Meeting was held and the Hanauers home on Spencer Ave.

The first part of the meeting was spent reflecting on recent developments within this leadership body.  Members were given the opportunity to express thoughts and feelings about the current situation.  Specifically of concern are the recent resignations of Bethany Rogers(overseeing gatherings), Kevin Gilles (overseeing house churches/networking/ leadership community) and Sarah Ross (overseeing finances).  Earlier resignations this year included Kenny Havens and Brad Rogers.

For the time being, Dave Nixon will oversee the Leadership Community.  There are tentative plans for Hearth and Terra Nova house churches to cover the next two months of planning and carrying out the activities associated with monthly gatherings.

Sarah Ross is moving and Greg York is fulfilling her role of overseeing finances.  A meeting will be scheduled soon with Ken Hanauer to help the VC finance committee set up a more efficient system of tracking finances.

The group considered the question of what are the few things that we need to be focusing on to do well.  There was discussion about doing community vs. doing church and where we see VC at present with either or both.

Josh reviewed some recent connections with new folks and how we are still drawing individuals who are interested in community and relationships in a spiritual context.

The group read the lectionary together and shared communion.

Greg York gave a brief update regarding our financial status.  We have approximately $8000 in the bank.  We are roughly spending about $500 more than we are taking in each month.  Compared to last year, giving is down 5%; over the past three months giving is down 17%.  Salaries are up 80% over last year so this is the most noticeable difference in expenses.  Collection of studio rent has improved and the YMCA membership situation was resolved for the first 6 mos.  We need to be sure that Beth Reed will take this on for the next 6 mos. period.  There was a broken coffeemaker earlier this year and an effort will be made to provide compensation for that.

Jeremy has been in communication with the Pomegranates and they have agreed to give a fundraiser concert in December.  More details will be provided later.

The Google Wave has been scrapped by the developers so we will not be using this now.

Josh will communicate the date for the next PC meeting.

Formed is the outgrowth of several friends working together to flesh out a new curriculum for Christlikeness. Together we developed a year long curriculum based around 12 vows, in the form of a prayer book that immerses us in the Psalms and Gospels. Each month is a different module based around a vow that kicks-off with a guest lecturer.

Our first lecturer is Dave Nixon, who will be teaching on Soul-keeping. Please join us for two hours of teaching and discussion around this important subject. You’ll leave with the knowledge and inspiration to develop healthy habits and rhythms in your life. You’ll also be given a pdf of September’s curriculum that includes daily prayers, readings, and reflections on the vow of soul-keeping…. All that and a belly full of home-made tamales (made by our dear neighbor Maria).

All are welcome.

Cost:
$15 (including tamales) …$10 with a student ID

FB Event Page

Interior Pastor: Dave Nixon
Exterior Pastor: Josh Hanauer
Admin/Support: Janet McNeel
Finance: Greg York (INTERIM)
Communications: Sam Hatchett / Mandy Mclaughlin
Facilities / Building Maint.: Jeremy Eyre
Newcomers: Christiane Sears
Children (under 8): Maurie Hanauer

House Churches / Leadership Community: VACANT
Gatherings: VACANT
Children (8+): VACANT
Building Preservation: VACANT

Present:  Janet McNeel, Josh Hanauer, Sam Hatchett, Jeremy Eyre, Owen Brock, Dave Nixon

Meeting led by Josh Hanauer.

Brief updates:

Sam and Mandy(Communications) – Two new member profiles (Laura Menze and Natasha Beljin) can be found on VC’s website entitled “New Faces”.

Janet (Admin/Support) – Recently provided laminated guide for table meals which Dave Nixon will be sharing with participants.  Also, completed several informational sheets to be shared with newcomers.  Christiane will be using these in the packets.

Dave (Pastor – Internal Focus) – Has been overseeing the group exploring options for St. Elizabeth building.  Expressed some concern about staying with specific focus versus recent discussion about needing to raise money for match if we accept the GCEA grant.

This update brought up some discussion about the ongoing need to identify someone to take responsibility for this area.  This was an identified position at the start of the year, but to date has remained unfilled.  Some thought has been given to trying to find someone and possibly offer some payment.  General consensus is that we are not ready for this yet.  Owen reminded PC members to pay attention to progress that we have made this year and not be discouraged by what remains to be done.

Jeremy (Facilities) – An energy audit will be needed if we accept the GCEA grant.

Josh has completed an unofficial fire inspection, noting possible concerns.  Jeremy’s Bldg. committee has compiled a list of projects which can be made available to any volunteer group offering help. There is still a plan to have a local music group offer a benefit concert in late summer or fall.

Agenda Items:

Debriefing of town hall meeting –

Helpful in encouraging leadership to step up and communicate challenges.

Everyone here attended meeting.  Any interested parties who did not attend can contact Sam and listen to the meeting which was recorded.

Finances –  This was discussed at Town Hall meeting that we are in better shape currently.  Concern expressed re. challenges to Sarah being able to continue in this role.  Dave will talk to her and offer possible solutions.

Orientation – Christiane will focus on putting together newcomer packets and finish out the year. Kevin Rains and Josh have been planning for a new orientation group in the near future.

Kevin Gilles has resigned from his position on the Pastoral Council and also will not be taking on the responsibility for the Leadership Community.

The Pastoral Council has been encouraged to look for others to fill some of the vacancies we now have.  Try to come up with list of names/recommendations by next meeting.

Concern was expressed about poor attendance at the Town Hall meeting and what to do about this in the future.

Question raised by Josh—“What do we do if something breaks?”

—-concerns about coffeemaker that is broken which belongs to L. Bourgeouis

—-expanders missing that belonged to J Thompson

Need for signage re. items left in the church being at risk

Post these signs in strategic places throughout the bldg.  (Mandy will oversee)

Meetings re. the building -  St. Elizabeth Exlorers (S.E.E.) – minutes will be available to anyone who is interested.

Discernment meetings – discussing what God is doing in our community; concern about how to introduce someone to VC and what are “next steps” for anyone who shows interest in being a part of VC – Participants are Kevin Rains, Sandy and Owen Brock, Greg York, Dave Nixon, and Josh Hanauer.  Look at first step as a phone number where an interested party can call (likely to be a conversation with Josh or with Mandy) .  Next would be an introductory meal with families or individuals who have volunteered to be hosts for this purpose of sharing more about VC.  There would be preset information which every host family would cover.  Next VC newsletter will ask for volunteers.

Member conversations – Owen will share more about what are important points at future meetings of the PC.

Next Pastoral Council meeting – August 15, 2010, at the Speckled Bird – 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

I am pleased to announce that our daughter, Charis and her husband, Adam Oglesbee have a baby girl.
Born Aug. 5, Adalyn Macy Marie. 7lb, 1oz, 20″long. Her water broke Wed. night around 7:30 and she was born around 12 the next day.

After a an evening, a night, and morning of labor, Adalyn was born. Everyone is well, but exhausted.

Cards can be sent to:
229 Short May St
Elsmere, KY 41018

or send me an email and I can get your message to them. aslforyou@gmail.com

Cynthia & Todd Long

Inroducing Sabrina Trosper

Sabrina grew up on the West side of town. She moved to Norwood about four years ago to be closer to her job at Critical Mass Media. This past September she was laid off because the company closed. Since then she’s worked at Busken Bakery, and is currently doing temp work. Sometimes she works a week, then she’s off a week. Her birthday is June 2nd and her favorite color is orange. She loves to read, enjoys learning, likes art and experiencing new things. She’s been attending Vineyard Central consistantly since the June fesitival and is thankful to everyone at VC who have been very kind to her.

Inroducing Dan French

Thanks for welcoming me into Vineyard Central. I met Dave Nixon a few years ago at the Vineyard in Florence, Kentucky. He seemed to share my deep interest in Thomas Merton and the contemplative life so as I finished up three years of helping start a new Vineyard in Grant County, Kentucky, my pastors recommended I contact him for guidance on “what’s next”. Dave’s advice was as sound as Jesus’ and Philip’s (and I’m sure others): “Come and see.” The home church, neighborhood model will get us through all that is and is coming as it has for millennia.

There are obstacles to overcome of course. My hope is a rapid transition in relationships, obligations, and work that would allow me to find an apartment and move into the neighborhood this fall. Tertullian said, “All sin is a result of impatience with God.” Along these lines, I ‘bin perty bad. Time isn’t what it used to be.
For me happiness is a good cup of coffee, the presence of my Lord Jesus, and brothers and sisters to share it with. I promise to try to be happy!

Our community was selected by Don Whittaker after he noticed many of those released from River City were living in Norwood and they had no church with which to connect those individuals. We are in a unique position to be a near constant presence to these men and women in need of a community who will care for them, provide a positive example to follow and assist in transitioning back into society.

Please take a moment and pray for each of these by name and for the relationships they will attempt to foster over the coming months. If you find yourself interested and wanting to assist in this specific ministry please contact Joshua Hanauer :: joshuahanauer@me.com

If you would like to bless the family by preparing them a meal  - or in some other way – please contact Becky Novotni at: rebeccabliss@yahoo.com. Meals are specifically needed on Sundays, Wednesdays and Fridays during the second half of August and beyond. Thank you so much for your support!

Tuesday August 3, 6-9 pm
National Night Out.  Norwood Community Center, 1810 Courtland
Encouraging any and all children to attend.  The kids will get to meet police/fire personnel, view equipment, food/drinks, games, and activities.

Cincinnati Zoo Presentation (with animals) @ 6pm
Bike Rodeo (to teach kids bike safety — each child will get a free helmet to keep. bring your own bike.)

(Night Out website)

When: July 29th from 5-8 pm
Where: St Es

Light snacks/refreshments provided.

link to step up’s website: http://www.jobsplusnetwork.org/jmla/stepup.html

Your name will be put in a rotation to host newcomers as they appear and show interest in our church.

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INTRODUCING LAURA MENZE

I know that I have met many of you already, formally, informally or otherwise, but I wanted to introduce myself to the community. I moved to Cincinnati in February from Indianapolis/Fort Wayne, IN for a job and became introduced to VC soon afterwards. I am now working at Summit Behavioral Health, a regional psychiatric hospital, as an occupational therapist working with individuals with serious/chronic mental illness, including many involved in the legal system. In my free time, I enjoy conversations, cooking, sharing meals, sewing, reading, and being outside. As my job may suggest, I am also particularly interested on the complex web of how faith, mental health, disability, substance abuse, employment, quality of life, poverty, homelessness, etc. intersects.

When I moved to Cincinnati, I knew no one and had a day to find an apartment. I therefore found an apartment in East Hyde Park – little did I know I would end up being in West Norwood at least once a day. Although Hyde Park is not too far and the apartment is great, I am looking to move to Norwood. However, I have a lease that runs through the end of January. Therefore, I am looking for anyone who knows someone (or is someone) who would be interested in subletting the apartment in order to facilitate a move to Norwood. I am flexible on dates and the possibility of leaving it furnished. If you know or hear of someone who is interested, definitely let me know and I can pass on information/pictures/etc.

INTRODUCING NATASHA BELJIN

Natasha grew up on Shadyoak Ct. in Cincinnati. She has always loved sitting in the woods reading literature/theology or playing with sticks. She recently spent a year being pruned by working residential care and then a year learning how to abide and produce fruit at a monastery in Virginia. She now lives in Norwood above the Bird, but you can find her in the tree house a great deal. Her desire is to have strong roots that others might lean on her, perhaps one day in a full time ministry position, but for now she is largely just learning how to grow toward the sun.

Omelette Sunday
Hearth House Church hosted an Omelette Breakfast Sunday, June 20th, 2010 at the Speckled Bird as a way of showing hospitality and encouraging community. Donations given raised money to purchase fruit trees that will be planted in the community of West Norwood. They plan to continue hosting future events, so stay tuned. There will be more omelettes, baked goods, and gourmet coffee to come.

See photos of the event Here!

Block Party
Tuesday’s, June 22, 2010 Block Party was a HUGE success! Thanks to everyone who came out to show your support and for the prayers from those who had to work. Several people graced our building for the first time and the SOS students did an awesome job serving and interacting with the community. A special thanks to Joshua Hanauer, Kevin Gilles, Matt Dawson, Angela Pancella, Jobe Fathman, Dave Snell, and Christiane Sears for volunteering their time to help with the event. The organizers of SOS have already asked us to partner with them again in 2011. Who knows maybe it will become a yearly tradition?

See photos of this event Here!

We’ll meet once a week to discuss a chapter of scripture that together we’ve agreed to use in our individual devotions over the past week. (This is meant to support our daily devotion, not give us one more thing to do.) Our desire is to focus our time on the experience of enjoying God and being enjoyed by God. Simple spiritual disciplines routinely practiced in the right way can be a powerful doorway to freedom and intimacy with the Spirit. Our desire is to foster these life-giving encounters both with each other and our God.

Join us there for a quick rundown of what the Pastoral Council has been working on in the following areas:

• finances
• building
• house churches / hospitality (structure)
• neighborhood

This should take approximately 90 minutes to 2 hours.  Please come with any questions related to these topics.  If you have a pressing question that doesn’t fit in this meeting, send them this way.

There’s still time to cast your vote on the naming of these events!  (survey is not scientific)

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Kate and Ramsey were a part of our house church for a couple years before moving to India, and we were immensely blessed by their presence. They are brilliantly alive with the love of God and full of compassion for others….and they’re pretty dang smart. If I could vote for their initiative over and over again all day I would, because I trust that beautiful things will come from their efforts and skills. Since I can not, I wanted to ask y’all to take a moment, read a little about their work and consider casting your vote for their cause. Voting is open only til July 6th, so there’s not much time left.

It’s super easy and quick. Here’s how it works:

1 .Go HERE
2 .Read our short overview.
3 .Click “vote/share” .
4. Click on “vote for this nominee”. (you will be asked to register, it only takes a few seconds.)

Thank you!
Elizabeth Hatchett

In order to begin this work, the Board has established an ad-hoc committee that will meet regularly through the remainder of the summer to explore ideas for moving forward. This team isn’t a decision-making body. Instead it will generate ideas and attach some levels of feasibility to each of the ideas based on research that it does (homework required!). At the end of the summer it will present its ideas and suggestions to the Board of Trustees and Pastoral Council. Those two groups will then determine how best to present the committee’s work to the rest of the community, soliciting input and further ideas.

The following people will be serving on behalf of Vineyard Central:
Sam Hatchett, Angela Pancella, Ben Eilerman, Elizabeth Herron, Jeremy Eyre, Janet McNeel, Greg York, Drew Allan, Kevin Rains, and Matt Dawson

Your prayers for them and the team’s work matters.

On behalf of the trustees (Owen Brock, Janet McNeel, Greg York),
Dave Nixon

You are invited to an afternoon of FREE entertainment and fun activities for the entire family. 500 hotdogs to be given away! FREE popcorn, snow cones, bottled water, and several games with cool prizes. Kids can jump in the MoonBounce and a DJ will be playing great music. Parents can even register to win a FREE microwave.

For more information, please contact Christiane at Cantwait2surf@hotmail.com

Facebook event page Here.

Bring a packed lunch and join us for some stories and prayers, appropriate for the 0-5 crowd and their caregivers. We will meet in the St. Elizabeth’s Children’s room (entrance off Lincoln). Questions: Mary Ellen Mitchell.

Parents,

Looking for an opportunity to help your kids grow in God? You won’t want to miss this special family event coming here to the Vineyard on October 1!

Your kids will experience tons of fun with a great message, and you’ll probably find yourself singing right along! This is a great event for your kids to invite their friends to.

Mark your calendars and check in to getting free tickets!

See you at VeggieTales Live!

Karen Stefacek
Family Pastor, Vineyard Community Church
513.671.0422  Ext. 162
stefacek@vineyardcincinnati.com

If you’d like to help out by volunteering for any of these events, we can put you in touch.

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Friday June 18, 6-8pm
Grill-Out at the Norwood Community Center, 1810 Courtland.
Free food will be provided.

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Tuesday August 3, 6-8:30pm
National Night Out.  Norwood Community Center, 1810 Courtland
Encouraging any and all children to attend.  The kids will get to meet police/fire personnel, view equipment, food/drinks, games, and activities.
Cincinnati Zoo Presentation (with animals) @ 6pm
(Night Out website)

Just a quick reminder (original post here).  Starts Tomorrow @11:30a.

For the 0-5 crowd, kind of like library story time meets sunday school.

Hurry up and contact Mary Ellen.

Present:  Sam Hatchett, Josh Hanauer, Mandy McLaughlin, Bethany Rogers, Kevin Gilles, Christiane Sears, Janet McNeel, and Dave Nixon

Meeting led by Josh Hanauer.

Brief updates from each member.

Sam and Mandy (Communications) – VC has a new phone number which is 549-1757.  This phone is now answered by Google Voice (transcribed and emailed to the communications team instantly).

Bethany (Gatherings) – Will be enlisting help and participation of house churches for the gatherings by late summer.  (Dave Nixon volunteered Hearth to be the first and this will occur in August).

Jeremy (Facilities) – There will be a meeting this week (5/6) at 7 p.m. to discuss maintenance schedule and other related matters.

Kevin (House churches) – Working on transition from Josh to Kevin.  Will eventually be taking on the responsibility of the Leadership Community meetings.

Dave (Internal focus) – Will begin 15 week series tonight on various topics related to discipleship.

Christiane (Orientation)- Will push back start date due to no response to recent notice to begin group.  Is interested in putting together packet of basic information for newcomers – hope to use at gatherings also.

Janet (Admin/Support) – Attending meetings with Dave and various others, offering assistance as needed.

Josh (External Focus) –  Will be meeting with the PE teacher at Norwood Middle School regarding rugby becoming a part of the curriculum.  Will also be moving forward with the prison ministry known as Step Up.  The recent mtg. which brought in a nationally recognized speaker went well.  This was attended by Josh and Nathan Myers.

Items of discussion –

Josh met with Mills House Church.  Concerns raised re. finances and status of St. E’s (the building in disrepair).  Concerns about care, maintenance, restoration, vs. preservation.  Concerned about these critical issues.  Will hope to discuss at least in part at next Town Hall meeting on 5/23.

Sam presented a brief tutorial on Google Wave for members.  We also heard a demonstration of the Google Voice answering the new VC phone number.

Sam shared information about a grant opportunity brought to our attention by Ben Eilermann.  This is for some monies made available to nonprofit religious organizations for improvements in energy efficiency in older buildings.  The grant would be through the Greater Cincinnati Energy Alliance.  Sam and Ben will work on this and submit by the deadline of May 19.

Discussion of our ongoing financial issues.  Seems that there is a need for the establishment of some standard operating procedures as there is lack of clarity re. how money will be used.  Some voiced the question of whether or not we need to hire an accountant, systems consultant, etc.  Mention was made of an individual at Vineyard Church who might be able to help with this.  The PC passed a motion to recommend to the Board of Trustees that someone be hired as a financial consultant to help institute better financial processes.

Brad Rogers has resigned from his role as overseer of ministries for older children.

Pastoral Council needs to commit to finding someone who will help us determine the future of the St. Elizabeth building.  The Board of Trustees will be meeting in the near future and this will be identified as an agenda item for this group to review.

Next meeting of the PC is scheduled for June 13 from 1:00 – 4:00 at Tilden.

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Vineyard Central’s Family Appreciation Day is this Saturday! Stop by to meet Snoopy and have your picture taken with him. Play games, have your child’s face painted, enjoy some yummy refreshments and socialize with several families in the community. See you on June 5th, from 3pm-5pm!

We could use a few more volunteers. If you are interested in helping with this event, please contact Christiane at Cantwait2surf@hotmail.com. Thanks!

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Join the Healing Center with their Hunger Walk on Monday, May 31!  Your participation will earn food credits for the Healing Center; every dollar raised provides four healthy meals for families in need.  Get more info at healingcentercincinnati.com/hungerwalk/

June 28 – July 16: Concrete Finishers, Concrete Laborers, Equipment Operators, Electricians, Plumbers and general labor.

July 19 – Aug. 20: Carpenters, Electricians, Plumbers and general labor.

Aug. 23 – Sept.15: Carpenters, Electricians, Plumbers, Tile Setters, Painters, and general labor.

For detailed information on how to sign up as an individual or as a team please visit the Mercy Response website.

It seems like a great time to put the newly re decorated children’s room to more use. My thought is some kind of “play and pray” activity for the 0-5 crowd, that would be kind of like library story time meets sunday school. After talking with some other parents, I’ve also sensed a need for more structured time for kids to share faith together in VC, so I thought this might be an easy start.

We’ll try every 2nd and 4th Tuesday, starting June 8th

11:30 -12:00 (packed) lunch together
12:00-12:30 Story time/ Activity
12:30-1 Open play

I would be willing to put together the first couple of stories/ activities and then maybe different parents could take turns. It wouldn’t have to be anything big, just a story, maybe a bible verse, a song and/or a prayer.

If you are interested in responding to this situation, get in touch with Jeff:  jrogers@batesvillevineyard.com

Hello, my name is Robert Lockridge.  I am new to VC, to Norwood and to Ohio.  I grew up in Virginia and recently moved here from Vancouver, BC. Since moving in with Dave and Jody two weeks ago, I’ve been preparing much of the land around the Convent for planting.  I am a parish farmer and lay pastor; my hopes are to become a part of the neighborhood and the community by growing food for and with those who call this place home.

This coming Monday (17 May) I’ll be receiving a delivery of rich, composted soil to the Lincoln Ave. side of St. E’s courtyard.  You’re welcome to come by with a wheelbarrow and help yourself.  Though the compost is freely given by the village of Greenhills, having it hauled here is not free; therefore if you’re able, please leave $ 5 at the Convent for every two heaping wheelbarrows of composted soil you cart away.  (That being said, if you want some and you can’t afford it, by all means, have some for free.)

Also, if anyone is interested in helping me wheelbarrow compost to the beds around the Convent, I’d happily welcome your help and company.  I’m grateful for having met many of you and I look forward to meeting the rest of you in the coming days and months.

Date: May 8th, 2010

Time: 11:30 am—3pm

Place: Millcrest Park in Norwood:
1700 Hopkins Rd., Cincinnati, OH 45212

To bring:

• A side dish to share; hamburgers, hotdogs, and drinks will be provided.
• A picture of your mother to share.

Program: On this Mothers Day weekend, mothers here and across the world will be separated from their children and worrying about their chance to make their dreams come true by going to college…all due to the U.S.’s broken immigration system.  Join us as we gather with food, music, and activities to honor mothers and push our Senators to pass Comprehensive Immigration Reform this year!

Don’t forget to Sign Up for the potluck!

VC Family,
We have a been blessed with a wonderful old building in St. Elizabeth’s…

…and caring for this building is a huge task.  There is much that needs doin’.  Everything from menial jobs of taking out the garbage, to larger tasks of regularly cleaning the gutters and crawling through the ceiling to replace light bulbs.

The Building Stewardship Team will be meeting to identify the immediate and future needs of the building and discuss how to best implement these needs.  If you are interested in taking a more active role in caring for the building, please come.

We will be gathering at 7:00 P.M. Thursday, May 6th at St. Elizabeth’s.

If you have any questions, please contact me at facilities@vineyardcentral.com.

The Wheelock family welcomed beautiful Ruby June on Friday, April 23rd.  Congratulations Matthew, Amanda, Noah & Jonah!  In an effort to help them during this time of transition, I would like to organize a meal schedule for them.  We’ll try to cover Monday-Friday for as long as we can.  If you are willing and able to help out providing a meal (or two), please email me with your available days.

Thank you for loving on their family in this way!
Marissa Havens
fh1@hotmail.com

The members of the PC have each written a description of their position, with nice bulleted lists of duties, so that each role is more explicitly defined in everyone’s minds.  We’d also like to use this list as a way to stay accountable to the body that we are serving, but limit a single person from taking on too many responsibilities.

You can view the descriptions on the “About” page.

If you have any questions, you could get in touch with a particular PC member, leave a comment below, or send general feedback to the communications team.

It is important to note that, while we as the VC body have managed to fill most of the originally identified areas of stewardship, we have not found a person to take leadership of St. Elizabeth’s preservation.  Jeremy is doing a fantastic job with maintenance and the managerial aspects of renting the space for weddings etc., but we still need a person or persons to champion the proactive preservation that our old lady desperately needs.  Get in touch if you think this is you.

Please understand that in filling out this form, you are NOT subscribing to the email newsletter.  You can do that over here – it’s a different system entirely.

Peace.

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Sacred Seasons: An Art Show (link)
at the Speckled Bird Cafe
Friday, April 23, 6:00-9:30pm

This weekend only – Come view the artwork of Laura McNeel and fellowship with folks from the neighborhood. All pieces will be for sale with proceeds going to benefit Laura’s upcoming trip to the Northeast to live and learn the art of organic farming. All are welcome!

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Poetry + Art: A Gathering (link)
at the Speckled Bird Cafe
Sunday, April 25, 7:30-9:30pm

Come and listen to poets Joanna Vance and Nathan Swartzendruber read from their work. Please join us! Superb coffee and other delectables will be provided.
(This event is co-sponsored by the Speckled Bird and 1801 Mills.)

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Let’s Meet Snoopy: June 5^th, 3pm-5pm

We are excited to have a special guest with us. Arrangements have been made for the world’s most popular beagle, Snoopy, to visit our church and spend time with families in the community. Admission is free, but there will face painting, games, food and drinks available with proceeds going to the restoration of St. E’s.

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VC Block Party: June 22^nd, 1:30 – 3:30pm

You are cordially invited to an afternoon of FREE entertainment and fun activities for the entire family. 500 hotdogs to be given away! FREE popcorn, snow cones, bottled water, and several games with cool prizes. Kids can jump in the MoonBounce and a DJ will be playing great music. Parents can even register to win a FREE microwave.

We’re looking for a few more volunteers. If you are interested in helping with either of these last two events, please contact Christiane at Cantwait2surf@hotmail.com

The local Norwood YMCA has been offering discounted memberships to 30 VC members for several years. There are still at least 6 openings left for 2010. The cost is $150 per person for the year. This is only $12.50 per month. (As opposed to the usual $56/ month plus $125 joining fee).
Membership includes:

• Gym with elliptical machines, treadmills, stationary bikes, nautilus and free weights.
• Access to indoor pool, outdoor pool, racquetball courts, basketball court, and sauna.
• Free classes including yoga, aerobics, weight training, spinning, Pilates, water aerobics, group swimming lessons etc),
• Free childcare for children 6 weeks to 8 y/o for 90 minutes at a time.
• Discounted classes like gymnastics, karate & private swim lessons’

Payment can be made in full right away (the sooner the better since it’s already March April) or in two payments of $75.

If you are interested in one or several memberships, please email Beth Reed ASAP.  For other ways to get in touch, email the communications team.

You can also check out the YMCA website.

March 28, 2010

Present:  Jeremy Eyre, Dave Nixon, Mandy McLaughlin, Sarah Ross, Janet McNeel, Christiane Sears, Owen Brock, and Josh Hanauer.

Meeting led by Josh Hanauer.

Brief updates shared by each member.

Mandy (Communications) – Reports 172 people are on the VC email list (about 50% regularly open the message).  Recent addition of the PC minutes on website was most popular page.  Plan to encourage joining email list.

Christiane (Orientation) – Kenny Havens has stepped down from co-leadership of this area.  Christiane is in the process of setting specific dates when the orientation group will be offered.

Dave (Pastor – Internal Focus) – Has been working on House Church Handbook.  Also plans to offer opportunity for 15 weeks of discipleship teaching on Sunday evenings – venue will be either Speckled Bird (or possibly 1801 Mills).  To start this on April 25 and continue until early August, then break for few weeks, resuming next 15 weeks (repeated topics) in late August and run until December.

Sarah (Finance) – Stewardship Committee is going to meet in next 1-2 weeks, looking at ways to strengthen financial status.

Jeremy (Facilities) – Two house churches have taken on room remodeling/improvement Projects.  Mills HC is doing children’s room; Hearth has selected room at front left (formerly S. Brock’s area).  Planning to set up yearly maintenance schedule for St. E’s.

Considering fundraising concert with local group for the fall.

Janet (Admin/Support) – Assisting Dave in reviewing HC Handbook and planning for discipleship group meetings.  Has reviewed bylaws and will assist Bd. of Trustees with revisions.  Trying to be informed in all areas and available to help as needed.

Josh (Pastor – External Focus) – Shared that he has recently sold his home in Cheviot and will soon relocate to Norwood.  Will involve two moves due to timing—first move to Speckled Bird apartment on April 30 and second move into newly acquired home on Spencer Ave. on May 27.  (Side note:  Jill and Jonathan Hicks have recently moved to Red River Gorge area).  Josh has attended meetings of the Cincinnati Faith and Justice Group.  There will be a workshop/conference soon on April 30 and May 1^st at the First Christian Assembly Church.  Topic is Re:Discovering Biblical Justice with special speaker coming to present.  More information will be shared soon.

Easter update – Hispanic mass will not be happening.  Attempts to reconnect with individual at Su Casa have largely been difficult, not as warmly received.  Decision has been made to look for other ways to extend outreach to our Hispanic neighbors.

Josh has been working on a mission idea/project which will involve selecting a school in South America that does not have a library.  Plan will be to fill a large shipping container with books and sent this to the school (e.g. children’s books available in Spanish to be purchased — available fairly inexpensively).

AGENDA  (Reviewed by group, all but one selected by voting)

1) Way to Present Items to PC in the Future

Josh has recommended book Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott, will start using format suggested there,  members complete form beforehand and share via email or bring to next meeting with information filled in.  Josh will put this form on Google Wave.

2)  Who is a Member/Who is a Friend of VC

Owen explained how this issue arose a few months ago when this PC model was implemented.  Discussion followed regarding how various other churches address the matter of membership and what if any of those elements would be valuable to consider.  General consensus is that this is a very important topic and that membership needs to be delineated in some manner.  Owen volunteered to complete form referenced above as a way to capitalize on important aspects.  He will bring this to next PC meeting.

3)  Hospitality Committee

Unable to discuss due to PC member not present today.

4)   Building Issues

—Maintenance
—Renovation
—Need to remove this from responsibility of either pastor
—There had been a committee looking at options. Options such as selling, retaining ownership but involving another entity (leasing?), tearing down bldg. and rebuilding.
—Wedding business and how this would be related to building needs to be clarified   (This item generated discussion as to status—Owen and Dave and Greg will discuss this as Board of Trustees, will meet soon).

Mention was made of need to catalog what is going on at VC.  Mandy will explore and together with Sam determine how to present this on the website with brief sentences and photos.

Josh gave an update about Norwood Rugby and his goal to have volunteers (at least 6-10) involved in tutoring (Rugby players must maintain 3.0 grade point average).  This rugby will be co-ed.  It will be primarily through Norwood Middle School.  Will be 6 week long program probably in the summer.  The tutoring relationship will continue throughout the year.  This is flag rugby (noncontact).  PC gave support to Josh to continue his involvement as a outreach ministry for VC.

Dave mentioned that the Regional Conference for Vineyard Churches will take place in Columbus, Ohio, May 11-14 if anyone is interested in attending.

Next meeting of Pastoral Council will be Sunday, May 2 from 1:00 – 4:00 (at Tilden Ave. – Brocks’ home).

simplicity: the radical root
community: the new and prophetic society
prayer: the primary grammar
forgiveness & reconciliation: living in the generosity of God
servanthood: the level playing field
non-violence: the War of the Lamb

the least and the last: minding the margins of life
This 15-week series would be especially ideal for those who are newer Christians, but we’re not checking I.D. at the door. Come one, come all. If you have any specific questions you’d like answered before committing, please contact me (Dave Nixon) at: dave.vineyardcentral@gmail.com
Peace to you,
Dave Nixon

Bring a bagged lunch and drinks or some will be available for purchase at the ED celebration.

Earth Day Celebration activities this year will include: exhibitors with hands-on displays representing environmental groups, government agencies and businesses; Rock-Climbing Wall, Kayak Paddle Safety Pool, ORSANCO’s aquarium; baby animals from Farmer Frank’s Sunrock Farms; Mother Earth and story telling; an environmental puppet show; a children’s fashion show with creations made with recycled material; entertainment from local bands throughout the day, and the 1st annual Planet Protector Parade where young ones can create their very own 40th Earth Day flag, and much, much more.

Please RSVP to Steve Novotni at stevenovotni@yahoo.com. This is for families or adults without kids. I think it would be nice to bring kids whose parents cannot attend if possible. Beck and I have room for one such well-behaved passenger.

Our house church is finishing our project of sprucing up the kid’s room in the next couple weeks, and we would love to add to the current toy collection. We’ll be putting together a large shelf on Wednesday, April 28 and hopefully filling it with toys. We wanted to put the call out to the community to see if anyone had any new or gently used toys or books on hand they’d like to donate to help make the space extra fun for our little ones.

This probably goes without saying, but if you have toys to share, please make sure that they are non choke-able, don’t have lead paint, fleas, bed bugs (no donations from a thrift store without sterilization), nothing plush, like stuffed animals.

Ideal toys would have few parts and be easy to clean, hard plastic or wood and have few or no removable parts. Think about what you might find at a pre-school or children’s museum. Examples might be stack and nest blocks, dump trucks, a telephone that is all one piece, a cash register without removable parts, musical instruments, moving gear sets that are attached to a base, baby dolls that are solid plastic, a play cube/ bead maze, a magna doodle, puzzles with only 4 or five large pieces.

Please email Elizabeth to make arrangements for donated toys before April 25.

Easter Service – We’ll gather at 10am on Easter morning for a celebration of resurrection, with the added joy of welcoming new young lives into our church family in a time of child dedication. Childcare will be provided up to age 8. Plan to join us afterward for a memorable Easter potluck.

Easter Potluck – As of Monday morning, we only have a few folks signed up to bring something to the potluck. Please remember to add your contribution to the list. It’s quick and easy.

Church Decorating – Volunteers are needed to help prepare St. E’s for Easter. We will be meeting at 3 pm on Saturday, April 3rd. If you are able we would love for you to bring cut or potted flowers. Plan on spending a couple hours working together to create a beautiful space that adds to the joy of our celebration. If you can help, please email gatherings@vineyardcentral.com to let us know you’ll be coming.