October Minutes - October 26th 2006

Unable to Attend:

Community Development Team Leader Luba Johnson Education Team Leader Maria Kopulos

Meeting brought to order at 7:00 P.M. with Bible study John 15:12-16:4 Theme: The cost of friendship

Minutes

Minutes- Caye motioned that the minutes from September be approved as submitted, Ken 2nd- all approved

Reports

Education Team Leader - Maria Kopulos
Maria Kopulos absent, written report submitted

Church School - Lana Kokayeff

1. Instead of the annual church school newsletter to the parents, all the teachers have written up their course descriptions, which are being consolidated into one big article for the Evangelist.
2. · Maria Vrame is working diligently with the children on the Christmas program.
3. Other than that, attendance seems to be low on Sundays, especially on St. Luke’s Sunday celebration.

Adult Education - Clark Wilson

1. The icon course was cancelled.
2. The Purpose Driven Life Series continues.
3. School of the Seventy: I entered into a database the credits from the board. I will ask Fr. Andrew to help me to fill in details and then we'll work on adding credits for work people did after the board was last updated.
4. The online chat room continues Sunday evenings.
5. We continue to have lively discussions at the bookstore table during the coffee hour. There is no plan or official topic; people just bring questions to the table.
6. I continued work on the article series on the divine feminine.

YO - Lauren Dandeles

Nothing planned yet.

Christian Resource Center - Deacon Danial Doss

Ten books on the Gospel of John have been ordered and received for the adult Bible study group.

Movie Club - Ken Stevens

Purpose Driven Part VI starts up October 20th and will continue for every Friday for 7 consecutive weeks.

Movie Club will start up again the last Sunday in October 29th. It will be the follow up to “End of the Spear”… On Sunday, October 29th, at Steven’s house at 5:00 PM in Darien :

Follow up with clips from two related DVDs: Through the Gates of Splendor and Beyond the Gates of Splendor are real-life interviews around this true story of the ultimate sacrifice, as depicted in The End of the Spear, which we viewed last season.The 2 DVD’s were generously lent to us by Mariam Nelson, who personally knew some of those missionaries families who are featured in the move.

There is still a chance a St. Lukes Men’s Support Group will be carved out of Purpose Driven life and led by Dn. Andrew Werbiansky. He is considering the possibility now and will get back to me. We are proposing once per month… probably last Friday of every month would be Men-only Purpose-Driven Life and the other three Fridays would to co-ed Purpose Driven Live. It may start last Friday in November.

Junior Olympics - Chuck Bern

Out of season.

Bulletin Boards: - Tanya Andionidis

The nave board has been painted, thanks to Nick Lisowski. Nick will be helping me finish it off by adding molding around the edges. Then I will be decorating it. It will look a lot more rich and go along with the beauty of the church once it is finished.

Property Team Leader - Mike Bauml
present, written report submitted

Expected expenses this month: 1500.00 to complete landscaping 200.00 repair of water fountain.

Kitchen Ministry

Thank you for the space we were given in the old basement closet. Pat and I spent some time reorganizing, restocking. The hope is to take an inventory, and post where minimally used items are so when needed the fellowship committee knows where to find things. We will have all of our supplies out of the utility room soon.

We are still in need of a way to get the towels in the dispenser.

We had to begin using the new back-up coffee pot last week. They only last so long. I think it would be wise to pick up another at Cosco and keep it as a back -up. A backup coffee pot will be purchased for about 80.00.

Maintenance Report

Nick has been working on the trim for the old basement and various other projects around the parish.

Pending Projects

1. Plaster is coming off the wall on the way up the choir next to the window due to an old leak. We need to fix this.
2. Waterproofing stone above the front door. Waiting for information from George Evangelopoulos.
3. Finish repairing the Air Conditioning unit for the new basement. Nick got it running again but it needs a sensor to be replaced.
4. Missing baseboard in the fellowship hall needs to be replaced.
5. Broken window in classroom: Pending

New Building

The new window was installed and Dennis was made to pay at the time for the window installation. The charge was 400.00 Steve spoke to Window Pros and they informed him that they only ran the charge through at $200.00 after he called them to dispute the bill based on the fact that it only took one man to install. They quoted him at $400.00 based on 2 people but should not have charged us $400.00.

Safety

Nothing new to report

Environmental

Nothing to report at this time

Cell Phone Towers

Nothing to report at this time

Strategic Planning

I have formally requested that Fr. Ivanoff please send us the OCA Church Health Development Survey tool, and include logistics and process for administering and completing the parish survey...and with his oversight/involvement. I told him the St.Luke Parish Council had approved the $250 for the survey and that we would approach it step-by-step only. I am waiting for his response currently.

Inventory

Memorial Book: Diane was informed of the need for the additional items to be added to be book and will take care of this.

Inventory/Insurance Record: Diane will continue to work on this and has been informed that the council feels it is not necessary to forward copies to the insurance company and that it will be enough to simply keep a copy in a secure place for ourselves.

Consultant

Nothing new to report

Church Beautification

Stairwell renovation is pending.

Historian

Tammy was informed of the council’s desire to have the newspaper articles in the scrapbooks. She contacted Father Andrew and will laminate and include any articles he gives her.

Cemetery

My update is just that I sold one grave. I gave the check to Phil to deposit into the cemetery fund.

Supply

Nothing new to report

Consultant:

Nothing to report at this time

Team Projects

• Lawn Repair: All landscaping work is now completed. The old driveway was removed and sodded and the area next to the cell towers was stripped and covered with plastic and lava rock. The cost was 1500.00
• Choir Room: The natural brick wall still needs to be trimmed and the wall cleaned or painted. This is pending.
• Broken water fountain: : Dennis also contacted a plumber that did not return him call. We will make a special effort this month to get this repaired.
• Parking lot: See Lay Chairperson’s report.
• Alarm Systems: The pad for the alarm system was found to be defective and replaced. Father Andrew supervised this.
• Old Basement remodel: Trim work in progress.
• Painting of the old building: Estimates are being gathered for next year.
• Father Andrew’s Office: Pending
• Crooked Cross: Nick straightened this out.
• Mouse Problems: The exterminator came for the mouse problem. Mice may be getting in from the back door .in the sacristy - The bottom shield is coming off. Nick will be asked to look into this.
• Paper towel holder: Repair still pending.
• Sound System: We are having ongoing problems with the sound cutting in and out. Father Andrew is working on this. He believes there is a short in the wiring.
• Elevator button: Solutions for this problem were discussed and are pending.
• Light bulbs: Nick has been asked to replace some of the burnt out bulbs on the property. Father Andrew is also working on this.

Additions:Pearl asked about air-conditioner/heater for Father Andrew’s office. Mike responded that Greg is working on an energy plan for father’s office and Nick is looking into installation of the unit

Father reported that his loud speaker for services keeps going in and out and wondered if Mike knew the reason for this. Mike responded that an electrician would have to fix it.

Evangelism Team Leader - Pearl Homiak
present, written report submitted

Blood Drive - Sharon Mochel

Nothing to report.

Internet - Ron Wojcik (Mike Bauml)

: Seven new events were added to the web site. Other new entries: 1 Humor, 2 Reflections, 2 The Faith, 1 Liturgical Texts, 3 The News (9/11 articles). Icons (for your car) were added to the online store. Online store items sold: 1 license plate holder, 4 bumper stickers. Ron Wojick is working on revamping the code for the web site to allow other people to add to the site and also to simplify work on the site. This is in the development stage and may or may not actually be used.

Garden Center - Christine Bowen

Fr. Andrew, Caye, Mary Kincaid, and Christine were present at The Garden Center on October 2nd. Father read a Bible story then conducted a prayer service. Prayers were said for two residents-Dorothy (hospitalized) and Rebecca (in rehabilitation). Everyone enjoyed refreshments and sang “Happy Birthday” to one of the residents.

Patriot's Day - Caye Caswick

Caye is working with Tammy Tsiones to historically preserve the newspaper articles that have been written about our 9/11 artifacts.

Lost Sheep - Caye Caswick

A “virtual” e-mail meeting is being conducted to draft up a 2007 Stewardship Letter/mailing. This is an attempt to regain prior members and bolster the current and future number of parishioners.

Sanctity of Life - Mary Jo Werbiansky

Life Chain: Only 2 people from our parish attended as well as 2 people from OCLife. PASS Banquet: Although 14 people signed up, only 6 attended. Mary Jo has still not received the check to send to PASS. Other: Mary Jo submitted an article to The Evangelist regarding St. Luke family support of Sanctity of Life events. Mary Jo would be happy to pass on this ministry to someone else.

George Poulos-Media: Nothing to report.

Outreach - Lee Kopulos

See Quarterly Report attached.

Evangelism & Outreach Programs - St. Luke Parish

Quarterly Report Through September 2006

Major Theme:

In keeping with the major commandment of our Savior, the E/O Team seeks to follow His instruction in the Great commission: “Go and make disciples of all nations…” (Matt. 28: 19-20)

Major Emphasis - Targets:

It is known for years that the growth in discipleship is a function of the Natural Network of the membership. This Network is people who are Friends, Relatives, Associates and Neighbors of the membership. We call it St. FRAN.

Major Programs to reach St. FRAN:

+ Educating and re-energizing the membership to be disciples for Christ. To put it another way, this is the internal education of the Basics of the Faith that every member must understand to be an evangelist.

+ Increasing the members ability to speak on the Basics of the Faith.

+ Actualizing the Faith - putting your knowledge into action with St. FRAN, the non-member.

Programs to reach the membership are indicated below. Please understand that they are ongoing and carry over from our planning in ‘05:

1) Purpose Driven Life Program - (started again on Friday, Oct. 20); and

2) Pulpit Instruction Program - This is a once a month presentation to the members on 14 subjects important to evangelizing the Faith.

3) Handouts/Pamphlets on Orthodox Christianity - We have two pamphlet racks in the Church offering materials for handed-outs to seekers of the Faith.

Current Actions a/o 9/06:

1) Adult Education from the Pulpit.

Father Andrew has made six presentations: When Did The Church Begin?, Understanding Scripture and Tradition, What We Believe About Liturgy, The Sacraments in Orthodox Christianity, How Do We View Holy Communion?, and Can Roman Catholics or Protestants Receive Holy Communion? Once the 14 presentations have been completed, a pamphlet will be distributed to all members for their review and study. We are hopeful this will be very helpful in getting our people to be more confident in explaining The Faith for outreach purposes. These handouts will be put into booklet form once the 14 presentations have concluded.

2) Our relationship with the Greater Gallilee Baptist Parish can be furthered if we can get them to go to a conference in Detroit on the Ancient Christian Faith & African Americans on June 22-25. However, we found out about this program very late and Pastor Spiller was unable to go. Next year for sure.

3) We have experienced a good number of visiting guests this year. The Church Liturgy visitor count continues to be on the high end with many interested in membership.

Qtr. 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002

March 18 9 30 5 15

June 13 4 12 22 6

Sept. 12 14 13 5 38

Total 43 27 55 32 59

As you can see we have had a marked increase in new guests over ’05. Funny thing, in ’05 we had the smallest number of guests ever recorded (down 50%!), yet we received 10 new members a near term record for us. So far it looks like we will have at least 6 new members this year. Will we get another 10 new members this year? Let us hope and pray.

Greeter Program

We have another new member participating, Lillian Rakovic. She is in training scheduled with me and Helen Partoll. We total 12 greeters now.

Narthex Design.

George Evangelopoulos reports that his carpenter is back in the area. He has completed certain items for the Narthex. We hope to get them installed by the end of the year.

Other Outreach Programs

Our 9/11 Patriots’ Day event (Monday) with the Palos Hills Mayor featured Brig. General Wm. C Kirkland, 88th Readiness Group, as our principle speaker. Unfortunately, our Archbishop Job had to cancel at the last minute to go out of town. The Colors were presented by the Civil Air Patrol & Scouts as Bagpiper E. McMahon played “Amazing Grace,” which was followed by reciting “The Lord’s Prayer.” We then sang patriotic songs of our beloved America. While the program was very solemn and well-run, we still get very few people from Moraine Valley CC and the Palos area. About 50 people attended.

Monastery Visit - Dormition Monastery Rives Junction, MI. Pearl Homiak is trying to put together a retreat to this fine woman’s monastery for early November.

“But be doers of the word, and not hearers only…but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.” (Jas 1: 22, 25) “So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.” (Rom. 10:17)

Lee Kopulos

Outreach and Evangelism Chairperson

10/23/06

Community Development Team Leader - Luba Johnson
absent, written report submitted

It has been brought to my attention that the Community Ministry has exhausted its budget and that a request needs to be made for extra funding of the ministry.

I am asking for an additional $1200 for the Community Ministry.
Monies need to be available to cover the cost of the following:
Continued delivery of donuts and rolls (4 weeks)
Unexpected illnesses/surgeries/deaths
Hosting of two coffee hours
Hosting of Christmas Eve Supper
Hosting of New Years Eve Party<

Fellowship

Luba Johnson/Nadia Doss: On October 17, 2006 after Vespers celebrating St. Luke Feast Day the Fellowship Committee provided refreshments to approximately 35 people. The refreshments consisted of sandwiches, veggie tray, fruits and cakes. Aristea Zekios provided her delicious sweet bread. The total cost for this evening was $90.00.

On October 22, 2006 an Octoberfest luncheon was provided after Liturgy. There was no cost to the Community Ministry for the food, since it was donated by a parishioner. The free will donations collected (approx. $485) will be donated to the Orthodox Missionary to Romania.

Coffee Hour Ministry - Luba Johnson

The following have been scheduled for Coffee Hostesses:

11/5 Trista Miller and Bernie Kozbiel
11/12 Michaelyn Sloan and Tsehai Andu
11/19 - Lillian Rakovic and Julie Wojcik
11/26 - Barb Zerlentes and Pearl Homiak
12/3 - Shirlie Hansen and Pat Dravillas
12/10 - Caye Caswick and Helen Partoll
12/17 - Svetlana Lynch and Diane Wilczak
12/24 - Community Ministry
12/31 - Community Ministry

Prayer Ministry

We prayed for approximately 33 persons plus our military and pregnancy ladies. Still doing a short intercessory prayer service (5 minutes) after Vespers on Saturdays. Will put the prayer cards in an envelope with instructions, hopefully this will help persons taking the cards understand the envelope goes to Fr.Andrew with donation and the card is mailed to the person who is being prayed for. Mary

Women's Ministry

KAIROS Women’s Retreat - A women’s retreat is being planned for during Great Lent. It will be held at St. Luke and the presenter will be Mother Gabriella. More information will be given at a later date.

Sunshine Ministry

Svetlana Lynch continues to send out cards. Fr. Andrew, Aristea and Svetlana are updating the Birthday and Anniversary list. Flowers were sent to June Anderson who had surgery and a plant was sent to the Family of Capt. Forsyth in his memory.

Children's Ministry

Diane Nickolaou: St. Luke received 75 names from the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) for gifts to be bought. Names of children can be picked up after Liturgy during Coffee Hour. Gifts can be brought in any time to November 19, 2006. Gifts are due to Sts. Constantine and Helen by December 3, 2006.

Golf Outing

No report at this time

Flowers

No report at this time

Restaurant Rovers

No report at this time

Children Adoption

No report at this time

Christmas Decoration Ministry

No report at this time

Sent flowers to Cpt. Forsythe post heart attack

Diocesan/All-American Delegate - Anthea Lukoshonak
present

Father Andrew and I attended the 45th Midwest Diocesan Assembly, on Wednesday and Thursday, October 10th and 11th, 2006, in Palatine, Illinois. The assembly was highly anticipated due to the scandal currently affecting the national Church (OCA) in regards to the allegations of misallocation of funds and spending by the Chancellery, during the years of 1995 to the first half of 2006. Under the leadership of Archbishop JOB, who led for an investigation and continues to lead for full disclosure, the OCA was forced to take legal steps and to investigate the charges. This assembly was the first opportunity for the clergy and lay delegates of the Midwest Diocese to meet as a body, for discourse, prayer, and action, and in support of our hierarchy, Archbishop JOB, and as faithful servants of the Holy Orthodox Faith.

My report includes the official transcripts of the minutes, for the sake of accuracy, taken at the 45TH ASSEMBLY OF THE DIOCESE OF THE MIDWEST, by the Diocesan Secretary. [Additional comments made by me are denoted by italicized bold and in brackets.]

Also, the Assembly packet, which includes copies of all reports, will be submitted as part of this report, in person, at the Parish Council meeting on October 26th, 2006, for the record and review of the Parish Council and all parishioners of St. Luke the Evangelist Orthodox Church.

I highly encourage all members of our Parish Council, and all parishioners, to read Archbishop JOB’s opening address to the Assembly, which may be found at www.midwestdiocese.org

I found His Grace’s address to be reflective and instructional, reminding me of my responsibility to the Church and to our Orthodox Faith, and would like to share the following excerpts as part of my report:

As the largest fully supporting diocese of the Orthodox Church in America, we bear a special responsibility, whether we like it or not.

Reference to the counsel of the holy Apostle Paul in his Epistle to the Romans…

“Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have access by faith into this grace in which we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God. And not only that but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. Now hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out in our hearts by the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”

“Remember, my brothers and sisters, we are free men and women in the Midwest. And don’t forget that there are others from other areas of our vast continent that are watching us, especially during this Assembly. Among them are “those who love us and those who hate us.” But all are watching us for what we will accomplish this week. Let us provide for them a godly example.”

“The crisis facing our Church today is not theological; it is one of ecclesiology and how we have failed to live it, it is one of proper administration. It is not our hope in the Gospel and the Lord it proclaims that we lack - rather, it is the failure of the Church to administer herself effectively so as to proclaim that Lord and salvation in Him.”

“Openness, transparency, accountability - these are all good things.”

”There are various proposals. Choose the ones you think will effect the change you wish to see. I will not tell you how to vote, but I will tell you this: if we also fail to engender change, we will have added our own failure to those I have enumerated. And so we will continue the long defeat, and eventually, given enough failures, The Orthodox Church in America will also.”

“We gain nothing if we elect to continue on as before, and we remain divided. We gain nothing if we vote to change everything, and we remain disunited.”

“At the end of the Diocesan Assembly, my prayer is that there will be no winners and no losers as a result of our decision, whatever they may be: only co-sufferers who have chosen a path they then may help to end the suffering.”MINUTES

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11, 2006

The 45th Assembly of the Diocese of the Midwest of the Orthodox Church in America opened with a Service of Intercession celebrated by Archbishop Job.

I. PLENARY SESSION 1

The opening plenary session was called to order by Archbishop Job at 9:25 a.m. The chair was turned over to Archpriest John Zdinak, chancellor.

A. Creditials. Archimandrite Vladimir [Wendling] reported at toal of 135 attendees [one archbishop, 64 clergy delegates, 62 lay delegates, and nine observers].

B. Election of Presidium. The diocesan council, seconded by Mrs. Mary Jane Lucak, nominated Archpriest Michael Matsko to serve as clergy vice-chair and Ms. Kitty Mabus to serve as lay vice-chair. Passed by consensus.

C. Election of Secretariat. The diocesan council, seconded by Archpriest John Steffaro, nominated Archpriest John Matusiak, Archpriest Michael Butler, and Mrs. Mary Jane Lucak to serve as the secretariat. Passed by consensus.

D. Committee appointments.

1. Nominating Committee: Archpriest Thomas Mueller, chair; Priest Paul Gassios, Mrs. Polly Walker, and Mrs. Ann Marie Gidus-Mecera, members.

2. Resolutions Committee: Archpriest Andrew Yavornitzky, chair; Priest Joseph Gibson, Mr. Nicholas Vansuch, Mrs. Karen Wojcik, members.

3. Parliamentarian: Archpriest John Steffaro.

4. Tellers: Deacons John Coleman, Robert Northrup, and George Potym.

E. Report of the Chancellor. Archpriest John Zdinak delivered his report to the Assembly in oral and written form. The written report is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof.

Chancellors Report

F. Address of the Archbishop. Archbishop Job delivered his address to the Assembly, a written copy of which is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof. At the conclusion of the report, the assembly offered a lengthy standing ovation.

Archbishop’s Address

G. Minutes

H. Reports.

1. Chicago Deanery. Archpriest Thomas Mueller, dean, distributed a written addendum to his report, both of which are appended to these minutes and made a part thereof.

Chicago Report

2. Cleveland Deanery. Priest David Lis, rector of Holy Assumption Church, Marblehead, OH, clarified information concerning his parish in the written report presented by Archpriest John Steffaro, dean. The report as clarified is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof.

Cleveland Report

3. Columbus Deanery: The written report of Archpriest Daniel Rental, dean, stands as presented and is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof.

Columbus Report

4. Kansas City Deanery: Mr. Donald Billy, lay delegate from the Nativity of the Holy Virgin Church, Madison, IL, reported on the health of Archpriest Thomas Succarotte, rector. The report of Priest Timothy Sawchak, stands as presented and is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof.

Kansas City Report

5. Michigan Deanery: The written report of Archpriest Andrew Yavornitzky, dean, stands as presented and is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof.

Michigan Report

6. Minneapolis Deanery: The written report of Archpriest Thaddeus Wojcik, dean, stands as presented and is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof.

Minneapolis Report

7. Diaconal Vocations Program. The written report of Archpriest Michael Butler, coordinator, stands as presented and is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof.

Diaconal Vocations Program Report

8. Metropolitan Council Representatives. Archpriest Vladimir Berzonsky and Dr. Richard West entertained numerous questions from the floor on recent developments within the Metropolitan Council with regard to the audits of the financial books of the Orthodox Church in America, the ongoing investigation by Proskauer-Rose, the $1.7 million loan, and related issues. Their written report is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof. At this point, Ms. Kitty Mabus, lay vice-chair, requested that questions and comments be limited to four minutes and that each speaker may only address a particular issue once.

9. Saint John Monastery, Hiram, OH. The written report, presented by Monk Daniel [Wood], stands as presented and is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof.

St John’s Report

10. Presentation of the Virgin Mary Monastery. Mother Mary Ann offered an oral report on the recent acquisition of land near Springfield, MO.

Presentation of the Virgin Mary Report

11. Communications. Archpriest John Matusiak commented on his written report, which is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof.

Communications Report

I. Adjournment. The session adjourned at 11:45 a.m. with the singing of the Hymn to the Theotokos.

II. PLENARY SESSION 2

The Assembly reconvened at 1:15 p.m. with Archpriest Michael Matsko presiding.

A. Credentials. Archimandrite Vladimir [Wendling] reported a total of 125 attendees [one archbishop, 55 clergy delegates, 57 lay delegates, and 13 observers.]

B. Parish Health Facilitator/Missions. Mr. Joseph Kormos reviewed findings from his visits to the deaneries, outlined major concerns, and offered a wide variety of proposals. He noted that the membership of the diocese is 22% smaller than in 1988 and that membership in the majority of parishes is on the decline. Those parishes that have grown often have initiated very specific ministries to this end. He emphasized the importance of developing local and regional programs and ministries that meet a wide range of needs in established parishes as well as in establishing new missions.

C. Reports.

1. Treasurer's Report. Mr. Rob Koncel, treasurer, presented and commented on his written report, which is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof. He noted that the Diocesan Council had approved a $250,000.00 loan for the purpose of making all essential repairs on the LaSalle Street properties, instead of accomplishing this "piecemeal," as funds are available. After a brief discussion, the report was accepted as presented upon motion by Mr. John Sedor, seconded by Mr. Sam D’Fantis.

Treasurer’s Report

2. Auditors' Report. Mrs. Polly Walker presented and commented on the auditor's written report, which is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof. She added that in the future, the auditor's report will be distributed 30 days before the Assembly, as mandated by the Diocesan By-laws, adding that it would be wise for the Diocese to develop and follow a "Best Practices" policy. The report was accepted as presented upon motion by Mr. John Mindala, seconded by Dr. Richard West.

Auditors’ Report

D. 2007 Budget Presentation. Mr. Rob Koncel presented the 2007 budget, which is appended to these minutes and made a part thereof. He noted that the budget is based on a census of 6,000 members. After brief discussion, the budget was adopted upon motion by Archpriest Andrew Clements, seconded by Mr. John Sedor.

E. Resolutions Committee Report. Archpriest Andrew Yavornitzky, committee chair, outlined the ]work of the resolutions committee in compiling numerous resolutions into a workable format for presentation to the Assembly. He also explained why some resolutions were not being forwarded to the Assembly by the Diocesan Council to the assembly. Father Yavornitzky presented the adoption of six resolutions.

1. We humbly encourage the Holy Synod and Metropolitan Council of the Orthodox Church in America to adhere to the Statute of the Orthodox Church in America.

2. We support the decision of the Metropolitan Council, with the agreement of Metropolitan Herman, to abide by Article 3, section 3 of the Statute of the Orthodox Church in America. We applaud the decision to convene the 15th All-American Council in 2008.

3. We are of one mind with our Archbishop Job in calling for the establishment of a committee of three hierarchs and other personnel as deemed necessary by them, in accordance with Article 2, sec 7a of the Statute of the Orthodox Church in America, to investigate the allegations made in November 2005.

4. We humbly request that a full report of the Proskaur-Rose investigation be distributed through appropriate channels, as defined by the Statute of the Orthodox Church in America.

5. We express our full support for Archbishop Job in his desire to see honesty, integrity, and openness practiced in our Church at all levels; to encourage His Eminence in pursuit of these aims; and to wish that His Eminence knows of our fervent and sincere prayers for him in his efforts.

6. We resolve that the Diocese of the Midwest calls upon the Metropolitan Council and the Central Church Administration to expeditiously repay the Honesdale Bank loan before significant interest accrues.

With regard to resolution #1, as noted above, lengthy discussion ensued. Priest Christopher Wojcik, seconded by Priest Paul Wesche, requested to change the word “encourage” in resolution #1 and the word “request” in resolution #4 to “demand”. Forty-nine delegates voted in favor of the change, while 40 delegates voted against the change. There were six abstentions.

After lengthy discussion on the six proposed resolutions and on whether they should be adopted individually or collectively, and in light of serious and multiple concerns voiced through a complexity of motions, some of which were ruled out of order, the following resolution by Archpriest Theodore Bobosh, seconded by Priest Andrew Moore, was presented:

RESOLUTION:

"We acknowledge that the current financial scandal and leadership crisis within the OCA is intolerable to the faithful members of this diocese. It is the mind of the Diocesan Assembly of the Diocese of the Midwest, meeting in Palatine, Illinois, this 11th day of October 2006, that we have no confidence in the manner in which the administration in Syosset, New York, has handled this crisis and scandal. "We call upon the Metropolitan, the Synod of Bishops, and the Metropolitan Council of the OCA to adhere to the Statutes of the OCA in their entirety including accepting the competencies of all bodies within the OCA.” n an effort to provide administrative accountability and fiscal transparency, the recommendations of the auditors for full financial disclosure and generally accepted accounting principles need to be fully implemented [e.g., quarterly budgetary reporting]. "If by the Spring Session of the Synod of Bishops, March, 2007, any aspects of the Statutes are being violated, the Diocese of the Midwest will begin putting its assessment in escrow.” is Eminence, Archbishop Job, with the Diocesan Council, will make the determination on this matter."

Mr. Ralph Sidway, seconded by Mr. Dam D'Fantis, moved to amend paragraph three of the resolution to read as follows:

"In an effort to provide administrative accountability and fiscal transparency, the recommendations of the auditors for full financial disclosure and generally accepted accounting principles need to be fully implemented [e.g., quarterly budgetary reporting]." , The motion passed overwhelmingly.

Priest Christopher Wojcik, seconded by Priest Bartholomew Wojcik, moved to amend the resolution to include the following:

"The above resolution may be altered or amended by the Diocesan Council." The motion was defeated.

After brief discussion, the motion passed overwhelmingly.

The following resolution by Priest John Peck, seconded by Archpriest Michael Simerick, was presented:

"Be it hereby resolved that, beginning with the Spring Session of the Holy Synod 2007, the Diocesan Assembly of the Midwest respectfully requests His Eminence, Archbishop Job, to put all monies for our national administration, including assessments, bequest, endowments, and all other anticipated or unexpected gifts, into an escrow account until such time as all allegations are proven or disproven by a committee of three hierarchs and other personnel as deemed necessary by them, in accordance with the Statute of the OCA, to investigate the allegations made in November 2005, and that each true allegation is publicly taken responsibility for with full disclosure; and all OCA finances are disclosed openly, including a full and complete audit publicized for the years 1995 to the present, including the first eight months of 2006, using all possible means of investigation."

Mr. Sam D'Fantis, seconded by Ms. Melissa McCutcheon, moved to take this resolution off the table. The motion was defeated, and the resolution will be considered under Old Business during Thursday's plenary session.

F. Nominating Committee. Archpriest Thomas Mueller explained the procedure for nominations, noting that delegates will vote for one clergy member and one lay member of the Diocesan Council and one auditor. Four nominations have been received thus far.

G. Adjournment. There being no further business, the session was adjourned at 4:56 with the singing of the Hymn to the Theotokos.

After dinner, delegates attended Vespers at the recently built Holy Resurrection Church, Palatine, Illinois.

[Father Andrew and I returned home that evening, and returned the following morning in time for the start of Plenary Session 3. Father Andrew held our parish’s Thursday morning prayer service as scheduled. It was interesting to note that the reading of the day instructed how the Bishop and his people must be in harmony, and on that note, Father Andrew and I prayed for our work to be conducted on this day.]

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2006

Archbishop Job presided at the celebration of the Divine Liturgy at Holy Resurrection Church, Palatine, Illinois. Archpriest Alexander Kuchta and the parish faithful hosted a brunch for all participants following the Divine Liturgy.

I. PLENARY SESSION 3

The Assembly reconvened at noon with Ms. Kitty Mabus presiding.

A. Credentials. Archimandrite Vladimir [Wendling] reported a total of 121 attendees [one archbishop, 56 clergy delegates, 52 lay delegates, and 13 observers.]

B. Nominating Committee. Archpriest Thomas Mueller reported that the following names had been placed in nomination.

1. Diocesan Council clergy member: Archimandrite Vladimir, Archpriest Basil Stoyka

[Incumbent], Priest Mark Hodges. There being no nominations from the floor, Archpriest Alexander Kuchta, seconded by Frank Tkacz, moved to close nominations for Diocesan Council clergy member. The motion passed.

2. Diocesan Council lay member: Mr. Sam D'Fantis [incumbent], Ms. Kitty Mabus, Mr. Frank Tkacz.

There being no nominations from the floor, Mr. Deno Demos, seconded by Mrs. Helen O'Sullivan, moved to close nominations for Diocesan Council lay member. The motion passed.

3. Diocesan auditor: Archpriest Stephen Karaffa, Priest Philip Lashbrook, Mr. James Stan, Mr. Deno Demos. There being no nominations from the floor, Priest Bartholomew Wojcik, seconded by Mr. John Mindala, moved to close nominations for auditor. The motion passed.

C. Elections. Elected to the following positions were:

1. Archimandrite Vladimir, Diocesan Council clergy member; Archpriest Basil Stoyka, alternate.

2. Ms. Kitty Mabus, Diocesan Council lay member; Mr. Sam D'Fantis, alternate.

3. Archpriest Stephen Karaffa, auditor; Priest Philip Lashbrook, alternate.

D. Old Business.

1. The resolution made at Plenary Session 2 that remained on the table was revisited. Upon motion by Mr. Sam D’Fantis, seconded by Ms. Melissa McCutcheon, the resolution was removed from the table into current business. The motion passed. In the ensuing vote on the original resolution, the resolution was defeated.

2. A "Statement of the Laity of the Diocesan Assembly”, authored by Ms. Melissa McCutcheon, was read and signed by 46 lay delegates. The text of the statement reads as follows:

"The laity, meeting as delegates and observers to the Diocesan Assembly of the Diocese of the Midwest, wish to add our voices to the archpriests and priests of the Orthodox Church in America who have called for accountability and transparency with regard to allegations of misconduct at the highest level of our Church. We add our voices to theirs and we stand in support of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and the Holy Gospel, that has been held up in our midst by our faithful clergy; our Orthodox Faith, that guides us in Truth so that we may be witnesses to the world of the love and healing forgiveness of Christ; our beloved Archbishop Job, as he works with love for openness, transparency, and healing among his fellow bishops; our clergy, who have been willing to stand for truth and honesty among us; full disclosure, so that allegations of misconduct can be either confirmed or cleared; the laws of our nation, states, and communities, that help bring order to our society; and our children and grandchildren, to whom we desire to hand on an Orthodox Church that stands for truth, honesty, and the fullness of our Orthodox Faith."

[Signed by Anthea Lukashonak, Diocesan Delegate]

E. New Business.

1. The following resolution, presented by Archpriest Theodore Bobosh, was accepted by acclamation:

"It seems good to the Holy Spirit and to us, the clergy and lay delegates of the 45th annual Midwest Diocesan Assembly, to express our support and thanks to our Archbishop Job for standing firm in seeking the truth about the ongoing scandal in the Orthodox Church in America and in defense of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ."

2. The Cleveland Deanery will host the 46th Diocesan Assembly 1-3 October 2007.

F. Adjournment. There being no further business, the Diocesan Assembly was adjourned at 12:40 with the singing of the Hymn to the Theotokos and the installation of elected officers.

Assembly minutes submitted by Archpriest John Matusiak, Diocesan Secretary, Archpriest Michael Butler, and, Mrs. Mary Jane Lucak Approved for Distribution 10.17.2006

This report is respectfully submitted by Anthea Lukashonak, Diocesan Delegate.

Additions:
-Anthea reported that Archbishop Job fully supports the resolutions of the DIocese
-3rd weekend of September - Missouri monastery open weekend.

Assisant Layperson Report - Caye Caswick
absent, written report submitted

Lay Chairperson Report - Ken Stevens
present, written report submitted

Attendance at Liturgy:

Once a discernible trend can be established, a graph will be developed moving forward to start tracking church attendance as reflected in the chart below. While we need to see a period of at least six months to start noticing any substantial trending upward or downward, below find attendance figures since 6-25-06.

St. Luke church Attendance: Sunday Divine Liturgy

Date Adults Children Total
June 25th, 2006 70 17 87
July 2nd, 2006 72 10 82
July 9th, 2006 73 20 93
July 16th, 2006 76 13 89
July 23, 2006 73 20 93
July 30, 2006 75 22 97
August 6, 2006 72 16 88
August 13, 2006 86 21 107
August 20, 2006 78 16 94
August 27, 2006 84 25 109
September 3, 2006 75 15 90
September 10, 2006 80 26 106
Oct. 1, 2006 70 25 95
Oct 8, 2006 75 23 98
Oct 15, 2006 73 22 95
Oct. 22, 2006 77 27 104

Plan for Forest Preserve Parking Dilemma

George Evangelopoulos suggested we should circumvent the Forest Preserve office and go around them using other County government influentials. He only needed to see the St. Luke plot of survey and the site map so that he could architect a “Proposed parking alterations for St. Luke church”. George has in fact constructed a St. Luke/Forest Preserve parking lot site plan and will present the plan to St. Luke Parish council during our meeting Thursday, October 26. This would serve as a formal request where we only want to use the space (not lease it, etc). George thinks he can wield influence elsewhere to get it done…finally, we hope.

Georges site plan is attached to this report.

Men’s Support Group: Dn. Andrew Werbiansky Ministry

I had spoken with Deacon Andrew last month and while he is willing to assume leadership of a St. Luke Men’s Study Group, the best time for him would be Friday evenings, the same time the current mixed men/women PDL is held. This group will meet to discuss men’s specific concerns around Christian living and principles and in the context of Orthodoxy.

Although this could conflict with the “co-ed” Purpose-Driven Life meetings (Part V started 9-20), we could start with once-monthly Men’s group PDL meetings, and monitor progress (level of interest, etc). Location to be determined… Deacon Andrew prefers a home setting.

A letter will be sent to al St. Luke men describing the program and inviting participation. Based on the actual response it elicits from the St. Luke community at-large, we will then set a calendar. Right now, if the letter generates enough interest, we should shoot for January 2007 (Holiday crunch).

National Church Development Project

I exchanged e-mail and voicemail communications with Fr. Jonathon Ivanoff relative to the parish health project and strategic planning. I inquired about purchasing items “a la carte” and he was very amenable. Subsequently, Parish Council approved purchase of the survey tool for $250. This would include his sending us the survey, and his completion and tabulation of survey results that would be sent back to us for review. Diagnosing the survey and addressing the results would be priced separately if we wanted to pursue it further.

Below is an e-mail I received from Fr. Ivanoff. Both Pearl and Father

Andrew agree we should move to Step I implementation at the earliest. I will speak with Fr. Ivanoff and have the survey tool sent so we can administer it as per his recommendation below:

From: Jonathan Ivanoff [mailto:frjonathan@hotmail.com]
Sent: Monday, October 09, 2006 2:23 PM
To: Ken Stevens
Subject: RE: FW: Church survey tool- St. Luke request

Dear Ken:

This is good news; I am delighted to hear that St. Luke's wants to take the NCD survey. I will order the survey tomorrow and, after I receive it, I'll package up the instructions and a few other needed documents and send it off to you. When you get it, and do forward me the address you want it sent to, give me a call and we'll go over the particulars in the package so that you and the rest of the board are clear as to what needs to be done.

In short, here's a synopsis:

1. Beginning now, pick thirty (30) laypeople who are your most active parishioners. These could be council members, ministry team leaders, choir singers, church school teachers, sisterhood folks, etc., but the key is that they have to be active in parish life, come to church every week, support the church financially as well as in ministry, and so forth. Just thirty - no more! You might also want to consider a blend of "born" Orthodox vs. convert, younger vs. older (seriously give some thought to including at least a few teens 16 and up, but if you don't have some mature teens who fit this category, don't worry), men vs. women, live close to church vs. live far away, married vs. single, etc. These distinctions won't make or break the survey, but will enhance the results are being as widely representative as possible.

2. Once they've been selected, send them a letter to let them know they've been chosen to participate in this survey. Tell them that the survey is going to measure the quality of parish life in eight different areas, and that the results of the survey will be used by the parish council to plan "next steps" (or words to this effect).

3. Once they've rec'd the letter, meet with them ahead of time during Coffee Hour one Sunday and go over all this again. Make sure they understand what they've been asked to do, and know what Sunday the survey is going to be taken.4. Do the survey on a Sunday during or after Coffee Hour, it takes about twenty (20) minutes. DO NOT let them take it home as you may never see it again! :-) Have them do it there and then, and after it's done, collect them all and return them to me.

5. I will process the survey, write a summary report, and then return that report and the survey results to you. The rest will then be in your hands as to analysis, planning, implementation and so forth. If the parish council would like to have me quote them my fees for any further work, just let me know.

When you get the chance, please send the check to my home address:
8 Surdi Place
Babylon, NY 11702

Thanks again! I'll forward to hearing back from you soon.

In Christ,
Fr. Jonathan Ivanoff
NCD Coach

Church Life Insurance policy - Stea Zekios

I again left several messages with Jack Derkacy, the insurance agent and am awaiting his return call to me before we can recommend a course of action. He promised to send us the illustrations as described below, but as yet has not complied with the request: The letter below speaks to the issue:

September 12, 2006
TO: Jack Derkacy, New York Life Agent

Dear Jack:

Per the attached file, I had left you a message on your voicemail last week and hadn’t heard back from you

Could you please provide a forward-looking illustration of what would happen if we paid off the loan or if we let the loan ride…That way, I can present the facts to the Parish Council and we can make a speedy decision and get back to you.Looking forward to hearing from you at your earliest convenience.

Sincerely,Ken Stevens
St. Luke Parish Council Lay Chairman

Additions:

Father Andrew asked if any progress had been made on the men’s group. Ken responded that a letter would be sent to men parishioners to determine the level of interest.

Pastoral Report - Father Andrew Harrison
present, written report submitted

• Meetings – 4
• Counseling sessions - 5
• Services - 17 (Liturgies, Vespers, Matins)
• House Visits/blessings/Shut-ins - 2
• Morning prayers - 9
• Attended Funeral of Civil Air Patrol Captain
• Garden School - 1 visit - 25 attending
• Attended Garden School Halloween Party - 7 from St. Luke attended
• Attended Diocesan Assembly with our delegate Anthea
• Attended Orthodox Arts Festival
• The Icon painting class canceled do to lack of interest - Try again in spring..
• Adult classes, Bible study - 2, 8 attend, Purpose Driven class - 1,10 attend from 4 churches
• Liturgical Ministry Fellowship - 15 attended Bowling
• Commend the Community ministry for the St. Luke feast day Dinner
• Orthodox Thanksgiving Evening Liturgy at St. Georges on Nov. 22 at 7 PM
• Ecumenical Thanksgiving service at St. Alphonsis in Lemont Nov 19, 2:30 PM
• Pledge Drive Sunday will be on Nov. 19th - Letters will go out this week
• Car Mileage, Total miles = 3, 232. - Business miles = 1, 214. Personal miles = 2,109.
• Odometer reading, Sept 1stt - 63, 097 Sept 31 - 66, 329again since summer is coming to an end. I will get the teams set up and will use the Tone for the week as to who will server. Even numbers will be Team A and odd numbers will be Team B. Three adult reader robes are on order from America Church Supply.
• Proto Deacon Andrew - Served with Deacon Danial for the St. Luke Feast day. Participated in the Liturgical ministry event. Waiting for Cheryl Pituch to return the Icon boards for sizing.
• Altar servers, John Verderber - I am going to start going over the Altar Server handbook with the servers after Liturgy for about 10 minutes. We will go a page each week.
• Handmaidens, Lynn Betsanes - We had our annual Handmaiden outing with the Altar Servers this year. We went bowling and had pizza. Fun was had by all.
• Readers, Jim Lewindowski - Before the Holidays or shortly afterwards I plan to have a meeting with all the Readers at my house. This will be both a social and informative meeting. Father will conduct on going training. Readers will be refreshed on the proper way to do readings, in compliance with the Rubrics, when doing a single or a double reading. All Readers will be asked if they know anyone who would like to be a Reader. It is the responsibility of every Reader to harvest new church members who may express a desire to become a Reader. Also any male Reader can approach myself or Father if they wish to be tonsured.
• Choir, Maria Vrame - Nothing new to report
• Vestments, Helen Partoll - I will replaced the gold Covers with red covers for Nov. 12

Additions:

: Father will be attending the national council of churches meeting and has asked if the OCA could pay part of the cost.

Mike made a motion to accept the reports as presented. Anthea 2nd. All agreed.

Old Business

Charities Approval

Natural Church Development

New Business

Charity gift from Discretionary Fund:$700 Fr. Andrew.

Father Andrew reported that he gave this money to parishioners that needed help. He would like that money reimbursed in case of similar situations in future. Bob reported that we have enough set aside for charity to match 50 cents on the dollar, but not if we reimburse the discretionary fund. Bob suggested that Father should decide what is warranted as far as helping parishioners from the discretionary fund- we put a limit on 1st and repeat requests. Father Andrew suggested wording to the effect that he can give out an amount designated in the account- if he wants to give more, he would need to go to the council for approval. Father also stated that we could take a special offering to replenish the fund- explain to parish that it’s for parishioners in need.

Caye suggested making December’s Charity the discretionary fund. She will talk to Karen.

Bob made a motion to reimburse the discretionary fund from the charity fund for $700. Ken 2nd all approved

Additional funding for educational and community teams

These teams are over their budgets. Luba needs money for the New Years Eve party ($1200 dollars). Bob suggested moving money from the utilities. Education team also needs money (@ $300 ) Ken suggested giving education $500. Mike responded that Maria needs to provide a report of what the money will be used for -we should just cover the negative balance.

Bob suggested waiting until next month to determine what to give the education team

Bob motioned to transfer $1000 out of utilities and $300 out administration and transfer to community development. Caye 2nd All in favor

2007 Budget Annual Meeting /agenda

Father stated that the issue of keeping church open one day a week still needed to be resolved. Ken will appoint a committee and come up with a recommendation (Mike and Ken and Father) Proposed Budgets need to be submitted so they can be sent to the parish. Pearl suggested increasing last year’s budget by 10 percent. Ken felt 5 or 6 percent would be sufficient- to keep up with inflation.

Personal ministry for kids age 7 and older.

Pearl: there is a need to train young kids toward ministry work-she suggested a personal ministry around the time of first communion- Father tabled the idea and will consult with Maria. Anthea would like to train kids to be readers.

CLOSING PRAYER

Caye made a motion to adjourn the meeting Bob 2nd. All Agreed. The meeting was adjourned at 9:00 P.M.

Submitted by Debra Dandeles, Council Secretary