1. 2012 will mark our congregation’s 125th anniversary.
There was preliminary brainstorming about what types of events might be held next year to mark our congregation’s 125th anniversary. Betty Swanson told about traditional chicken dinners. She has huge potato mashers that were used in the past as well as some of the Czech vests that were worn when serving the dinners. It was suggested that youth from the church could interview some of the older members about their memories of the church. If videos are made of the interviews, a DVD could be put together. We could also have displays of various historical materials the church has collected over the years. In addition, a video tour and description of our facilities would be nice. Bob Blakesley from the Communications Committee will talk to a particular person in the congregation about leading the planning of anniversary events.

2. Some building updates are in progress.
We are in the middle of a $37,000 “relamping” and “reballasting” lighting project. Of this cost, $22,000 will be covered by rebates and $15,000 was budgeted for this year. It is anticipated that the changes will save $4,000-$8,000 per year in electricity costs, resulting in a “payback” of our investment in 2-4 years. In addition, designated funds were received to pay the cost of repositioning the four shorter stained glass windows in the sanctuary. (This means rotating them about 45 degrees as has already been done with one window toward the front, near the instrumentalists.) These windows will be lit from behind to be more visible to the congregation.

3. Membership Committee will welcome visitors and new residents with bread.
When Membership Committee representatives visit those who have worshipped at Faith and visit newcomers to our area, they deliver a Faith Church mug filled with candy and info about Faith Church. The mug supply is almost depleted. In the past, people from Faith delivered a loaf of freshly baked bread to visitors. When the mug supply is gone, Membership Committee plans to deliver a loaf of bread. They are considering various bakeries to be the source of the bread.