to run again for his second term. A notice will be put in the bulletin about the open positions. The elections will be held by the end of September. Three men and three women should be listed on the ballot. Judy Bialka is responsible for finding candidates.

B. Loan report copies in the back of church.

C. Snow Removal. A notice needs to be put in the bulletin about the need for snow removal this weekend. It needs to be everyday because the church and the central office needs to be accessible everyday.

7. Next Meeting Date: December 11, 2008 will be the next meeting. Jim Guck motioned to change our meeting dates to correspond to the combined meeting dates; if an issue arises, a special meeting will be called. Todd Schwartz seconded the motion. 8. Adjournment:Judy Bialka asked Deb Rudolph if we could ask Father Mark to do a mock vote about the 4-to-1 combination.

9. Closing Prayer:

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St. Hedwig's/St. Mary's

PARISH COUNCIL MINUTES

MAY 29^TH, 2008

Members present: Fr. Mark Stang, Kenny Warzecha, Wally Waletzko, Shirley Konsor, Bob Warzecha, Dick Struzyk, Donny Breth, Joan Frie, Patti Becker, Bob Pueringer, Cindy Schwinghammer, Deb Rudolph, Rodney Adolph.

Absent: Jo Ann Christensen., Kathy Ebnet, Lenore Dawson.

Meeting called to order by President Wally Waletzko at 7 p.m.

Fr. Mark opened with scripture ,prayer and reflection.

Additions to Agenda:

We are seeking a recording secretary at the Parish council meetings in Holdingford. The goal is to get as much information to the general public as possible from these meetings and having a recording secretary allows the person active on the council, to participate fully, and not be worried about getting all the information down.

Maintenance position at St. Mary;s

Five Parish Catholic Community New Mass Schedule

Weekends

Saturday 5:00pm St Columbkille in St. Wendel

Saturday 5:00pm Immaculate Conception in St. Anna

Sunday 10:00am St. Hedwig’s in Holdingford

Sunday 8:00am Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Opole

Weekdays

Mon 8:ooam St. Columbkille in St. Wendel

Tues 7:00pm St. Mary’s in Holdingford

Wed 8:00 am St. Mary in Holdingford

Thurs 8:00 am St. Mary in Holdingford

Friday 8:00 am St. Mary in Holdingford

Adoration will be left in rotation as is now.

Tuesday night mass will preface the meetings and council members are encouraged to attend mass prior to meetings. Thursday evenings will be more open for Fr. Mark to be more of a presence to the High School students during the school year. A letter will be sent out to all parishioners to inform them of the many changes happening as of July, 2008. In this letter there will be a Stewardship Drive sheet and the Mass schedule also. This will be the 2^nd letter we have sent out.

Question asked about informing the parishioners on surrounding mass schedules. Consensus was to allow them to get informed on their own. There are many means to do this with the website, phoning neighbors, reading bulletin etc.

Growing in Excellence Ministries will be starting in the fall, so in the mean time, in combining the Liturgies, “How do we keep everyone informed of changes?” With fewer masses being said, the frequency of people being able to serve will be much less. Servers can sometimes forget if only serving a couple times a year. Fr. Mark asked that someone would oversee t he ushers. They would come into mass ½ hour earlier and inform the ushers on how things are done in that parish.

With Holdingford parishes coming together to worship I one site as of July 6, 2008, it was brought to our attention to maybe do something to celebrate this. Understanding there is loss on both parts, for both parishes, there is also a positive thing in gathering people together to worship. In doing so comments were made be the Visioning and Stewardship Committee and others to have greeters greeting people as they come in and to ask the Parish Council members and Trustees to line the steps coming into church. (this combining of councils and trustees along the steps represents the people coming together in the feeling of celebration.) To ask ushers servers and lectors from both parishes to be combined in the very first Mass of July 6^th, 2008. There will be a social Gathering afterward. We’ll be asking the Social groups from St. Hedwig’s and St. Mary’s to combine their efforts to accomplish the task at hand. Coffee, rolls, fresh fruit and finger foods will be served. A question was asked when the councils become one and this takes place at the suppression of the corporation and making it one. The councils stay the same for now. When we become one parish, we will elect Parish Council members and trustees and have one Finance Council. These changes do not take place in the coming together for the Liturgy, as we are doing on July6^th, Remember-”we are on worship site “ not one parish as of yet. There are a lot of steps to take for this to happen.

In choosing St. Hedwig’s as the physical plant to have our worship site at, decisions needed to be made regarding the steps. The council was asked to look into the future of our parishes and see if this was a wise decision with our finances, and in doing soo, realizing this is s a safety concern, the consensus was to go ahead with this project. A suggestion to have a performance bond was mentioned and we’ll be obtaining this for the project. When going to the bigger picture as to what we are going to do with one community we need to lay out the facts and figures, we as a group need to say what will be best for us 10-2- years from now.

V/S Committee last week said “it ‘s time to ask the question, “Should we do the suppression of the corporation and become one parish with 4 worship sites?’ There are a lot of things out there to consider. Right now as it is if we have one priest go down with an illness or any other situation we are out of luck as far as getting a replacement. There are no priests to shuffle around. In regards to the planning of our future a comment was made to get the facts and figures in writing and to stay away from ‘comments’ in doing this. Information gathered could be easily seen by all councils wand then the decisions of ‘what to do’ would be more apparent. Comment made in regards to going ahead and suppressing the corporations. Is it expensive to do? Isn’t suppressing the corporations the same directive that the Bishop gave us? Maybe we should look into this to be more prepared for what the future might bring. In moving forward we will never forget to honor our ancestors and what they did.

This is why the V/S Committee was formed. To help us in planning our future. In writing our vision down and to work diligently towards it.

Special Interests Projects:

St. Hedwig’s Centennial - September-2010: They are planning a meeting in the Fall for this. We’ll be putting this on the Bishop’s calendar- Celebration 2010.

Parking at St. Hedwig’s : To make parking more accessible we’ll be having white lines painted and will also be adding Handicap parking signs, as the blue lines don’t seem to be as effective. Fr. Mark asked that we as council members should start parking in the lot south of church to encourage others to do the same, keeping in mind the way we start this parking is the way the public will continue to park in the future.

Meeting adjourned @ 9”10pm

2^nd by Donny Breth

Next meeting , September 4^th, 2008

7:00pm St. Mary’s

Respectfully Submitted,

Cindy Schwinghammer

Secretary

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Five Parish Faith CommunityCombined Council MeetingThursday, May 1, 2008 – 7:00 PMSt. Mary’s Church Basment

Responses of council members when all were asked to discuss in their individual councils these things:

“One site” in Holdingford

Suppression of two corporations – New parish name

Continued Communication – How? When? Where?

Mass Schedule including daily Mass & Adoration

They had received the proposal for the new Mass schedule as follows:

Saturdays - 4:00 or 5:00 PM – St. Columbkille

8:00 PM – Immaculate Conception

Sundays - 8:00 AM – St. Hedwig

10:00 AM – Our Lady of Mount Carmel

They spent 15 minutes in group discussion then shared these questions and concerns:

Re: St. Mary’s, because it seems that SH will be used for the one site, “in an act

of kindness, could the daily Mass be held at SM until the two become one

parish?”

Should the proposed time of 8:00 AM in Holdingford on Sundays be 8:30 AM

because it is more difficult for families with small children? There is a need to consider “balancing” these two Masses.

There will need to be some adjustment of parish life for parishes having Saturday Masses, i.e. breakfasts vs. ice cream socials, or cards after Mass

Weekday Masses – should they be 7:30 or 8:00 AM?

Might this be a summer/winter change?

Will only two Sunday Masses be too full?

What about confessions – will they continue before the Sat. Masses – Fr. Mark said yes, and even before the first Sunday Mass.

What about Holy Days? – Deb replied that no decision is yet made regarding Holy Days, but the Mass counts taken over the previous year will help to determine those schedules.

Will we or should we use the gym for Easter and/or Christmas?

Some said no, they did not like that idea, however when done in the past

For Christmas, more than 750 people attended.

We need input from the Youth of our parishes. Deb shared that a meeting like “Wisdom of the Elders” is being planned for the Youth.

What does “one site” mean? Fr. Mark shared that it was to be a decision of the Holdingford parishes as to which site would become the one site – they will be working on that later this evening.

Might Christian Mothers and Helping Hands provide rides for daily Mass if held only at St. Mary’s for those who prefer not to drive to Holdingford alone?

In regard to the councils meeting together:

Whenever there are issues that will affect all five parishes, we will need to meet together.

It is clear that we will need to continue to meet together.

We will also meet in individual councils to discuss individual needs.

Fr. Mark shared some concern that the councils need to spend more time on the spiritual well being of the parishes, and let maintenance committees deal with the care of the facilities. They would then only “report” to the council, not for discussion, but for reporting what is needed and/or done.

The next five parish combined council meeting will be Thursday, September 11, 2008 at 7:00 PM at St. Anna.

St. Marys’ and St. Hedwig will most likely meet over the summer months as issues present themselves in regard to becoming one.

An all out Census will begin in early Fall for all five parishes.

A Ministry Survey will be given to all ministers now serving in June of 2008. It will be presented before Masses. This will also serve as an invitation to recruit new ministers.

All present were then asked to prioritize the work that needed to be done:

It was unanimous that the Mass schedule was top priority as it is to be announced at the end of May to begin the weekend of June 29 – 29, 2008. This is Fr. Jerry’s last schedule of Masses as a pastor of our five parishes, starting the new schedule then will allow the priests to concelebrate Masses.

St. Anna did ask that a Sunday morning Mass be considered for their bazaar on June 29^th.

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Five Parish Catholic Community Combined Council Meeting

Tuesday, April 15, 2008 – 7:00 PM

Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Opole

Agenda Deb Rudolph asked for mass counts and noted that there will be a Five Parish Combined Council meeting May 1, 2008 at 7:30 PM. A representative committee meeting of the Five Parish Catholic Community will be on Tuesday, April 22, 2008 to discuss mass schedules. Two members (one trustee and one parish council member) from each parish council were chosen for this meeting. Deb Rudolph handed out folders with forms enclosed for each church to facilitate maintenance and janitorial requests.

Opening Prayer – A Historical Letter: This was led by Father Mark along with reading Holy Scripture. Father Mark summarized the letter from Bishop Kinney. He asked for shared feelings from the letter.

Shared Meditation – “Led By the Spirit” – Calling on the Holy Spirit: Music played – “Spirit of God”

Shared Reaction to the Bishop’s Letter:

Council members shared feelings with 3-4 people

Council members made notes about questions, or suggestions

Council members named shared emotions – emotions were shared on a board up front.

Q&A – As We Are Able:

Questions were brought forward to the board up front. What is one corporation? Father Mark answered that a parish corporation consists of the bishop, a pastor and 2 trustees. Holdingford is to begin working on becoming one corporation on July 1, 2008. They don’t have to rush through it; they should take their time and move forward in small steps first.

Does Holdingford need to choose one church or only one mass each weekend? Father Mark answered, “I am not sure both churches can be used temporarily, but only one mass will be held in Holdingford each weekend, Saturday or Sunday. There will be one council, finance committee, etc. for Holdingford.

What about Father Greg? Father Mark answered that Father Gregory will only be doing one mass each weekend for the Five Parish Catholic Community. He has other commitments as a Parochial Vicar during the week.

What are the four weekend masses? Father Mark said we have not decided yet, whether the masses will be on Saturdays or Sundays. The Bishop suggested we should not have the same mass schedule as the cluster to the north of us. We will have the representative committee collaborate on determining this mass schedule.

Do we have all the needed staff? Deb Rudolph answered that we already have most of the staffing. Some of the other six parishes need to fill these positions.

Should we be getting financially ready to build a new church, setting aside funds, etc.? Father Mark answered with a quote from Bishop Kinney; it takes a long time to build a church, ten years or more. We will discuss more at a later time.

Is there a Diocesan building committee? Father Mark answered any construction plans need to be placed before the dioceses before construction can begin.

The question was asked, can the other two options that were given by the planning committee to the Bishop be shared. Father Mark responded that he was instructed that it would not be proper to share them.

We need to do what we can to keep our priests healthy.

We need to start planning for the future of our Church, to plan for our children like our parents planned for us. We need to be positively looking forward.

What do the Parishes Need From Council Members? Council members shared thoughts and were recorded on a board in front of the room. We need a strong leader to guide us. We need to be united as a parish and relay information correctly to parishioners. We need to be positive when we discuss things; it rubs off on parishioners. We need to talk with parishioners and ask their opinions so they feel they are represented and listened to. We also need to educate the parishioners; church needs to become a higher priority. How do we be positive even if we aren’t totally positive? We need to be prayerful and ask for wisdom and courage to say and do things that need to be done. When people complain, ask them how they feel the problem should be addressed. We need to be more involved with the youth activities. We need to stop talking about my church, but rather our church. We need to feel welcome in all parishes and activities, etc.

Staff Restructuring & Other Plans for 2008-2009: by Deb Rudolph

a.     Father Jerry’s Retirement: We will celebrate his retirement on June 25, 2008 at the Pelican Lake Ballroom from 5:30 to 9:00 PM. We are asking each parish to present for about 15 minutes to offer gratitude.b.     Director of Faith Formation Position Cut                                                    i.     Budget Needs - over emphasis in Faith Formation: We are going to make changes for next year due to budget considerations. Sister Jean’s position has been cut.                                                   ii.     FF Programs will be covered by Senior Coordinators and Confirmation Coordinator                                                 iii.     Laity will continued to be called forth to work with Why Catholic?, Prayer Groups, RCIA, Baptism Classes, etc.c.      Change in Fr. Gregory’s Presence: He is assigned as a parochial vicar for Father Dale Ettle and his cluster of four parishes. His home will be in Bowlus. He will also help in our Five Parish Catholic Faith Community and be paid accordingly. Until July 1, he is a visiting priest with no assignments.

Budget Considerations: by Deb Rudolph

a.     Five Parish Finance Meeting Thursday, April 17, 2008 at OLMCb.     Reduced Masses/Need to Reduce Budgetc.      More to be reported at next gathering

Choosing of Parish Representatives to Assist in Mass Schedule: by Deb Rudolph. It is suggested that one trustee and one parish council member from each parish be chosen to assist in this task.

             Our Lady of Mount Carmel: Deb Determan and Jean Zwilling

             St. Columbkille: John Meagher and Jake Biniek

             St. Mary’s: Donny Breth and Kathy Ebnet

             St. Hedwig’s: JoAnn Christenson and Dick Struzyk

             Immaculate Conception: Rick Pogotschnik and Shirley Winkles

Next Five Parish Combined Council Meeting:

Thursday, May 1, 2008 at St. Mary’s Church Basement, 7:30. The proposed mass schedule will be presented by the parish representatives.

Future Agenda Items:

a.     Budgets – Report on Five Parish Finance Workb.     Mass Schedulec.      Parish Council Meetings for 2008-2009                                                    i.     Set Datesd.     EMS – Excellence in Ministry Services                                                    i.     Hospitality Ministers – Ushers, Greeters                                                  ii.     Marriage Mentors & Wedding Coordinators                                                 iii.     Lector’s Eucharistic Ministers                                                 iv.     RCIA Sponsors, Men’s and Women’s Groups The conclusion was led by Father Mark, Holy Scripture, and prayer. Council members shared future dreams and hopes.Heart felt comments were shared by almost the entire Five Parish Catholic Community Parish Councils. Expressions of unity, optimism, gratefulness, a faith filled community, and concern for every stage of life of the people in our community were shared. Thanks for coming and sharing your feelings! Respectfully submitted by Samantha Bialka

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We are many parts, we are all one body.
Romans 12:4-5