Unity of Vancouver Fireside chat Meeting
January 30, 2011  12:30-2:15

1.  Opening Prayer – Shirley Vollet 

2. Mary introduced the Board

3. Financial Report- Mike Richards
Mike reported that we finished the year in the black, with a slightly higher operating profit than last year.   Work on the building (over $ 40,000 was capitalized.  We are approximately $20,000 into our $50,000 line of credit.  Mike expressed gratitude to the financial supporters for their tithes and love offerings.   Mike clarified the %age of the tithe, and where it is sent.

4. Building Committee Report – Kathy et al
Kathy reported that work on the building is ongoing, and we will share more information at the next Fireside Chat.  Highlights of progress over the past period:

• Addressing the issues of the building condition, completing stabilization of the building for the short term.  Work by Kerry and Bob was recognized.  Kerry noted that annual engineering inspections are required to confirm safety or need for additional repairs.  Andy Toth expressed concerns about conducting Sunday school under the scaffolding.
• Aesthetic upgrades have been completed. Kathy and Kerry acknowledged work by Marilyn and Deb to do cosmetic repairs.
• Continuing work on the three main options – repair, redevelop, relocate.  Many data gaps have been filled, with a summary report to go to the Board on February 10th.  Recent valuation indicates a property value >7.5 million, recent estimates of repairs indicate in excess of the $1 million discussed.   Kathy acknowledged Bob G as key person advancing this work over past months, and Bob answered questions.

5. Mary briefly reviewed the transition process to date, and reviewed the following objectives:

• Clarify who we are and where we are going (values, mission, vision)
• Strengthen our link with Canadian Association of Unity Churches and Unity Worldwide Ministries
• Deepen our sense of community
• Uncover and heal old issues
• Honour and gently release the past
• Open to other perspectives on how to do “Unity”
• Prepare for a new spiritual partnership with a new minister
• Become more mission driven, less minister centric
• Grow our individual and collective consciousness
• Allow God’s plan for Unity of  Vancouver to manifest through us

Mary announced that Michael Maday turned down the position this week, and told the congregation we would be engaging a transition specialist, continuing the transition work, and searching for a permanent replacement. Mary introduced Jim Vollett who with Sophie would lead a process designed to allow everyone to articulate their feelings/reactions to this announcement in small groups, with reporting back to the main group.  The process was completed, and results will be summarized and provided to the board for consideration in defining next steps.   Despite disappointment for some, the dominant theme was that people are trusting the process, and believe that we will find the right person for Unity of Vancouver as we move forward, clarify our vision, and grow in collaborative leadership.

Mary clarified that Joy’s work with us will end on schedule with guest speakers to fill in until the transition minister arrives.  Reverend Joy clarified that it would not be appropriate, and she knew it was not her calling, to be our transition minister.

Barb Richards provided a closing prayer.