The meeting was called to order by Nancy Jo at 7:30 p.m.

Stephen opened with a prayer.

The minutes for November and December were approved.

Members volunteered for the following duties:

Liturgist : Jan. 14 – Mike Mahrle

Jan. 21 – Julie Victorine

Jan. 28 – Nancy Jo Lopp

Communion – Feb.. 4 – Pam Nates and T’Shala will conduct Communion.

Members volunteered for the following coffee hours:

Jan. 14 - Nancy Jo*, Larry C.*

Jan. 28 - ANNUAL MEETING – ALL deacons bring treats

Feb. 4 - Richard Lyness

. *indicates 2nd time

EVALUATION of new Communion method - Adaptation made to Communion service, as described in December minutes, was well-received.

4-WAY COVENANT – Stephen presented new wording for the policy on 4-Way Covenants. It read as follows: When preparing to enter into a Four-Way Covenant with a church member, the Deacons will call a congregational meeting to present the candidate, explain the terms of the proposed covenant and seek the congregation’s endorsement.

There was considerable disagreement with the necessity of calling a congregational meeting to endorse a 4-way covenant. After much discussion, it was generally agreed that the Deacons should approve candidates for a 4-Way Covenant and the congregation welcome the person entering into covenant.

The new wording is as follows: The Deacons will provide an opportunity during a service of worship for the member entering into a Four-Way Covenant to be welcomed into this new relationship by the congregation as a whole.

COVENANT MINISTERS AS DEACONS – Stephen presented new wording on the subject of covenant ministers serving on the Board of Deacons. It read as follows: (Covenant ministers…) may serve as board or committee members but may not serve on the board of Deacons, chair boards or committees or serve as officers of the church (our intention is for the ordained members of the community to assist and enable the ministry of the lay members)

After some discussion, it was agreed that since the Deacons are responsible for entering into 4-Way Covenants, it would be a conflict of interest for a covenant minister to serve on the Deacons.

Stephen thanked the three members who have completed their terms on the Deacons, Nancy Jo, Jan and Carolyn. All three have given generously of their time and talents.

Richard and Jennifer will co-chair for the coming year.

NEXT MEETING – Tuesday, Feb. 6, 7:30 in Fireside Room

The meeting was adjourned at 9:15 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Jennifer Busam

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