The Marsden/Neilburg Pastoral Charge held their annual meeting Feb. 2 in the lower hall of the church.
The meeting was chaired by Lois Johnston.
In her ministry report, Rev. Lorna Brick noted 2013 "was a challenging year with continuing adjustments and changes." She continues to recover from health challenges which have kept her from full-time ministry with the congregations and communities in the Lashburn/Marsden/Neilburg pastoral charge.
Rev. Brick continued to say, "We are blessed with worship leaders who are able to assume the duties of ministry. Your minister has, with help from our congregations, been able to attend and participate in some worship services. I thank all of you from the very bottom of my heart for your continuing help, care, support and prayers."
Tom Poppleton, who is a licensed lay worship leader, has been filling in as pulpit supply for Rev. Brick. He reported that in June 2013 he "completed his Sacraments Elder course, which was very interesting."
In addition to filling in locally, Poppleton has also led worship services in Cut Knife and other locations when their ministers were away. He has also made pastoral care visits to nursing homes and hospitals. Poppleton conducted four funeral services and five graveside services in 2013, some of these outside the local pastoral charge. He has agreed to continue to serve in this capacity until Rev. Brick can return to active service.
Glenn Goodfellow is the chair of the board of stewards. His report states there were no major problems throughout 2013. He appreciated the support of the congregation and the communities of Neilburg and Marsden for their continued support for the various fundraisers which included the poor man's supper, a spring tea and the fall supper.
Goodfellow advised the church roofing project has finally been completed and that roofing was also done on the church manse. Joint board meetings are held with the congregations of Lone Rock and Lashburn.
During 2013, the board of stewards consisted of Ann Ducherer, Glenn Goodfellow, Deb Hein, Lois Johnston and Denise Polkinghorne.
The members of the Board of Session for 2013 were Chair Shelley Spence, Secretary Brenda Gross, Tom Poppleton, Pat McAleer and Rev. Lorna Brick.
Money raised from the poor man's supper, held annually in January, goes toward mission and service projects. In December the congregation was encouraged to donate toques, mittens, food and presents at the white gift service. These items were taken to the Empty Stocking Fund in North Battleford to help fill hampers for families in need.
Joan Gibb got the children together and assisted them in performing a play for this special service. Afterwards, the actors and members of the congregation enjoyed a hot meal and fellowship.
The Session also mentioned Margaret Chibri and Joan Gibb, thanking them for their willingness to play the piano for services. Chibri has also been faithful in decorating the church for special occasions. Denise Polkinghorne and Lois Johnston have been instrumental in keeping the Sunday school operational.
2014 marks the 60th year of existence for the United Church in Neilburg. The Session is looking for ideas to help celebrate this special occasion.
During the annual meeting, Joan Gibb agreed to let her name stand for the Board of Session. Edna Jeffrey was added to the board of stewards, while Jacquie Goodall was selected to be part of the ministry and personnel committee.
The trustees continue to be Tom Poppleton, Brian Gibb and Everett Putnam.
A donation of money will be sent to the Calling Lakes Centre, which is located on the north shore of Echo Lake in the Qu'Appelle Valley. This is a fully accredited education and retreat centre for the United Church of Canada which nurtures growth in individuals, congregations and communities through programs, retreats and providing hospitality. This donation will be sent as a tribute to Tom Poppleton for his work in the parish.
A motion was made to continue to pay Poppleton a sum for pulpit supply.
A motion as also made to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the construction of the Neilburg United Church this spring.
Prior to these festivities, the board of stewards wish to give the basement a bit of a facelift. This will involve a painting work bee, renovating bathrooms, caulking windows and putting weatherstripping on the doors. The dividing curtains will be temporarily removed and the wallboard will be painted. There is also a plan to have some sidewalk repairs completed. This will involve building up and levelling out so water will not build up on the walks. It is hoped this will also lead to better snow removal.
Flowers will be sent to Mary Svjalenko, on behalf of the congregation, to cheer her during her illness.
The congregation also plans to donate extra cutlery and crockery to the Neilburg Community Hall.
The meeting was adjourned and everyone departed. However, in the words of Rev. Brick, the congregation will "continue the faithful work begun by those who have gone before. We will continue to be a place of faithful witness to the good news of life in Jesus the Christ."
