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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Pastoral Council Meeting
March 12, 2013
Present:
Fr. Bill McNeeley, Clint Woodfin, Velma Burke, Barbara Foster, Cathy
Remus, Andrea Carter and Carl Muse, John Smith
Absent: Donna Bailey, Claudia Huddleston and Megan McCormick. Fr. McKensie was absent with cause
Meeting was called to order at 6:35 PM with a prayer from Fr.
McNeeley. Minutes from the February meeting were
reviewed. The motion to accept the minutes with a minor
correction was made by Kathy and was seconded by John. The
minutes were accepted by voice vote.
Old Business:
Clint led the discussion of the spring fund-raising event. May
4th and 5th has been set. Letters to ministries have been
sent and the process has been streamlined.
Committee Reports
CYO: Fr.
McNeeley reported that Maryville College Catholic students are in
need. There are 30 or so students enrolled there are seeking a
stronger connection with our parish. Fr. McNeeley is saying Mass
on campus on the first Monday of the month. They expressed a need to
understand Catholic Apologetics.
Family Life:
Andrea reported that Saturday, April 6th will be the Easter Egg Hunt at
10 AM. The budgeted money was available. Committee
chairs were updated as follows: Dottie Berry is Hospitality, Melissa
Krintz is the Mom’s Group and Jayne Gallegos is the Comfort Food
chair. The Welcome committee is vacant.
Worship and Spiritual Life:
Barbara reported that the Spiritual Life committee continues to work on
the Bereavement group, now called “Compassionate Care” ministry.
Angie Feltz continues to lead these efforts. No Sedar meal
is planned this Lent. All Holy Week services are scheduled for 7
PM with the exception of Holy Saturday which will begin at 8PM.
The Easter Masses are 8:30 and 11:00 in English and 1 PM for the
Spanish parishioners. John and Andrea will represent the council
at the Holy Thursday Mass foot washing. Divine Mercy Novena
begins on Good Friday and completes on Divine Mercy Sunday, the first
Sunday of April. Our Lady of Fatima feast day is May 13.
There will be a Novena leading up to that day. May Procession and
crowning is May 6th. Confirmation is scheduled for May
22. Bob Myers is trying to find someone to head up the
ushers. The search for a replacement for Will is in
process.
Communication:
Clint reported that the Website continues to be updated. Fr.
McNeeley requested that the Altar servers schedule be added to the
site.
Administration:
Carl reported that remodeling is going well. The white
house was demolished. The new floors in the church will likely be
extended to the Fatima center.
Social Action: Cathy reported that all the ministries have been contacted for the Spring Market.
Parish Life: No report.
Education: John distributed the following report from Dana:
February 2013
• During February, I coordinated the parish
preparation for the annual Bishop’s Appeal campaign. This
included creating bulletin announcements and presenting (or arranging
speakers for) the pledge weekends’ pulpit announcements;
• Last year, the diocese mandated that all parishes
implement, over the next 3 Lenten seasons, a small group study
program, Living the Eucharist. LTE includes both English
and Spanish versions, and Juan and I worked together to bring the
program to both our Anglo and Latino populations. I coordinated
all aspects of the Anglo implementation. In total, about 200 people
(divided evenly between the Anglos and Latinos) signed up for this
year’s 6-week segment. Eight Anglo groups were formed: 4 of
these (about 40 people) were re-forming Why Catholic? groups. Two other
groups (about 40 people) formed from the already existing Tuesday
afternoon prayer group and the weekly Thursday morning Bible and
Breakfast group. Two new groups, totaling about 35 people, formed
for the study. In a parish of 5,000 people and over a thousand
families, a 4% response rate is, in my opinion, beyond anemic;
• Friday Lenten Dinners: Donna Bailey and I are
coordinating this traditional weekly event that meets prior to the 7 PM
Friday Stations of the Cross. This year, we decided to expand the
opportunity by pairing small parish ministries for a weekly meal.
By doing this, we hoped to present opportunities for groups that do not
typically work together to become acquainted. This year’s
schedule: Feb 15, Parish Council and EMEs; Feb 22, Haiti
Committee and Cursillo; Mar 1, Moms’ Group and Respect for Life; Mar 8,
CYO and Eight Grade Faith Formation Class (CCD); Mar 15, Hospitality
and Music Ministry; Mar 22, K of C and ushers;
• Faith Formation program registrations are ongoing;
the program now has about 300 students. Luis’s bilingual
capabilities are invaluable to the program;
• The program has adapted well to the Fatima Center
construction project. Despite the re-working of a wall in Room
202 and the storage of all their materials, pre-school continues to
meet in the room. Both classes using Room 206 are in new meeting
spaces: The Sunday morning Grades 5/6 class is now meeting in the
Social Hall and the Wednesday night 8th grade is now meeting in Room
202;
• The wonderful Saints in the Basement sewing group
continues to create saint costumes for the Faith Formation program,
allowing “saints” to visit to visit classrooms and share their
story. During February, St. John Bosco juggled for our Sunday
morning families;
• Wednesday night Faith Formation classes attended, as a community, the 7 PM Ash Wednesday Mass;
• Juan and I co-hosted a meeting on Sunday, February
10, for families whose children are in need of sacraments (Baptism to
Confirmation). The group is about 90% Latino, and many of the
parents are Spanish-only speakers. About half of the families of the
50+ children in this group attended the meeting. Sacramental prep
classes will begin in March;
• On Wednesday, Feb 27, Juan visited the 8th grade
Faith Formation to share his jail ministry. For several years,
Juan has made weekly pastoral visits to the Blount County Jail for
Bible study and prayer. The number of inmates who attend these
meetings far exceeds the number of Catholic inmates. In contrast
to the “hellfire and brimstone” sermons they endure from other visiting
ministers, Juan gives them hope and assures them (through words and
actions) of God’s loves. He shared with the 8th grade the gifts
he’s received from the inmates; these men have shown their appreciation
by presenting Juan with items that they’ve made with their own hands,
using the severely limited materials to which they have access. It’s an
honor to work with Juan; in my opinion, he’s a living
saint.
Respectfully
submitted,
dana hogan
Fr. McNeeley reported that a Sunday morning Adult Ed group is desired
by the pastor. There is a need for a leader to take on this
effort. The exact nature of the offering is undecided.
Next Meeting: April 9th at 6:30 PM
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Pastoral Council Meeting
February 12, 2013
Present:
Fr. Bill McKenzie, Clint Woodfin, Velma Burke, Barbara Foster, Donna
Bailey, Claudia Huddleston, Megan McCormick, Cathy Remus, Andrea Carter
and Carl Muse
Absent: Fr. McNeeley, was absent with cause.
Meeting was called to order at 6:35 PM with a prayer from Fr.
McKenzie. Minutes from the January meeting were
reviewed. The motion to accept the minutes as presented was
made by Barb and was seconded by Carl. The minutes were
accepted by voice vote.
Old Business: Clint welcomed John Smith to the council.
Clint led the discussion of the spring fund-raising event. Clint
agreed to lead the event. All members in attendance agreed
on “Spring Market”. The date of the event is pending.
May 4th and 5th was suggested. The building dedication is planned
for the next weekend. Clint will check with the parish secretary
for confirmation of the dates. Clint will email council
applications and letters before forwarding to all the heads of
ministries.
Committee Reports:
CYO: Megan
reported that the Search weekend is this weekend at Knox Catholic, 2
member of CYO are planning to attend. CYO continues to assist
with the 3rd Sunday 11 AM Mass. The Tennessee Right to Life
representative will give a talk on Stem Cell research at an upcoming
gathering. CYO and Confirmation class will prepare the
Friday Lenten meal on March 8. CYO is participating
in the Food Drive to support Community Food Connection. Knights
of Columbus and CYO Spaghetti supper and auction will be held on April
6th.
Family Life:
Melissa Krintz contacted Andrea regarding Saturday, April 6th for the
Easter Egg Hunt at 10 AM. What is in the budget for this event
was questioned. Fr. referred Andrea to Kathy (our bookkeeper) in
the office.
Worship and Spiritual Life:
Barbara reported that the Spiritual Life committee continues to work on
the Bereavement group. Liturgy Committee
met to discuss the Christmas celebrations, which was all positive. Ash
Wednesday services will be at 8 AM, 12 Noon and 7 PM. Easter
Vigil services will begin at 8PM. Extraordinary Ministers of Holy
Communion and Lectors will have a meeting to standardize
procedures. Will Thomas announced that he will be leaving in June
to attend a Doctoral program in Arizona. A Music Minister search
is underway. Fr. McNeeley completed the server’s manual.
Copies were provided for council to see. Parish
Lenten penance service is planned for the 9th of March.
Social Action:
St. Josephs Workers has a good number of helpers but not getting a lot
of calls for help. Haiti committee reported that the Green
envelops are not being used. Our parish sends $11, 500 three
times a year and $7,700 for the summer term for teacher salaries.
There is an effort to get Marti to Haiti and the Priest from Haiti to
visit here. Father recommended that a member of the Haiti
committee could give a talk from the pulpit about the Green
envelopes. The sea container is being readied.
Clothing is not wanted; school supplies are much needed.
Community Food Connection is in dire need of food donations.
Parish Life: Donna reported on the Lenten meal plans.
Communication: Clint reported that the website is being updated. He requested input into website concerns.
Administration:
The pavilion ceiling is 40% complete with some lights installed by the
Knights of Columbus. Parish council church cleaning is
March 9 at 9 AM. Carl also reported that remodeling is going
well.
Education:
Claudia read the following report from
Dana:
January 2013
• The Living the Eucharist small group study begins
during the first week of Lent. The parish has purchased enough
materials for a total of 200 adults—100 each in English and
Spanish. Small groups are forming. Group leaders are
needed;
• Classes resumed on Sunday, January 6. In
observance of the Martin Luther King holiday, we did not meet on
Sunday, January 20;
• Due to the Fatima Center construction and
renovation, the Faith Formation is in a state of flux. During the
last week of January, the workroom was almost completely emptied of
materials; these were divided into long- and short-term items and
stored accordingly;
• Approximately 55 students in the program have been
identified as missing sacraments. About 90%of them are
Latino. The office is meeting with families and arranging special
preparation classes for these students.
Respectfully submitted,
Dana Hogan, Director of Faith Formation
Claudia distributed additional information on the 8th graders confirmation prep procedures.
Pastor’s comments completed the meeting.
Next Meeting: March 12th at 6:30 PM
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Pastoral Council Meeting
October 4, 2012
Present:
Fr. McKenzie, Carl Muse, Mary Burkhart, Clint Woodfin, Velma Burke,
Barbara Foster, Donna Bailey, Claudia Huddleston, Martha Green,
Megan McCormick
Absent: Fr. Bill McNeeley absent with cause
Guests: Mary Brent, Dana Hogan, Esther Golightly and Tom Witt
Meeting was called to order at 6:33 PM with a prayer from Fr.
McKenzie. Minutes from the September meeting were
reviewed. The motion to accept as amended by Carl was
seconded by Donna. The minutes were accepted by voice vote.
Guest Reports:
Tom Witt presented organizational charts of the Parish Ministries and
Parish Pastoral Council (See attached). Discussion followed
on the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the charts. In addition,
a directory of key personnel was provided. Council was asked to
check and return to Mary Brent for correction. Council will study
the charts information and discuss at the December meeting.
Esther Golightly and Mary Brent presented an Advent day of reflection
planned for Saturday, December 1. The Hispanic community will
host the event and Juan Hernandez will be the primary
presenter.
Old Business:
Ministries day had sixteen groups present for the event. Some of
the ministries had a few sign-ups. Harvest of Blessings
information has been shared with all interested parties.
Seventeen requests for that event have contacted Mary
Brent. Fr. McKenzie has had feedback from some of the
groups. The event is planned for November 17 and 18. The
Advent event is a pilot study. There is a possibility of a second
event in spring. Fr. McKenzie and the finance committee are still
working out the details for other selling opportunities.
Parish Pastoral Council election is planned for the 2nd weekend of
November; preparations are ongoing. A ballot and bios will be
prepared by the nominating committee. Second collection
signs are working well. A more permanent set of signs were
proposed by Claudia. The next date for parish pastoral
council to clean the church is Saturday, October 6.
Committee Reports:
CYO: Megan
reported on the Ministries days. There will be some participants
at the RTL Dinner on Oct 11. Praying at Planned
Parenthood also continues. Dinner and Sharing events have
begun with topics important to faith development of the
youth. The Duchenes and Dirmeyers have hosted.
Diocesan Youth Conference November 3-4 is planned with a featured
speaker from Totus Tuus. The Youth will be participating monthly
at 11AM Mass as lectors, ushers, musicians and gift
bearers.
Family Life: Mary
reported on the change from Trunk and treat to All Hallows Eve on Oct
28th from 2-4 PM. Saint related games, trick or treating
door-to-door within the building. Volunteers are needed from the
parish for entertainers. Fr. McKenzie pointed out that the focus
needs to be shifted to preparation for All Saints Day.
Worship and Spiritual Life:
Barbara reported All Saints day Masses are scheduled for the 6PM and 8
PM Vigil, 8AM and 7 PM on November 1st. All Souls Day Masses are
8AM, 12 Noon and 7 PM. The 7 PM Mass will offer parishioners who
have lost someone in the last year a candle to bring to the
altar. A Visiting Cemetery Novena starting with November 1st will
be handed out. Will has enlarged the youth choir and will
be used on the 3rd Sunday of the Month at the 11 AM Mass.
Will also discussed more changes with the Mass settings. The plan
is for a total of four choices to be used throughout the liturgical
year. Spiritual Life committee continues to meet with limited
response. Light house media is having a great response, paying
for itself. Prodigal Son retreat via Deacon Long is being
planned. A monthly Novena is also being considered. October
13, 2012 is National Rosary Day. A rosary will be recited by the
church entrance at 12 noon.
Parish Life:
Donna reported on the Pet Blessing where 100+ people and pets joined
the fun. Sandy Sutton and Kathy Chapman were in charge and
handled the event very well. Mike Flynn was present in the
persona of St. Francis and very well appreciated.
Clint thanked Martha and Mary for their terms on the Pastoral Council.
Social Action:
Right to Life is doing a mini version of the 40 days for Life this year
at the Cherry Street Planned Parenthood. The October 13, 2012
rosary will be at the abortion crosses at the church entrance.
Rosary Novena Oct 14 to 25th will be available in the Narthex.
RTL will be selling Christmas ornaments at the Harvest of Blessings
event. They want to be able to purchase literature to hand out at
the Cherry Street abortion clinic. Famly Promise OLOF week begins
Oct 8th. The Haiti committee is planning to join the
Harvest of Blessings day, but are likely to withhold the desk at this
time. The quilt is a Christmas design so they will focus
their efforts on that for fundraising. Fr. McKenzie requested the
Haiti committee to discuss fundraising plans with him.
Communication: Claudia and her co-workers were effective in getting the Harvest of Blessings information disseminated.
Administration:
Overhead work on the pavilion is nearly 30% complete. $62,000 is
the construction cost of the pavilion. Storage shed for
tables and chairs are planned. The Knights of Columbus continue
to fundraise to meet this debt. Footers and foundation for
the renovation is moving along. The stairs at the far end of the
building have been dismantled. Church doors to the sanctuary are
being locked. It was a move to increase security for the
night-time adorers. Church cleaning October 6 by the Parish
Pastoral Council
Education:
Dana read the attached report. There is a new part-time Administrative
Assistant, Luis Ramos who is bilingual. Virtus training was held
earlier this week. There were 20 adults in attendance.
Another session is planned later this month.
Next Meeting: November 13 at 6:30 PM. Clint reminded
everyone that it will be after the elections. New members
will be asked to attend.
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
September 11 2012
Present:
Fr. McKenzie, Fr. Bill McNeeley, Carl Muse, Mary Burkhart, Clint
Woodfin, Velma Burke, Barbara Foster, Donna Bailey, Claudia
Huddleston, Martha Green
Absent: Megan McCormick
Guest: Deacon Long, Tom Witt
Meeting was called to order at 6:33 PM with a prayer from Fr.
McNeeley. Minutes from the August meeting were
reviewed. The motion to accept as amended by Carl was
seconded by Mary. The minutes were accepted by voice vote.
Old Business:
Ministries Day is on Sunday Sept 16 with representatives from the
various ministries. Dana has solicited 40 groups to have a
table. To date there are 5 replies. The Council will have a
poster with names and assigned ministries. The Council
cleaned the church on Saturday, August 4th. Thanks to all those
who assisted. The next date for parish council is October 6.
Committee Reports:
CYO: No report
Parish Life:
Blessing of the Pets will be Sunday, Sept 30 in the afternoon. In
the past approximately 150 attended. Donna is securing pet
treats and arranging for activities. The 55+
group is currently being headed by Fran Gallagher.
Family Life: Mary notified all her ministries of the upcoming
Ministries Day. Trunk and Treat will have a different
process. Saints Theme is the goal. The Hispanic community
will feel more comfortable with the religious theme. Dana Hogan
is planning this change to align with the Religious ED year. It
will not be outside at all.
Worship and Spiritual Life:
Barbara reported that Spiritual Life committee continues to work on the
Bereavement committee and a website for spiritual life. A
Spiritual Life parish survey was presented. See
attached. The Lighthouse publishers CDs have been well
received. Holy cards for the “Novena of the Seven Sorrows
of Mary” were passed out at all Masses last weekend. Deacon Long
will have a Prodigal Son presentation upcoming. The Music
Ministries are well attended at all Masses.
Social Action:
The “Soles for Souls” shoe collection for Haiti has exceeded the
100-pairs goal. At this time there is 160 usable pairs with one
more weekend to go. These collections are planned for quarterly,
covering different needs each quarter. There will be a
drawing for a quilt and a desk coming in November for the Haiti
project. The Right to Life committee is planning to
sell Christmas ornaments for their next fundraiser.
Administration:
Carl reported that the pavilion will have a ceiling installed
next. Renovations on the Fatima Center have begun with some
excavation at the front of the building. Hospitality group
is planning on having a presentation at Ministries
day. Fr. Mc Neeley reported on the “Grounds and
Garden” committee. Charlotte Kubb has agreed to head the
efforts. Iris bulbs are being given away this weekend with free
will donations accepted. Expansion of the gardens will
happen when parishioners “adopt” areas.
Education: Report attached.
Communication:
Claudia reported that Dana requested a meeting with the heads of all
the ministries. She wants to survey the different groups to
improve communication between ministries. The council discussed a
sample survey and possible goals of the survey process. Fr.
McKenzie suggested that an end goal for the information from the survey
would be better beginning for information gathering. Clint
recommended that a Parish Pastoral Council have a work day to include
the ministry leaders before the end of the year. Fr. McKenzie
noted that the Parish Pastoral council members are to meet with their
respective groups at least every other month. All information and
planning should flow back through the council. Tentatively the
date for the Pastoral Council planning day was set for Sunday, December
9th. The day will run from 12 to 6PM
New Business:
Elections for the Pastoral Council are November 10 and 11. Fr.
McKenzie is not yet ready to reveal the nominations.
Deacon Long introduced the topic of fundraising through a “Harvest of
Blessings” event. He related that the nearly weekly fundraising
events in the narthex are not a good reflection on our parish. At
a previous parish the fundraising was limited to one weekend in the
fall. In addition, each group was given an individual
weekend for the fundraising purpose. All groups were given these
dates to plan around. The goal is to cut down on the volume of
people in the Narthex. The finance board is now approving who can
sell in the narthex. Discussion followed. The Council
unanimously voted to approve the Harvest of Blessings concept.
Claudia and the communications committee will get the plan out to the
ministries ASAP. The Harvest of Blessings weekend is
planned for November 17 and 18th.
There is still no one to run the Angels Corner. Fr. McKenzie is still working on this issue.
Pastor’s Open Forum and Comments:
Next Meeting is Thursday, October 4th at 6:30 PM. The location will be announced.
The meeting was closed with a prayer led by Deacon Long
Director of Religious Education
Parish Pastoral Council Monthly Report
August 2012
• CCD began its 2012-13 year on Sunday, August 19, from 9:45-10:45 AM. Wednesday classes began
on August 22 at a new time, 6:45 - 8:00 PM;
• As of September 4, CCD enrollment stands at 217 students: Sunday CCD (Pre-K through Grade 6)
has 149 students and Wednesday CCD (Grades 5-8) has 68.
• This year, we are using a new program, Pflaum Gospel Weeklies. The curriculum's resources follow
the three-year Sunday Lectionary cycle and are arranged by grade group rather than distinct grades:
preschool, K-l, 2-3, 4-6, and 7-8. This allowed us to offer a combined Grades5/6 class on Sunday
morning. It turned out to be quite popular with twenty-seven students enrolled;
• Sunday morning class sizes are as follows: Pre-K 9, Kindergarten 17, First 20, Second 20, Third 29,
Fourth 26. Fifth/Sixth 27. Grades 1-4 are in need of both additional teachers and aides. All
classrooms in the Fatima Center are used on Sundays. The program also has over 20 students in need
of sacramental prep. They will require additional catechesis beyond their regular classroom time;
• This year, instead of asking for a CCD fee, we opted to ask families for a donation to the program.
Last year, the fee was about $20 per child plus an additional $10 for First Communion and
Confirmation students. This year, signs were posted that informed parents that, for the 2011-12
School Year, the CCD budget was $20,000-about $80 per child. Fees paid about 1;4 of the cost and
the parish generously subsidized the rest. With about II3 of our students' families yet to pay, we've
collected over $5100, over $37 per student. The program also received a generous donation of $500
from the Horace Brown family. Families who have not yet paid will be asked, through bulletin
reminders on September 9, 16, and 23, to do so. Any families who, at the end of the month, have not
yet paid, will be mailed a gentle notice;
• Adult education courses are continuing into the fall. Roseanne Nichols facilitated a group study on
Fr. Robert Barron's ten session Catholicism series, and the Thursday morning Bible and Breakfast
group has completed Jeff Cavins' eight part Quick Journey Through the Bible and is beginning his 24-
session Bible Timeline: The Story o/Salvation. Attendees of both the Catholicism and Quick
Journey courses completed evaluations that indicated a high degree of satisfaction with the programs;
• A Virtus training session was facilitated by Roseanne Nichols on Thursday, August 23. Four OLOF
parishioners were among the attendees. I will offer an evening Virtus session in September. The
diocese is requiring strict compliance with the Virtus guidelines. This fall, the diocese is slated to
undergo a Virtus audit; OLOF is among the parishes that will be visited;
• The film, The Saint 0/9/11, the biography of Fr. Mychal Judge, chaplain of the New York Fire
Department who was killed in the Tower Two collapse, will be shown on Tuesday, September 11.
Viewing of the 90-minute film and follow-up discussion will take place from 9:00-11:30 AM and
6:30-9:00 PM
Respectfully submitted,
Dana Hogan
2012 - Spiritual Life Survey - Our Lady of Fatima Parish
Name (optional) __________________________________________________
Address ________________________________________________________
City ___________________________State _TN Zip __________________
Best way to contact you: Phone (home) ___________(work) _______________
(cell) Email ________________________________________________________
Would you like to help plan future Spiritual Life Activities for our parish which could include retreats or
speakers? Yes___________No _____________________
Your Age
Under 18 ________18-24________ 25 – 24________ _ 35-49__________ 50-64________ _ 65 +____
Check the items below (indicate by numbers 1- 5 with 5 being important) that you would like to see
1. Scriptural Study - Individual/Group Presentation Series
_______
Gospel
_______Letters of St.
Paul
______ Old Testament books
2. Prayerful
_______ Monthly Holy Hour (Vocations, Military, Saints, World Peace, Illness)
_______ Novenas (Holy Spirit - Our Lady of Fatima - Divine Mercy - Sacred Heart)
_______ Lectio Devina - Centering Prayer - Meditation
_______ Healing Service - (Spiritual, Physical)
_______ Day Retreats (examples: Prayer, adoration, family topics etc.) Prodigal Son/Stations of the Cross
_______ Youth Retreats / Younger Children
3. Educational
_______ Sacraments ¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬¬__________Catechism _____________Scripture__________ Church Doctors
_______ Movie night at the Church (once a month) depicting one of the Saints
_______ Speaker to talk on a particular topic of interest: _
4. ______ Comparisons/Differences with Religions (Series of 4 or 5 sessions - Protestant, Jewish, Islamic,
Muslim, Buddhist and other faith traditions
5._______ Developing a Personal Relationship - Love and Mercy
Our God is a Loving God; Getting to know God
Our God is a Forgiving God; forgiving ourselves and being forgiven by them.
6. What area of interest would you like to have available in our
Parish?
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
7. How do you think we can improve the Spiritual Life of our parish?
_________________________________________________________________________________________________________
8. What are we doing that you think does not work?
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
9. Questions or Suggestions:
________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Thank you for your time is completing this questionnaire for our parish. With this information the Spiritual
Life Committee can begin to plan activities for you and the Spiritual Growth of our parishioners. If you would
like to be a part of this process and/or a member of the Spiritual Life Committee please contact Angie Feltz
at 719-0280 or by email: angelafeltzl27@gmail.com.
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
August 7, 2012
Present:
Fr. Bill McNeeley, Carl Muse, Mary Burkhart, Clint Woodfin, Velma
Burke, Barbara Foster, Donna Bailey, Claudia Huddleston, Megan
McCormick, Martha Green
Absent With Cause: Fr. McKenzie.
Guest: Dana Hogan
Meeting was called to order at 6:31 PM with a prayer from Fr.
McNeeley. Minutes from the July meeting were
reviewed. The motion to accept as amended by Carl was
seconded by Mary. The minutes were accepted by voice vote.
Old Business:
The Council cleaned the church on Saturday, August 4th. Thanks to all those who assisted. The next date is unknown.
Committee Reports:
Education:
Dana Hogan gave the report on CCD registration.
Classes will begin Sunday, August 19. A Kick Off event
planned on Sept 16 Discussion followed on the cost of the program and a
new system to allow families to pay as a “free-will offering”.
The average donation was more than $40 during the first week of
registration. The Spanish community with continue to pay
$20 per student with a maximum set for large families.
Participation in the summer school program, Totus Tuus was
disappointing. The summer program is a part of the CCD
year. Those who did not attend missed a significant percent
of religious formation. Ideas for improving participation
by parents and students were considered. Additional Education
reports for June and July are attached.
Administration: Carl reported that the Kroger and
Food City food certificates are now available in the church
office. The repair of the chairs in the chapel is in
progress. A “Grounds and Garden” committee is being formed.
It will report to the Administration committee.
CYO:
Megan McCormick reported on events within the CYO.
There was a recent trip to the zoo with 15 in attendance. There
was tubing event and a movie night with 20 in attendance. A
pool party is planned for next week. St. Albert the Great parish
is hosting the Knoxville “World Youth Day” on August 18-19. It is
a campout format on the church grounds. There are 8 leaders who
are involved in a team building process. They will plan the talks
for the upcoming meetings. Ministries day at one CYO gathering is
being considered. CYO youth will also be involved in the CCD kick
off on Sept 16.
Family Life: Mary
noted that Saturday, September 22 she and Velma will be checking the
inventory for Trunk and Treat. She will contact the office
to reserve Sunday, Oct 28th for the event
Worship and Spiritual Life:
Barbara reported that Spiritual Life committee continues to work on the
Bereavement committee. It will include prayer warriors, funeral
assistance and follow-up grief support for a period of time after a
death. They are also organizing the All Souls day mass. The
Legion of Mary will have a representative for the Spiritual life
committee. A Spiritual Life parish survey is still in the
planning process. They have looked into adding a display by the
Lighthouse publishers for the narthex. It will contain low-cost
religious education CDs by various authors who speak on multiple
topics. A recommended minimum donation for a CD is $3. The
money is placed in a box that will be emptied regularly by the
office. In cooperation with the CCD director, an adult
education meeting for the Confessions of a Mega Church Pastor is also
being considered.
Liturgy Committee: No report.
Social Action:
The Right to Life efforts have paid off in many babies saved. The
clinic in Concord in closed . Pregnancy Resource center will have
the annual banquet on August the 16th at the Hilton. OLOF table
has room for more for a donation. Haiti committee is short on
funds. There is an approximate $1000 short-fall. A special
second collection has not occurred in a couple of years. Martha
suggested that the Prayers of the Faithful include the mention of
Haiti. Both ideas needed to be okayed by Fr. McKenzie.
Parish Life:
The Angel’s Corner does not have a manager at this time. Coffee
and donuts Sundays seem to be functioning well with the current
volunteers. The 55+ group continues to meet. Hispanic
ministries under Juan’s direction, is very steady. Welcome table
before and after masses needs to be reestablished.
Communication:
Website going well. A parishioner had made a comment about a
passage in the bulletin. There was a reflection by another
parishioner that upset her. Clint requested the
council members who are leaving the council prepare a short description
of the tasks associated with their committee. Access to the
kitchen is an ongoing problem. A parishioner needed to deliver a
casserole for a funeral luncheon. Fr. McKenzie will deal with
this issue. Comfort foods committee will need to be reminded of
the restricted access.
Pastor’s Open Forum and Comments:
Next Meeting is September 11th at 6:30 PM in the church library.
The meeting was closed with a prayer by Fr. McNeeley.
Director of Religious Education
Parish Pastoral Council Monthly Report
June/July 2012
June:
• The CCD/CYO summer youth program, Totus Tuus (Latin for "totally yours") brought eight faith-filled
young adults to our parish from Saturday, June 23 - Friday, June 29 for a week of catechesis and fun.
(Because of a last minute cancellation at another parish, we were able to get two teams for the price of
one.) Parish youth experienced daily Mass and rosary, positive role models, skits, games, and activities
designed to help them deepen their faith. The grade 1 - 6 program met for 5 hours per day, 25 hours in
all-about one-half the time of an entire CCD year. Grades 7 - 12 met for 2 hours each of 5 evenings.
Only 31 families, with a total of 5] children among them, registered for the program. Despite the fact
that bringing the Totus Tuus teams here cost the parish $]500 (plus some food expense), the week was
offered to families free of charge. Parishioners graciously volunteered to house the team members and
provide meals, and a dozen high school students served as aides throughout the week;
• The parish was notified that our application to the Spring 2012 Diocesan Educational Trust Fund had
been approved for $]200. The funds were requested for Jeff Kavin's The Bible Timeline: The Story of
Salvation, a 24-part DVD and 24 workbook study kits. The Thursday morning Bible study will begin
The Bible Timeline sometime in August. Student workbook kits are $45 each; students will pay $20 and
the parish will subsidize the remainder. Per Fr. McKenzie, all student fees will be used to fund
upcoming parish adult education programs;
• With remaining monies from the Spring 2011 Educational Trust Fund, the parish purchased several of
Jeff Kavin's Quick Journey Through the Bible student workbook kits. These will be used with the 8-
part Quick Journey study purchased earlier with the same funds. A group of 14 began the Quick
Journey study in early July and another group is forming;
• Also with remaining Summer 2011 funds, the parish purchased an English language Leader's Kit (l0-
part DVDs, notebook, and study guide), a Spanish version of the Catholicism series, and 20 student
Study Guides and Workbooks. The Thursday morning Bible group and Friday night Latino group are
completing the series;
July:
• After Sunday Masses, the parish distributed 500 copies of Allen Hunt's Confessions ofa Mega-Church
Pastor. I created a bulletin board outside the social hall promoting the book (including an enlarged copy
of the cover compliments of our wonderful parish secretary, Mary Brent) and would love to start some
fall discussion groups on the book;
• Speaking of bulletin boards, now that I've lowered my standards (using MS Word-generated banners
instead of more time-consuming cut-out letters), I've updated 3 other bulletin boards in the Fatima
Center: One dedicated to the wisdom of St. Francis de Sales (one of my favorite saints), one with a
display of 1960s era biblical art, and one with bios of faith heroes;
• Finally, I wish we could figure out a systematic approach to encourage people to come to the Fatima
Center after Sunday Mass. Weekly coffee and doughnuts (full-size) would be a good start. The social
hall has so much potential to increase parish community, all we need to do is figure out how to make it
happen.
Respectfully submitted,
dana hogan, DRE
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
July 10, 2012
Present:
Fr. Bill McNeeley, Carl Muse, Mary Burkhart, Clint Woodfin, Velma
Burke, Barbara Foster, Donna Bailey, Claudia Huddleston, Megan
McCormick, Fr. McKenzie
Absent: No one.
Meeting was called to order at 6:31 PM with a prayer from Fr.
McNeeley. Minutes from the June meeting were
reviewed. One error on Fr. McKenzie’s name was
corrected. The motion to accept as amended by Mary was
seconded by Carl. The minutes were accepted by voice vote.
Old Business:
Nominating committee submitted a list of 16 potential council
candidates to Fr. McKenzie. The committee included Claudia
Huddleston, Velma Burke, Greg Ward (past council president) and Joe
Burriesci. Elections are in November.
Barbara noted that the Fortnight commercial she reported on last month
was aimed at the upcoming National elections. The Fortnight
events were well accepted.
The Second collection sign has been used with some success.
The Council cleans the church on Saturday, August 4th.
Committee Reports:
CYO:
Megan McCormick reported on events within the CYO. The summer
vacation bible school, Totus Tuus, was June 25 -29th.
There were 20 youths in attendance each evening. Eight CYO
helpers assisted with the daytime program. The CYO participated
with the Fortnight by leading one night, again 8 members were available
for that event. CYO had a July 5th trip for hiking and shopping
in Sevier Co. Field Day and a progressive dinner are planned for
this week. Next month there will be a trip to the zoo, tubing and
a movie night . Youth Leadership Institute Camp is planned for
this weekend. Three youths are preparing to attend.
Family Life: Mary discussed the Halloween plans are beginning.
Education: No report.
Worship and Spiritual Life:
Barbara reported that the Liturgy and Worship committees will not meet
again until August. The Brown Scapular sign-up is going very
well; 200 are available and there are approximately 30 left. Fr.
McKenzie gave the plans for the Scapular enrollment after each mass
this weekend. Also Fr. McKenzie has asked the spiritual
life committee to assist with the distribution of the book “Confessions
of a Mega-Church Pastor”. He has purchased 500 copies to be
given out after all masses next weekend.
Liturgy Committee: No report.
Social Action:
Martha reported that Family Promise our week begins July 29th. There
was a pig roast fundraiser which netted $9000. Haiti committee
was unable to get the Priest from our sponsored school to the US this
year. Fundraising efforts are ongoing. The right to
life reported that the abortion clinics are out of business until they
can find MDs to provide care. A Jericho march at the Concord
clinic is planned by a number of churches for later this week Fr.
McKenzie reported that the amount of the parish donation for Good
Neighbors has been increased in the upcoming proposed budget.
Parish Life:
Donna is still working on getting lines of communication with the
committees. Fr. McKenzie asked that Parish life assist with the
ground breaking ceremony on July 22 after the 11AM Mass.
Communication:
Claudia reported that the communication committee will be involved in
groundbreaking. Fr. McKenzie asked at a news release be sent to
the Daily Times. He would like to see the “Our Legacy Our
Future” theme be a part of the article. Martha reported that an
individual complained that the website has errors. When she tried
to report it via email, there was no response. Mary from
the office asked for the current Parish Mission statement to be
published. The council has a December 2000 version attached to
the bylaws. Fr. McKenzie did not recognize the
document.
Administration:
Fr. McNeely asked that the ushers speed up the process of the
collection. It takes too long. Claudia reported that there
are times when there are not enough ushers. Donna suggested that
the parish council member offer to help at whatever Mass they
attend. Locking of church doors after the 11 AM Mass is now being
done by the priests. The back door entrance is being unlocked by
the ushers. Fr. McKenzie noted that having the ambo on the right
is out of step with other parishes. It should be on the left side
of the altar. Fr. McKenzie is considering the change. Megan
noted that during the Totus event, injury occurred when a child ran
into a building stake left from the pavilion or sidewalk
construction. Donna asked that the chairs in the chapel and
nursery be repaired. There are several with sharp edges that
could cause harm. Carl will investigate. The sign to
prohibit chalk on the concrete under the roof and the unsupervised use
of the playground is in place.
Pastor’s Open Forum and Comments:
Father noted that the city of Alcoa signed off on the reconstruction
plan, once we added a bike rack. The Nursery will be set up for
adult meetings to take the place of room 206 after construction
begins.
Next Meeting is August 7th at 6:30 PM in the church library.
The meeting was closed with a prayer by Fr. McKenzie.
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
June 12, 2012
Present:
Fr. Bill McNeeley, Carl Muse, Mary Burkhart, Clint Woodfin, Velma
Burke, Barbara Foster, Donna Bailey, Claudia Huddleston, Megan
McCormick, Fr. Bill McKenzie
Absent: Martha Green
Meeting was called to order at 6:35 PM with a prayer from Fr.
McNeeley. Minutes from the May meeting were
reviewed. The motion to accept by Barbara was seconded by
Carl. The minutes were accepted by voice vote with one
minor correction.
Old Business:
Council will be cleaning the church on Sat. June 23. Martha Green
is likely staying on council until the elections. Mary
Burkhart is also staying on until the fall. Fr. McKenzie
recommended leaving any vacancies until the fall. Paid staff
cannot be on the nominating committee or the council. Clint
reminded us that Nominating committee for the fall Council elections
was formed. It includes Claudia Huddleston, Velma Burke, Greg
Ward (past council president) and Joe Burriesci. A list of
proposed candidates will be given to Fr. McKenzie.
Elections are in November.
Committee Reports:
CYO:
Megan McCormick reported on events within the CYO. Graduation
Mass was on Sat June 2nd, with 6 seniors honored. Eight new
leaders were identified. Summer is mostly social events for the
teens. The summer vacation bible school, Totus Tuus, is planned
for June 25 -29th. Cove Crest camp event was successful for
social action and retreat focus.
Family Life: Mary
discussed the “Come Together” parish picnic. There was a bit of
late start, so the stress of planning was difficult. It was
estimated that 200 attended.
Education: See Below.
Worship and Spiritual Life:
Barbara reported that the Bereavement group planning is ongoing.
Also, locking of all the doors on the church after 11 AM Mass is now an
issue. The ushers are no longer handling this issue. Bob
Myers, who is in charge of the ushers, will be contacted to clarify the
procedure.
Liturgy Committee: No report.
Social Action:
“Fortnight for Freedom”, a nationwide effort by the USCCB, is planned
for June 21st to July 4th. A letter from the Bishop will be read
the weekend of June 17th. OLOF will participate with a
prayer service at 7PM in the Chapel with a holy hour. Explanation
of the finer points of the HHS mandate and the immigration situation
are the focus of these hours of prayer. The RTL committee
will pass out postcard to send to HHS, expressing these
sentiments. Several members of the council signed up to
lead the prayers. Fr. McKenzie requested several groups take the
lead. Barbara noted that the “Fortnight” commercial was very
effective. Fr. requested that the commercial be linked to the
parish website.
Parish Life:
Donna distributed a “List of Ministries, Contact Persons and phone
numbers” Fr. McKenzie noted that this list is outdated and Beth Parsons
is working on a new version.
Communication:
Claudia reported that a “Second Collection” sign will be ready for the
Peter Pence collection on the weekend of June 23-24.
Administration:
Carl reported that the pavilion will have the ceiling lights and fans
in place soon. Security lights are also planned. The area
beyond the fence needs to be mowed; the mowers will not do
this. The Knights will be volunteering for this
detail. Fr. requested Carl assist with setting up policy for the
pavilion. Safety issues with use of chalk under the roof
and the unsupervised use of the playground were addressed. When
it is finished, there will be a dedication with the Knights presenting
it to the parish.
Pastor’s Open Forum and Comments:
When the reconstruction begins, space availability will be
limited. Non-Parish groups have already been informed that space
cannot be guaranteed. Start date is expected July 21st, with a
groundbreaking after Mass that weekend. The finances are coming
together for this effort.
Next Meeting is July 10 at 6:30 PM in the church library.
The meeting was closed with a prayer by Fr. McKenzie.
Director of Religious Education- Monthly Report- June 2012
• The 2011-12 CCD year ended on Wednesday, May 9. Classes will resume in mid-August;
• On Wednesday, May 16, twenty-three eighth graders and four high-school students were confirmed
by Bishop Stika. A reception, coordinated by the parish Hospitality Committee, followed in the
Fatima Center;
• On Saturday, May 19, seven CCD students made their First Communion at the 7 PM Latino Mass. A
reception followed in the Fatima Center. These are among the CCD students identified as being in
need of sacraments. This fall, qualifying students (two consecutive years in CCD) will be catechized
in special sacramental prep classes, in addition to their usual CCD class, and make their sacraments
in the spring of2013;
• On Wednesday, May 23,30 catechists and spouses attended the CCD End-of ..Year Appreciation
Dinner. Jeanine Dixon and Bonnie Fox graciously prepared the food, served, and cleaned up;
• As of June 6, 10 catechists have affirmed that they will return to teach CCD for the 2012-13 SY;
• Since Tony Hartman's retirement, I have assumed responsibility for the parish Virtus program.
OLOF is among the 12-14 diocesan parishes slated to undergo, in the coming months, a Virtus audit.
In anticipation of the audit, the diocese has requested parish summary Virtus information, which I've
been preparing. The upcoming audit has presented an opportunity to organize and update the Virtus
files;
• The parish will again present the "Totus Tuus," VBS program beginning Sunday, June 24 and ending
Friday. June 29.
• Alex Hernandez, our parish seminarian, is joining the OLOF staff this summer. The Religious
Education office will be using Alex for a variety of jobs, including packing the office in anticipation
of the upcoming Fatima Center construction project.
Respectfully submitted.
dana hogan
DRE
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
May 8, 2012
Present: Martha Green, Clint Woodfin, Luis Ramos, Velma Burke, Barbara Foster, Donna Bailey, Claudia Huddleston
Absent: Carl Muse, Fr. Bill McKenzie, Fr. Bill McNeeley, Mary Burkhart
Guests: Mike Flynn and Megan McCormick
Meeting was called to order at 6:35 PM with a prayer.
Minutes from the April meeting were reviewed. The motion to
accept was made and seconded. The minutes were accepted by voice
vote.
Old Business:
Mike Flynn discussed new efforts to recruit additional helpers for the
Saturday morning cleaning roster. Currently 7 groups are in the
rotation for bi-monthly service. Need 5 additional groups
to keep the rotation at every 4 months. The work of these
individuals saves the parish $1000.00 per month. Suggestions came
from the council for additional possible groups to assist with this
task. Recruitment efforts are underway. In addition
reminders will be sent to the group leaders and credit given to groups
in the bulletin. Parish council will be cleaning the church
on Saturday, June 23.
The May 20th “Come Together” parish picnic was discussed in
detail. There was a planning meeting on Tuesday, May 1 and
another planned for Tuesday May 15. Additional volunteers are
needed for cleanup. CYO has volunteered to assist with cleanup
and several of the child activities. Clint questioned
whether the Diocese has been notified for insurance purposes.
Mike will get a response on the question.
Martha reported a complaint from a parishioner that the handicap
parking is not enough. They are requesting the side door be
opened. Discussion followed. Referred to the pastor.
Committee Reports:
CYO:
Luis introduced Megan McCormick as his potential replacement to the
Council. This meeting is his last. He then reported
on events within the CYO. The final CCD class is
5/9/12. Confirmation mass will be attended by the
CYO. Leaders discernment is underway for the upcoming year.
Summer schedule begins June 13 for social events. Graduation Mass
is on Sunday, June 2nd with dinner to follow. There are five
seniors this year.
Family Life: See above notes on the parish picnic.
Education: See Below.
Worship and Spiritual Life:
Barbara reported that the Legion of Mary is preparing several
parishioners for the Total Consecration event on Sunday, May 13 after
the 11 AM Mass. The event should last about 20
minutes. Holy Spirit novena begins May 19 for the Pentecost
Sunday May 27. Adoration group is planning a potluck
for adorers. Bereavement group is in the planning
stage, with Fr. McNeeley’s encouragement. Spiritual
Bouquet is planned for Fr. Brando’s 40th anniversary.
Liturgy Committee:
May crowning happened Sunday, May 6. There will be no OLOF feast
day due to Easter season Sunday. Confirmation is Wednesday, May 16.
Social Action:
Haiti committee has not met since last council meeting. Martha reported
that the second annual “Lean on Me” concert for Good Neighbors on April
29 netted more than $6000.00. St. Joseph’s worker manager,
Joe Szmidt wants to provide clothing for the needy to go to
interviews.
Parish Life: Donna will take on the Parish Life ministry.
Communication:
A “Second Collection” sign is being prepared for the front entrance on
appropriate Sundays. The integration of the bulletin to the
website has increased information flow overall. Claudia reported
difficulty sending emails to the pastor. Email addresses were
shared within the group.
Administration: No report.
New Business:
Clint expressed gratitude to Luis for his year of participation on the
Council. In addition, Clint asked Martha to consider staying on
the council until elections in the fall. A Nominating committee
will be formed very soon to begin the election process.
Next Meeting is June 12 at 6:30 PM in the church library.
Director of Religious Education- Monthly Report- May 2012
• Thirty-four CCD students (30 Second graders and 4
third graders) made First Communion at the 11AM Mass on Sunday, April
22. A family reception, graciously coordinated by Marie Muse,
followed in the Fatima Center Social Hall;
• Confirmation interviews for the 23 eighth graders
and 4 high school confirmandi took place on Wednesday, April 18.
Each confirmandi met with Fathers McKenzie, McNeeley or Deacon Long to
discuss their Confirmation preparation experience. Each student
also wrote a letter to Bishop Stika sharing their reasons for wanting
the sacrament;
• The eighth grade class attended their Eagle Rock
Confirmation retreat the weekend of April 27-29. Beth Parsons
facilitated the event. She was assisted by a group of CYO student
leaders and adult chaperone, including Colleen Harbison, Confirmation
Catechist team leader. Following the group’s return on
Sunday afternoon, a family potluck lunch was held in the pavilion;
• 2011-12 CCD catechists were asked to indicate their
intent to return for the 2012-2013 school year. As of this date,
14 catechists have responded have responded. They are evenly
divided ( 7 to &) on their intent for next year;
• The parish completed and submitted the application
for the semi-annual diocesan Education Trust Fund program. Funds
were requested for a 24-part study, The Bible Timeline: The Story of
Salvation, slated to begin this fall. Funding decisions will be
made by the diocese in the next few weeks;
• The CCD school year ends Wednesday, May 9;
• Confirmation will be conferred on Wednesday, May 16
at 6 PM. A reception, also graciously coordinated by Marie Muse,
will follow in the Fatima Center Social Hall.
Respectfully submitted, Dana Hogan, DRE 2 April 2012
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
April 10, 2012
Present:
Martha Green, Clint Woodfin, Mary Burkhart, Luis Ramos, Fr. Bill
McNeeley, Velma Burke, Barbara Foster, Donna Bailey, Claudia Huddleston
Absent:
Carl Muse, Fr. Bill McKenzie. Dennis Ryneic has submitted
his resignation to Fr. McKenzie. Clint will contact the
parishioner who had the next largest number of votes in the November
election.
Meeting was called to order at 6:33 PM. Fr. Bill McNeeley offered an opening prayer.
Minutes from the March meeting were reviewed. The motion to
accept, with minor corrections, was made and seconded. The
minutes were accepted by voice vote.
Old Business: February Minutes were reviewed and approved by voice vote.
Committee Reports:
CYO:
Luis reported on events within the CYO. The Ministries
information night was held with the Knights of Columbus represented by
Tony Richardson, the CCW by Fran Gallagher and Mary Burkhart and the
parish Council by Barbara Foster. Other ministries were also
discussed. The confirmation retreat is planned for April 27-29th
at Eagle Rock. Luis will be leaving the council next
month. Selection of a replacement is in the process.
Family Life:
Mary reported that there was no Easter Egg Hunt by the mother’s group
this year. The group numbers has fallen to a minimum and an
acceptable date was not found. Discussion followed on how
the group’s numbers could be increased.
Education: See Below.
Worship and Spiritual Life: Barbara reported that the Legion of
Mary is preparing several parishioners for the Total Consecration event
on May 13. The Legion was able to secure 500 copies of the Mathew
Kelly’s book “Rediscovering Catholicism” which they distributed after
each Mass on Easter weekend. Spiritual Life committee is
investigating a series from the Catholic Lighthouse publishers;
offering parishioners another opportunity to grow in their
understanding of the faith.
Liturgy Committee: The Divine Mercy Cenacle is preparing to have
the Divine Mercy Chaplet before the Masses on Divine Mercy
Sunday. Upcoming calendar includes First Communion of April 22,
May Crowning after the 11AM Mass on May 6, Feast of Our Lady of Fatima
on May 13, and Confirmation of Wednesday, May 16.
Social Action:
Martha reported that the Haiti committee is finding the amount of
financial support for the Parish school of Fr. Phi is shrinking.
In addition Fr. Wilfranc is planning a visit this spring to thank OLOF
for the generous gift of his truck. Fr. McNeely will inform Mr.
McKenzie of the apparent conflict with two separate Haiti parishes
requesting assistance from OLOF. OLOF is supporting Family
Promise this week. Martha reminded council that the second annual
“Lean on Me” concert for Good Neighbors is April 29 at 6 PM at Fairview
United Methodist Church. Joe Szmidt is again organizing the event
which was very successful last year.
Parish Life: Dennis Ryniec’s replacement is pending. Council bylaws were consulted regarding Parish Life.
Communication: A “Second Collection” sign will be available at the front entrance on appropriate Sundays.
Administration:
Mike Flynn has been hired as a building/facility manager. Tony
Hartman retired and there is no longer a Parish Administrator.
Installation of electric service to the pavilion is underway.
New Business:
Next Meeting is May 8 at 6:30 PM in the church library. The
Council’s church cleaning day has not been set.
Flyers entitled “Come together: A vision of Where We’ve Been and Where
We’re Going” were distributed to council. The event is scheduled
for Sunday, May 20 from 2-6PM. It was unclear who was managing
the event. Claudia volunteered to research the specifics.
Pastor’s Notes: The Fatima Center renovation process is moving forward. Architect selection is complete.
Director of Religious Education- Monthly Report- April 2012
• Due to spring break, CCD did not meet the week of March 11;
• The eight "out of sequence" students currently being catechized to
receive second grade sacraments continue to meet on Sundays from 12:
15-1:00 PM. Second grade catechist, Butch Bryant, graciously
volunteered to instruct these children. I am the classroom assistant.
Of the eight, one second grader and three third graders will receive
First Communion with the second grade. The other four student will
receive individually during a designated Easter season Sunday liturgy;
• Esperanza Tuck, our bilingual part-time office assistant has been a
great blessing to the program. Families, many of whom are Latino,
continue to register for CCD and her language skills have been
invaluable in helping them feel welcome to the program;
• During the weekend of March 24, two First Communion workshops were
held for students and their families. The eight "out of sequence"
students were also included. The Saturday workshop was for
English-speaking families and Sunday's (facilitated by Juan Hernandez)
was for our Spanish-speaking population. (This is the second time these
families were split between 2 workshops. A make-up First
Reconciliation workshop was held in February for Latino families who
missed that workshop. Juan Hernandez graciously agreed to facilitate,
and it was very well attended.) We were very encouraged to have 100%
attendance between the two First Communion workshops and, in the
future, plan to continue dividing the families for these events;
• The First Communicants created ceramic blessing cups to commemorate this sacred event. The cups
have been painted and glazed. Yvonne Wells, a local art teacher, graciously assisted with the cups
and will have them fired for us at no cost;
• Upcoming events: Eighth Grade Confirmandi-Priest interviews on Wednesday, April 18; First
Communion at 11AM Mass on Sunday, April 22; Eighth Grade Confirmation Eagle Rock Retreat
the weekend of April 27-29; Final CCD for 2011-12 year is Sunday, May 6 and Wednesday, May 9;
Eighth Grade Confirmation is Wednesday, May 16.
Respectfully submitted, Dana Hogan, DRE 2 April 2012
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
February 7, 2012
Present: Dennis Ryneic, Martha Green, Clint Woodfin, Mary Burkhart, Luis Ramos, Fr. Bill McNeeley, Velma Burke, Barbara Foster
Absent: Claudia Huddleston, Carl Muse, Donna Bailey, Fr. Bill McKenzie
Meeting was called to order at 6:33 PM. Fr. Bill McNeeley offered an opening prayer.
Minutes from the January meeting were reviewed. The motion to accept,
with minor correction, was made by Mary. Dennis seconded. The minutes
were accepted by voice vote.
Old Business:
Clint will send a letter to Tony Richardson to remove him from Council
due to repeated absences. Lenten Meals reported on by Dennis (see
below). Father McNeeley discussed the proposed facility changes.
Committee Reports:
CYO:
Luis reported on events within the CYO. The Auction and Spaghetti
Dinner on 1/27/12 netted S6500, to be shared with the CCW and Knights.
CYO uses the money to offset costs of events for CYO members. ln
February the annual "sleepless" event will be in Pigeon Forge. CYO
wants to host a ministry fair before end of year. They will invite all
interested ministries to set up tables in the social hall and give a 5
minute talk for the entire group. A proposed date will be in late
March. There are 20-30 youths regularly attend.
Family Life:
Mary reported that there will be a basement cleaning this Saturday at
9AM. She also reported that the update of the One-Call system was not
accomplished. The cost has gone up significantly from the original
S1000/yr. A decision is expected from Fr. McKenzie whether the service
will be continued. CCW is selling tickets for the Mardi Gras event
planned for 2/18/12.
Education: See Attached.
Worship and Spiritual Life Barbara
reported that Dottie Osborne and Bridgette Shoecraft have taken over
Arts and Environment duties from Jeanine. Fr. McNeeley reported on the
1 day Lenten retreat presented by Juan Hernandez. Legion of Mary is
taking over the "travelling" Mary statue schedule. An 8-part Bible
study series is being piloted by the Thursday Morning Breakfast and
Bible group. lt is entitled “A quick Journey through the Bible”. A
second pilot daytime group is planned. This program has a more
extensive series (24 weeks) which may be used throughout the parish.
Liturgy Committee:
The Lenten Penance service date has not been set.
Social Action:
Martha reported that OLOF will be hosting the Blount Co Ecumenical
Action meeting on 2/28/12. She also introduced the "Inasmuch-United
Blount County" service day scheduled for March 24th. lt is a day set
aside by 7 local churches to do good works for the needy of the
community.
Parish Life:
Dennis reported that the “welcome” table is being manned at the 11AM
Mass by the Knights. He passed around the sign-up sheet for Council
members to assist with 5 PM and 8:30 AM. Council will host the first
Lenten meal on Friday Feb 24th at 5:3OPM. Remaining weeks are covered
by other ministries
Communication: Claudia was absent. “Filtering” of content on the Website was discussed. The
communication committee has reviewed website content for the last year
or more. Fr. McKenzie will be contacted regarding this issue.
Administration: No report.
New Business:
There were bugs noted recently in the kitchen. Cleanliness of the
kitchen remains an issue. Administration has addressed this issue in
the past. Clint suggested that a subcommittee may be needed. Clint
reminded all that the Council is signed up for church cleaning on
Saturday, March 3'd.
Pastor’s Notes:
Fr. McNeeley recommended that a copy of the church calendar be brought
to each council meeting to aid with scheduling questions. He closed the
meeting with prayer.
Director of Religious Education-
Monthly Report
February 2012
- The CCD program continues to see new students
enrolling; ln January, 8 students joined the program; three of their
four families are Spanish-speaking. CYO and CCD have been working
together to staff a part-time (10 hours per week) administrative
position. With the number of Spanish-speaking families in our program,
it was decided that the position required bilingual skills. During the
last week of January, a candidate to fill the position was identified:
Beginning Sunday, February 5, parishioner Esperanza Tuck will assist
with CCD and CYO needs, including CCD hours on Sunday and Wednesday;
- On Saturday morning, January 21, second graders
and their parents attended a Reconciliation workshop. Second grade
catechists Butch Carleton and Jayne Gallegos were in attendance. The
event included a visit to the confessional, a presentation to parents,
and a craft activity. Attendance was 55%. Of the 16 families who did
not attend, nine have Spanish surnames. Our Hispanic minister, Juan
Hernandez, graciously agreed to attend the event to assist the
Spanish-speaking families. None arrived, very discouraging for the
program and the parish at large. Due to a calendar conflict, Second
grade First Reconciliation has been rescheduled from Saturday, February
25 to Tuesday, February 28 at 6:30 PM;
- On Saturday, January 28, the seventh grad ers
in Confirmation I attended a prayer workshop. Seventh grade catechist
Lillian Bray joined the class. Attendance was 64%. This year’s theme
was "Praying the Labyrinth.” Labyrinth experts Mary and Stuart
Bartholomaus, All Saints' parishioners, led the retreat. After hearing
a brief presentation about this contemplative prayer form, students had
the opportunity to walk the three floor labyrinths or use the finger
labyrinth brought by the presenters. The day ended with a collage
activity in which students depicted their gifts and the ways to use
them in service to God and others;
- On Sunday, February 12, catechists will attend
one of 2 sessions of a Lenten workshop, presented from 9:45-10:45 AM
and 12:15-1:15 PM;
- The program has been fortunate to have class
for 5 uninterrupted weeks. This month, Sunday CCD will not meet on
February 12 and Wednesday night CCD will not meet on February 15 and
22. We will return to class on Sunday, February 19 and 26.
Respectfully submitted, Dana Hogan, DRE 2 February 2012
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
November 8, 2011
Present: Martha
Green, Clint Woodfin, Mary Burkhart, Luis Ramos, Fr. Bill McNeeley,
Dennis Ryneic, Claudia Huddleston, Carl Muse, Velma Burke, Barbara
Foster
Absent: Fr. Bill McKenzie
Guest: Tony Hartman
Meeting was called to order at 6:35 PM. Fr. Bill McNeeley offered the opening prayer.
Old Business:
Election of new council members is set for November 20.
Nominating committee now has 5 candidates and will create a ballot to
elect 3 out of the five. Clint reminded the council that members
will be replaced if they do not attend meetings. They will need to show
good cause when absent.
Committee Reports:
CYO:
Luis reported on events within the CYO. There was
participation in both the Pancake breakfast for Haiti and Trunk or
Treat on Oct 30th. The “Leaders” have discussed “Modesty”
and a study of the Roman Missal changes beginning in Advent. ACYC
(Alcoa Catholic Youth Conference) in Townsend, sale of luminaries for
Christmas eve and plans for progressive dinner are the current
focuses. A Youth Forum blog is also in the works.
Kid-Safe education had a good turn-out.
Family Life:
Mary discussed the Trunk and Treat on Sunday October 30. There
was a larger than expected turnout. The total budget for this
event is $125.00. Discussion followed regarding the budget
process and efforts to increase to cover costs next
year. It was suggested that a donation could be
requested when families attend. Mary also asked if the
One-Call system could be used to promote a local business which would
contribute a portion of sales to OLOF. The decision was deferred
to the Finance Committee and Fr. McKenzie
Education: See Attached.
Worship and Spiritual Life
Liturgy Committee:
Barbara reported that the All Souls Day was well attended. There
are changes in the procession. Christmas Mass schedule is as
follows: Christmas Eve: 5PM, 7PM and 12 MN. Christmas day
is 8:30 and 11 AM. No separate Hispanic Mass is
planned. The Penance service is December 13 at 7
PM. There are no new efforts on behalf of the church
nursery services. Spiritual Life Committee has no report.
Social Action:
Martha reported that the parish Right To Life Group expressed a big
thank you for the many parishioners who participated in the 40 Days for
Life at Concord Street Abortion Clinic. The Good Neighbors
program annual progressive dinner drew 176 with OLOF responsible for
desserts. The event was also supported by the Hospitality
Committee. Martha distributed fliers from Good
Neighbors. See attached. The Haiti fundraising with
the necklaces raised $685. The quilt and chest raised
$1500.
Parish Life:
Dennis reported on the welcome packet. He requested members of
the council to be present in the Narthex to assist. He
distributed a sign-up sheet for this purpose. Bob Myers has
agreed to cover 11 AM Mass. The 55+ group is without a
formal leader at this time as Fran Gallagher recovers from a recent
illness.
Communication: Claudia reported that the Website is being updated.
Administration:
The parking lot lights are now on timers. Pavilion lights are
near completion. There is still mud on the pavilion
floor after rains. The dead trees on the property are to be
replaced by ALDIs according to Tony.
Minutes from the October meeting were reviewed. The motion
to accept, with one correction, was made by Carl. Mary
seconded. The minutes were accepted by voice vote.
New Business: The Council is signed up for church cleaning on December 10. No council meeting in December.
Pastor’s Notes:
No new issues to
report.
Fr. McNeeley closed the meeting with prayer.
Director of Religious Education
Parish Pastoral Council Monthly Report
November 2011
• As of November 2, Pre-K through Grade 8 enrollment
is 238 students, an increase of 17 since the October report was
submitted. There are a total of 15 classes and 31 catechists:
• Class sizes range from 13 students in kindergarten to 34 students in the sixth grade;
• During the current CCD year, 33 second graders and 23 eighth graders are completing sacramental prep;
• Due the catechist inservice, CCD not meet on
November 6 and 9. Catechists may choose t attend either meeting
on Sunday, November 6: from 9:45-10:45 AM or 12:15-1:15 PM;
• The CCD and CYO programs present the
diocesan-mandated Keeping Kids Safe program during regular class
meeting times on Sunday 23 and Wednesday, October 26;
• The mandatory Confirmation workshop for eighth
graders, their parents and sponsors wqs held in the Fatima center on
Saturday, October 22. Eight students (1 excused and 7 unexcused)
did not attend;
• First grade CCD enrollment, at 21 students, is
smaller than expected. A bulletin announcement was run on
Sundays, October 30 and November 6 to remind families to enroll their
first graders in the program;
• A variety of volunteers are needed in the CCD
program; including substitute teachers and Wednesday night parking lot
dismissal supervision. An announcement will run in the November 6
bulletin asking for help.
Respectfully submitted by Dana Hogan, DRE November 6, 2011
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
October 11, 2011
Present: Martha
Green, Clint Woodfin, Mary Burkhardt, Luis Ramos, Fr. Bill McNeeley,
Dennis Ryneic, Claudia Huddleston, Carl Muse, Velma Burke, Barbara
Foster, Phil Malach
Absent: Tony Robinson, Fr. Bill McKenzie
Guests: Dana Hogan, DRE and Tony Hartman
Meeting was called to order at 6:32 PM. Fr. Bill McNeeley offered the opening prayer.
Minutes from the August meeting were reviewed. The motion
to accept was made by Carl. Phil seconded. The minutes were
accepted by voice vote.
Introductions:
Dana Hogan was introduced as the new DRE. She has a long
history of Catholic education, including some experience as an
assistant principal. She gave a brief report. (See
attached)
Old Business:
Election of new council members was discussed. Clint reviewed the
current bylaws which call for a nominating committee of no more than 2
council members with 2 other parishioners. It was moved
by Velma and seconded by Martha that the nominating
committee be formed and elections happen on the second weekend of
November, as outlined in the bylaws. Carl and Barbara will
represent the council. Keith Feltz and Louise Thompson were
suggested to complete the committee. Clint will follow-up.
Committee Reports:
CYO: Luis reported on events within the
CYO. CYO gatherings started Sept 7. Stress in HS was
a topic early this session and Fr. McNeeley presented “Parts of the
Mass” with the new changes. Apologetics will be the theme of the CYO
this year. A parent meeting highlighted the CYO event
schedule and Virtus training. Upcoming events include: ACYC
(Alcoa Catholic Youth Conference), 40 Days for Life at the Concord
abortion clinic prayer vigil. Pancake breakfast for Haiti and
Trunk or Treat events both on Oct 30th. Awards given during the
Youth Day were: The Discipleship to Luis, Light of the World to
Andy Schneider, and Companion of the Journey to Beth Parsons.
Family Life:
Quilters group is providing a quilt to raffle for funds to pay off the
church. The Mom’s group is still interested in having the
playground phase 2 and 3 completed. However, they are not
focusing their efforts on that project at this time. Mary discussed the
Trunk and Treat set for Sunday October 30 from 4 to 7:30
PM. She will need help with decorating on
Saturday the 29th starting at 9:30 AM, Sunday set up at 1 PM and
clean-up. CYO will assist. Sign-up sheets will be posted in
the narthex. The nursery is no longer available during Sunday
Masses. There are no Virtus-trained adults available to
provide supervision.
Education:
See Attached. The foyer into the Fatima Center has had some
improvements. The placement of OLOF statues and Our Lady of
Guadalupe is under discussion.
Worship and Spiritual Life:
Barbara reported there has been no new activity since the Scott Hahn
event. Feedback from the parishioners is being sought through a
survey. The chairpersons from the major parish committees will be
polled regarding their preference for retreats, devotions, speakers or
topics for small study groups.
Liturgy Committee:
Barbara reported on the Healing service on Monday, October 24th at the
8AM Mass. There will be a first-class relic available at
the service. A Novena to St. Anthony Claret is a part of the
healing prayers. Roman Missal translation is ongoing.
At the All Souls Day Mass parishioners, who have lost someone in the
last year, will be asked to be part of the Mass.
Social Action:
Martha reported that the parish Prolife Group is sponsoring a table at
the Right to Life dinner in Knoxville. There is one ticket left
at a cost of $50. 40 days for Life is underway at Concord
Street Abortion Clinic, OLOF is responsible for 3 days (7 AM to 7 PM)
and we are in need of more volunteers. St Joseph Workers has
steady flow of calls for needs and helpers. Joe Schmitz needs a
backup organizer. He has green forms in the hall for
treasures to donate or needs for specific items. Martha expressed
a concern about confidentiality of those requesting help. Martha
continues investigate the thrift store idea. Ladies of
Charity versus St. Vincent DePaul was a point of
discussion. She was referred to Fr. McKenzie after further
information is gathered. The Good Neighbors program
is having their annual progressive dinner with OLOF responsible for
desserts. The event will be November 6 at 1:15PM with a
possible attendance of 250. Tickets are $25
each. A fundraiser coupon idea was tabled for this
time. Haiti fundraising will involve the Confirmation
class who will be helping with a raffle on November 12th.
The breakfast on Oct 30th is still planned for the Haiti effort as
well. Family Promise OLOF week is Oct 24th. All
arrangements are in place. Family Promise is also hosting a
Pastor’s breakfast on Oct 18, a commitment from OLOF is
pending.
Parish Life:
Dennis reported on the welcome packet and plans to begin first Sunday
of Nov. He showed a small directional sign to draw new
members in the narthex space. All weekend Masses need
coverage. It was suggested that the ushers be informed in the
event they are approached by newcomers. Additional
volunteers are needed to cover. Coffee and donut Sundays
are an opportunity to get others to join this effort. Council
members were reminded to wear the Council name tags.
Communication:
Claudia gave a history of the communication committee efforts.
Email addresses and phone numbers were updated in the parish
database. The ability to send an email to a selected group
is built into the system. It was recommended that interaction
between groups would be better facilitated if all the groups knew the
heads of the rest of the groups. The website has also
improved information flow to all the parishioners. Multiple
positive comments have been given for the bulletin.
Administration:
The Pavilion will have more sidewalks and a ceiling with lights
soon. Church roof repair is completed. The kitchen
and pantry is now locked. Mary will check out the key with a
checklist of materials. The hidden culvert with a sharp edge has
been painted bright orange and a protective covering is planned.
The ladies restroom light in the church was repaired.
New Business: The Council is signed up for church cleaning Oct 22 and December 10.
Pastor’s Notes:
No new issues to
report.
Fr. McNeely closed the meeting with prayer.
Director of Religious Education
Parish Pastoral Council Monthly Report
October 2011
• As of October 10, Pre-K through Grade 8 enrollment
is 221 students. There are a total of 15 classes and 31
catechists:
• Class sizes range from 13 students in kindergarten to 33 students in the sixth grade;
• During the current CCD year, 30 second graders and 21 eighth graders are completing sacramental prep;
• Due the school district’s fall break, class did not
meet the weeks of Oct 2 and 9. They will resume on Sunday,
October 16;
• To get acquainted with the catechists, the DRE has
scheduled a meeting. Catechists may choose from two sessions:
Wednesday, October 12 at 6 PM or Sunday, October 16 at noon.
• During October, the CCD and CYO programs will be
presenting the diocesan “Keeping Kids Safe” program during regular
class meeting times on Sunday, October 23 and Wednesday, October 26;
• The Confirmation workshop of eighth graders, their
parents and sponsors will be held at the Fatima Center on Saturday,
October 22 from 10 AM – 2 PM.
Respectfully submitted by Dana Hogan, DRE
October 10, 2011
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
September 2011
The meeting was cancelled. There are not minutes.
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
August 16, 2011
Present: Martha
Green, Clint Woodfin, Mary Burkhardt, Luis Ramos, Fr. Bill McKenzie,
Fr. Bill McNeeley, Dennis Ryneic, Claudia Huddleston, Carl Muse,
Absent: Velma Burke, Barbara Foster, Tony Robinson
Meeting was called to order at 6:35 PM by Clint. Fr. Bill McKenzie gave the opening prayer.
Minutes from the July meeting were reviewed. A motion to
accept was made by Claudia with a second by Dennis. The minutes
were accepted by voice vote.
Old Business: Election of new council members was
discussed. Four replacements are needed. Carl Muse,
Kathy and Claudia will run for election later this
month. Nominations are still open and Tony Hartman will create
the ballot. Fr. McKenzie noted that in the future a roster of
candidates must be submitted to the Pastor before the ballot is
created. The roof work will begin on the 22nd. One-Call
system has been set up for the Council by Mary Burkhardt. The
meeting will be set again on the second Tuesday.
Committee Reports:
Family Life:
Mary discussed the Trunk and Treat celebration set for Sunday October
30 within the Fatima Center around 4 to 7:30
PM.
CYO: Luis reported on events within the
CYO. Facebook page is well underway. Questions to the
Priest are being included. Update of permission slips from
the Diocese will now include permission for pictures to be
published. Upcoming events will be: Board game night,
coffee karaoke and luau night. Diocesan World Youth Day camp,
Sept 10 is the Diocesan Youth Mass and celebration. First
night of CYO is Sept 2nd. Apologetics will be the theme of the
CYO this year. Also look at the changes to the Roman
Missal.
Education: CCD registration is underway. Fr. McKenzie is heading up a team for a new DRE selection.
Worship and Spiritual: Clint read a report of the Scott
Hahn event from Angie Feltz. (See Attached). In addition
there is interest in promoting the Eucharist Adoration and the
traveling St. Mary’s statue. They hope to prepare a survey for
the CCD open house. They want to get input from parishioners for
upcoming Spiritual Life activities.
Liturgy Committee: Clint submitted a report from
Barbara. There is a plan to have a 7PM Mass on All Souls Day with
a special invitation to all parishioners who lost some one within the
last year. Also have planned with Father on how to
best implement the changes in the Roman Missal planned for
Advent. Father clarified that there are no changes in
the Mass, only a new translation in certain parts of the Mass.
The number of workbooks for lectors is questioned, since some are not
being used. Father will discuss the quantity with the
lectors. Specific changes were then listed for all the lectors
and Eucharistic ministers.
Social Action: Fr. McNeely accompanied Martha to 4
local service offices and she received positive feedback from several
people as a result. Respect Life Group is assisting with a
fund raiser at Sevier Heights Baptist Church on August 18.
Fr. McKenzie will lead the opening prayer. St. Josephs Helpers is
gaining momentum. Currently there have been 277 people offering
assistance and 13 requests for help. Joe Szmidt continues
to lead the group. Fr. McNeely requested a parish policy on
visits to individual homes. Fr. McKenzie stated all visits must
be done by 2 people for safety reasons. The exception is
when the Eucharistic Ministers are providing Holy
Communion. Family Promise OLOF week in July
went well. There is a suggestion that we become a Host church
instead of Support. As it stands, during our week to support the
people stay at St. Paul Lutheran church. Pete O’Neil is the
program chair and does not feel our Fatima center is conducive to
hosting at this time. We may be asked to increase our volunteer
hours during the commitment. The question of Diocesan
support was discussed. At this time the Diocese is firm that we
be only a support church. Fr. Wilfranc, from Haiti was
grateful to the parish for the financial support. The new pastor
for our school in Haiti is Fr. Phito Gilles. K of C is doing a
breakfast Oct 30th. The Confirmation class will be helping with a
raffle. The raffle is a quilt made by Delores Maglione and
blanket chest made by Richard Harbison. The goal is to raise
$4000 for a village water filtration system. This is
important to prevent cholera. The Souders made a trip to
Haiti to teach how to make soap. Habitat for Humanity is
beginning a Faith Relations Committee. They want a priest from
our parish to attend the monthly meeting and promote their efforts in
our parish. Martha then suggested some ways the parish
could raise extra dollars to help support more social action within the
county. A thrift store, owned and operated by a local church
clears $30,000 a year. Gift cards similar to the Kroger and Food
City cards, sold by the K of C, are available from thousands of
companies includingTarget, Walmart, and area
restaurants. An on-line company “Great Lakes Scrips”
projected that the church could earn $11 per family per week from these
cards.
Parish Life: Dennis reported on the welcome packet
and plans to begin ASAP. Narthex space and volunteers to man a
table is recommended. Also discussed was the process of
welcoming through use of a lapel button that says “If you are new, tell
me.” Father would also like to make a verbal
welcoming during the Mass one weekend a month. Other
suggestions were to have new comers recognized by either the person who
does the announcements at the beginning of Mass or the greeting before
Mass. Decisions were tabled for the next meeting. In
addition, September 17 is the Parish welcome for the Priests.
Communication: Claudia reported that the parish office
secretary needs the contact numbers for future council meetings.
Website is under construction. Corrections were made to the
Council roster.
Administration: Church roof repair is coming up
soon. There was an injury by a CYO member last week on a nearly
hidden culvert that has a sharp edge. Repairs are needed.
Tony Hartman will be informed. The Ladies restroom light is
flickering was reported by a parishioner with a concern about her
daughter’s epilepsy. Other structural/maintenance issues were
discussed.
New Business:
September 17 is the Parish welcome for the Priests.
In the spirit of helping persons through the current tough times,
Martha suggested a singles group to be supported by the parish.
An exercise class that is free was also recommended. Father
noted that Blount County Senior Citizens Services provides some of
these types of offerings.
Pastor’s Notes: Both the priests were encouraged by the transition with the parish. No new issues to report.
Fr. McNeely closed the meeting with prayer.
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Our Lady of Fatima
Parish Council Meeting
May 10, 2011
Present: Greg Ward, Steve Kintzele,
Mary Burkhardt, Velma Burke, Martha Green, Claudia
Huddleston, Clint Woodfin, James Haug,
Dennis Ryneic, Carl Muse, Fr. Bede
Absent: Barbara Foster, Phil Malach, Tony
Robinson
Guest: Tony Hartman, Tom Witt
Meeting was called to order at 6:36 PM by Greg. Fr. Bede offered an
opening prayer.
Minutes from the March meeting were reviewed. Minor changes were made. The motion to accept was made by Clint with
a second by Mary. The minutes were
accepted by voice vote.
Old Business: Tom Witt reported on the ALDI agreement specifics. See Attached map and table. The outcome of the agreement
netted the parish approximately $77,000 in benefits. He also reported good results on
the electric expense management with a reduction especially noted in
March. Negotiations, with several
parties, on the roof repairs are expected later this week. Tom also reminded the council that the
budget process is beginning soon.
All committee chairs need to complete and return budget requests promptly.
Committee Reports:
CYO: James Haug reported that CYO will formally end for the summer on
the 18th of May. All the
local High School graduates will be recognized at the 8:30 Sunday Mass on the
15th. The
recycling program has been well received and executed. James successor to the council has not
yet been appointed.
Family Life: Mary
Burkhart reported on the changes to the bulletin. The first edition of the new format was
considered a success. Mary asked
that all groups contribute information regularly. CCW contributed $500 to the
Mothers Group for Phase One of the playground. There is only $300 remaining to finish
this phase. Discussion followed regarding
the clothing donations which are overflowing the container provided. Mary will get with the Mother’s group to
keep the area cleared. Assistance from the CYO had been
suggested.
Education: Claudia Huddleston reminded the Council that
Confirmation is Saturday, May 14 at the 5:00 Mass.
Worship and Spiritual: Steve Kintzele
discussed the travelling Fatima statue schedule, there are several
openings. The Scott Haun event in July has sold more than 318 tickets to date. OLOF accounts for 55% of the
tickets. Proceeds exceed $4000 to
date. At this point the expenditures are
covered. Any profit will be used
for future spiritual life events. The
committee and sub committees are preparing to feed the crowd with a catered
lunch and snacks between talks. Greg requested a complete list of
committee chairs and participants in order to formally recognize their
efforts. Finally Steve noted that
the council has another cleaning date on Saturday, June 4th.
Social Action: Martha Green noted that the OLOF Family Promise week went
well. A mentoring program, for
families who have graduated, is being planned. Martha will bring additional details to
the next meeting. The Haiti
Outreach committee shipped 81 boxes including 4 bikes, diesel generator, water
purification system and Collette Souder’s soap materials. The Rocking chair fundraiser brought in
more than $2500. The Good Neighbors
fundraiser entitled “Lean on Me” netted $7200. Thanks to Joe Szmidt
who organized and emceed the event.
Other active groups within the parish include the MEV group (aka “Right
to Life”), who have raised funds with bread sales and now the baby bottle
program available in the narthex.
Martha then listed multiple comments from the wider Blount Co. community
about OLOF parishioner’s work.
Agencies with OLOF volunteers include Community Food Connection, Global
Women’s work day, Good Neighbors, Trinity Dental, local nursing home
visitors.
Parish Life: Dennis Ryneic commented that the Lenten meals seem to go
well. He raised the issue of the
welcome committee and pamphlets.
Fr. Bede noted that there is a brochure available. Greg expressed a concern that space in
the narthex is limited due to the many rows of chairs in the “Cry area”. It was noted that this area
is being used by individuals without children. Efforts will be made to reorganize the
narthex to allow for a Welcome table. Claudia recommended an Email
welcome as well. It was suggested that any Welcome table
effort include the ushers since most newcomers approach them first.
Communication: Claudia
Huddleston and Clint Woodfin reported that the
website is undergoing significant change to allow time-sensitive and up-to-date
information to be entered by each ministries chair or designated
representative. Policy and
procedures for posted information will be established to assure
appropriateness. Greg Ward (not the
council chair) is instrumental in making the website user-friendly. Thanks were expressed for all the efforts
of Roy Ehman to maintain the website since its
beginning. Attention to the hall
bulletin boards will happen next.
Administration: Carl
Muse reported on the Knights efforts to raise money at the recent Townsend “Old
Settlers Days and BBQ. A total of
$2500 was brought in.
Greg noted that Parish council nominations are currently being
sought. The elections will
occur in June. Bios and pictures
are needed by the end of May. Four replacements are needed to maintain
a 12-member council. Greg also
asked to have the council president vote in June, since he will be completing
his term this year.
Pastor’s Comments: Seminarian collection yielded approximately $3000. Fr. Bede requested a letter of
commendation from the council to Tom Witt for all his efforts on behalf of the
parish. OLOF will have seminarian
Arthur Torres in residence for the next few months. A music ministry director position has
been awarded to Will Thomas, with a start date of 6-1-11. He will hold the organist position as
well after Jonathan Ziegler leaves later this year. The Pastor/Parish secretary position has
not yet been filled. Dottie
O’Neal is filling in temporarily.
Fr. Bede offered a closing prayer and blessing.
The meeting ended at 8:40PM.
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Our Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
March 8, 2011
Attendance:
Fr. Bede, Greg Ward, Steve Kintzele, Mary Burkhart, Martha Green,
Phil Malach, Claudia Huddleston, Clint Woodfin, Barbara Foster,
Velma Burke, Dennis Ryniec, Carl Muse, Tony Richardson
Absent: James
Haug
Guest: Tony
Hartman, Fr Shelton
Meeting was called to order at 6:30 by Greg. Fr. Bede led the
Council in an opening Prayer.
The minutes for February were reviewed. A motion was made by Phil to
accept the minutes and Carl seconded the motion. The council, by voice
vote, accepted the minutes.
Old Business:
Dolores Maglione discussed the One Call System which has been used in a
limited amount, it is now in full use and Dolores gave the information
on how to use it to the council. It will also be given to the other
parish ministry groups.
Velma will be taking over the secretary job from Steve beginning with
the next meeting.
Barbara passed out the remaining Parish Council name tags to the
members of the council.
Committee Reports:
CYO: No Report
Family Life:
The fabric has been bought and sown for all the statues, so that they
will be covered the 5th week of Lent. There is only one that still has
to be done and that one is at the entrance of the Fatima Center. Mary
asked Fr. Bede about its use on Good Friday. The new bulletin is just
about ready, still need to check with Louise. The Mom’s Group
will be having their Easter egg hunt on Saturday, and it will be an
Easter Celebration with lots of things to do for the kids. They will
have a bake sale to raise money for the playground equipment. They
still need $3,000.00 to install the 1st phase of the playground
equipment. If anyone has an idea on how to raise money please get
with Liz.
Education:
The door going down to the basement classroom will start to be locked
when classes are not being held. Kids are being dropped off and are
going downstairs without supervision. They are proceeding with changing
the entrance of Fatima Center; they will be painting a mural on the
wall.
Worship and Spiritual Life:
Ash Wednesday masses will be 8:00am, noon, and 7:00 bilingual. Stations
of the Cross will begin on Friday along with the Lenten Meal. Holy Week
Masses will be the same on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. There will be
one mass, bilingual, on Holy Thursday at 7:00PM. Good Friday service
will be at 7:00PM, Holy Saturday Easter Vigil mass will start at 8:30,
sundown, it will be bilingual. Easter Masses will be at 8:00, 11:00 and
1:00PM. 1st Communion will be on May 1st. The crowning of Mary will be
held on May 8th after the 8:30 Mass, weather permitting. Confirmation
will be on May 14th, with Bishop Sitka presiding, at 5:00PM. Our Lady
of Fatima feast day is Friday May 13th; there will be an 8:00am and
7:00pm mass. The 7:00pm mass will be bilingual.
Fr. Simon will be here April 9th thru the 15th, for our Parish Mission.
Tickets are on sale for the Scott Hahn Event.
Social Action:
Haiti Committee has reported that FR. Wilfranc has asked for a
Monstrance and one of the members committee will purchase one for him.
FR. Wilfranc will be in Virginia in April. They will be boxing up
they supplies for Haiti. Habitat for Humanity is moving and Martha is
going to check and see if they have any left over stuff that we could
send to Haiti. The Souder’s will be going to Haiti to teach them how to
make soap, so that they can make the soap and sell it.
Good Neighbors had an article in the Daily Times which was caught by a
TV station and they also did a piece on them. The result of this they
have received over $15,000.00 in donations. The homeless situation in
Blount County is approximately 70; there are 30 of these that have no
car or much of anything.
Parish Life:
Dennis reported that the dates have been set with the ministries. He
reported what several churches do in our area to get information to new
members. They have committees that get back to the new people within 24
hours. Info was passed around to the council members to view. Once we
are set up there will be an announcement made every weekend to inform
people who would like to join our parish.
Communication:
There was a discussion about the messaging system needing updating; it
is still giving information about Christmas. Also the web site also
needs to be checked for correct info.
Administration:
The pavilion is moving along, they are deciding what to use on the
overhang and end caps. They have cut a ditch along the edge of the pad,
with the heavy rain the water is coming onto the pad. Carl and Phil
will inform the workers. The K of C are looking into what
types of tables are going to go in the pavilion; they are going to give
several suggestions to Fr. Bede. They are still deciding what course to
follow in fixing all of the roof leaks; Tom Witt is taking the lead.
There will be a double row of trees between the pavilion and the road,
Tom Witt is in communication with the city. The parish council election
was brought up, need candidates.
New Business:
Fr. Shelton gave a report on his presentation of Priest and Parish: he
had 18 sessions; there was a slow response from the ministry groups. He
scheduled 8 groups. He had several recommendations:
1-The office could maintain an updated list of contact people for
the ministries.
2- All parish groups make a monthly report to the RRC.
FR Shelton will start his Lenten Reflections on Thursday 3-10-11;
it will be on the Church and the Sacred Scriptures. (“Between”).
Velma will be taking over as the recording secretary.
Juan and Martha were talking about a “Cinco de Mayo” party for the
parish with the help of the Hospitality Group. Martha will get
back with Juan.
Fr Bede talked about the new liturgy that will be starting the
first week of Advent. It will be new for the priest also. It will be
done all at the same time it will not be piece meal. The new liturgies
will more closely follow the Latin prayers.
There was a discussion about the policy about the use of the church and
what type payment should be made. The Administration committee will
look back at the policy.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:34.
Fr. Shelton led the council in the closing prayer; he then blessed the
council members.
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Our Lady of Fatima
Parish Council Meeting
February 8, 2011
Attendance: Greg Ward,
Steve Kintzele, Mary Burkhart, Martha Green, Phil Malach, Claudia
Huddleston, Clint Woodfin, Barbara Foster, James Haug, Velma Burke,
Dennis Ryniec, Carl Muse
Absent: Fr. Bede, Tony
Richardson
Guest: Tony Hartman
Meeting was called to order at 6:30 by Greg. Greg led the Council in an
opening Prayer.
The minutes for January were reviewed. A motion was made by Phil to
accept the minutes and Velma seconded the motion. The council, by voice
vote, accepted the minutes.
Old Business: The Parish
Retreat will be in April instead of March.
The name of Scott Haun has been misspelled in the past minutes, Steve
will update the last several months of minutes.
There are questions about the electronic Faith Giving site, where is it
located on our web site. Also there was a question of whether it was a
lump sum at the beginning of the month or if it can it be done weekly.
A question was asked if we still had the copper wire from the old
911 center and had it been stripped; it is still in the rectory.
Name tags, for the council, were brought up. Barbara will get the names
tags.
The lights outside the narthex are now working. They also leveled out
the hill, by Louisville Road.
They are still talking to the shingle company about the bad shingles.
Tom Witt is still working on this.
Committee Reports:
CYO—No CYO meeting was
held during January because of the weather. The annual spaghetti
dinner/auction was held last Saturday, it was well attended and the
auction went very well. The big item was a TV set which had a lot of
action. They are working on a project to recycle in the parish.
Family Life: No
Report. Mary is still working on the new bulletin.
Education: Joyce held a
reconciliation workshop to begin preparation for the 2nd grade class on
January 29th. 1st reconciliation will be held on Feb 26th. Joyce asked
about the Lenten meals, Dennis will contact her and they may work with
the CYO. There will be teachers’ in-services for Lent on Feb. 20 and
23. They are still working on the mural at the entrance of the Fatima
Center, where the Coke machine used to be.
Worship and Spiritual Life:
There was no Liturgy meeting since December; the next one is scheduled
for the end of February.
Spiritual Life is moving along with the Scott Haun visit in July.
Tickets will be going on sale in the parish shortly. Two tickets were
given to the CYO for their auction. We are now looking at where we will
be getting the box lunches. Tickets will be going on sale for people
outside the parish at the end of March.
The Parish Retreat will be on April 8th thru April 15th.
Social Action:
Family Promise had a great week. They received $20,000.00 from area
churches. A family donated over 30 children’s books. They have two new
board members and a new intern. Marriott Business services brought us
$700-800 in needed supplies (diapers, wipes, laundry detergent, toilet
paper, etc.)
Good neighbors had 698 phone calls come in and volunteers for the month
numbered 295 hours. That represents a very large amount of
volunteering for just one group.
There is a homeless coalition forming in Blount County to address
the situation. The Salvation Army, over Christmas, raised $70,000.00 in
Blount County.
The Haiti committee, sea container, is coming up April 1st thru the
15th; more info will be forthcoming. Father Wilfranc did get another
parish to be the sister parish of his new parish. They are still
working on the Cholera situation by looking into a water system.
BCEAC luncheon will here on June 28th 11:30 to 1:00. Martha will get
them the info about Scott Haun coming here in July.
Parish Life: Dennis has
the groups set for the Lenten meals with the Parish Council starting it
off on March 11th.
Communication:
They will be taking over the communication with the East
Tennessee Catholic, to get info in the paper about Our Lady of Fatima.
Clint has been looking at the web site to see what needs to be updated.
Clint asked if the Council members would be OK having their picture
taken and having it placed in the Narthex someplace so people know who
is on the council.
Administration:
Tony will be out of town for a couple of weeks. Phil is going to get
with Jack Henson about the gulley between the two sidewalks, by the new
pavilion, to see what can be done to level or redirect this area. The
dumpster has been moved to behind the Fatima Center, by the A/C units.
They will have to keep an eye on it this summer to make sure that the
asphalt is thick enough to hold the truck up.
There will be a gate installed by the entrance, on the right side of
the rectory, which we will be able to open and close. They are also
looking into putting up signs saying Our Lady of Fatima Parking only.
They are looking for some one to take over the kitchen duties, as well
as ordering supplies.
New Business: James
made a suggestion that we have a way to get the parishioners to write
letters in favor of our priests and then forward them to the bishop. We
know that there are people who like the way they are providing for our
parish. The way to do this was discussed and will be discussed later.
Steve announced that he would be resigning as the secretary for health
reasons and is not sure how much time this problem is going to
take up. He will do the February minutes and then hand it off to
someone else. He will finish his term doing the worship and spiritual
life until the next election.
The meeting was adjourned at 8:15.
The council members went to the Adoration Chapel to pray a
closing prayer on their own.
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Our
Lady of Fatima Parish Council Meeting
November
9, 2010
Attendance: Greg Ward, Steve
Kintzele, Mary Burkhart, Martha Green, Phil Malach, James Haug, Carl
Muse, Velma Burke, Tony Richardson, Claudia Huddleston, Dennis Ryniec,
Barbara Foster, Fr. Bede
Absent: Clint
Woodfin
Guests:
Tony Hartman,
Joe Szmidt
Meeting was
called to order at 6:30 Fr. Bede led the council in an
opening prayer.
The minutes for
September and October were reviewed and accepted by a voice vote of the
council members.
The next date
for the Parish Council to clean the church is December 11th.
Clint was
nominated and accepted to join the American INS of Court. The dinner
and recognition is tonight, so he will not be able to attend the
meeting.
There will
be no meeting in December.
Old Business: James brought up about
not being able to change info on the web site. He said that you can
change data on your screen, but it does not change the data on the web
site. It can only be changed by the Webmaster or someone that has the
password.
Names were
turned in, to Greg, for the Strategic Planning group. He will meet with
Fr. Bede.
Committee
Reports
CYO:
The CYO cleaned
the church on Nov 6th; they had 5 people show up. They are
having a fall retreat in Townsend this Sunday; it will be focusing on
self esteem and prayer. Beginning Nov 20th the youths will
be volunteering to be Lectors, Ushers, Choir members at the 5pm Mass on
Saturday night. They will be doing this on the 3rd Saturday
of every month. December 15th they will be having a potluck
dinner and gift exchange.
Administration: Carl mentioned that the
two plugs under the service window, are not working. The garbage
disposal switch is not working properly and needs to be checked out.
The handle for the hot water, on one of the sinks is missing. The work
is continuing on the pavilion. Someone reported the one of the
commodes is not working in the ladies restroom.
Family Life: Mary wanted to thank
everyone who helped with Trunk or Treat, it went very well. Over
100 people attended. There was, however, a problem with scheduling.
Mary had signed up to have the Social Hall Saturday and Sunday for
trunk or treat. The KOC had a pancake breakfast scheduled for Sunday
and the social hall had already been set up. So it had basically been
double booked.
Mary also
mentioned that when she went down stairs, with Joyce and Beth, to put
the Halloween stuff away that the lights were on. No one knew how long
they had been on. Mary asked if there could be a motion sensor switch
put in to turn the lights off and on. Tony Hartman said though there is
a plan to look at sensors, there was not one for this area. He said he
will also check on having them installed there, as well.
The CCW will be
having their bake/no bake sale this weekend after all the Masses.
Education: Joyce is very busy in the
Religious Ed Dept. They enjoyed helping and participating in the trunk
or treat event. Mary did a great job. This coming Sunday and next
Wednesday, there will be a catechists meeting to review Advent
preparation and activates. Joyce would love having someone step up and
help put together a Jesse tree presentation instead of just putting up
a tree in the narthex. Joyce does not have the time to take on any new
projects but wishes to make more of a connection with the parish and
thinks this would be a good way to do it. Perhaps a narrative about
what the Jesse tree stands for would be a start.
Joyce will be
on vacation from Nov 21st-November 30th. There will be no classes other
than on the 21st. There was some discussion about the second
entrance to the Fatima center being dirty and needing to be cleaned up.
Someone also asked about a coke machine being put back in that area.
Worship and
Spiritual Life: Advent begins on November
27th. Feast of the Immaculate Conception is on Wednesday Dec
8th, the Vigil Mass will be Tuesday Dec 7th at
6:00pm, Masses on Wednesday at 8:00am and 7:00pm bi-lingual. The feast
of Our Lady of Guadalupe is Saturday Dec 11th, at 7:30 the
regular Spanish mass. The penitential service will be Monday Dec 14th
at 7:00. Christmas Masses are scheduled for Friday (Christmas Eve)
6:30, children’s mass, 7:30 Spanish and 12:00am Midnight mass, with
carols starting at 11:30pm. Christmas Day mass are 8:30, 11:00, and
1:00pm all English. Sunday, Dec 26, there will be no vigil masses on
Saturday; the Masses will be at 8:30am 11:00am and 1:00pm Spanish. New
Years Day there will be just the regular 8:00 am Mass. January 2nd
Masses will go back to the regular schedule, including the Vigil Mass.
Spiritual Life
had their second meeting for the Scott Haun presentation on July 16th
2011. We are still waiting for a contract so that we can confirm that
he will be here. There will be a box lunch served. We are looking into
prices, so that we can keep the price of the ticket at $15.00.
Social
Action: Haiti
has had a cholera outbreak, Fr. Wilfranc is in need of chorine tablets,
so the committee is sending him $2,000.00, we can not send the tablets
not sure if they would get to him. Fr. Wilfranc is looking for a sister
parish to work with his new parish. The Souder’s will be having their
soap sale again after all masses December 11th with all the
proceeds going to Haiti.
Good Neighbors
had their progressive dinner and raised over $5,000.00 which is better
than last year.
Family Promise:
Our next scheduled week is the first week of January. They are planning
a rummage sale to help raise money. We have about 27 people involved in
this program.
Parish Life:
Dennis
is trying to reach the people in the different groups that fall under
parish life; it has been just causal conversation right now.
Communication:
Claudia
has about 50% of the emails. She is going to work with Kathy to try and
pull out the information of the organization in the parish to get more
emails. She will meet with Fr. Bede so that they can decide what groups
are to be included. She will then meet with the heads of these groups
for the emails address as needed.
Claudia brought
up an inconsistency of putting flyers into the bulletin. She was told
that there would be no charge and another person said that there was a
charge. She put the flyer in for 4 weeks; she was later told that there
would be a $7.00 charge for the flyers. She has looked at other
bulletins and was wondering if we could revamp ours so that we could
get information out without the added flyers. Fr. Bede has told the
office workers that only Diocesan and parish flyers that he has
approved will be put into the bulletin. This will take effect January 1st.
The telephone
communication update project is still being worked on.
Joe Szmidt
mentioned that there was so much “stuff” near the bulletin board by the
Nursery you could not get to the board to read it.
New Business: 2011 Parish Council
election, everyone needs to be thinking about it now. The elections
will be held in May. The people, who are chosen, should be asked in
January/ February to discern if they would like to be nominated, and
put up for election to the parish council. There will be 4 people
whose terms are ending in June.
There has been
a lot of discussion about why members have left and why. The number one
reason is that there is a lot of negativism that is taking away from
the mass. The second thing that was brought up was that only one
committee is doing all the work and they are getting burned out. It
seems that the fun, and the fellowship, is starting to erode. It seems
that the attendance at the Mass is going down. One past member said
that she went to a different church because of the “kissing and
hugging” at her new church; this church is not a Catholic church.
One of the
council members said that she visited her son’s church, in California,
and that there were 2 Parish Council Members, a greeter, and the priest
saying hi to everyone that came through the door. There was
discussion of going back to the Parish Council name tags and have them
start to greet people at the masses.
Tony Hartman
said that the he would like the parish council to clean the church on
Dec 11th. Tony asked for a person to be a point
contact for the parish council and nobody stepped up, so I, Steve said
I would be the contact person.
Fr. Bede gave
his comments about how he sees our parish moving forward and becoming
one parish. He would like to see the new people recognized when they
visit us. He likes the conversations that the parish council has and
the way we are trying to improve our parish. Fr Bede wants our parish
to have more of a spiritual meaning which will bring the fellowship of
the members. He is looking into bringing a priest here to present a
retreat for the parish at the beginning of Lent.
Bishop Stika’s
Twenty-fifth anniversary of his ordination is coming up on Dec. 12th
at Scared Heart at 3:00pm.
Father also
spoke about the memorial bricks, and that they are starting to have a
lot of weeds and are sagging. Tony said that he would get with Sharon
Brothers and see what can be done. It was brought up that the brick
base may have to be redone to correct the bricks that are sagging. He
asked if the Blount County Ecumenical council could assist in the
prison ministry. Martha Green will talk with Fr. Bede. Fr. Bede asked
for assistance in shutting off lights if you are the last person in a
room, he knows that they are going to put sensors in the restrooms to
help with this situation.
Roof leaks: a
claim has been turned into Catholic Mutual Insurance. They sent an
engineer out to look at it; the engineer and the roofer walked the
whole length between the ceiling and roof. The engineer determined that
the roof was not constructed correctly. He or Father would write Merit
Construction to see what they say about coming out to fix it. The
roofer that went up with the engineer said he would do the job for
$85,000.00 that is putting on a whole new roof. It is a construction
problem, we could just patch it but we would get another leak some
where else.
Dennis will
look into a visitor table at the entrance of the church.
The meeting was
adjourned at 8:55pm
Fr. Bede led
the council in the closing prayer and final blessing.
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