SYDENHAM STREET UNITED CHURCH
Kingston, Ontario
Annual Report
2014- 2015
SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
SUCC Vision Statement
As an Affirming Congregation, we seek to be a vital faith community within The United Church of Canada
engaged in spirituality, justice and creativity,
informed by Jesus Christ and the Bible,
and discerning the call of the Trinity
as we celebrate diversity, inclusivity and abundant life.
SSUC Mission Statement
We are committed to following Jesus’ example as we embrace people of all ages, racialized groups, sexual orientations, gender
identities, ethnic origins, political beliefs, economic circumstances and differing abilities and challenges in the ministry and life of
Sydenham Street United Church.
We are committed to deepening our spiritual relatedness and honouring the worth of each individual by extending hospitality and
pastoral care, and sharing relevant and meaningful worship, spiritual practices, and small group ministry.
We are committed to broadening our outreach/social justice through existing programs, advocacy and new initiatives to address
local, national and global needs; and to welcoming the use of our space by those involved in outreach/social justice seeking to live
lives of compassion and peace.
We are committed to nurturing and being nurtured by the arts within the congregation and wider community by encouraging use of
our facilities by those engaged in any and all artistic endeavours.
Approved at SSUC Congregational Meeting – October 26, 2014
Signed during 15th Affirm Anniversary Celebration – November 2, 2014
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Church Staff
Minister:
Rev. Elizabeth Macdonald
Organist and Music Director
Many Gifts~One Spirit
Audrey Robinson
Gillian McDonald, Cecelia Jennings, Katelynn Folkerts
Operations Manager
Office Administrator
Bookkeeper
Custodians
Don Mitchell
Ruth Ranson
Madeleine Friederichsen
Justin Sowik, Susan Chumbley (until 2015), Lisa Leavitt, Judy Chown (on disability)
Church Officers and Committee Chairpersons
Chairperson
Chairperson Designate
Secretary of the Official Board
Treasurer
Financial Secretary
Presbytery Representatives
Trustees
Engaging the Spirit Co-chairs
Social Justice & Outreach Chair
Art and Soul Co-chairs
Worship
Ministry and Personnel
Property
Finance
Building Utilization Task Group
Rob Vanderheyden
Ellie Deir
Bill Seath
Winn McKnight (until December 2014), Roger Chown
Lynn Freeman, Marylil Megginson
Deborah Elliott (Chair), Lorne Maclachlan, Marilyn Huffman, Donna Delyea, Ian Casson, Ross
Drummond, Roger Chown, Treasurer (ex-officio), Property Chair (ex-officio), BUTG Chair (exofficio), Finance Chair (ex-officio)
Nancy Young, Lynn Freeman
Jim Leake
Barb Carr, Cori Mayhew
Eileen Woloshyn
Barb Parker
Kenn Doerksen
Jack Soule
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Table of Contents
Church Staff......................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Church Officers and Committee Chairpersons.................................................................................................................................... 3
Table of Contents................................................................................................................................................................................. 4
Report from the Chair .......................................................................................................................................................................... 5
Minister’s Report ................................................................................................................................................................................. 5
Operation Manager’s Report................................................................................................................................................................ 6
Ministry Circle Reports........................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Engaging the Spirit Ministry................................................................................................................................................................ 8
Worship Committee Report ................................................................................................................................................................. 9
Circles of Companionship Report...................................................................................................................................................... 10
Small Group Ministry ........................................................................................................................................................................ 10
Hospitality Group Report................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Prayer Shawl Ministry ....................................................................................................................................................................... 11
Social Justice and Outreach Ministry................................................................................................................................................. 12
The Helen Tufts Child Outreach Program ......................................................................................................................................... 13
Affirming Ministry ................................................................................................................................................................... 15
Art and Soul Ministry ........................................................................................................................................................................ 16
Ministry and Personnel Committee.................................................................................................................................................... 17
Property Committee Report ............................................................................................................................................................... 17
Building Utilization Task Group........................................................................................................................................................ 18
Implementation Team Report ............................................................................................................................................................ 19
Four Winds Presbytery Report........................................................................................................................................................... 20
Report from the Trustees ................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Changes in Membership .................................................................................................................................................................... 23
Deaths ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 23
Marriages/Commitments.................................................................................................................................................................... 23
Sacrament of Baptism ........................................................................................................................................................................ 23
Financial Statements ....................................................................................................................................................................... 25
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Report from the Chair
Throughout this past year, Sydenham Street United Church has been a busy place where many people give generously of
their time, talent and finances. These gifts benefit not only our SSUC community but also benefit people around us locally,
nationally and globally. Our Ministry Circles of Engaging the Spirit, Art and Soul and Social Justice and Outreach help us to
focus our gifts where we feel God has led us to work. Countless volunteer hours are given in the work of the three Ministry
Circles. Thank you one and all for giving freely towards furthering the Mission and Ministry of SSUC.
The past year has been a good year working with the members of the Executive. The Executive is made up of a representative
each of the Art & Soul, Engaging the Spirit and Social Justice & Outreach Ministry Circles, Representatives from
Administration: Treasurer and Building Utilization Task Group, Ministry and Personnel, Presbytery Rep, Trustees and
Implementation Committee, the Executive Committee Secretary and staff members the Rev. Elizabeth Macdonald and Don
Mitchell. The Executive is a hardworking group who give generously of their time to provide leadership at SSUC. Thank you
for the energy and dedication you all give to providing leadership.
Over the past year, the staff members at SSUC have worked hard to take care of the tasks in their care. We are blessed to
have Rev. Elizabeth Macdonald, Ruth Ranson, Don Mitchell, Justin Sowik, Lisa Leavitt, Audrey Robinson and Madeleine
Friederichsen working at SSUC. Gillian MacDonald, Cecilia Jennings and Peace Quest/SSUC Intern, Katelynn Folkerts have
led MGOS activities with our children. They all bring different talents to their work and work together towards making SSUC
a caring and welcoming place to be for all who come through our doors. Thank you, staff members and MGOS leaders, for
your efforts and dedication for the benefit of SSUC.
As you read through the Sydenham Street United Church 2014-2015 Annual Report, you will get an idea of the work of
SSUC members and groups. This Annual Report offers us a chance to celebrate the blessings that result from sharing our gifts
locally, nationally and globally. Again, thank you to all who give towards furthering the Mission and Ministry of SSUC.
Rob Vanderheyden
Minister’s Report
It has been another stimulating, challenging and rewarding year for me as SSUC’s covenanted minister. Here are highlights
of the work & life, the ministry & mission we have shared:
Life & Ministry within SSUC
Significant creative energy and time of mine went into two worship series: Re-examining and Re-imaging our relationships
with non-human creatures – the focus of worship during Fall /14, Advent and Lent; and the monthly series, Faith Questions &
Conundrums. Art was woven into this Soul work as we created and added creature figures to our SSUC Crèche during
Advent and as we hung rainbow fragments down our centre aisle during Lent to mirror Barb Carr’s glorious rainbow strung
across our sanctuary.
It has been a delight to work with Queen’s Students, Gillian MacDonald, Cecilia Jennings and Katelynn Folkerts as they
worked with children in Many Gifts One Spirit. Katelynn’s presence as the SSUC/PeaceQuest Intern has led MGOS and the
congregation into discernment about what it means to be a peace questing community.
I have been deeply moved by how the celebration of our 15th Affirm Anniversary led the congregation to renew our
Affirming commitment and revise our Vision & Mission Statement as we discern God’s call into the future.
This has been a year of many joyous “hellos” and sad “good-byes”. Among those we are missing: Eileen Sinclair who, at the
time of her death, had been a member of SSUC for longer than anyone; Don Redmond, former Chair of the Congregation
who faithfully served SSUC in many leadership roles, Velma Vosper who helped established Helen Tufts Nursery School and
Child Outreach Program; and the Rev. Dr. Jean Barclay, who, with her husband, Mark Fleming, made SSUC her church
home after retiring from congregational ministry.
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Life & Ministry in the Wider Church and the World
Since February, a team of us from SSUC have been working hard to establish the new Inter-Church Refugee Partnership
(www.interchurchrefugeepartnership.com) and to bring a Syrian refugee family to Kingston.
I am representing SSUC in Kingston’s interfaith climate action group, Action Partnership: Many Faiths, One Creation
(www.actionpartnership.weebly.com)
I and other SSUC folk were actively involved in three shared downtown worship services – Week of Prayer for Christian
Unity service, Ash Wednesday and Good Friday which we hosted at SSUC.
I continue to be involved in Four Winds Presbytery. I was on the leadership team for two Conference Affirming Workshops.
At the 42nd General Council next August in Corner Brook, I will be the English web reporter again.
In Conclusion, with Much Gratitude
Last September we welcomed Audrey Robinson as our new Music Director and I have appreciated and enjoyed getting to
know and working with Audrey. It continues to be a privilege and joy to share faith, life and work with all of you here at
Sydenham Street, with congregational leaders – Chair Rob Vanderheyden, members of the Executive, Ministry Circles, and
with your staff, my colleagues – Madeleine Friederichsen, Donald Mitchell, Ruth Ranson, Audrey Robinson and Justin
Sowik – and all of you here at Sydenham Street United Church.
Let me close with the following prayer which reflects my hope as we move ahead:
Holy Mystery, Wholly Love –
You know us . . . lead us to know You.
You bless us . . . encourage us to trust You.
You call us . . . equip us to do Your will.
You love us . . .move us to love You and all You love. Amen
Rev. Elizabeth Macdonald
Operation Manager’s Report
The mid-point of 2015 will mark the completion of the fifth year of the operations manager position. The work of that
position primarily focuses on the building and its internal and external ‘use’. There is some limited engagement in supporting
the workings of the three branches of SSUC. The entire annual report provides the most complete view of SSUC’s operations
whereas this report is confined to a ‘rental’ view.
Here are a few highlights of the most noticeable (rental) changes in our operations in last five years.
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Increase in rental gross income and net income
External contract/maintenance/service fees reduced
Additional event supervision and cleaning costs reduced
Maintained cleaning performance while reducing regular custodial costs
Single-event rentals focus shifted to dedicated-space rentals
Increase in consistent daily building traffic including daytime hours (office users)
Significant renovations and décor upgrades especially on the upper floor
Improved efficiency in all building organizations’ use of space (excess rented)
Relocation of all SSUC programs to the accessible main floor
Proactive and committed succession planning at all levels of leadership
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
The ‘building staff’ of SSUC has simplified since the spring of 2014. Through the shifting of the style of building use the
need for nighttime custodial, event supervision and concert cleaning has lessened. Transitions and retirement of staff has led
to new opportunities for efficient adjustments. We currently use an average of 35 hours a week (including worship service
duties) but apply those hours in heavier concentration during intense winter months where maintaining the building can be
most challenging.
The ‘office staff’ of SSUC continues to function in the similar tandem fashion as they have since the creation of the
operations manager position. The office administrator handles the majority of the communications duties both SSUC and
82SS while the operations manager handles the bulk of the physical facilitation of the building’s diverse use. The strategic
application of salaried labour enables SSUC to cost effectively meet the various needs of the building’s use which can vary
greatly in hours, style of use and physical/mental requirements (duties) depending on the pattern of use at a given time.
The renting of the smaller rooms in the building to dedicated partner organizations has led to a consistent and stable base for
the rental income. The larger shared spaces have proven more challenging to coordinate consistent use and income. The
upper hall, lower hall, conference room and sanctuary are the areas that require a renewed focus. The conference room is
used consistently for meetings but generates very little if any income. As accessibility becomes an increased focus to the
AODA full inclusivity deadline of 2025 the upper hall will have challenges meeting the needs of organizations that are
required to comply. Succession planning and a reimagining of the spaces of the lower floor including offices could lead to
the opportunity to add another medium sized NFP to the building. SSUC is looking for an organization/partner to join the
building. Ideally, we need to almost double our current gross rental income and meetings and event income alone is unlikely
to realize that significant an increase.
The capacity of SSUC is immense. The congregation, leadership, staff and building provides a tremendous opportunity for
community growth. Our dedication whether through the support of choirs, grow-a-row gardens, affirm initiatives, outreach
meetings, musical development, concerts, events and/or other service is entirely based on ‘need’. There are many churches
and United Churches in Kingston that offer their sanctuary for concerts but how many of those buildings sustain
organizations with a combined annual budget in excess of a million dollars. The traffic of a thousand people a week is easily
sustained in our structure and we have not yet approached our peak building capacity.
About a decade ago, the Long-Range Planning Committee of Chalmers United Church asked to meet with our executive. In
2005, we formed the Ad Hoc Liaison Committee with Bruce Hutchinson, Jack Soule and Ruth Wilson agreeing to explore a
wide range of possibilities with Chalmers. In 2010, we hired the operations manager to pursue and develop the community
engagement of the building. In 2015, the Implementation Team leads and continues those earlier conversations
(relationships) with neighbouring congregations and community stakeholders. There is a measured and active pursuit of our
sustainable future in all aspects of our operations that is still moving us ahead.
Through both the challenges and opportunities of the past decade the people of SSUC have remained proactive, informed and
dedicated. It seems appropriate at this point in our journey to take a moment to say ‘thank you’. You are an inspirational
congregation.
It has been my pleasure to learn and grow over the past five years from an exceptional group of organizational leaders. I am
thankful to witness the visionary guidance of Reverend Elizabeth Macdonald. I have appreciated the expertise and patience
of the executive and its committees. Ruth Ranson has been a very dependable and valuable resource to our organization and
exceedingly supportive of my person and position. We should all offer heartfelt thanks to Madeleine Friederichsen, Lisa
Leavitt, Justin Sowik, and Audrey Robinson who carry out their work with great dedication and skill. It is nice to find rare
moments to work alongside Judy Chown even as she enters her first official retirement year. I am grateful for the service of
Susan Chumbley and Charlie Walker and wish them continued success.
After five years, I have become more hopeful about SSUC continuing its long term dedication to community. You are not
alone in the challenges you face. You are blessed with strong leadership, genuine opportunity, organizational capacity and
three solid branches of an old growth tree. Sure, an elevator might help some enjoy the view.
Don Mitchell
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Ministry Circle Reports
Engaging the Spirit Ministry
It has been a great pleasure and learning opportunity for us, Nancy Young and Lynn Freeman, to share the role of co-chairs of
Engaging the Spirit, the umbrella under which our congregation organizes and supports worship and spiritual development,
pastoral care and other aspects of congregational life.
A first discovery was how many people contribute to Engaging the Spirit for the benefit of all of us. They are the members of
the Worship Committee and those who welcome us and host coffee hour every Sunday morning. They are the program and
group leaders for the Circles of Companionship, our Small Group Ministry and its small groups such as The Hikers, The
Fixers, Just Lunch, Book Clubs, Movie Night and The Prayer Shawl Ministry. Our minister, Rev. Elizabeth Macdonald, our
organist, Audrey Robinson, the choir, and other staff members are central to the goal of giving meaning to our spiritual
development as individuals and as a community of faith.
A second discovery is how tremendously blessed we are as a congregation in being able to “engage the spirit” and wisdom of
several ministers who are part of our congregation or long-standing friends of SSUC in our faith development. Through a
series of six worship services, beginning in December and ending in May, we considered together some profound and
confounding questions about what it means to be faithful in thought, word and deed in this time in association with the United
Church of Canada.
Reflections shared during worship were further explored in conversation following worship on each Sunday. Our guest
ministers were generous in sharing their written texts with us and these are posted on SSUC website available to anyone who
is interested. The list of topics and speakers appears below.
A.
B.
C.
D.
E.
F.
Where is God? Daryl Bell and Elizabeth Foster
What Must I Believe to Belong? Wayne Hilliker
What about Life After Death? James Graham and Ruth Wood
What about Relationships with Other Faiths? Norm Esdon and George Lavery
What is the Authority of Scripture? John Young
How do I pray? Roy Huntly and Mark Fleming
A third discovery was the readiness of congregational members to “engage this spirit” in celebration and service, as the
congregation embraced the opportunity to reach out to others in a celebration event to honour the 100th anniversary of
Canadian Girls in Training. Nancy Young led a team of volunteers to promote, design and deliver a Sunday afternoon of
activities with more than 70 energetic and enthusiastic former CGIT leaders and members from Eastern Ontario and beyond.
The program included a worship service, a sharing of stories, artifacts and memorabilia, and a traditional afternoon tea with
an abundance of savory and sweet treats, shared among old and new friends. In true CGIT fashion, the generosity of spirit of
volunteers from the Sydenham Street United Church congregation as well as the attendees themselves ensured that there were
no costs left to the church for the hosting of this memorable occasion.
The 15th Anniversary of SSUC becoming an Affirming Ministry was celebrated with a year-long series of events that
culminated with the Congregation renewing its commitment to being an Affirming Ministry and approving new Vision and
Mission Statements on October 26, 2014 that were formally signed during the November 2/14 Anniversary Worship on
November 2, 2014. A copy of the new Vision and Mission Statements are printed in this Annual Report).
If an annual report provides an opportunity to look back, it is also an opportunity to look forward. As a congregation, we
share a responsibility to “engage the spirit” of children in our community. This year, the children’s program, Many Gifts,
One Spirit, was guided creatively and compassionately by two Queen’s students, Gillian McDonald and Cecilia Jennings,
who both grew up in The United Church of Canada with welcome support from Marylil Megginson.
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
As we prepare for 2015-16, Engaging the Spirit co-chairs will be searching for new ways to address this important program
area of our congregational life. We are encouraged by our partnership this summer, with PeaceQuest to establish a shared
internship to research, review, develop and test peace-related resources and activities for faith communities. Queen’s student,
Katelynn Folkert, who has been active in the Christian Reformed campus ministry, Geneva House, has taken on this
internship with a passionate commitment to peace and growing interest in ministry, especially with children and families.
We will of course also be looking for ways to “engage your spirit” in supporting and delivering programs and other activities
that will help us to continue to learn and grow in our spiritual development as individuals and as members of this faith
community that is part of the United Church of Canada. In this goal, we will continue to benefit from the contributions
provided through a range of programs and activities. Annual reports for programs associated with Engaging the Spirit are
presented below.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Young and Lynn Freeman, Co-chairs, Engaging the Spirit
Worship Committee Report
Members of the Worship Committee are: Rosemary Robinson, Vicki Ruthven (Secretary), Mary LeRoy, Rosemary Thoms,
Jane Mallory, Donna Ivey, Eileen Woloshyn (chair) Rob Vanderheyden, Elizabeth Macdonald and Audrey Robinson, our
new organist and choir leader.
In June we said thank you to Joan Egnatoff for filling in as organist last spring. Her grace under fire was greatly appreciated.
In July, with Elizabeth on Sabbatical, we had four services at SSUC led by Elizabeth Foster and James Graham. Our thanks
go to them for their leadership. We shared summer services with Chalmers and Princess Street United churches.
In September we welcomed our new organist and choir leader, Audrey Robinson. The Fall theme, the Season of Creation,
focused on the relationship among all God’s creatures. We shared worship at Princess Street United Church in October and at
Sydenham Street United Church in April.
Michael Blair was the guest speaker on November 2nd at our 15th Anniversary Service held to celebrate 15 years as an
Affirming congregation. Once again Kenn and Susan Doerksen led our moving Remembrance service with slides of graves
and faces of Sydenham Street members who died in the two World Wars. In the late fall, we began an occasional series of
talks on Conundrums of Faith, issues raised by our own members during one Sunday’s service.
The Advent theme was “A Deeply Durable Joy.” The sanctuary was decorated one Sunday with the “Faceless Doll” banners
representing the missing Aboriginal women. Again we had one service on Christmas Eve. We exchanged with Chalmers for
Dec. 28th and Epiphany Sunday with Elizabeth Foster preaching for Elizabeth Macdonald at SSUC.
Our Lenten services focused on non-human animals and the role they play in our lives. Nancy Young spoke on March 8th
when CGIT was holding a celebration of 100 years in our church.
Our Easter theme was Light into Light using materials provided by the artistic talents of Barb Carr, Norm Esdon and Ashley
Vanstone. As well Barb Carr created a marvelous rainbow which spans the sanctuary. We were joined in song one Sunday by
the Niagara Children’s Chorus who had sung with the Cantabile the evening before. What a lovely gift they gave us.
We are blessed to have the creative leadership of Elizabeth Macdonald and the willing participation of so many of our
members. We thank the choir for its steadfast contribution to our worship services.
My thanks to the committee who are willing to fill in wherever and whenever needed.
Respectfully submitted,
Eileen Woloshyn (Chair)
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Circles of Companionship Report
In Spring 2013, we initiated a new and broader way for members of our community at SSUC to be in contact with and care
for one another. Goals are:
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Expanding opportunities for SSUC folk to get to know one another and to care for and be cared for by one another
Sharing spiritual resources to nurture faith and deepen spirituality during this time of ongoing transition with the
church and world
Creating a more intentional congregational network to improve communication and offer lifelong care.
The congregation is divided into seven geographic areas and the people in each area are invited to get to know one another
through potluck meals, gathering together at a table during our SSUC Outreach Soup Luncheons, having coffee together after
worship, picnics, working together in “artistic endeavors” during Advent and Lent, phone conversations, emails . . . and any
other ways the circle chooses to connect.
A “point person” facilitates the activities of the Circle with hosting and other leadership emerging from within the Circle.
Each Circle is evolving in its own unique way, depending on the members of the Circle and their needs/availability/interests.
In a gentle, inviting way, Circles are reaching out to partners of worship attendees, long-time members who have become
disconnected, shut-ins who long to be part of SSUC but are no longer able to attend worship and other events, supporting
Circle members in their work/hobbies/passions. Circles provide an excellent way for newcomers to SSUC community to
integrate and feel included. One Circle intentionally plans activities in spaces that are wheelchair accessible.
During Advent, special cards and Christmas cake were delivered by each circle to members who are no longer able to
actively participate in the life and work of SSUC. Also cards were sent from the congregation to members and family for
whom this would be the first Christmas since the death of a loved one.
On Easter Sunday, small bouquets and pots of flowers, which enhanced the sanctuary, were delivered by volunteers to SSUC
friends who were living with challenging times.
As our Circles of Companionship evolve, we are becoming more connected, experiencing care and support, knowing that we
are part of a smaller circle, linked to the larger circle of SSUC community . . . . . the circle of Lifelong Care.
Respectfully submitted by
Linda Hutchinson
On behalf of the Task Group: Roy Huntly, Rev. Elizabeth Macdonald, Rosemary Thoms
Small Group Ministry
Our active Small Group Ministry continued to grow and thrive in 2014 and 2015 thanks to the dedication and
enthusiasm of the individual leaders and members. Greater than 50 members of the congregation and community were
involved in a small group. It is encouraging to see what a large proportion of the SSUC congregation takes part. Small groups
strengthen our church family by providing our community members an opportunity to share fellowship and experiences
during the week in a way that complements the regular worship schedule. We have groups that focus on a common skill set or
area of interest, allowing members to pool their efforts and support each other by sharing tips and insights. Some groups
centre around outings in Kingston and the surrounding area. We also have a number of groups active in the community that
focus on a love of reading and sharing in literature. While the focus of the groups varies, all of the Small Groups emphasize
conversation and community and are open to new members at any time. Thanks and congratulations are due to the leaders
whose sustained commitment has made their groups such a valuable and engaging part of our life at SSUC.
Sarah LeBlanc & Colin Davies
SGM Coordinators
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Hospitality Group Report
The “function of hospitality” attempts to ensure that a warm welcome and hospitality are offered from the
moment someone arrives on the church property to when they leave and hopefully return! This is accomplished through all
of us as we reach out and are mindful of ways to be truly inclusive of all people. Thanks to everyone for the hospitality
you offer in your own unique way!
The oversight of Hospitality continues under the leadership of one person with assistance in various ways from many others.
Ongoing initiatives are:
Name Tags – nothing more welcoming than sharing your name with someone!
Welcoming people of diversity: In keeping with our desire to be more inclusive of all people, Jim Leake, Peter Goheen,
Mary Leroy, Rosemary Thoms, Margaret Little, Anna Little, Mandy Green, Rob Vanderheyden, Ian McKay, Vicki & Kirby
Ruthven, Catherine & Michael Purcell and Kenn Doerksen have played a role in offering special support on our behalf.
Thank you.
Drop-In Centre for children ages 2 to 4 years: Thank you, Justin Sowik for setting this up every Sunday in the Conference
Room. This offers young children and their parents a place for unsupervised activity during the worship service and a place
that our older children enjoy while parents are having coffee following the worship service.
Coffee, Tea and Conversation: Thanks also to the team of volunteers, under the guidance of Diane Soule, who provide
refreshments every Sunday following worship.
Administrative Support: Thanks to Ruth Ranson for the ongoing support given to the Hospitality function – preparing
name tags, etc.
Linda Hutchinson
Coordinator of Hospitality
613-542-7645
Prayer Shawl Ministry
On November 8, 2011 the Sydenham Street Prayer Shawl Group, part of the church’s Small Group Ministry, met for the first
time, with eight knitters anxious to get started on a new project, Prayer Shawl Ministry. Since then we have created and
blessed 71 shawls, 30 of which were knit or crocheted 30 during the 2014-2015 church season. We are a small group, 7 in
all, and we meet usually 3 or 4 times a year for a two-hour get-together, bag lunch, tea, and conversation included. Everyone
is welcome.
This season started out with a couple of special projects. In the fall, we created a rainbow shawl with part of the same yarn
from a shawl that was knitted for Rev. Michael Bliss and it was presented to Rev. Elizabeth Macdonald by Rob
Vanderheyden on behalf of the SSUC congregation for supporting and nurturing us through the difficult issues we have faced
in the last number of years.
Our other project was to make contact with the Happy Hookers of Princess Street United Church and welcomed four to our
February meeting. Later in the month, 2 of us from SSUC attended a Happy Hookers meeting and enjoyed some wonderful
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
conversation and an exchange of ideas along with some “treats”. We now have an open invitation to attend their meetings
(every other Tuesday) and we have offered a similar invitation to Princess Street.
Our next meeting on May 22, 2015 is the last one until the fall. We have approximately 25 blessed shawls in our cupboard,
some left over balls of yarn to be used for contrast, lots of patterns, and an inventory book of finished shawls. The knitting
/crocheting does not take the summer off - the need doesn’t either, so most of us will be working on some beautiful shawls
for the next season.
Sue Doerksen, Coordinator
Social Justice and Outreach Ministry
We report on our activities in 2014.
First this congregation contributes generously to the Mission and Service Fund of the United Church of Canada. In 2014 we
gave $49,393. With M&S money our international partner churches are able to respond to crises. But more than that, they
continue with the day to day support for projects in Africa, the middle East, Asia and the Caribbean. M&S money also goes
to community chaplains and Indigenous justice work here in Canada.
You also know that your donations support two Helen Tufts programs, the food voucher program via the Benevolent Fund,
our Christmas Basket program in conjunction with the Salvation Army, and occasional small grants to worthy charity or
social justice initiatives here in Kingston.
Through the Social Justice & Outreach Committee, SSUC contributes $600 per month to the Helen Tufts Nursery School. In
addition, two of our congregants served on their Board.
The Helen Tufts Child Outreach Program has been a true partnership between Queen’s students and First Baptist and SSUC
congregations. The students serve as buddies and mentors; the congregations supply safe spaces, volunteer phoners and
drivers, and organizational support. Recently Queen’s AMS contributed a $5000 grant which assures the financial future of
the program. Kids from families in need appreciate having a Queen’s student as a buddy; someone to help them in reading,
games and socialization. We owe thanks to our volunteers from here and First Baptist. From SSUC, thanks to Sylvia Mann,
Martha Clarke, and Gabby Sims who phone the families to co-ordinate the drivers. A very special thanks to Rosalind
Malcolm who, after 21 years, is retiring as program co-ordinator. She has agreed to stay on to act as an advisor to the new
coordinator and for that and for the previous 21 years of her witness, we are sincerely grateful. In 2015, we expect Frontier
College will enter the partnership and to have recruited a new church coordinator to be the liaison between the Queen’s
student supervisors and the two congregations.
This year Kirby Ruthven joined Barb Landon, Margaret Meyer and Marylil Megginson in managing the Christmas Food
Basket campaign. We collected enough food and money donations to provide a Christmas dinner for 40 families. Thanks to
all the team members and to the volunteer packers and drivers.
We supply counselling and food vouchers each Tuesday, except in July and August. Three to four volunteer SSUC
parishioners meet to talk with poor people in our community and authorize food vouchers tailored to each family’s needs.
Two Kingston grocery stores honour the vouchers and the SSUC Benevolent Fund reimburses the stores upon submission of
the cash register slips. This outreach program of the congregation has operated for many years and is well known among the
needy in Kingston. In 2014, the members of the SSUC congregation, mostly through dedicated givings, special concerts, and
fund-raising soup lunches, raised just over $21,500 for the Benevolent Fund. Each month between 35 and 55 ‘regular’ plus
up to 20 ‘one-time-only’ clients received a voucher. The total value of the one-time-only vouchers was capped at $500 per
month so in some months people had to be turned away because the $500 had been given out. Over the year, the counsellors
issued 300 food vouchers to our regular families. The value of these vouchers varied from $35 to $70 depending on the size
of the family and their particular circumstances. In addition we issued 193 one-time-only $25 emergency vouchers, up from
140 the year before. Over the whole year, the value of all vouchers amounted to $20,065. Thanks to the loyal counsellors
who show up each Tuesday to sit with and help out the hungry in our community. Thanks also to the performers and soupmakers for their gifts of time and talent in helping to raise the benevolent funds.
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
We have, for years, opened this facility for community use for self-help groups like AA and Al-Anon, groups working to
restore health to people and families facing issues of addictions. It was here that the people protesting the closure of the
prison farms came for their rally and their concert. It was here that Peace Quest came to mark the anniversary of the start of
WWI with the Martyn Joseph concert for peace. The congregation’s support of the general fund makes it possible to continue
to offer the use of this building for outreach and social justice causes.
In 2015 you will have more opportunity to share in ‘hands-on’ Social Justice and Outreach work. Executive Committee has
approved a recommendation from the Social Justice and Outreach Committee to have SSUC participate, along with at least
four other Kingston area congregations, in sponsoring a Syrian refugee family to immigrate and settle here. The Canadian
Lutheran World Relief organization will be clearing the road blocks to allow our ecumenical group to sponsor a refugee
family. Members of St Mark’s Lutheran congregation are leading the local organization, and we are participating fully. We
expect that more information, and how you can contribute, will follow throughout the year.
Poverty and social justice issues continue and we thank the congregation for joining together to accomplish more than we
could ever hope to by acting as individuals.
Respectfully submitted,
James Leake, Chair
The Helen Tufts Child Outreach Program
The Helen Tufts Child Outreach Program had another very successful year. There were about 50 children enrolled, each with a volunteer
Queen’s student as tutor/mentor. Each of the four groups (two Monday and two Thursday, meeting at First Baptist and SSUC), had three
student supervisors, who planned interesting and educational programs for the part of the evening devoted to group activities. I visited the
groups several times, and received the impression that activities were being well run, and that both children and students were having a
good time.
Again, the program applied for and received grant funding from the Queen’s student government, which will continue for three years, and
is in good shape to begin the new term in September 2015. An unexpected, but very welcome benefit came in the shape of a monetary gift
from the parent of one of the Queen’s students, to provide an extra treat or outing for the children.
Finally, the program will be heading into the 2015-16 year under a somewhat changed organizational plan. I will be retiring as coordinator, and Michelle LaMarche, a member of this congregation, will be taking over some of the administrative responsibilities,
including hiring and training Queen’s student volunteers as part of her work with Frontier College, and Janine Chown, also of this
congregation will be co-ordinator responsible for some of the other organizational duties, especially liaison with the congregation.
Once again, I thank the many other individuals who have given their time and energy to the program – from First Baptist, Dave McLay as
transportation co-ordinator and Jane Warren as family liaison; from SSUC, Sylvia Mann, Gaby Sims and Martha Clarke for telephoning
families, and Martha and Roger Chown for driving, as well as those who have contributed goodies for the parties. Thanks also to Pat
Bogstad, who has served as treasurer for many, many years. It is only through such a group effort that this initiative of community
outreach has been able to continue successfully since 1968.
THE HELEN TUFTS CHILD OUTREACH PROGRAM
Financial Statement 2014-2015
Balance at Year End 2013-2014
September 2014 – Investment
Balance to work with 2014-2015
11,816.48
2,800.00
9016.48
COSTS
AMS – Sidewalk Sale
Supplies
Snacks 1st term 4 x $15 x 11 weeks
100.00
400.00
640.00
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Christmas Gifts & Party 4 x 125
Extra provided to a supervisor
Snacks – 2nd term 4 x $15 x 11 weeks
Year End Gifts & Party
Gifts for supervisors
Gift for Guest speaker
AMS submission for funds
Sub Total
490.00
22.90
660.00
140.00
108.07
30.00
50.00
2640.97
Special Outing
Group 1
Group 2
Bus
Group 3
Reimbursement to supervisor
500.00
300.00
160.46
421.09
80.00
Sub Total:
4102.52
Transportation
6780.00
TOTAL COSTS:
10882.52
INCOME
14 Nov 2014
12 March 2015
21 Oct 2014
22 Dec 2014
17 March 2015
AMS
AMS
Donation
Donation from Sydenham Church
Donation
5925.08
658.96
2000.00
50.00
250.00
TOTAL INCOME
8884.04
Balance at Year End 2014-20145
Cheques not cashed
7018.00
501.09
CONTINGENCY FUND:
TO COVER THE COST OF THE PROGRAM FOR ONE YEAR
BMO TERM INVESTMENT # 46448376
Value Feb 2013
Interest earned and reinvested Feb 1
Matured Deposited to account:
Reinvested
29 Sept 2014 Additional investment
Interest earned but not yet paid
5128.31
72.00
5200.31
5200.00
2800.00
8000.00
65.01
Respectfully submitted,
Rosalind Malcolm, Program Co-ordinator.
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Affirming Ministry
At Sydenham Street United Church (SSUC) in downtown Kingston, 2014-15 has been a very active year in terms of living
out Affirming Ministry values and goals.
Although we do not, at present, have an active Affirm Group, all people are fully integrated into the life and work at SSUC
and bring those Affirming values to all our life at SSUC.
The most recent evidence of this was our “inclusive celebration of communion” on Sunday May24th – Pentecost. In a
sincere stand of solidarity with one our beloved members who can no longer swallow solid food or liquids, our elements took
a very different form. Seeds replaced the bread recognizing that before bread is eaten, it has been made with flour which has
been harvested from the plants grown from seed . . . God’s gift of new life to us. Each person received a couple of seeds –
pumpkin/bean taped to their worship bulletin. These were gathered together during the coming forward for communion to be
planted in our community garden on the front lawn of the church. The “wine” took the form of “sponge lollypops” dipped in
small communion glasses of grape juice and given to each person as they came forward for the elements. The taste of the
small amount of juice flavoured our mouths with the promise of the cup of blessings poured out. All of those present
participated together in a new and very meaningful way.
Another recent event lifting up our solidarity with marginalized people was on May 10th when we met in our hall for worship
. . . . spending the reflection time of the service creating colourfully decorated paper hearts. One large heart was sent to
Ottawa for the “Heart Garden” at Rideau Hall in celebration of the end of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission looking
into the effect of residential schools on our Aboriginal Peoples. The smaller hearts were “planted” in our community garden
on the front lawn of our church. Again an example of how SSUC embraces the Affirming values of providing a safe and
welcoming place for and being in solidarity with all people.
A new initiative this year has been our hosting of Rainbow Sabbath once a month since September 2014. Rainbow Sabbath
is a gathering of people of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBT and allies) on a Friday evening for potluck
supper and informal worship with undesignated individuals bringing poems, readings, songs, etc. for worship. This is
sponsored by the Bay of Quinte Affirming Ministries Action Group and hopes to reach out to people outside church
experience and those inside congregations that are not yet fully welcoming. Average attendance has been about 14.
During the whole year of 2014, we celebrated our 15th Anniversary of becoming an Affirming Ministry by having a mini
review of the educational process which led us to this commitment in 1999. Four worship services were dedicated to this. In
February, we heard again how to deal with some of the difficult scriptures in Leviticus; in April we listened to a personal
story from Rev. Ruth Wood, transgender United Church minister; in September we reviewed our own story – how we got to
the commitment, how we have lived into that commitment to this point in time, and where we might go in the future; and then
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
finally on the weekend of November 1, 2015 we celebrated! Saturday we hosted the Bay of Quinte Conference Affirming
Ministry Workshop entitled “Enlarge Your Tent” and on Sunday during worship people came forward to sign our updated
Mission Statement (revised with congregational approval on October 26th to include the words “sexual orientation and
gender identity”) and we were presented with a certificate of “Recommitment to Being an Affirming Ministry”. I think this
is the first Recommitment Certificate ever presented by AU/SE. Throughout the weekend, Rev. Michael Blair, UCC
Executive Minister of Church in Mission, was our keynote speaker/preacher bringing messages of congratulations for our 15
years of being Affirming and challenges for our continued attention to the importance of providing safe and welcoming
spaces for all of God’s people.
Annual events that play a role in the life at SSUC are:
‐ participating in the Queen’s University Sidewalk Sale when clubs and other groups have the opportunity to “show
and tell” what they are about to the students of the University. This year the Lutheran congregation, the only other
Affirming Ministry in Kingston, shared a table, displaying the rainbow banner, with us.
‐ marching in the PRIDE Parade with our new SSUC banner – made with all our hands prints imprinted on our
statement that “God’s Love is for Everyone” The Lutheran minister joined us in the PRIDE Parade also .
‐ sending cards of congratulations and blessings to newly declared Affirming Ministries in Bay of Quinte Conference.
The card is 8.5x11” with our PRIDE picture on it and signed by everyone present at worship . . . . lifting up to the
congregation other ministries in our conference who have made this commitment.
‐ using sound amplification for all our congregational meetings with a traveling microphone for people asking
questions and making comments.
‐ having two shortened pews making space for two wheelchairs in the heart of the seating area in the sanctuary
At SSUC, we continue quietly but with strong resolve to live out the Affirming values of Affirm United/S’affirmer Ensemble
in the broadest sense of inclusivity possible.
Linda Hutchinson
Art and Soul Ministry
Highlights of the year for the Art and Soul Circle include:
1. The Beatitude Banners of cut paper, which were created for the Easter to Pentecost season 2014, continued to hang in
the Sanctuary through much of the year.
2. Doors Open. This event took place on Saturday June 21, with SSUC volunteers, led by Tony Clark, welcoming
visitors to our building. We will be participating again in 2015.
3. Martyn Joseph concert in the Sanctuary in September 2014: This was a joint project of Social Justice and Outreach
and Peace Quest. Art and Soul assisted with the publicity.
4. Advent crèche figures project: We continued with our crèche figures project by leading a congregational art project in
creating non-human crèche figures, i.e. animals and plants. These were wonderful additions to the figures we created last
year that represented ourselves being present at the Nativity, and also related to our advent theme of “Called to the
Crèche with All Our Relations – Humans and Nonhumans Together.”
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
5. Don Mitchell led a team of local actors in a dramatic reading presentation of works by Edgar Allen Poe in a delightfully
chilling Halloween-related evening. Proceeds went to the SSUC outreach programs. The Poe reading was very
successful, and also made good use of the chancel area as a small performance and audience space.
6. For the second year, Art and Soul worked with Don Mitchell on a presentation of a candle-light, dramatic reading A
Christmas Carol in the late afternoon of Dec. 23. Art and Soul provided a poster, greeters/ushers, and refreshments.
It was a wonderful event with a good attendance, with proceeds going to SSUC outreach programs.
7. Rainbow project: The rainbow string art installation went up for the Nov. 23, 2014 service and stayed up for a few
weeks before being taken down for Christmas concerts. It was up again in time for the Christmas Eve service. During
Lent, to build on the rainbow theme and to tie with an Earth Day focus at Easter, the congregation created a rainbow
of coloured flowers up the centre aisle – garlands of artificial flowers draped on candelabra. The rainbow will be
installed again in time for Pride Sunday in June.
8. For the Good Friday multi-congregational service, we created a circular frame to hold the pieces of coloured fabric
representing the many participating congregations. The fabric will be made into a pulpit hanging by Mary Ev Wyatt, and
will be shared by the participating congregations over the year.
9. On May 17th, we led the congregation in the creation of decorated paper hearts as part of the Heart Garden project of the
Truth and Reconciliation Commission. A ceremony will be held at Rideau Hall to make the wrap-up of the TRC. As
part of this, children will plant hearts in the garden, to honour the children lost to the Residential School system and to
mark new possibilities in reconciliation. The hearts created by SSUC were installed in our front vegetable garden, and
one was sent to Ottawa to be part of the Rideau Hall ceremony.
We would like to thank the congregation for their support of these projects, and we look forward to another creative
year.
Respectfully submitted,
Barb Carr & Cori Mayhew, Co-chairs
Ministry and Personnel Committee
The Ministry and Personnel Committee met regularly over the last year. Members are Barb Parker, Rob Vanderheyden, Peter Goheen,
Barb Landon and Robin Mallory. We have met individually with various members of staff. Audrey Robinson was hired in August 2014
as new Director of Music and we are grateful for the gifts she brings to this position. Susan Chumbley resigned in January 2015 and we
thanked her for her services over the last few years at a spring Sunday service. Jason Sowik is our primary custodian with help from Lisa
Leavitt. Don Mitchell continues to ably coordinate rentals, building staff and maintenance and other projects. Ruth Ranson expertly runs
the church office. Elizabeth Macdonald continues to lead and inspire us. The committee is beginning to look ahead to plan for our
staffing needs in the future. We thank all our staff for their hard work and dedication to Sydenham Street U.C.
Submitted by
Barb Parker, Chair
Property Committee Report
We have made progress in a number of areas. Last summer, repairs were made to the masonry on the upper half of the bell
tower and the woodwork around the large front window and the upper vents was restored. Our plumbing contractor replaced
a large, leaking valve, another leaking pipe, and several radiators in our steam system, preventing further water/steam damage
and improving the efficiency of the overall system. We have ordered the tile and booked a contractor to replace the floor tile
on the various levels of the William Street stairwell (and possibly the laneway stairwell, if we have sufficient tile).
The Fixers have: removed the old industrial oven and warmers in the upper hall kitchen and have re-painted the cupboards;
almost finished with the renovations to the new space between the kitchen and the upper hall; removed another 3 trailer loads
of ‘junk’ from the basement; painted the laneway stairwell; repaired a number of pews in the sanctuary; replaced burnt-out
bulbs in the chandeliers of the sanctuary; kept the gardens and grounds in reasonable order; repainted the former Cantabile
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
office for occupancy by the Kingston Film Festival staff. We are currently working on repairing/re-painting the grills and
windows on the laneway side of the administrative wing.
As Property Chair, I would be remiss if I did not remind the congregation of work that will need to be done in the next few
years, in order to keep our building in a safe and sound state. These include: repairing or replacing the flat roof over the
upper kitchen and offices outside the upper hall; replacing a number of burners in our furnace (should be done this Fall);
inspection and possible replacement/strengthening of the wooden posts (showing signs of mould) in the basement which
support the sanctuary floor; continuing masonry work on the lower half of the original building; sealing of openings in the
upper building to prevent further invasion by bats; probable replacement of the furnace boiler (within 5 years, most likely);
repairs to the steps outside the William Street entrance (the Fixers may be able to assist here).
For your information, the Fixers include Jack Soule, Jim Barry, Tony Clark, Robin Mallory, Jim Leake, Bruce Hutchinson
and Kenn Doerksen on a regular basis, with help from Rob Vanderheyden, Bill Seath, Diane Soule, Linda Hutchinson and
Kirby Ruthven on specific projects. Thank you all. Our church is in pretty good shape – we’ll try our best to keep it that way.
Respectfully submitted,
Kenn Doerksen, Chair
Building Utilization Task Group
Members
Tony Clark, Mike Dent, Kenn Doerksen, Sylvain Gagnon, Don Mitchell, Ruth Ranson, Murray Rielly, Doug Jordan
(Cantabile), Hollie Stewart (Cantabile) Jack Soule - Chair
Activities
During the 2014-15 year the main focus of the Building Utilization Task Group (BUTG) has been to continue with minor
modifications to the building that are supportive of our rental endeavours. Work on the front half of the upstairs kitchen
involved sealing off the transfer windows into the upper hall and completing the painting of the walls.
Our spaces are seeing a high degree of use, with as many as 1000 persons utilizing our building in a week.
Current renters of office space are: Reelout Arts Project; Kingston Canadian Film Festival; Kingston Association of Museums,
Art Galleries and Historic Sites; Cantabile Choirs of Kingston; and the Bev Porter Music Studio.
It is noteworthy that our permanent tenants are all associated with the Kingston arts and cultural scene.
Regular renters of common spaces are: AA groups; Helen Tufts Child Outreach; Cantabile Choirs of Kingston; Kingston Choral
Society; Al-Ateen, Al-Anon; and a Jujitsu group.
Several external groups expressed an interest in using our kitchens for their upcoming events. In order to ensure our facilities
were adequate for such use, the public health inspector was invited to conduct inspections of both kitchens. Several minor items
were highlighted, which were promptly addressed. We were told that external groups conducting functions open to the general
public should apply for a ’special occasion permit’ through the KFL&A Public Health office. Moreover, the kitchens should
receive an annual inspection by the health unit. Plans to improve the appearance of the kitchens are underway.
The BUTG has continued to collaborate with the Implementation Team and the Friends of 82 Sydenham St. to develop plans
for funding the capital projects for the construction of an elevator and washrooms. Recently an updating of the cost estimates
for these projects was obtained from the architect.
Jack Soule
Chair, Building Utilization Task Group
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Implementation Team Report
At the congregational meeting in June 2013, the congregation approved the concurrent pursuit of two options for the future
sustainability of the congregation:
1. Actively pursue cooperation, collaboration or amalgamation with other United Church pastoral charges in Kingston with
the objective of enhancing the mission of the Church, reducing cost and ensuring long-term viability and
2. Pursue the means to separate the cost of maintenance and capital costs of the building from the responsibility of the
congregation.
The Implementation Team was asked to issue a final report in June 2015.
While we have made considerable progress over the past two years, we are not in a position to make a final recommendation
on the best way forward at this time.
Report for 2015:
Strategy 1. Work with other United Church pastoral charges.
Princess Street United Church – We have continued to meet with members of Princess Street United Church (PSUC) and
have attended each other’s worship services on two occasions over the past year. PSUC now has a new minister, Reverend
Susan McAlister, who is on a three-year appointment. PSUC is understandably engaged in assessing their situation and is not
ready at this time to engage in more formal discussions.
Chalmers United Church – In February 2014, members of the SSUC Implementation Team met with the Coordinating
Council of Elders and presented the following proposal to them – “To establish a joint committee, with 4-5 representatives
from each congregation, to be co-chaired by one representative from each congregation, to explore, in consultation with the
congregations and ministry staff, the possibilities for a more formal relationship between our congregations and develop a
vision for The United Church of Canada presence in downtown Kingston in 2020, with a commitment for this joint committee
to report to our two congregations no later than January 2015.
This joint group, established soon after, has met nine times over the past year and will meet again in June. The Joint Group
will prepare a report for the congregation for the fall.
Other congregations
Four Winds Presbytery hosted a “Dare to Dream” workshop on March 7, 2015 where we learned about initiatives across The
United Church of Canada from a UCC-based consulting group called EDGE. A number of models for interchurch
cooperation as well as new expressions of ministry were presented.
SSUC has invited eight congregations in the city centre and nearby to meet to jointly explore our current situations and future
prospects through a facilitated workshop. PSUC and Chalmers have agreed to participate and probably three others will join
the group. The plan is to hold a session early in the fall. The objective is to discover a way that we can work together and
support each other in ministry and mission.
Strategy 2. Work to separate the cost of maintenance and capital costs of the building from the responsibility of the
congregation.
Donald Mitchell, SSUC Operations Manager, continues to seek compatible organizations to rent space at SSUC. The budget
for rental income is $80,000 for this fiscal year (2014 rental income was about $76,000).
An informal group calling itself “Friends of 82 Sydenham Street” (Friends) has continued to meet over the past year and has
reached the conclusion that:
1. For the building to reach self-sustainability, we need to address accessibility and washroom issues –
a. Access at William Street entrance
b. An elevator for access to the second floor of the building including the balcony in the sanctuary
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
c. A handicap washroom on the second floor
d. Improved access to washrooms on the main floor
2. An endowment fund for the building, held at the Community Foundation of Kingston and Area, is required to provide
$20,000 to 30,000 per year for ongoing maintenance improvements.
The cost for each of these needs is estimated to be about $500,000 for the accessibility work and about $500,000 for the
endowment.
The Friends of 82 SS have raised $10,000 from members of the Executive, Implementation Team and Friends as well as a
$5,000 grant from Bay of Quinte Conference to carry out a “feasibility study” to determine the support both within the church
and the broader community for a project of this size. The study will be completed by the end of the summer.
If there is sufficient support for both projects, we would meet accessibility standards soon to be law and, therefore, be able to
retain office rentals on the second floor of the building into the future and obtain increased rental income from renting the
upper hall. Having an endowment that provides $20,000 to $30,000 per year would reduce the congregation’s cost of
maintaining the building.
Overall Status Assessment
Strategy 1 – Work with other congregations.
While we have made good progress in establishing relationships with PSUC and Chalmers, we are not in a position to
determine the outcome of the talks at this time. The planned workshop in September with city centre and nearby churches
will, hopefully, open up new opportunities for cooperation in ministry and mission.
Strategy 2 – Separation of the costs of the building from the congregation.
We will know by early fall what the next steps will be around improving accessibility and the establishment of a separate
endowment for support of the building.
Implementation Team Members: Bruce Hutchinson (Chair), Kenn Doerksen, Lynn Freeman, Rev. Elizabeth Macdonald,
Don Robinson.
Report submitted by Bruce Hutchinson
Four Winds Presbytery Report
During this past year meetings were held at Adolphustown United Church, Cataraqui United Church, Moscow United
Church, Westbrook United Church, Trinity Napanee and Riverside, Yarker. Usually there was a learning session at 4:15 pm
followed by a meal at 5:30, and worship followed by the meeting at 6:30.
We dealt with property issues, appointments and calls. As we grow into our new way of being in Four Winds Presbytery, we
made changes to the Governance model. We have had several discussions about the Comprehensive Review that will be
brought to General Council this summer. Visit gc42.ca to learn about possible radical changes to our way of doing things in
the United Church.
A new Compensation package for our clergy was introduced. It will combine salary and housing and minimums will be
different for different areas. This year the new package will be used for new calls and appointments and will be phased in
gradually. We approved applications for Mission Support grants from Kingston Community Chaplaincy and ‘I learn’ at the
Native Friendship Centre. These requests were then sent on to Conference.
A few other events and decisions —
Bill Galt was appointed as our new treasurer.
Bill Sheaves, president of Bay of Quinte Conference brought greetings.
Morven United Church is considering its viability. The trustees have asked that restrictions on $15,000 held funds be lifted so
that they can pay their bills. They also asked that the responsibility for Morven cemetery be moved to the township.
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
We consented to the amalgamation of Enterprise and Roblin United Churches and gave permission for the Enterprise Church
to be listed for sale.
We approved expansion plans for Edith Rankin United Church that will cost $1,500,000. Congregational Transformation and
Pastoral Relations co-sponsored a workshop with EDGE that looked at change in the Church.
Elizabeth introduced and then expanded on the Syrian Refugee project undertaken by five downtown Churches.
There was discussion at several meetings about a celebration of the 90th Birthday of the United Church. In the end, it was
decided to have a celebration service at Crossroads United Church on June 14.
We heard about Truth and Reconciliation events at Conference Annual Meeting and the creation of a Heart Garden.
We passed a proposal regarding refinancing maternity and paternal leaves for clergy. The proposal asks that the cost of such
leaves be borne by the whole Church rather than individual pastoral charges.
It has been my privilege to serve as a Presbyter for Sydenham Street over that past several years. I am part of the Pastoral
Relations Team and the Pastoral Oversight Team.
At Sydenham Street we are entitled to two Presbytery representatives. I encourage each of you to consider taking on the role
of being one of these representatives in this time of change in the Church we love.
Respectfully submitted
Marylil Megginson
Report from the Trustees
The Trustees of Sydenham St United Church during 2013/2014 were Ian Casson, Donna Delyea, Ross Drummond, Deborah
Elliott, Roger Chown, Lorne Maclachlan and Marilyn Huffman. Ian Casson has now finished his term of office. Jack Soule,
Bill Seath, Elizabeth Macdonald and Rob Ivimey were active participants in their capacities as ex-officio members. Deborah
Elliott chaired the committee and Marilyn Huffman acted as scribe. Josée Thériault of RBC Dominion Securities Inc.
continues to be our portfolio advisor.
This year there were no donations to the Endowment Fund. The Elevator Fund continues to grow and currently totals
$15,729. Restricted Funds total $107,000.
The Church’s Endowment Fund portfolio is well positioned and this year the market value increased and many of our shares
continued to produce dividends. As the amount of the Endowment Fund diminishes, it becomes prudent to invest in secure
funds with less risk and less income potential. The Trustees continue to work with the Executive and the Finance Committee
in order to budget responsibly. At this time we continue to sell market shares in order to maintain cash availability as well as
remain within the parameters of our investment policy.
Below is the Statement of Endowment Funds as at December 31, 2014.
Value of Funds at December 31, 2013
$415,821
Donations received
$
0
$ 18,906
Income – Dividends and Interest
Change in Market Value
$ 36,480
Transfers to General Fund
$ 91,500
Value of Funds as of December 31, 2014
$379,708
The restricted funds remain at approximately $107,000. Restricted funds are donations which may be used for specific
purposes. Some allow only the interest to be used for purposes designated by the donor, often in their will. $2252 is to be
transferred to the operating account as in accordance with the wills of the donors. The amount is dependent on current interest
rates which continue to remain low. The Trustees are respectful of the wishes of those who have donated to Sydenham St.
United Church. It is also wise to establish a reserve to maintain the building or to pay staff in the event that there ceases to be
regular income. If the operation of the church continues to be dependent on regular significant transfers from the Endowment
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Fund, the Endowment Fund will be eliminated in about three years unless there is a significant increase in donations to
Sydenham Street United Church.
At the end of 2014, the Endowment Fund consisted of 7.5% Fixed Income, 4.1% Preferred Shares, 70% Common Shares and
the rest in cash equivalents. The Trustees meet regularly with our portfolio manager, Josée Thériault, to maintain compliance
to our Investment Policy.
In addition to managing the funds of the Endowment Fund the Trustees continue to work with the Property Committee to
maintain the building and other capital assets of the church. We review insurance policies and the church’s assets have been
appraised for insurance purposes. As we move forward to consider further enhancements to our building there needs to be
discussion as to how best to fund these improvements without depleting our Endowment Fund.
The Trustees are an active group who take their responsibility seriously, thoughtfully and with a desire to be guided by the
Holy Spirit and the values of the United Church of Canada and the congregation of Sydenham Street United Church.
Respectfully submitted,
Deborah Elliott, Chair, Board of Trustees
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SSUC Annual Report 2014-2015
Changes in Membership
TRANSFERS IN/PROFESSION OF FAITH
Sue Doerksen
Kenn Doerksen
Kimberly Armstrong
Janine Chown
Deaths
Hunter Meyer
Don Redmond
Velma Vosper
Jean Barkley
Eileen Sinclair
Donald Millar
Patricia Smith
Betty McAleese
Marriages/Commitments
Malia Anne Mercer and Eric Robert Lafleur
Lindsay Anne Robertson and Mark William George Dickson
Jasmine Swan Finlay and Hossam Eldin Abdin
Victoria Ann Tibbutt and Jeffrey Douglas Thibault
Laura Jacqueline Shemilt and Jeffrey Martin Kehoe
Katherine Lynn Duncan and Blair Charles Fearon
Sacrament of Baptism
Katherine Isabella Chambers-Ferguson (June 15, 2014)
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SYDENHAM STREET UNITED CHURCH
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2014
Statement of Financial Position
Statement of Changes in Fund Balances
Statement of Operations
Schedule of Operating Expenses
SYDENHAM STREET UNITED CHURCH
Statement of Financial Position
as at December 31, 2014
General
Fund
Benevolent
Fund
Total
2014
Total
2013
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash
A/R and HST recoverable
$
45,291
9,622
$
11,388
$
56,679
9,622
$
54,113
9,325
$
54,913
$
11,388
$
66,301
$
63,438
$
6,412
$
$
6,412
$
7,878
CURRENT LIABILITIES
Accounts payable
FUND BALANCES
Internally restricted (note 1)
Unrestricted
$
3,122
45,379
11,388
14,510
45,379
22,079
33,481
48,501
11,388
59,889
55,560
54,913
$
11,388
Note 1 Internally restricted General Fund
Christmas Basket
Memorial fund
2014
1,000
2,122
3,122
2013
1,000
13,423
14,423
$
66,301
$
63,438
SYDENHAM STREET UNITED CHURCH
Statement of Changes in Fund Balances
as at December 31, 2014
General
Fund
Fund balances, beginning
of year
$
47,904
(
80,602)
Benevolent
Fund
$
7,656
Trustee
Funds
$
0
Total
2014
Total
2013
$
55,560
$
74,759
(
80,602)
360
3,372
1,000
11,301)
87,171)
(
(
84,571)
5,533)
2,606
434
2,714
84,350)
Surplus (deficit)
General Income
Benevolent Fund
Christmas Basket
Trustee funds
Memorial Fund
Interfund transfers
360
(
(
3,372
1,000
11,301)
87,531)
360
(
3,372)
3,372
Transfer from trustees
Transfer to trustees
0
(
(
92,500
(
Increase (Decrease) in Year
Fund balances, end of year
0
1,000)
0
597
$
48,501
(
3,732
$
11,388
$
0
$
(
0
0
92,500
65,585
1,000)
(
434)
4,329
(
19,199)
59,889
$
55,560
SYDENHAM STREET UNITED CHURCH
Statement of Operations
Year Ended December 31, 2014
CONGREGATIONAL INCOME
Envelope contributions
Loose Collections
Anniversary and Initial
Observer
Interest (Trustee restricted funds)
MGOS
Rent
Special events
STAR
Lightintolight
Other
$
CONGREGATIONAL EXPENSES - Schedule
Outreach
Program
Administration
Special events
Employment
OPERATING SURPLUS
PROPERTY EXPENSES
Church maintenance
Organ/Piano maintenance
Utilities
Insurance
Major maintenance projects
Rental expenses
Grounds maintenance
2014
174,420
3,286
60
840
0
420
76,201
103
8,927
50
0
$
2013
174,638
4,321
95
765
2,703
2,270
68,739
3,487
9,670
70
0
264,307
266,758
14,804
8,690
10,215
1,000
221,817
15,602
7,522
9,620
83
221,745
256,526
254,572
7,781
12,186
18,227
655
20,144
10,151
31,931
6,438
837
18,283
3,072
25,128
10,151
25,284
14,069
770
88,383
96,757
SURPLUS (DEFICIT)
$(
80,602)
$(
INTERIOR RESTORATION
$
1,000
$
434
BENEVOLENT FUND
Contributions
Expenses
$
(
21,608
21,248)
$
(
16,507
22,040)
$
360
$(
5,533)
$
(
4,548
1,176)
$
(
3,800
1,194)
$
3,372
$
2,606
$
(
$(
800
12,101)
11,301)
$
(
$
3,545
831)
2,714
CHRISTMAS BASKET
Contributions
Expenses
MEMORIAL FUND
Contributions
Payouts
84,571)
SYDENHAM STREET UNITED CHURCH
Schedule of Operating Expenses
Year Ended December 31, 2014
CONGREGATIONAL EXPENSES
Outreach
Helen Tufts Nursery School
Outreach discretionary fund
Presbytery assessment
2014
$
7,200
564
7,040
$
7,200
796
7,606
$
14,804
$
15,602
Program support
Observer
Worship
- Choir/Music/Honoraria
- Anniversary/Pulpit Supply
- MGOS supplies
- Candle/Worship supplies
Affirm - net
Newspaper Notice/Public Relations
Art & Soul
Hospitality
Other
Administration & Supplies
Stationery
Postage - net
Office supplies
Photocopy supplies - net
Konica Minolta Supplies
Konica Minolta rental
Telephone - Office
Bank charges
PAR charges
Computer support
2013
957
975
2,400
300
734
514
218
3,029
381
103
54
505
150
2,728
198
100
2,371
200
295
$
8,690
$
7,522
$
139
252
1,958
915
1,103
2,923
1,720
300
386
519
$
127
534
2,073
505
1,085
2,569
1,686
305
424
312
$
10,215
$
9,620
SYDENHAM STREET UNITED CHURCH
Schedule of Operating Expenses
Year Ended December 31, 2014
cont….
Employment expenses
Salaries/Housing
Travel
Books - Minister
Contract services
Casual employment
Spiritual direction - Minister
Staff development
Communications
Employment levies
Special events
$
2014
170,326
1,080
1,225
3,699
8,680
184
768
736
35,119
$
2013
160,929
1,033
769
25,074
103
888
24
1,124
31,801
$
221,817
$
221,745
$
1,000
$
83
SYDENHAM STREET UNITED CHURCH
MISSION AND SERVICES
Year Ended December 31, 2014
Mission and services
Mission and service contributions
Mission and service payments
2014
2013
$
(
49,801
49,801)
$
(
48,138
48,138)
$
0
$
0
$
423,669
0
434
13,323
46,683
SYDENHAM STREET UNITED CHURCH
TRUSTEE ENDOWMENT FUND
Year Ended December 31, 2014
Opening balance
Donations received by church
A/R from general fund (interior & organ)
Dividends & Interest
Increase (decrease) in Market value
$
415,821
0
1,000
18,906
36,482
472,209
Less:
Transfers
Year end balance
484,109
(
92,500)
(
68,288)
(
92,500)
(
68,288)
$
379,709
$
415,821