Notes: Arkansas Valley Church Cluster Meeting
September 15, 2007
Gary Weaver
Purpose:
With representation from 5 of the 7 churches, the Cluster met for two purposes:
1) to develop a process for evaluating the mission projects funded by presbytery for 2008; and 2) to consider other mission projects they might work on together in 2008.
Evaluation Process:
In the letter (see sample p.2) that advises the 3 hospice mission projects of their grant for 2008, an Assessment Form (sample p.3) will be included for them to complete and return by February 15, 2008 with their request for 2009. Contact people and addresses for the 3 hospices will be provided by M.J. Romano for Ark Valley; Gary Gardner for Sangre de Cristo; and Rory Gillespie for Lamar Area to the Presbytery Office. The Cluster will meet to consider these assessments and requests March 1, 2008.
Covenant Projects:
A number of potential projects were discussed but the Cluster determined that this is an evolving process requiring more thought and consideration by the individual sessions of the churches. However, each one was reminded to think “outward” and in connection with the other sister churches in the cluster as programs are being planned and mission projects are being developed. A potential mission project for the whole Cluster is the future ministry of the congregation in Aguilar after Sam Madrid retires. One suggestion was that elders be trained from each of the 6 churches to provide pulpit supply and pastoral care as encouraged by the Book of Order (G-6.0304) and rotate Sundays with the team of trained elders.
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SAMPLE LETTER TO MISSION PROJECTS:
Dear :
We are pleased to inform you that the Arkansas Valley Presbyterian Church Cluster has recommended your hospice for a grant of $500.00 (enclosed) for the year 2008 as authorized by Presbytery of Pueblo. An Assessment Form is enclosed for you to indicate how you intend to use the grant this year and what request you might make for 2009.
We need to receive this Form on or before February 15, 2008. You may mail it directly to the Presbytery of Pueblo, 803 W. 4th St., Ste. H, Pueblo, CO 81003.
We wish God’s blessings on your important ministry in and for the community of Trinidad.
Peace and Joy,
Gary R. Weaver
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Mission Project Assessment
Presbytery of Pueblo
Name of Mission Project Sangre de Cristo Hospice in Trinidad
Mission Project Contact Person
Address Phone
Assessment Survey:
1. What are your mission goals for this year?
2. How do you anticipate using this grant from the Presbytery of Pueblo?
3. What is your current financial status and what percentage of your expenses are provided by funding sources outside the mission project?
4. What are some special needs you anticipate for 2009 that are not currently funded?
5. What is your request for funding support from the Presbytery of Pueblo for 2009?
$
____________________________________________________________________
**For 2009 grant consideration, this form must be mailed on or before
Feb. 15, 2008 to:Presbytery of Pueblo, 803 W. 4th St., Ste. H, Pueblo, CO 81003**