2020 Congregational Council - Harrisburg BIC Church
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2020 Congregational Council Sunday, February 2, 2020 @ 12:45 pm Harrisburg Brethren in Christ Church 2217 Derry Street Harrisburg, PA 17104
Table of Contents NOTE FROM THE PASTOR ........................................................................................................................... 2 COUNCIL STRUCTURE ................................................................................................................................ 3 COUNCIL AGENDA ..................................................................................................................................... 4 NOMINATING COMMITTEE ........................................................................................................................... 5 CHURCH BOARD REPORT .......................................................................................................................... 8 SENIOR PASTOR’S REPORT...................................................................................................................... 10 ASSOCIATE PASTORS & CHURCH ADMINISTRATOR REPORTS .................................................................... 12 Pastor of Congregational Life ........................................................................................................ 12 Pastor of Young Adult & Youth Ministries .................................................................................... 13 Pastor of Children’s Ministries ...................................................................................................... 14 Pastor of Discipleship .................................................................................................................... 14 Pastor of Worship Ministries ......................................................................................................... 15 Pastor of Outreach Ministries ........................................................................................................ 16 Church Administrator ..................................................................................................................... 17 COMMITTEE REPORTS.............................................................................................................................. 19 Finance Committee ......................................................................................................................... 19 Mosaics Committee ........................................................................................................................ 20 Property Committee ........................................................................................................................ 20 MINISTRY TEAM REPORTS ........................................................................................................................ 22 Adult Discipleship ........................................................................................................................... 22 Bible Quizzing ................................................................................................................................. 23 Breaking Free .................................................................................................................................. 23 Children’s Ministries ....................................................................................................................... 24 Classics (55+) .................................................................................................................................. 25 Congregational Care ....................................................................................................................... 26 ESL Class ......................................................................................................................................... 27 Everence .......................................................................................................................................... 28 Food Pantry ..................................................................................................................................... 28 Girls Who Code ............................................................................................................................... 29 Hospitality Ministry ......................................................................................................................... 29 Kitchen Ministry .............................................................................................................................. 30 Men’s Fellowship ............................................................................................................................ 31 Missions Ministries ......................................................................................................................... 31 Outreach Ministries ......................................................................................................................... 32 Prayer Ministries ............................................................................................................................. 34 Women’s Ministries ........................................................................................................................ 35 Worship Ministries .......................................................................................................................... 35 Young Adult Ministries ................................................................................................................... 36 Youth Ministries .............................................................................................................................. 37 MEMBERSHIP LIST ................................................................................................................................... 39 2019 ANNUAL TREASURER’S REPORT ...................................................................................................... 41 2020 PROPOSED BUDGET........................................................................................................................ 56
Note from the Pastor
Our Annual Council meeting is very significant in the life of the Harrisburg Brethren in Christ Church. It is
a time when we review reports from the past year, celebrating what God has done among and through
us. It is also a time when we elect members to serve in various positions in church leadership, approve
the budget for the New Year, and share our goals and vision for the New Year.
Congregational Council is for everyone who worships at our church. Please plan to participate. Church
members 16 years and older are eligible to vote. A quorum of 20% of our membership is required for all
voting to take place, so your presence is important. (Please note that childcare will be provided for
children up to grade 5.)
All nominees for Church Bboard members, Deacons, and Delegates must be church members. Names of
nominees for these positions were given to the Nominating Committee prior to Council meeting.
Nominations can also be made at the Council meeting (except for the church board). All nominees
suggested at Council must have been contacted and have accepted prior to the nomination being made
at Council.
Yearly reports from our Pastors and our many ministries are included in this agenda and should be read
prior to Council meeting. While reading the reports, take a moment to pray for each of the ministries of our
church and the people who serve in them. Comments, questions and motions concerning these reports
will be entertained at the meeting, but the reports will not be read.
Let’s celebrate the goodness of our God and the blessing we have to continue to work together in building
God’s kingdom here in Harrisburg, and beyond. At Council, we close the book on the year that was. We
also walk into 2020, looking to Jesus, trusting the Spirit, and depending on God our Father.
Henry (Hank) B. Johnson
Senior Pastor
January 2020
2Council Structure
Annual Council is an important time and function in the life of Harrisburg Brethren in Christ Church. It is a
time to celebrate God’s work in and through us, to share our thoughts with each other, to ask questions
and to plan for the upcoming year. It is also the time when we formally approve our annual budget, elect
individuals for various positions and adopt or amend church policies when necessary.
Annual Council is not a time for dialogue, it is a time for sharing both concerns and encouragement. It is
an opportunity for you to share your thoughts about where our church is going, what we are doing and
how we are doing it. The viewpoint of each member and attendee is valued and can provide valuable
insight for our church family, and specifically for our Church Board and staff as they consider other
decisions throughout the year. Your attendance is important and does bring value, so we urge you to
consider participating in this upcoming gathering.
As in any organization greater than one person, we do not individually always see things in the same way
as others within our church family. This is healthy and provides valuable perspective. It is important for
each of us to hear perspectives from many people and to help create an environment in which everyone
feels comfortable to express their perspective or offer their questions.
To facilitate an open forum, the Board has developed the following structure to ensure everyone has a
chance to share:
• Each person will be limited to asking one question or offering one statement at a time.
• Questions and opinions will be limited to two minutes.
Our Church Board or staff will attempt to answer questions or offer perspective as best they can and as
appropriate. If a question is not fully addressed with an initial response, the original question or comment
may be clarified, but will then be tabled for later dialogue unless other attendees would like to offer
comments on the subject.
Multiple questions or opinions are welcome from everyone, but must follow the one-at-a-time format and
must allow for other members and attendees to speak. Members and attendees who have multiple
questions or concerns are also encouraged to submit those questions and concerns to the Church Board
or staff in advance of the Council meeting. These can be sent to our Church Board Chair, Emerson
Lesher (emerson.lesher@gmail.com).
Thank you in advance for your contribution to our church family and thank you for being open to your
sisters and brothers who may bring a different perspective.
3Council Agenda
1. Opening Prayer
2. Appointment of Council Staff
3. Elections & Confirmations
Church Board:
Secretary – One 3-year term
Members – Two 3-year terms
Member – One 2-year term
Member – One 1-year term
Deacons:
Six 3-year terms
Three 2-year terms
Trustees:
Four 3-year terms
One 2-year term
Delegates to Regional Conference:
Seven delegates (1 for every 50 members or portion thereof)
One alternate delegate
Delegates to General Assembly:
Five delegates (2 delegates for the first 100 members; 1 delegate for every 100
members or fraction thereof; and 1 church board member delegate One for every
fraction thereof)
One alternate delegate
4. Treasurer’s Report – Rodney Sauder
5. Recommendation – Adoption of the 2020 Budget
6. Reports
Church Board
Pastoral
Committees and Ministry Teams
Property Committee
Deacons
Girls Who Code
7. Closing Prayer
4Nominating Committee
Current Elected Positions
NAME POSITION TERM AS OF 2/2020
Church Board
Pastor Hank Ex-Officio
Pastor Lynda Ex-Officio
Emerson Lesher Chairperson 3 years 2 years
Rodney Sauder Treasurer 3 years 1 year
Carol Miller Secretary 3 years 0 years *
Elias Joseph member at large 3 years 2 years
Fellistus Munakombwe member at large 3 years 1 year
Don Murk (resigned) member at large 2 years 1 year *
Brian Mbuu (resigned) member at large 3 years 2 years *
Rachel Lewis member at large 3 years 0 years *
Henry Thiesen member at large 1 year 0 years *
Deacons
Theresa Baltimore 3 years 0 years *
Steve & Brie Thompson 3 years 2 years
Gem Carryl 3 years 1 year
Keith & Denise Chase (resigned) 3 years 2 years *
Angela Jefferies 3 years 1 year
Becky Kasparek 3 years 1 year
Jeff McCue 3 years 1 year
Pat Morton 3 years 0 years *
Steve & Nora Neidlinger 3 years 1 year
Christian Pearce & Lael Hassinger 3 years 0 years *
Raymond & Nicolette Snell 3 years 0 years *
Ryan & Kristie Sommers 3 years 1 year
Deb Souder 3 years 0 years *
Jose & Helen Tellez 3 years 2 years
Robert & Audrey Reyes 3 years 2 years
Lori Thiesen 3 years 0 years *
Tanya Van Hove 3 years 1 year
Additional deacon 3 years 2 years *
Additional deacon 3 years 2 years *
Trustees
Andy Breighner (resigned) 3 years 0 years *
Howard Bryant 3 years 0 years *
Mel Miller 3 years 2 years
Randy Miller 3 years 0 years *
Sheila Ngu 3 years 1 year
Kirk Patterson 3 years 2 years
Max Shradley 3 years 1 year
Henry Thiesen 3 years 0 years *
___________ 3 years 2 years *
* Open positions to be renewed by those currently serving and/or filled by new people, to be
elected at Council
5Nominating Committee
The Nominating Committee for 2020 included: Jehava Brown, Fellistus Munakombwe, Pastor
Hank, and Pastor Lynda
Confirmations for Election:
Church Board Secretary (3-year term)
Sarah Barron
Church Board Members (3-year terms)
Rachel Lewis
Henry Thiesen
Church Board Member (2-year unfulfilled term)
Chad Frey
Church Board Member (1-year unfulfilled term)
Jehava Brown
Deacon Positions (3-year terms)
Diane Buckwalter
Haven Evans
Christian Pearce & Lael Hassinger
Raymond & Nicolette Snell
Deb Souder
Faithe Zercher
Deacon Positions (2-year terms)
Suzanne Horton
Pauline Kinsey
_______________
Trustee Positions (3-year terms)
Kofi Fumey
Jay Mumper
Rob Shoaff
Henry Thiesen
Trustee Positions (2-year term)
Twila Glenn
Regional Conference Delegates (March 28, 2020, Pequea BIC Church, Lancaster)
1 delegate for every 50 members or portion thereof = 7 delegates
Theresa Baltimore
Sarah Barron
Chad Frey
Carol Miller
Christian Pearce
Lael Hassinger
_______________
_______________, alternate
6General Assembly Delegates (July 10-13, 2020, Salina, Kansas)
2 delegates for the first 100 members; 1 delegate for every 100 members or fraction thereof; and
1 church board member delegate = 5 delegates
Sophia Fumey
John Hawbaker
Wanda Heise
Lori Thiesen
_______________, church board member
_______________, alternate
(Note: The blank lines represent positions which have not been filled in time for the printing of the
Council packet. The Nominating Committee will continue to work to fill these positions.)
7Church Board Report
Members: Fellistus Munakombwe Fumey, Lynda Gephart – Pastor of Congregational Life, Hank Johnson
– Senior Pastor & Vice Chair, Elias Joseph, Emerson Lesher – Chair, Rachel Lewis, Brian Mbuu, Carol
Miller – Secretary, Rodney Sauder – Treasurer, and Henry Thiesen.
I am pleased to share with the congregation a summary of the Church Board’s work during 2019. Our
meetings included what might be considered routine governance activities as well as emerging topics and
issues. Below are some of the highlights for 2019:
1. We are grateful that many things are going well at Harrisburg Brethren in Christ Church! There is
an overall positive spirit and the current ministries are strong and expanding. While increasing
love for God and each other are the true measures of effectiveness, it is also exciting to see that
based on traditional congregational benchmarks, 2019 was a great year. Compared to 2018
average Sunday attendance was up 19 persons to 379. The number of “giving units” was 264, an
increase of 15 over last year. We also had five baptisms and six joined the church. Thanks be to
God!
2. This was the first full year of Hank Johnson’s leadership as Senior Pastor. I am impressed with
how Pastor Hank has leaned into leading as Senior Pastor both as primary teacher/preacher and
in his active role on the Church Board. I also sense that Pastor Hank is developing a great sense
of “team” and coordination of ministries with the Pastors and Staff.
3. The Board also worked closely with the Personnel Committee and Pastor Hank on several
personnel transitions including: (a) the resignation of Nathanael Thorne and the selection of Brie
Thompson as Pastor of Youth and Young Adults, (b) the resignation of Jennifer Stowe and the
selection of Lori Thiesen as Office Administrative Assistant.
4. The Board appointed a special Compensation Committee to review the salary and benefits of
Staff. A primary aim was to determine how we might provide benefits that are helpful to the Staff
and financially sustainable for the Congregation. The Committee made recommendations to the
Church Board which are included in the proposed 2020 budget. The Compensation Committee
members included: Brian Mbuu – Chair, Nora Neidlinger, Rodney Sauder, Anna Peachy and
myself.
5. The Board was contacted by a group of interested persons from within the congregation who
requested greater clarity on HBIC’s practice in welcoming and involving persons who might
identify as LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bi-Sexual, Transgender or Queer) in congregational life. Over
the past several months, the Board has spent time discerning how to provide leadership on this
important, sensitive, and timely issue. The Board affirms using the Brethren in Christ Church
position as the foundation to clarify HBIC’s practices. We will work with the church staff to have
more learning, discernment, and discussion on this issue in 2020 in different congregational
settings.
6. Certainly, a highlight of 2019 was paying off the mortgage for the church building! We are filled
with gratitude for the many who gave to this over the years. While celebrating this great
achievement the Board was also reminded in 2019 that many of our building systems and
facilities are now nearly 15 years old and have outlived their “useful” life.
An important theme and activity for the past several years for our congregation has been “transition”
(particularly from Pastor Woody to Pastor Hank as Senior Pastor). It now seems like it is time to bring
greater discernment and clarity to how HBIC will serve the congregation, neighborhood, city and region in
the coming years. The Board will be working with Pastor Hank to “plan a plan.” We will be working in 2020
to outline a strategic plan or mission plan for the next several years at HBIC. In “planning for a plan” we
will outline the planning process, who will lead it, how the congregation will be involved, and the format of
the report that is to be recommended to the Church Board and ultimately shared with the congregation.
This was my first year as Chair of the Church Board. As I have gotten deeper into the interworks of HBIC,
my appreciation and gratitude has only increased for what God is doing and wants to do in our midst.
Truly something special is happening here as we live out our vision to be a thriving diverse urban church
sharing Christ’s love and serving the needs of our local and global communities.
8Here are some of the things that I was impressed by and grateful for at HBIC in 2019:
• Committed and insightful Board members. We are sorry that the following are leaving the Board
in 2019: Carol Miller, Brian Mbuu, and Don Murk.
• Pastor Hank and Pastor Lynda, who serve as members of the Board, provide wonderful insight,
history, and forward motion.
• Active committees and ministries that put in many hours of work, such as: Finance, Property,
Deacons, Missions, Outreach, Prayer, Youth, Young Adults, Children, Worship, Mosaic -------
there are dozens of people who do the work of HBIC.
• Not only are we diverse in terms of race, ethnicity and culture but also in education, wealth,
vocations, politics, hobbies, age, geography, and more – truly it is Jesus that brings us together.
• The numerous connections of HBIC persons to government, non-profits, businesses, professions,
the neighborhood, the global Christian community and how this enriches our life as a
congregation.
• It is “ok” to be at different points in our spiritual journey. We are welcome if we are weak or in a
mess; we are also welcome if are confident and clear about faith.
We as a Church Board ask for your prayers, support, and feedback as we discern how to engage God’s
mission for HBIC in 2020 and beyond. We are pleased you are with us!
Respectfully Submitted,
Emerson Lesher
Church Board Chair
December 31, 2019
9Senior Pastor’s Report
2019 was my first full year serving as Senior Pastor of our amazing congregation. I am so grateful for the
11 years prior that I got a chance to be part of this great family as a congregant, a member, and
eventually, as one of your pastors as well. As I think back on the year that was, I am grateful for all the
years prior. Knowing this body, loving this group of people and journeying and growing with you all…all
these years, has made this transition a much sweeter blessing than I could have ever imagined. It also
was nice to end this year celebrating a mortgage completely paid off – what a testimony to the
faithfulness of God and you, the people of God.
Our staff is also amazing, in so many ways, and so many times over. It really is a joy to serve with them.
We are blessed with not only their gifts, but their lives as faithful testimonies, and their great love for our
church and community. Another aspect of my smooth transition into this role has been the support,
sacrifice, and hard work that our team puts in on a day to day basis. Pastors Brie, Carmen, Esteban,
Lynda, Patty, Woody, our Church Administrator Sheila Derr, our former Office Administrative Assistant
Jenn Stowe, and our Maintenance Specialist Ryan Shradley are all such a gift and blessing to us here at
HBIC.
Our church is very much, our people, our family. The work we do, we do it together. The ministry we do,
we serve God and our local and global communities together. Serving as Senior Pastor has put me into
much more contact with a greater portion of our church. I have enjoyed visiting life groups and ministries,
having meals and times of fellowship, and getting a chance to see all the work that a lot of our people do.
Emily Dickinson once said, “My friends are my estate”. Here at HBIC, it’s such a blessing to know that we
as family come together regularly, to lovingly serve and do our Father’s work.
2019 also marked more preaching for me as part of my new role. In preparing for this new reality, I
consulted with mentors and friends in ministry, did some reading and research, worked to learn and
practice new rhythms, and really just prayed. Some things I wanted to focus on were: teaching from both
Old and New Testaments regularly; being more intentional about highlighting sisters and brothers of the
faith in Scripture and in preaching; and trying to tie in the general “church calendar” as often as we could.
This past year we were able to journey with David in our search after God’s own heart, walk the road of
kingdom dwellers through Jesus’ Beatitudes, build our faith through the witness of our matriarchs in
Genesis and Exodus, learned about how God reveals Himself in the person of the Father and Jesus, and
lastly we celebrated the Advent by looking at how Jesus’ coming creates God’s kingdom.
This year I was able to work closely with Lanette and Tim Johnson and our Prayer Ministry Team. I am so
grateful for their love of the Lord, faithfulness to God and our church, and all the wonderful ways they
continue to gift us opportunities to be a praying church. Mosaics was also another place I was blessed to
serve. The work of living out our church’s vision belongs to all of us, but I’m grateful for the sisters and
brothers there, who pray and help to keep our vision in front of us all.
Late in the Fall of 2019, we launched Rooted. This series of four classes is meant to help our people
connect with God, our church, and their purpose and part to play in the work that occurs at HBIC. I’m
excited about the people who have joined us so far and the fruit and blessing that will come from this
series. And last but not least, our Church Board was such a blessing to our church and to me. Emerson
Lesher has been a tremendous Chair, and our Church Board really does work on the big and small, long
term and short term, all in hopes of continuing the ministry and light of HBIC.
2019 was a great year for our family. Shell continued her work as a Special Education Facilitator at John
Harris and SciTech High Schools in the Harrisburg School District; her job has many challenges, but she
continues to serve and be a light. I am so encouraged and challenged by her calling and ministry here,
her love for our city, and dedication to our Harrisburg students, many of whom society might leave
behind.
Harper recently turned 6, and has been enjoying kindergarten. The all-day aspect of it made for a rough
September, but she continues to grow in joy, passion, curiosity, and love. Kennedy was able to begin Pre-
School this year. I love her zest for life, that she’s the funniest person she knows (a true Johnson trait),
10and we’re all learning that her voice is coming and it will be heard. Shell and I remain so grateful for the
blessing Harper and Kennedy are, the blessing that they get to call our church home, and how God will
use them for His work and kingdom. Our family remains very blessed to call Harrisburg BIC home.
I pray that God will continue to gift you all grace and mercy from our Lord Jesus Christ, light and direction
from the Holy Spirit, and love for God and all our sisters and brothers. I thank God for 2019, for letting our
humble efforts bring Him glory as lives are changed, the lost are found, and we, His people, work to make
on earth as it is in heaven. May God continue to fill you up with His love and wisdom, equip you all for our
kingdom work, and let His light and love shine in and through you all. I am humbled to serve with you all.
May God bless and keep you all.
Respectfully Submitted,
Henry (Hank) B. Johnson
Senior Pastor
December 31, 2019
11Associate Pastors & Church Administrator Reports
Pastor of Congregational Life
I celebrated my fourteenth year of serving at Harrisburg BIC in July 2019, and I continue to be grateful
that God has called me to serve here – our church is very special.
Pastoral ministry has many facets. I had the privilege to preach four times during 2019. I worked with
Pastor Hank and Pastor Woody in leading the Wednesday evening classes offered in the sanctuary. I
also did pre-marital counseling and officiated at one wedding during the spring. There were also many
other opportunities throughout the year to meet with people, counsel with them, pray with them, visit them
in hospitals and homes, and journey with them through difficulties and joys.
The work done by the committees and ministry teams with which I serve kept me quite busy throughout
the year. I’ve continued to be a part of the following committees and ministry teams:
• Church Board
• Finance Committee
• Congregational Care Ministry Team
• Missions Ministry Team
• Hospitality Ministry Team
• Kitchen Ministry Team
• Amy’s Missionary Support Team (MST)
• Commission on Ministry and Doctrine (for the BIC denomination)
I’m so grateful for the many men and women who serve on these committees and teams, some for more
years than I can count – I’m really blessed by our partnership in God’s work here.
In addition to these committees and teams, one of the roles I fill is overseeing the HR work for the church,
which includes helping with the hiring and orienting of staff, keeping personnel records, researching and
shopping for health insurance, working with our payroll company, etc. Sometimes this work keeps me
hopping.
During 2019, I helped with the planning details for the four Celebratory Dinners that were held, each
coordinated by a different member of our Church Board. I loved being part of each of these events, and I
especially loved the stories and sentiments shared by so many in our congregation.
I also headed up the many details for our church’s mortgage pay-off Celebration Service in September,
which was a special Sunday of celebrating God’s goodness and the faithfulness of our congregation in
our time of note-burning (which wasn’t really a burning, but a shredding). I was especially indebted to Kim
Diffendall, Pat Morton, and Danae Weidler, who helped to make the photo displays that we had
throughout the building.
I get attached to the people with whom I serve, so it’s always hard to let them go as they decide to serve
in other ways in our church. At the time of our Council meeting, three people will be completing their
terms serving as deacons: Theresa Baltimore, Pat Morton, and Lori Thiesen. Also, Brie Thompson
stepped down from serving as a deacon when she became one of our pastors (Stephen is continuing to
serve), and Keith and Denise Chase completed their service as deacons during the year. I’m grateful that
I had the privilege of working with each of these people, and I’m very thankful for the many ways that they
offered support and care to folks on their deacon lists. They will be missed on the Congregational Care
Ministry Team. Similarly, I’m so thankful for Anna Peachey and Pearl Bryant’s service on the Missions
Ministry Team. Their dedicated service for a number of years has helped us in providing faithful support
for those serving in cross-cultural ministries around the world and in campus ministries here in PA. Both
Anna and Pearl recently completed their service with the team and will be missed.
12On a more personal note, during the fall of 2019 I spent a couple months thinking and praying about the
idea of using my pie-baking skills to bless others, an idea sparked by one of Craig’s co-workers and
encouraged by one of my sisters. The Lord helped me to see how I might be able to assist with a
brother’s need, so I took the leap. For the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, I baked many pies that
raised funds to help a brother in our congregation have the resources needed to bring his family to safety
here in the US from Cameroon, hopefully soon, thanks to the generosity of the many people who bought
the pies and who donated. It was a very inspiring and richly rewarding holiday season, and it has
motivated me to continue to seek God’s guidance about ways that I can more fully surrender who I am
and the gifts he has given me for serving the needs of ministries and people.
In terms of our family, Ryan is currently in his last semester of law school, Corey is in his second year of
studies at Messiah College, and Craig resumed his interest in photography in recent months. Thank you
for supporting my family in prayer, as so many of you do for all of our staff families.
Thank you for being such a supportive, encouraging, and loving congregation – you’re a blessing to me
and to my family. I look forward to our ministry together throughout 2020 and to seeing what God does in
us, through us, and among us this year.
Respectfully Submitted,
Lynda Gephart
Pastor of Congregational Care
December 31, 2019
Pastor of Youth & Young Adult Ministries
I began serving in the position of Pastor of Youth and Young Adult Ministries this past August after God’s
leading me to apply for the position. With my intent to reemerge into the world of work around the summer
of 2019, God progressively planted many seeds in my heart that ultimately led to my career change. As I
look back, it’s a blessing to see the ways God spoke to me and prepped me for the timing of the opening
of the position. I am so grateful for the warm welcome our community has given me into this position. I’m
also overwhelmingly thankful for the incredible support from all of our staff. Pastor Hank is a wonderful
leader and has guided me well through the different aspects of the position. Sheila has been amazingly
patient with me as I adjust to the ropes and she continues to be a huge help as I serve in my role.
Although the role of Pastor of Youth and Young Adult Ministries was left vacant for four months, the
ministries seemed to have not skipped a beat. Thanks to Pastor Hank’s leadership and the commitment
of our volunteers, our youth programming was able to continue quite seamlessly over those four months. I
am so grateful for our volunteers that are devoted, caring and intentional in their ministering to our youth.
I know the ministries, myself and my family are being prayed for regularly. It is evidenced in my heart and
through moments in which our congregants ask insightful and caring questions. It is an empowering
blessing to know I’m being prayed for! Please continue to join me in prayer for God’s work to be done, for
hearts to grow in the knowledge of the Lord’s love and in service to him.
I’m so blessed in getting to serve amongst such a supportive and encouraging congregation. I’m thankful
for what the Lord has done this fall and I’m eagerly looking forward to what is to come in 2020 and
beyond!
Respectfully Submitted,
Brieanna (Brie) Thompson
Pastor of Youth & Young Adult Ministries
December 31, 2019
13Pastor of Children’s Ministries
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ
Jesus.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
This has been a great year, with some sad times and changes but a lot of exciting times and much
growth.
I am very thankful for our Children’s Ministry team, for all of the work that they do and for how they
support and encourage me and the families of HBIC. One of our goals for the last couple of years is to
offer more activities for families. This year we offered 5 special events. Please take time to read our full
Children’s Ministry report.
I continue to lead the Atlantic Conference Children’s Ministry cluster and attend two networking groups.
We have had some significant changes in our family this year. In May, Alissa graduated with a degree in
children and family ministries from MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas. In October, she
started her full-time work as the Children’s Pastor at Lawrence First Church of the Nazarene in Lawrence,
Kansas. We are so proud of her and excited to see what God is doing through her and her new church.
Kirk began a new job in June at West Shore Home after working for Paxton Ministries for over 10 years.
This has been an adjustment and a positive change for our family. Kirk also went on his first short-term
mission’s trip to Alaska this past summer with others from the church. He would love to share about his
trip with you. And Colin is a senior at Cedar Cliff High School; he’s in the process of applying to colleges,
and also feels God calling him into full-time children’s ministry. We are so proud of our kids and excited to
see them excited about following God, being in the church and serving families.
Please continue to pray for my family and also my parents as they have been battling some health issues.
I try my best to support them, and I’m glad that my sister and I have them living close to us.
God continues to work in my life and I am constantly learning and growing.
Respectfully Submitted,
Patty Patterson
Pastor of Children’s Ministries
December 31, 2019
Pastor of Discipleship
2019 was a year of major change for me. I transitioned from being Senior Pastor to Pastor of
Discipleship. I feel very good about the transition to Pastor Hank as Senior Pastor. He was ready to step
into this position. I was ready to step out it. We continue to have a close relationship, and I think he is
doing a fantastic job.
I am now the staff liaison and support person for the Classics Ministry. Many thanks to Steve Burlew for
his leadership. We have a volunteer leadership team for this group, and they are a feisty bunch. Even
though I am not old enough to be a part of this group, it is an honor to work with them. Please take time to
read through the Classics Ministry report; you will see that they are an active group throughout the year.
Vu Musili, Nancy Busch, myself, and Christian Pearce launched a Christian 12-step group which meets
on Tuesday evenings. We only recently started. Anyone with any kind of addiction is welcome. I’ve found
that drug and alcohol abuse are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the things that control and
warp us. Chains come in many forms, which is why we call our group “Breaking Free”.
In addition to these responsibilities, I continue to do counseling and visitation. I still marry people and do
funerals. I participate in worship services when called upon, and I still feel very much a part of the staff.
14Outside of my church duties, I am the National Chairman of the Board for Heeding God’s Call. This is a
faith-based group dedicated to lessening gun violence in our nation. Feel free to ask me about this group
anytime.
I feel good about the new duties I have assumed. I’ve always wanted to focus on discipleship in very
concrete ways, and my new duties allow me to focus on ministries I feel are critical to the health of any
church, including ours. I have gone into detail about those very ministries in the Adult Discipleship
Ministry report. Please take a moment to read what I have shared there as well. I do covet your prayers
for the new 12-step group just getting started and the new discipleship ministry we are creating. Only God
can create spiritual hunger for these ministries and only the Holy Spirit can bring real transformation in
human lives.
Going to half time (25-hours per week) has seemed providential, especially since Kim’s health issues
have been significant and the need for me to do more in the functioning of our household has become
necessary. Plus, after 46 years of ministry, I simply could not take this church any further. My diminished
energy and lack of technological skills were weighing more and more on me.
I love this church. I am honored and privileged to continue serving as a minister in very important
ministries here. I can’t wait to see what God will do in 2020 with our fledging efforts to help create people
who are being transformed from glory to glory in Christ’s image. God bless you.
Respectfully Submitted,
Glenn (Woody) Dalton
Pastor of Adult Discipleship
December 31, 2019
Pastor of Worship Ministries
During 2019 I completed my first full year at Harrisburg Brethren in Christ (HBIC). It flew by so quickly, but
it was a great year of ministry and I’m very glad that God has placed me in this congregation.
2019 was an interesting year for my family with lots of ups and downs. My brother struggled in school
during all of 2019 and continues to struggle. My grandpa has had health issues during 2019 and
continues to have health issues, but I know all of it is in God’s hands. Being in Harrisburg has pushed me
to trust God more, to remember that he will be with my family and support them in ways that I would never
be able to and that he is working even when I can’t see it. Finally, on a brighter note, I got engaged in July
and I’m looking forward to getting married in April 2020. Super exciting stuff!
In terms of ministry, it has been an absolute joy to come to church and worship weekly alongside our
congregation. I love seeing our diverse congregation come together and lift up praise to our Savior. It’s a
truly beautiful representation of God’s Kingdom. Inheriting the Gospel Choir was another highlight for me.
I’m filled with joy every time I get to worship alongside our faithful choir members.
I’m in awe of God’s everlasting goodness to us. I think that we have started to feel a stronger movement
of God’s presence each week and I look forward to how He will continue to pour out his Spirit on our
congregation over time as we come together to lift up His name. I’m also excited to see what God has in
store for us as we continue to grow in our understanding of Him as well as our understanding of worship.
Respectfully Submitted,
Esteban (Estee) Nieves
Pastor of Worship Ministries
December 31, 2019
15Pastor of Outreach Ministries
“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I
was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked
after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.” - Matthew 25:35-40
Outreach Ministries was divided between different staff members following Pastor Cedra’s retirement. In
February 2019, Outreach Ministries (Food Pantry, English as a Second Language, and outreach events)
were finally brought back together, and under my care.
This year has been a year of learning and growing. I visited the Food Pantry during times it was in
operation and was able to see the way our wonderful volunteers operate and interact with the community.
The organization and system that is in place is very well thought out and provides a dignified means for
Food Pantry attendees to request food. The resources available to those within walking distance is not
the only reason our community attends the Food Pantry though. The gracious way the volunteers interact
– whether handing out numbers, shopping for families or translating – the community feels welcome and
heard. This ministry is a true blessing in our community. My prayer is that the Food Pantry will not just be
seen as a practical resource, but as a place where joy, peace and love are received just as freely.
I have also met with Wanda Heise for a conversation about ESL. I am in awe of how God continues to
use the different gifts we have for His glory. Who would’ve thought that years in a bilingual setting, on the
mission field or at home in Brooklyn would lead us to a Wednesday night and using our comfort in diverse
languages to help others learn English. And the more I think of the term ‘English as a Second Language’,
I have to agree that many of these participants are learning English as a third or fourth language! On
Wednesday nights, I take a quick run upstairs to see the beauty of God’s creation at work together. A
symphony of voices as one section learns basics, another learning intermediate English and the last
tackling advanced skills! If growth is a sign of God’s blessing, then His pleasure is all over the ESL class.
My prayer is that those who are involved, whether student or teacher, will grow in their relationship with
Christ just as their skills in English grow.
The outreach events have been nothing short of amazing. From monthly game nights at a local women’s
shelter to our end of year Community Christmas celebration, God has continued to show up in small and
detailed ways. A donation came in and I thought to myself, “What am I going to do with this?” I then
stored it away for some other opportunity. Forgetting about it, the item was put out during an event and
one participant came to me and said, “I can’t believe you are giving this away! I thought I would have to
buy it.” In those moments, God shows me that He knows the end from the beginning and there are no
coincidences with God. He takes everything and uses it for His purpose and glory.
Professionally, I am now a provisionally licensed pastor with the BIC denomination; this is an exciting
development in my life.
Personally, 2019 brought many new things to our family – we now have one adult child, one teenager,
one pre-teen, one child in early adolescence, and one toddler! Many times, I wonder how am I going to
get it all done and God hasn’t failed me with providing opportunities to bond with my husband and
children. He continues to show me that as I put His Kingdom first, He will be sure to add opportunities so
that my family is not missed!
I am looking forward to enrichment opportunities and networking in 2020. I am also gearing up for what
God has prepared in 2020. I look forward to following His direction and provision as we engage the
community this upcoming year.
1 Corinthians 2:9
Gratefully Submitted,
Carmen Dones
Pastor of Outreach Ministries
December 31, 2019
16Church Administrator
As I sit to write this annual report, our church just received news that Betty Oldham died. Betty was a dear
woman, a faithful follower of Jesus and a long-standing member of our congregation. In reflecting on
Betty’s life and relationships, I remember back to my earliest days at HBIC. Young and newly graduated
from college, I accepted an invitation in 1998 to serve as HBIC’s children and youth pastor. Betty was
among many at HBIC who welcomed me into our church family and my new role. Betty didn’t stop at
mere welcome though, and I am grateful today for her pursuit of and investment in me as a young woman
and leader. As a 20-something, I had much to learn, and she was incredibly generous in sharing of her
time, stories and wisdom. When I think of Betty, I am reminded of what it looks like to be used by God to
be a life-giving presence in the world we live.
Throughout this year, I have been privileged with opportunities to consider what it looks like to be a
disciple who makes disciples, who make disciples. Through the deaths of our brother, Bart Smith, and
sisters, Jaida Washington and Betty Oldham, to working with our volunteers and our pastoral staff on new
ways of communicating and approaching discipleship at HBIC, I have felt consistently challenged to
reflect on my own heart and relationship with Jesus. How am I making myself more available to God to be
a life-giving presence in the world we live? Where do I need to submit more to Jesus and the change he
would like to see in me? Where does my vision need to be enlarged and better align with the heart and
will of our Father in heaven?
In addition to collaborating on new communication and discipleship projects in 2019, I have continued to
enjoy a broad range of work that has intersected with the work of our pastoral staff, lay leaders,
committees and ministry teams, volunteers, and ministry partners. That work has involved:
• Strategic and ministry planning with our pastoral staff,
• Administrative support for the pastoral staff,
• Supervision of HBIC’s Maintenance Specialist and Office Administrative Assistant,
• Office coverage two days a week,
• Assisting with the orientation of Pastor Brie into her new role on staff,
• Collaboration with staff and ministry team leaders to refine and improve our communication,
• Collaboration and planning in preparation for a migration and upgrade of our website in 2020,
• Collaboration and planning for the development of a HBIC mobile app release in 2020,
• Coordinating facility use and event/program scheduling,
• Working with the Property Committee: two all-church work days, completion of a parapet wall
repair, the beginnings of a parking and garage rental agreement with Cuisine Solutions, technical
support for staff, and budget forecasting for the next four years,
• For six weeks with Max Shradley, co-facilitated the work of three Congolese men who were hired
by Cuisine Solutions, one of our neighboring businesses (These men volunteered full-time on our
property over the course of six weeks in May and June, and accomplished an enormous amount
of work. What an incredible and unexpected gift to our church family! Equally exciting was how
our relationship with Cuisine Solutions developed earlier in the Spring. It turns out that the Vice
President of Human Resources, Wede Gibson, is a childhood friend of Pastor Hank’s mother!
This connection led to dialogue about the vision and mission of our church and Cuisine Solutions,
the similarity in values for multiethnic community that we hold, and the possibility of future
dialogue on how we can serve our local community together! We truly live in an expansive yet
small world, and it is wonderful to see the connections that God provides as we lean into the work
that he places before us.) A giant thanks to Max for the gift of his time, heart, and talent with me
and these men as well!,
• Facilitation of HBIC’s partnership with Mission of Mercy & their mobile medical clinic,
• Procuring project bids and coordinating the work of service providers,
• Coverage of some of Pastor Lynda’s responsibilities during periods of time off,
• Work with individuals from our community to fulfill 288 hours of community service.
In all of the above, I have found myself challenged and stretched, and am quite grateful for the privilege it
is to serve alongside such wonderful and diverse family members here at HBIC. I am especially grateful:
17• For Henry Thiesen, Howard Bryant, Randy Miller, Max Shradley, and Dan Rosario in providing
leadership for the Property Committee and special property-related projects throughout the year.
• For our Property Committee and for the way they give generously of their time and talent to
support our relationships and ministries at HBIC.
• For Craig Gephart and Chris and LaVonne Eby and all the work they have invested in the support
and development of our church’s website and email over the past year.
• For our Maintenance Specialist, Ryan Shradley and all the behind-the-scenes work he does to
care well for our building and grounds.
• For Randy Kline and the many hours he invested in 2019 snow removal and lawn care.
• For Andrea Miller and the time she invested throughout the year to work with projection
volunteers, to help us communicate well through our website and sermon podcast, and to
complete 3 months of song reporting to maintain our CCLI license.
• For Jenn Stowe and the many ways that she eagerly worked to support our office operations
throughout 2019. It has been a privilege to serve with Jenn over the last couple years, and she
will be missed as she transitions to furthering her education. I am also excited for the opportunity
to work with Lori Thiesen as she steps into the office administrative assistant role and to provide
continuity in office support. We are blessed to have both of these women at HBIC.
• For Lori Thiesen and the time she invested in collaborating on and editing this Annual Council
packet.
I and my family are also well. God gifted us with many opportunities for learning and growing in the past
year, and we are better individually and as a family because of them. Dave and I recently celebrated 18
years of marriage, and are looking forward to the upcoming year and how God will continue to write his
story in and through us. Our son, Jonatán, is also finishing middle school, looking forward to high school
and discerning what God has for him as he considers his own next steps in life.
The stories that God continues to graciously write at HBIC, in my life, my marriage, and my family are
beautiful and compelling ones, and I eagerly look forward to how those stories will continue in 2020!
Respectfully Submitted,
Sheila Derr
Church Administrator
December 31, 2019
18Committee Reports
Finance Committee
Members: Pastor Lynda Gephart, Keegan Asper (Assistant Treasurer / Receivables), David Derr
(Assistant Treasurer / Payables), Jodi Griffis, Lyle Myers, Rodney Sauder (Treasurer & Chair), Weir
(Max) Shradley and Cindy Vasiliu.
The Committee met 11 times in 2019 and conducted business as required by email.
At the January 2019 Congregational Council Meeting, the 2019 budget was presented and approved. In
the budget we assumed the mortgage loan payment would continue for 12 months with the expectation
the mortgage would be retired early. We also dealt changes in health care costs with both transition in
staff and with eligibility for some staff members to remain on policies, as spouse’s employment changed.
In August of 2019, the mortgage payment due to S & T Bank, successor to Integrity Bank, was paid in full.
This was possible due to many within the congregation dedicating resources to achieve this goal. Over
the years, in addition to extra monies designated to curtail the principal, there were special gifts of assets
donated to Harrisburg Brethren In Christ church, with sale proceeds of the assets applied to the principal.
The mortgage payment annually was more or less $78,000.
With payment of the mortgage, the Nehemiah Fund was established. Individuals can contribute to the
Nehemiah Fund with the monies restricted for future capital needs.
Due to a generous ongoing donation, the position of Pastor of Youth and Young Adult Ministries
continues to be at a full-time level.
In 2019 funds reserved for use by the Property Committee were drawn and expended for projects
deemed to have an immediate need. One such project was the demolition of the parapet wall over the
Derry Street entrance and replacement construction. Congregants should know that going forward, both
due to the age of the building and the age of major heating and cooling devices in service for more than
10 years, it is expected capital needs for the foreseeable future may be material annually.
The Finance Committee worked with the Church Board and presented the 2020 proposed budget at the
December 2019 Pre-council Meeting. Based upon comments at said meeting, the 2020 budget is
presented for discussion.
David Derr has acted as the Assistant Treasurer/Payables for a term of more than 7 years. In this position
David has been responsible for paying invoices, balancing the bank accounts monthly, authorizing each
month the easyTithe transactions, posting all necessary entries to the Quick Book system and generate
monthly and as needed reports. David, upon closing out the 2019 financials, will not continue in this
position. We would like to thank him for his dedication to the task over the years. I, Lyle, will replace
David’s role as of January 2020.
Respectfully Submitted,
Lyle E. Myers
Secretary
December 31, 2019
19Mosaics Committee
Members: Pastor Carmen Dones, Kofi Fumey, Pastor Hank Johnson (Liaison to the Church Board),
Becky Kasparek, Fellistus Munakombwe-Fumey, Robert Reyes, Mike Roberts, Cedra Washington
The Mosaics Committee (MC) is appointed and accountable to the Church Board to serve and support
the fleshing out of the church’s vision. The group’s purpose is to promote the understanding and
involvement of people from a variety of cultures and to facilitate communication and positive interaction
within the entire church. The Mosaic Committee exists to be a resource to ministry teams, the Church
Board, and the Congregation.
In 2019, Mosaics was blessed with representation on the Church Board as well as within the pastoral
staff. This aided in the work of consulting with and making recommendations to church because of
consistent presence and voice. We were also able to host our church’s February Soul Food Meal,
develop and/or lead classes in church (I’m Still Here by Austin Channing Brown, The Very Good Gospel
by Dr. Lisa Sharon Harper, Week 3 of the church’s Rooted series), and continued to work with
congregations and organizations seeking to learn more about our church and our journey in racial
reconciliation and pursuit of Christ’s multicultural kingdom.
As we look to the year ahead, we have begun to plan and develop more opportunities that invite people to
learn more about our call and vision here at Harrisburg Brethren in Christ. In 2020, we hope to work
together to accomplish the following goals:
• Inform the congregation about Mosaics and being more available to consult with Ministry Teams
• Host Mosaics Sunday (Service and Soul Food Meal)
• Update the Racial Reconciliation Book Shelf (currently in the foyer)
• Offer multiple one day seminars/events that focus on education and training on different aspects
of our church’s vision
• Ministry opportunities involving our children and youth, and with the congregation as a whole
• Opportunities to impact and interact within the communities served by HBIC
Our vision continues to be used by God to flesh out our work here, and throughout our world. It
represents a calling for all of us. Mosaics exists as a group that is committed to equipping and
empowering our church family to be the thriving and diverse community serving our local and global
communities. We pray for God to fill us with His love and understanding, as we pursue being more than
equals and members of one another.
We are excited about opportunities to take what God has taught us, and to share it with our church family
and our community. It is always a blessing to see God at work, and we invite you to join God and us, as
we take this message of reconciliation, hope, justice, and love to our world.
Respectfully Submitted,
Henry (Hank) B. Johnson
Senior Pastor
December 31, 2019
Property Committee
Members: Henry Thiesen (Chair), Howard Bryant (Assistant Chair), Randy Miller Jr. (Secretary), Andy
Breighner, Mel Miller, Sheila Ngu, Kirk Patterson, Max Shradley, and Sheila Derr (Church Administrator &
Staff Liaison)
The Property Committee met 10 times this year.
Maintenance Specialist: Ryan Shradley served as our Maintenance Specialist this year. He did an
outstanding job keeping the everyday maintenance tasks up to date! We thank Ryan for his hard work.
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