QUEENSWOOD UNITED CHURCH
2022
ANNUAL
REPORT
360 Kennedy Lane East, Orleans, ON K1E 3P3
Email: queenswood.uc@rogers.com Tel: 613-837-6784
www.queenswoodunited.org
TABLE of CONTENTS
Mission Statement
Community Statement
Chairs of Council
Nominating Committee
Administration
Celebration of Light and Life
Community Garden
Congregational Life
Eastern Ontario Outaouais Regional Council
Finance / Stewardship Committee
Marketing and Communications
Memorial Fund
Men’s Club
Milestones (Statistical Report)
Minister’s Report
Ministry and Personnel Committee
Transition Steering Committee
QUC trustees
Outreach Committee
Pastoral Care Team
Property
Property Development
Queenswood Crafters and Quilters
Volunteers
Worship Committee
MISSION STATEMENT
At Queenswood United Church we serve God by taking care of God’s creation. We help those in need, we nurture the young, and we support our immediate community and the world community. We are conscientious stewards of God’s planet. Our service is centered in a commitment to living Christ’s love for all. It is nourished within an informal but meaningful worship life and a relationship with each other that is open, inquiring and accepting.
COMMUNITY STATEMENT
We are a member congregation of the United Church of Canada. We are grounded in Christian tradition and are open to the truths of other faiths.
We are a small, energetic and friendly community of faith who find joy, support and strength in worshipping and working together. Our church family is precious to us.
We strive to be faithful servants of God in our time and place.
We welcome all who quest sincerely to join us in our faith journey.
| Who we are
We are an engaged community of faith, finding Christian Fellowship in our activities together. We are welcoming. We are open, accepting, respectful and sincere. We are seekers, striving to understand God’s Will for us. We are nurturers of God’s creation. We are a loving community in Christ. |
What we believe
We believe that we are not alone, that we live in God’s world. We believe that God bears unconditional love, mercy and compassion for all in all of creation. We believe that we are called by God to act in love. We believe that we are the hands and feet of God to serve others. We believe that the challenge of growing our faith is a life-long journey, and that we are greatly enriched by sharing that journey within community. We believe that, with God’s help, we can make a difference. |
How we practice
We take care of each other, in prayer and in practice. At worship we pray, sing, laugh, celebrate and reflect on the Word of God. We have a strong ministry of music. We provide a safe place to practice and explore. We focus on living Christ’s teachings through our actions. We continue our strong tradition of outreach to the greater community. We accept that we are blessed to be able to share our gifts with one another and with all creation. We celebrate the gift of God’s grace. |
Chairs of Council
Introduction:
The governance of Queenswood United continued as it had been organized the previous year with the three rotating chairs. Your Chairs of Council, in 2022, were Rose Marie MacLennan, Marilyn Joseph, and Don Morwick. As in 2021, the pandemic greatly influenced the operation of the Church.
As agreed, Rose Marie acted as Chair of Council in March-April and October-November and Marilyn, May-June and December. Don was Chair in January-February and July-September.
During their allocated months, much of Chairs’ duty consisted of presiding over Council, Annual, and Congregational meetings. They were also heavily involved with other Church matters, including property development, finances, and staff concerns, as chairs and members of a number of committees. Their contributions are covered elsewhere in the committee annual reports.
It was agreed that each of the three Chairs would review their terms in the Chairs of Council Annual Report.
Don Morwick, Chair, January and February.
In the opening months of 2022, the worship experience and governance of Queenswood United was dictated by COVID-19.
Due to lock-downs in January and part of February, worship service was by Zoom with Lynn Stacey’s pre-recorded accompaniment. The Church is indebted to Doug Tudor, Rev. Laurelle’s husband, who volunteered to produce the weekly services. We are appreciative of the manyhours they donated of their personal time. The worship services were well-received and good at- tendance was maintained.
Council, Congregational, and numerous committee meetings were conducted via Zoom. Chapel rentals and cleaning were also affected by the pandemic restrictions. At the February Council meeting, it was decided that Queenswood United would follow provincial COVID mandates.
With the cooperation and hard work of many of our members, the Church continued to operate quite well through this unique and challenging period of our lives.
Respectfully submitted,
Don Morwick
Rose Marie MacLennan, Chair, March and April.
In March 2022, Council was updated on our continuing financial challenge, especially due to the ongoing lack of renters during COVID, except those renting parking space. Government Wage Subsidies continued to provide much appreciated financial support to QUC, but those would cease later in the year. The detailed applications involved took many hours to complete, and we are indebted to our Treasurer Julia Picotte for both her knowledge and persistence on our behalf, and to Marilyn Joseph for her assistance as Chair of Finance and Stewardship in this task as well.
Our Pastoral Charge Supervisor Rev. Trisha Elliott greatly assisted us in setting up a QUC Pro- file on the Canada Helps Website, which enables anyone to donate to QUC, either on the Canada Helps website or by using a Donate button on our own website. The Donate button was technically inserted by our Webmaster, Ron Newby. Thank you Ron! This capability will be especially helpful as we proceed with our call to provide affordable housing in our community, and hopefully to also enable the building of community as well, as part of our property development project.
The Property Development Committee reported on their work with Bob Richards, our property consultant from Edge, using a Logic Model to provide a framework for our exploration of the option of having a Community Centre within our Chapel Building. There was also an initiative that began in March to communicate clearly with our neighbours about the vision and basic information of our property development. That initiative included conversations with the Seven Day Adventist (SDA) community of faith, St. Helen’s Anglican Church, and Spring Living, the owner of Queenswood Villa.
The resumption of in-person services on 20 March was warmly received, while ensuring the pro- vision of ventilation, and spaced seating. At our monthly March meeting, Council withdrew the QUC Vaccination Policy, while stating that QUC would continue to follow current provincial regulations. Planning for a Spring Fling event in May also began at our March meeting.
At our April meeting, Council was informed in more detail of the EOORC Housing Matters Net- work of our Regional Council. Its focus is on sharing relevant information concerning housing insecurity in our area, from the various housing projects in progress, and from organizations whose activities are centered on addressing this key issue, such as the United Property Resource Corporation (UPRC).
Council was consulted at our monthly meeting in April on possible options for summer worship, with a hybrid on-site and zoom format for informal worship, being the supported option.!
Respectfully submitted,
Rose Marie MacLennan
Marilyn Joseph, Chair, May and June.
May was a busy month at QUC, and there was a buzz in the air as QUC folk went about their many tasks. Bob & Lynda Rodney picked early spring crops, such as asparagus and rhubarb, from the community gardens, and delivered the first of our weekly offerings “down the hill” to the Orleans Cumberland Community Resource Centre food bank . Planting for summer and fall harvesting began, and weeding and watering became part of the weekly schedule. Property Co- Chair, Archie, and his helper, Albert, hastened to repair and re-erect the broken church sign, ahead of Rose Marie MacLennan’s on-site media interviews on the subject of our property development proposal. The five signatories on our general bank account grouped and re-grouped as they tried to schedule visits to the bank to sign the masses of required paperwork. The livestreaming Tech Team set up every Saturday afternoon in preparation for Sunday’s worship service, and those implicated in producing the weekly PowerPoint discussed and met to finalize a workable process for completing the complicated task. And, on Saturday May 28, several volunteers performed a “labour of love”, as they catered to a Celebration of Life at Carleton University for Carman Cumming, the father of former QUC Office Administrator and our good friend, Kim Gratton.
At the May 14 Spring Fling, ably organized by Lynda Rodney and Jackie Tuttle, we were able to divest ourselves of about one third of the contents of the portables. Many thanks to Elayne Bon- nell and her team for her leadership in beginning to sift through the portables to determine what to do with the accumulation of materials that attest to QUC’s full, rich life of congregational activities and service over the many decades of our being. This ongoing task has not been easy, as there are many precious memories stored in those portables! Thanks to the hard work by the Spring Fling organizers and their team of volunteers, the sale brought in close to $2000! Of note was the traditional rivalry for highest sales between the Craft Group and the Bake Table, won on this occasion by the Crafters.
After the Spring Fling, Elayne Bonnell, “ambassador extraordinaire” for our caring congregation, gave about 5 – 6 boxes of leftover Men’s Club books to a grateful young man who is trying to make money to support his family. He was encouraged to think of us if he or his family ever needs anything in the future.
Longtime renters, Orléans Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA), were very excited to return at the beginning of May, but very kindly put off the date so that QUC could hold its Spring Fling on May 14. They worked with Dave Clemis, our “tech angel” from Orleans UC, and Don Mor- wick, to set up interactive Zoom worship, making use of some of our livestreaming equipment that can be shared.
The May 22 worship service took place the day after the furious derecho storm that caused such damage to Canada’s most populous corridor. Although Don Morwick and I were stranded at the chapel at the height of the storm Saturday afternoon when the power failed during the livestream setup, we were happy to chat with some neighbourhood teens who took refuge there from the frightening winds and rain. Fortunately, damage to QUC property was minimal, and our power was restored in time for church the following day.
There was a sense of purpose in the air at the May Council meeting, where I presided as both Chair and “acting” Secretary, due to the well-deserved holiday break of regular secretary Carol Pugsley. Council held a sincere and fruitful discussion about the effect of livestreaming on the quality of QUC’s in-person worship. There was general consensus that our informality and spontaneity was negatively affected, and people were able to express their grief concerning the effects of the pandemic on our beloved church family and worship style. A decision was made to simplify the livestream production, and to just be ourselves during Sunday worship. The results have been very positive, and have allowed us to enjoy more spontaneous and comfortably imperfect worship. There is less pressure to “perform”, and we now feel that we are reflecting who we truly are to the world.
June was marked by preparations to welcome Pedalheads summer bicycle skills day camps to our premises for one last summer. Pedalheads have been excellent tenants over the past several years, and it was bittersweet to know we will not have that lively presence with us next year. The Rodneys and Josephs spent considerable time divesting the parking lot of weeds, soil accumulation and broken glass, in preparation for the first day of camp on June 27.
Traditionally council does not meet in June, but instead holds a dinner out for Council members and their partners. This year, acting on a great suggestion by Rev. Laurelle, we held a congregational social dinner on Tuesday June 28, at Lexus Bar and Grill. It turned out to be a lovely evening out, with about thirty members of our church family, some of whom we hadn’t seen for quite a while, enjoying an evening’s worth of good food and fellowship. It provided an excellent launch into the days of summer.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Joseph
Marilyn Joseph, Chair, July and August.
May was a busy month at QUC, and there was a buzz in the air as QUC folk went about their many tasks. Bob & Lynda Rodney picked early spring crops, such as asparagus and rhubarb, from the community gardens, and delivered the first of our weekly offerings “down the hill” to the Orleans Cumberland Community Resource Centre food bank . Planting for summer and fall harvesting began, and weeding and watering became part of the weekly schedule. Property Co- Chair, Archie, and his helper, Albert, hastened to repair and re-erect the broken church sign, ahead of Rose Marie MacLennan’s on-site media interviews on the subject of our property development proposal. The five signatories on our general bank account grouped and re-grouped as they tried to schedule visits to the bank to sign the masses of required paperwork. The livestreaming Tech Team set up every Saturday afternoon in preparation for Sunday’s worship service, and those implicated in producing the weekly PowerPoint discussed and met to finalize a workable process for completing the complicated task. And, on Saturday May 28, several volunteers performed a “labour of love”, as they catered to a Celebration of Life at Carleton University for Carman Cumming, the father of former QUC Office Administrator and our good friend, Kim Gratton.
At the May 14 Spring Fling, ably organized by Lynda Rodney and Jackie Tuttle, we were able to divest ourselves of about one third of the contents of the portables. Many thanks to Elayne Bon- nell and her team for her leadership in beginning to sift through the portables to determine what to do with the accumulation of materials that attest to QUC’s full, rich life of congregational activities and service over the many decades of our being. This ongoing task has not been easy, as there are many precious memories stored in those portables! Thanks to the hard work by the Spring Fling organizers and their team of volunteers, the sale brought in close to $2000! Of note was the traditional rivalry for highest sales between the Craft Group and the Bake Table, won on this occasion by the Crafters.
After the Spring Fling, Elayne Bonnell, “ambassador extraordinaire” for our caring congregation, gave about 5 – 6 boxes of leftover Men’s Club books to a grateful young man who is trying to make money to support his family. He was encouraged to think of us if he or his family ever needs anything in the future.
Longtime renters, Orléans Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA), were very excited to return at the beginning of May, but very kindly put off the date so that QUC could hold its Spring Fling on May 14. They worked with Dave Clemis, our “tech angel” from Orleans UC, and Don Mor- wick, to set up interactive Zoom worship, making use of some of our livestreaming equipment that can be shared.
The May 22 worship service took place the day after the furious derecho storm that caused such damage to Canada’s most populous corridor. Although Don Morwick and I were stranded at the chapel at the height of the storm Saturday afternoon when the power failed during the livestream setup, we were happy to chat with some neighbourhood teens who took refuge there from the frightening winds and rain. Fortunately, damage to QUC property was minimal, and our power was restored in time for church the following day.
There was a sense of purpose in the air at the May Council meeting, where I presided as both Chair and “acting” Secretary, due to the well-deserved holiday break of regular secretary Carol Pugsley. Council held a sincere and fruitful discussion about the effect of livestreaming on the quality of QUC’s in-person worship. There was general consensus that our informality and spontaneity was negatively affected, and people were able to express their grief concerning the effects of the pandemic on our beloved church family and worship style. A decision was made to simplify the livestream production, and to just be ourselves during Sunday worship. The results have been very positive, and have allowed us to enjoy more spontaneous and comfortably imperfect worship. There is less pressure to “perform”, and we now feel that we are reflecting who we truly are to the world.
June was marked by preparations to welcome Pedalheads summer bicycle skills day camps to our premises for one last summer. Pedalheads have been excellent tenants over the past several years, and it was bittersweet to know we will not have that lively presence with us next year. The Rodneys and Josephs spent considerable time divesting the parking lot of weeds, soil accumulation and broken glass, in preparation for the first day of camp on June 27.
Traditionally council does not meet in June, but instead holds a dinner out for Council members and their partners. This year, acting on a great suggestion by Rev. Laurelle, we held a congregational social dinner on Tuesday June 28, at Lexus Bar and Grill. It turned out to be a lovely evening out, with about thirty members of our church family, some of whom we hadn’t seen for quite a while, enjoying an evening’s worth of good food and fellowship. It provided an excellent launch into the days of summer.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Joseph
Don Morwick, Chair, July, August and September.
Summer proved to be a period of relative quiet. Council met as-required during this time.
A special Council meeting was held on July 7 to approve the Statement of Work for Rev. Laurelle Callaghan’s part-time ministry appointment. Her term was extended to September 30, 2023.
By June, some of the pandemic restrictions were being relaxed. The in-person worship services, which were resumed during the spring, were live-streamed for the benefit of our Congregants who were unable to attend in person. Regular worship services were changed to an informal round-table format known as “Gabbin’ with God”. Rev. Laurelle presented questions which were examined and discussed in detail. Due to the nature of these services live-streaming was sus- pended. An average attendance of about twenty people enjoyed this form of worship. There were no services on the long weekends.
Work on the development of the property continued quietly in the background. With the estimated start date for construction for the summer of 2023, it became apparent that the portables would have to be emptied during the next six months. Work began on such tasks as organizing the archives, thinning out catering equipment, and downsizing the Men’s Club book collection. This turned out to be quite a challenge in the summer heat.
It was my pleasure to serve as your Chair of Council for my two terms in 2022.
Respectfully submitted,
Don Morwick
Rose Marie MacLennan, Chair, October and November
Since there was no requirement to address any items suitable for Council discussion and decision, the October monthly meeting was cancelled. The end of October saw our Trustees electronically sign the key property development Agreements with the United Property Resource Corporation. We found ourselves awaiting more information as to a definite timetable of events in the development process. Meanwhile a group of Council members and others have begun to take appropriate steps to remove material from the Portables, so that they can be demolished and removed from the property, either later this winter or in the spring.
The need to reconnect with our members and adherents who have not attended worship or events on-site during our COVID and other virus days has been a theme in our collective mind as Council. Given the continuing COVID, other viruses, and flu that exist around us, it is respectfully understood that we individually continue to make decisions about which activities we are comfortable in attending.
We attempted to keep connected earlier in COVID through our phone network, through worship and other events being held outside or by zoom, and now through worship by live-streaming.
Huge thanks goes to all who have supported and continue to support the technical evolution of our worship services that have enabled virtual participation. Fortunately, the opportunity to gather improved as the months went by. On 24 November, we were delighted to be able to gather for a Ladies’ Luncheon at Boston Pizza! Attendance exceeded all expectations, and included friends from our Quilting group.
The Council meeting in November is always a key one, as its focus is largely on beginning preparations for our upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM). The AGM this year will occur on Sunday 26 February, at 1:30 pm. by Zoom. As always, the Annual Reports of the Committees and various groups and the development of the proposed Budget take considerable time and effort so that we can together review what has been achieved, and what there is to be done going forward. During our Council meeting in November, I asked each current Council member to consider continuing their commitment to QUC by remaining on Council for another year. The continuity on Council that we have been able to sustain has deep value during these years of greater challenge as a community of faith.
Respectfully submitted,
Rose Marie MacLennan
Marilyn Joseph, Chair, December.
On two occasions, in late November and early December, the “Holy Rollers”, consisting of Kim and Joey Gratton, Elayne Bonnell, Jackie Tuttle, Helen Keeney, and Albert and Marilyn Joseph, assembled to once again make delicious peanut butter balls for sale. Thanks to Orleans United Church for once again graciously allowing use of their kitchen for the endeavours, and to Albert and Marilyn who hosted the second session in their home kitchen. The dozens of peanut butter balls rolled sold quickly, adding close to $600 to QUC’s fundraising income.
Since the lessening of pandemic-related mandates, QUC leadership has been very conscious of reconnecting with those of our precious church family with whom we have had minimal in-per- son contact since the pandemic struck. We have looked at ways of reconnecting with members who have not returned to QUC since COVID measures cancelled worship services and social activities. There is a “core group” of congregation members who regularly attend worship and participate in such events as “What’s Up” and the Spring Fling, but we miss many of our old friends. From our regular phoning, we know that some are not comfortable taking part in person, although they have still participated in non-gathering type activities. We know of others who have filled the spaces in their lives, once taken by QUC, with other priorities. Although not done on a formal scale, during the latter half of 2022, we have reached out to many, to see if they are interested in on-site activities, and to become aware of barriers to their involvement with QUC, to which we could respond. There have been some encouraging signs that a measure of renewal is possible, within the structure of a “new normal”.
The year drew to a close with particularly lovely Advent worship services, accompanied by the heartfelt singing of every Christmas hymn imaginable. The season culminated with a beautiful, meaningful Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion service, which can be enjoyed on our YouTube channel. We experienced the joy of worshipping with some church family members whom we hadn’t seen in literally years, and went forth in peace and good will, as worshippers joined together in our special musical tradition of “Peace, Peace”
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Joseph
Nominating Committee
The following report presents a slate of Officer nominations for the Queenswood United Church Council, and Trustees for 2022. All representatives of the Council, and the Trustees must be voted in by the Congregation at the Annual General Meeting, with the exception explained below.
QUC Council
| Chair (in rotation) | Don Morwick, Marilyn Joseph, Rose Marie MacLennen |
| Chair Elect | Vacant |
| Past Chairs (in rotation) | Don Morwick, Marilyn Joseph, Rose Marie MacLennen |
| Transition Steering Committee | Rev. Triisha Elliott |
| Administration | Vacant |
| Treasurer | Julia Picotte |
| Secretary | Carol Pugsley |
| Finance (Stewardship) | Marilyn Joseph |
| Ministry & Personnel | Don Morwick |
| Worship Support | Elayne Bonnell |
| Pastoral Care Liaison | Lynda Rodney |
| Outreach | Bev Morwick |
| Trustees | Frank Stacey |
| Property Development | Rose Marie MacLennan |
| Property | Archie Newby & Bob Rodney |
| Regional Representative | Marilyn Joseph |
| Marketing and Communication | Vacant |
| Members at Large | Heather Lait and Susanne Watt |
| Ministry & Personnel | Don Morwick |
| Congregational Life | Council Members |
| Christian Education | Vacant |
| Youth Representative | Vacant |
Trustees: Frank Stacey (Chair), Rev. Trisha Elliott, Don Morwick, Marilyn Joseph, Bob Rodney, and Rose Marie MacLennan
Note: Rev. Trisha Elliott is both an automatic member of Council, and the Council Executive, as well as an automatic Trustee, by virtue of her position, as our Community of Faith Supervisor, in accordance with Bylaws within the 2022 Manual of the United Church of Canada. She is there-fore not elected by the Congregation.
Respectfully submitted,
Rose Marie MacLennan
Member, Nominating Committee
Administration
As has been the case since the beginning of 2019, Queenswood United Church did not have a Chair of Administration nor any official committee members this past year. Again, various volunteers ensured the proper completion of tasks and responsibilities.
The Administration job consists of about 8 tasks that are quite independent of each other, and include: the United Church of Canada (UCC) mandated Annual Statistical Report; insurance renewal; the maintenance, repair and replacement of office computers and printers; the maintenance of QUC Constitution and policy documents; maintenance of the Historical (Membership) Log and Database; Public Access Defibrillator (PAD); office supplies and keys; and rental con- tracts and oversight.
Completion of the Annual Statistical Report is facilitated through access to historical reports back to 1991, now available through ChurchHub. Marilyn Joseph completed the report, with financial input from Treasurer Julia Picotte, and other input from various QUC resource persons.
Insurance renewal was accomplished with a minimum of adjustment on our part this year, after last year’s lengthy re-application process. 2022 continued to see a dramatic rise in insurance costs. To counter this the UCC announced the launch of a self insurance program aimed at a significant reduction of insurance costs for pastoral charges, retroactive to December 1, 2022. Happily, no further administrative steps need to be taken, and we anticipate a smooth transfer in 2023 to the new set-up.
Office staff have had to deal with multiple internet-related issues this past year. A change to our account in spring, followed closely by the Rogers’ nationwide blackout in May, led to prolonged confusion as to what were legitimate charges on our account. It wasn’t until the November in- voice that all of the credits were finally clarified, so that we felt confident informing the SDA of what were their share of the charges. Additionally, November saw stability issues with our inter- net, causing multiple inconveniences in the office, and forcing us to cancel the livestream of the November 20 worship service. Rogers technicians eventually identified and repaired a cut cable near the green box at the road. Although originally to be buried next spring, all were relieved when the cable was surprisingly buried within a few days, during a Rogers visit to the Villa.
A new black and white printer was added to the office hardware late this fall, to accommodate wireless printing from the minister’s office, as the commercial printer/copier received last year upon the closure of St Paul’s Eastern UC, does not have wireless capabilities. With the help of volunteer Stan Blythe, we were able to assess and responsibly dispose of two small office printers and a “painfully slow” laptop that no longer suited our purposes.
A conscious decision to make only absolutely necessary changes to QUC Constitution and Pol- icy Documents has led to very little work done on this front over the past few years. Our governance structure is evolving as we learn how to operate our community of faith given the realities of a smaller leadership group, and the changes will be documented at a future time in our journey, when we arrive at a less fluid structure.
Volunteer Stan Blythe continues his excellent work maintaining the Historical Log and Data- base, and also contributed to a joint effort by Elayne Bonnell, Marilyn Webster, and Marilyn Joseph to replace supplies for the Public Access Defibrillator (PAD) at the chapel.
This past year has seen the return of a measure of stability with our rental groups, and we began to see what may be the post-pandemic shape of rentals. Due to forced changes to their business models, and the cessation of some of these small businesses, the exercise and yoga groups, which previously formed the backbone of weekly chapel bookings, have not returned, and are not expected to return. Despite occasional daytime rental bookings, we currently have no daytime regulars. Most daytime chapel use is for important social opportunities for the congregation and for friends of QUC.
Two long time regular renters, the Orléans Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA), and the Ot- tawa Community Symphony Orchestra (OCSO), returned with regularity in 2022.
The SDA, under its three-year rental agreement signed in November 2021, has settled into a routine. 2023 will mark the 25th year of their time as our principal tenant, and we thank God for the longevity of this amicable relationship. They enjoy augmented attendance numbers because nearby congregations have not returned to their former premises. Our Tech Team has worked out an arrangement by which they can use our internet connections in the sanctuary to provide Zoom services for those who cannot attend in person. SDA has not yet returned to the full usage of the chapel, as permitted by their contract, but that usage is gradually expanding with the pas- sage of time.
The OCSO returned cautiously to weekly rehearsals in the fall of 2021, missed some time in early 2022, and then returned permanently, to successfully offer their traditional public concert in June. They closed out 2022 with steady chapel use all fall, and have more public concerts planned for 2023. Occasional renters this year included a musical theatre group, a medical personnel organization, and family gatherings booked by a congregation member and a community individual.
Office Administrator Marilyn Webster continues to handle most of the rental duties, in consultation with Marilyn Joseph, who liaises with SDA. During the year, the two Marilyns updated all rental documents to adhere to Council’s policy of reflecting the withdrawal of provincial covid-related mandates. This marked a great decrease in the administrative paperwork previously required to rent the chapel during two years of fluctuating pandemic restrictions, to the considerable relief of both Marilyns!
Special thanks go to volunteers Stan Blythe, who continues to play a supportive role in administration-related issues, and Elayne Bonnell, who consistently provides an invaluable service at the chapel, procuring office and chapel supplies, monitoring the PAD batteries, and managing recycling and garbage, among countless other tasks.
All of the volunteers involved in supporting church administration are thanked for their faithful service to Queenswood. Even the seemingly tiniest contribution is essential to keeping the church functioning well, and is recognized with gratitude.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Joseph
Chair, Finance & Stewardship Committee
Celebration of Light and Life
There were 30 contributions to the Celebration of Light and Life in 2022.
The lights are on for every service; a reminder of the significant people, events and gifts of thankfulness that honour our daily lives. There is a permanent record of our contributions since we began in 2004
Respectfully Submitted
Elayne Bonnell
Community Garden
Our community gardens were very successful this summer. We were able to provide weekly fresh produce to the Food Bank from June to September. An added bonus was many boxes of fresh pears from our neighbours’ pear tree.
Respectfully submitted,
Bob Rodney
Congregational Life
In spite of Covid, we were able to have some congregational activities.
We were able to have 2 functions this past year. They were the Spring and Fall markets.. They provided us with an opportunity to interact with the community as well as some congregational fellowship.
Respectfully submitted,
Lynda and Bob Rodney
Eastern Ontario Outaouais Regional Council
As with other aspects of church life, 2022 saw EOORC continuing its adaptation to life in a pan- demic, with encouraging signs of moving into a “new normal” as the year progressed. More exhausted resource staff and pastoral charge clergy took sabbaticals, vacation time and restorative leave, and returned with new energy to their positions. Renewal also occurred at the regional Executive level, with the retirement of Executive Minister Rev. Rosemary Lambie, after 40 years of serving the United Church in various roles, and the appointment of Rev. Éric Hébert-Daly to the position as of early January 2023.
Winter Meeting Saturday, February 26, 9am to Noon, via Zoom
The theme of this meeting was “Many Gifts, One Spirit”. In recognition of the current stressful times, there was no business component to the meeting – instead it was a time for listening, learning and reflection. Attendees heard from a variety of people with gifts to share, guided by God’s loving spirit. They offered support and strove for harmony for the people and communities of EOORC.
The opening worship emphasized Jesus’ words of comfort for us, as found in John 14: 27 “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not be afraid.”
Among the good news presentations were: Pastoral Relations Minister Whit Strong’s introduction of the Living Faith Story and the Living Faith Profile, two new official pastoral charge pro- files which now replace the cumbersome former JNAP profile; promotional videos from the region’s camp ministries, showing happy, carefree, young campers enjoying summer fun, and introduction of the UCC’s new promising Right Relations Network.
A very impactful presentation was that of Diane J. Strickland, an ordained minister, trained traumatologist, and therapist. Given that many of our usual coping strategies for stress, such as gyms, spas, and lunch out with friends, have not been available to us, and may not be for some time, she spoke of self-care through the Gospel. Through reading and understanding of the Gospels, we can learn to love ourselves from the One who’s love is always there. We can learn about God and his unconditional love for us, and can accept ourselves, because God has already accepted us. By participating in the Gospel on a personal level, we can see ourselves as worthy and precious.
The meeting ended with brief words from Rev. Peter Bartlett, EOORC’s newest staff member. He asked what love would look like for many marginalized groups today, and encouraged us to not be afraid to “unmute” ourselves and become active.
EOORC AGM, May 27 &2 8, via Zoom!
Theme: “Out of the Desert, Into the Promised Land
Unlike the other two meetings in the EOORC calendar, the AGM was held over the course of two half-days, and included a large business component, with the passing of policy and other documentation.
The meeting also conveyed a lasting inspirational message of love and hope.
Many people feel that their personal lives were in a barren place during the pandemic, and some feel they continue to be there. Like the Israelites led by Moses, their relationship with God is at a low point, and they feel there is no “promised land” for them.
Throughout the meeting, leaders and EOORC youth encouraged and buoyed attendees with word of God’s love, reminding us that “we live in God’s world, we are not alone”. Although we don’t know what the future will hold for us and our loved ones, for the United Church of Canada, for our individual communities of faith, or for our world, God has, and always will, journey with us, as we work together to do God’s will and ministry, and to care for his creation.
Some of the youth reflections were especially poignant, as they reminded us “People are lonely, tired and frustrated, and they need a purpose – they need a hug from you and from God”, “For each of us, reaching the Promised Land may mean something different – what does it mean for you?”, and “Have you wandered, have you struggled on your way to the Promised Land?…God is with us, we are not alone, thanks be to God”.
The message of hope and love was accompanied by a strong reminder that the Promised Land is on the horizon, but we won’t get there unless we move and act:
EOORC staff, Rev. Dr. Peter Bartlett, talked about living into the new structure of the United Church of Canada. No sooner was the new structure ensconced in the Governance Handbook than the pandemic struck, and everything changed. However, as noted by Martin Luther King, on your journey “you don’t have to see the whole staircase, just the first step”. Just as the Israelites’ journey was long, our collective journey is long-term and evolutionary, as we build an un- known something new.
Adele Halliday, UCC’s Anti-Racism and Equity Officer, reminded us that respectful relation- ships are essential for this journey that we share with all mankind.
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MHI’s presentation included the $400,000 that was raised from UCC sources for the “United We Stand” fundraising campaign for Veteran’s House.
Our closing reflection was aptly based on Micah 6: 8 “What does the Lord require of you?”. Food for thought for each one of us!
EOORC Fall Meeting, November 5, in person/remote
Theme: “Re-membering Beloved Community”
What is “beloved community”? It is a community, of whatever dimension or description, ex- pressing God’s love. It can be a family, church family or larger community, reaching out to help each other with prayers, rides, gifts of food and other practical expressions of love. It can also be the people within an organizational structure working faithfully to be welcoming and inclusive. We all experience “beloved community” during both the challenging and rewarding times of our lives.
The concept of “remembering” is being addressed within the ongoing UCC and regional initiatives to adjust to both the structural changes that the church instituted prior to the onset of the pandemic, and to the actual fallout from the pandemic. For instance, in response to the geo- graphically larger court of which they are now a part, some Communities of Faith (COFs) are experiencing a sense of disconnect to other COFs, to EOORC and to the wider UCC. They may not have access to reliable internet services, and may be unaware of how to connect with regional resources. On another level, individuals in many COFs find that their lack of technical expertise, and their fears and health concerns brought on by isolation during the pandemic, have resulted in feelings of alienation from former supportive communities.
COFs and individuals have not been forgotten. Help with communication and other issues is available within EOORC. Rev. Dr. Peter Bartlett, Minister Supporting Visioning With Communities of Faith, Clusters and Social Justice and Outreach Networks, outlined how EOORC and the wider UCC are actively working to create a comprehensive communications strategy that will help to address the above-mentioned disconnects. He has already been involved with many COFs, helping them find a path forward by connecting them to appropriate supports within EOORC or the wider UCC.
At the COF level, it is so important to rebuild and strengthen connection with members, especially after the forced distancing due to pandemic restrictions. Our “beloved communities” have been challenged. Activities such as social gatherings, reaching out with phone calls and visits, and streaming of worship services and social activities, are some ways we can reconnect with each other and express God’s love.
In the spirit of “Daring Justice”, the UCC has committed to becoming an anti-racist and inclusive denomination at all levels of the church, from General Council office to COFs, to individuals.
The business part of the meeting terminated with a recorded open mic Town Hall on the theme of “It’s All Connected”. All were invited to speak to the church’s purpose and hope of truly becoming “beloved community”.
The conversation that ensued was passionate and sincere. Several individuals recounted initiatives being taken by their COF towards anti-racism, inclusiveness, and reconciliation. Many others expressed their deep frustration with the lack of progress being made, and questioned the real meaning of “anti-racist” and “inclusive”. One particularly eloquent speaker was well-known local advocate, Rev. Dr. Anthony Bailey, senior minister at Parkdale United Church. His words resounded with those gathered, when he said that we need to begin this internal personal journey with the concept of what we are for, not what we are against. If we are for the essential sacred- ness of every human being, if we see each individual first as a human being, made in the image of God, then we will be less likely to “other” people based on what group they can be sorted into. When we see all others as part of us, then we will be on our way to becoming “beloved community” for all.
EOORC News
Rather than scheduling the annual Celebration of Ministry during the February 26 winter Zoom meeting, a moving in-person Celebration was held at Glen Cairn United Church, on Saturday April 9.
In October, the Office of Vocation for the three regional councils of Eastern Ontario Outaouais, East Central Ontario, and Nakonha:ka Regional Councils, welcomed new staffers, Rev. Caroline Penhale, Vocational Minister for Candidacy Pathway, and Rev. Lillian Roberts, Vocational Minister for Ministry Personnel Accountability.
Ottawa Chinese United Church (OCUC), the only ethnic ministry congregation in EOORC, celebrated its 60th anniversary as a member of The United Church of Canada at a special worship service on Sunday, October 23, 2022. OCUC has a long and interesting history reaching back to the beginning of the twentieth century.
United Church of Canada (UCC) News
General Council 44, February 13 – August 7, 2022: General Council was held online for the first time in its 97-year history. Decisions are highlighted in YouTube videos and written articles at https://generalcouncil44.ca/. A multitude of motions in a wide variety of policy areas were dis- cussed, covering such issues as how to determine compensation for ministry personnel and lay employees, a principle-based approach to all UCC justice work, and the value and work of ecumenical and interfaith partnerships. Decisions were made in such areas as: the establishment of an autonomous Indigenous church within the UCC, and the amalgamation of congregations.
New Moderator of the United Church of Canada: A seminal decision of GC44 was the election of Rev. Dr. Carmen Lansdowne, Kwisa’lakw, as the church’s spiritual leader for the next three years. Rev. Lansdowne is the United Church’s second Indigenous spiritual leader. A lifelong member of UCC, she has served the church in a variety of roles locally, nationally, and with the World Council of Churches. Her profile and vision can be found at https://united- church.ca/news/rev-dr-carmen-lansdowne-elected-44th-moderator
Then Let Us Sing is an online musical resource for congregational singing, targeted for availabil- ity in fall 2024. It will be the next iteration of a hymn book, and much, much more. It will pro- vide copyright clearance for print, projection, and streaming, for all hymns currently available in Voices United, More Voices, and other sacred music. Licensing will cost 10% – 15% less than current OneLicense rates. For those who prefer, print hymn books will be available in 2025. A collaboration between multiple denominations, this resource is viewed as an investment in the faith formation and spiritual health of the United Church.
Looking back at the year that was 2022, EOORC inspired its communities of faith and individual members with focus on the themes of support and harmony, moving into the unknown future with love and hope, and the essential fundamental importance of human connectedness. As we discern how to follow God’s call, as individuals and as “beloved communities”, we are accompanied every step of the way by God’s love and grace. “We are not alone, we live in God’s world”.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Joseph
Lay Representative
Eastern Ontario Outaouais Regional Council
Finance/Stewardship Committee
The purpose of the Finance/Stewardship Committee is “to manage the financial affairs of the church in the best interests of the congregation and in keeping with the over-all objectives of the church”. Its primary role is one of oversight, to make sure the framework is in place for church finances to take place in accordance with good governance practices and in compliance with relevant legislation. Current membership consists of a Chair (Marilyn Joseph), Church Treasurer (Julia Picotte), and Stewardship lead, Rose Marie MacLennan.
Assessment
Our annual assessment amount, based on annual pastoral charge income, dropped again, to $2865 for 2022. This is not necessarily good news. We don’t have to pay out as much, but it can be a case of “reaping what you sow”. Assessments are used to pay for UCC administrative staff and support at both the national and regional levels, from which QUC, as a small pastoral charge, has greatly benefitted during the past few years. As more pastoral charges find them- selves with reduced income, that support could substantially diminish.
Worship Technology Expenses
Initial livestreaming set-up costs in excess of the $5000 grant that QUC received, were charged to the Memorial Fund under the category of “technology for worship purposes”. A significant amount of technology set-up expenses was donated and/or claimed as Gifts in Kind. Ongoing technology expenses related to online worship have now migrated to the operating budget, in a newly-created fund in the Worship budget.
Canada Helps
The ability to accept online donations through CanadaHelps has been on our horizon for a few years, but other priorities have taken precedence. We are incredibly thankful for the efforts of our Community of Faith Supervisor, Reverend Trisha Elliott, who kindly offered to set up our CanadaHelps profile, and worked steadfastly through the entire lengthy process. This offer and the work involved is so much appreciated, as we just didn’t have the time or knowledge to do it ourselves. Our profile is now established, a Donate button has been added to our website, and individuals searching for a compatible organization to which they can donate, can now find our profile and perhaps direct their funds our way. We believe that this will be of increased im- portance with the upcoming mission work associated with the development of our property, and have therefore added important details to our CRA charitable organization profile, which will be reflected in the CanadaHelps profile. The Office Administrator, in her capacity of Envelope Secretary, will monitor donations and donor information, and the Chair of F&S will manage QUC’s profile, descriptors and other documentation, with input from Finance & Stewardship committee and other church leadership as required.
Short-Term Ministry Appointment
The appointment of Rev. Laurelle Callaghan as our part-time minister was renewed from Octo- ber 1, 2022 to September 30, 2023. The principal financial implications of the renewal are the addition of two hours per week to the position, plus an Additional Ministry policy, which will see Rev. Laurelle receiving remuneration for extra hours under specific circumstances. To date, no additional hours have been involved, and QUC has been able to easily finance the position from our operating funds, but we do anticipate that, eventually, costs will be significantly higher than they were for the initial year of her appointment. Given uncertainty surrounding 2023 fi- nances, the UCC Loan and the Latter bequest remain possibilities to fund the position if necessary.
Other Tasks
This year Finance & Stewardship took the opportunity to complete some “housekeeping” tasks, for which we did not have the time or energy during the depths of the pandemic. We provided backup for the Treasurer by adding two more individuals to those who had online access to our CRA account, updated the Financial Signing Authorities chart, and completed the onerous task of adding a signatory to our general chequing account. We have applied for an office credit card to take pressure off individuals who use their personal cards for online operating expense purchases, and expect approval news in early 2023.
Your F&S committee members are stewards of QUC’s finances. We work and plan while al- ways remembering that QUC’s financial health is not an end in itself – it is a means by which we can continue to do God’s work in the world. Rose Marie MacLennan, Julia Picotte, and I are strongly committed to QUC, and strive to maximize our church’s ability to uphold our own congregation and to impact the wider community. We look forward to further supporting the QUC church family and its mission in 2023.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Joseph
Chair, Finance/Stewardship Committee
Marketing and Communication Committee
Over the past few years, the Marketing & Communications “Committee” has transformed into a loosely-associated group of volunteers who take responsibility for ensuring that QUC’s online presence reflects our Community of Faith to the local community, and to the world. This group has no specific structure and does not hold meetings. It functions with volunteers performing their specific tasks, financial oversight provided by the Chair of the Finance & Stewardship Committee, and decision-making input from Council and congregation members as needed. Assumed tasks revolve around management of QUC’s website, plus Facebook and YouTube social media sites.
Current volunteers and their areas of responsibility are: Ron Newby (QUC Webmaster), Marta Nuijten (QUC Website Information Coordinator), and Carol Pugsley (QUC Facebook (FB) In- formation Coordinator). The Facebook Team is rounded out by Brian Bertrand and Rose Marie MacLennan, both of whom have administrator status on the Facebook account, and can therefore post items if Carol is unavailable to do so. Technical Team (Tech Team) volunteers, who accomplish all of the tasks needed to livestream QUC worship services via our YouTube channel, include Marilyn Joseph, Alexandra MacKinnon, Don Morwick, and Gérard-Jean Sauvé.
The establishment of QUC’s YouTube channel in March 2022 followed almost a year of preparatory work, which involved securing a grant to cover set-up costs, and training of volunteers by “tech angels” Dave Patterson and Dave Clemis of Orleans United Church. The livestreaming road has been arduous and very bumpy, including the anticipation and build-up to the March 20 go-live, which was fully recorded on our backup drive, but never actually went live because of a technical oversight!
The Tech Team has faithfully put in long hours, responding to feedback from those tuning in online and those leading in-person worship. Frustration with the technical needs of the livestream process by some in attendance at Sunday worship led to a very productive discussion at the May council meeting. The result was a determination to provide a made-in-QUC livestream experience that truly reflects who we are and does not detract from the comfortable, long-standing informality of our in-person worship.
After a livestreaming hiatus from mid-June to Thanksgiving, the Tech Team has steadily simplified delivery of the livestream, so that setup can be accomplished on Sunday mornings rather than a weekly extra session on Saturday afternoons. An added bonus is that Tech Team members are more comfortable with the technology, and are starting to spell each other off, thus giving all individuals much-needed occasional respite. An ongoing need is for someone with the technical ability to organize QUC’s YouTube channel – to label past streams, and to ensure that appropriate graphics and dating are affixed to each stream as it is produced.
Over the years, our website and Facebook site have reflected our dynamic, caring, and joyful church family back to ourselves, to friends, and to the wider community. Both platforms continue to improve in liveliness and currency. Keeping the website and social media sites consistent and up-to-date is a large responsibility, and at this point in time, a very small number of individuals provide input to the sites. If you have material for either the website or Facebook, please do not hesitate to submit it to either Marta, or Carol, or both, for posting.
The addition of livestreaming to YouTube has shown us another way forward for the future. We now have the capability to widen our horizons, and to make available regular worship services, plus other QUC events and activities, to all who wish to join us but are unable to attend in per-son.
Respectfully submitted,
Marilyn Joseph
Chair, Finance/Stewardship Committee
Memorial Fund
Expenditures: #230.91 for livestreaming worship
Balance: $6315.05
Members of the Memorial Committee are:
Lynne Stacey, Marilyn Joseph and Elayne Bonnell
Oversight is provided by QUC Council.
Respectfully Submitted,
Lynne Stacey, Marilyn Joseph and Elayne Bonnell
Men’s Club
With conditions getting back to somewhat normal after two years of pandemic, the Men’s Club met on a fairly regular basis throughout 2022. In the fairer weather we met outdoors. The popular Saturday Morning Breakfast at Gabriel’s was resumed in September.
This year saw the end of an era. After many years of selling books and other items at the bazaars and seasonal sales, the Club made the decision to discontinue the book sales. Setting up, selling, and storage/disposal of the books was becoming problematic with the number and aging of the members. Our final sale was at the Spring Fling, in May, when we realized $172.50. At the Fall Market, Archie and Don raised a whopping $20 from the sale of the few books which had been donated.
Fall and spring MacMillan’s fund-raisers, which were coordinated by the Men’s Club on behalf of the Church, made $95 and $246, respectively.
This year, the Pancake Supper on Shrove Tuesday in February was a take-out affair. The Club participated in the preparation and delivery of over 50 meals, consisting of pancakes, syrup, sausages, and beans. It is planned that the members will get back to flipping pancakes in 2023.
Donations were down in 2022. The Club bought a laser printer for the office and donated $100 to the Centre 507 coffee appeal. There is still money in the account which can be used to assist the Church, when needed.
The Club retained its small membership during 2022. One member was on an out-of-town work assignment, another uncomfortable meeting during current pandemic conditions, and the third had prior commitments. Normally four members, Archie, Rick, Peter, and Don, were able to get together.
I would like to thank all the members for their support during the past year.
Respectfully submitted,
Don Morwick
Milestones
There were no baptisms, marriages, burials, confirmations, or transfers out. There were potentially 4 new members.
Attendance varies from 15-30 in person and 4-10 Livestreaming.
Respectfully submitted,
Elayne Bonnell
Minister’s Report
It has been my great pleasure to serve as minister for QUC this past year.
We have maneuvered through covid challenges by zooming, live streaming and Gabbin’ with God. We have sung until our hearts were full while creating an informal worship atmosphere of learning and fellowship.
I think the year actually started Dec 24, 2021 when with the TSC and I made the decision to go to worship in a ZOOM format. It was a good thing we had practiced ‘zooming’ with committee meetings and Religious Studies group. We were comfortable with and grateful for the format. Many people contributed to the success of zoom worship. I want to especially thank Rose Marie and Don who hosted our meetings, Carol who supplied music and my husband Doug who con- tributed in putting the services together each week. We shared an intimate bond during those services; I learned that sermons did not need to be ‘preached’ but could be a discussion. Our zoom services continued until Easter week when we resumed in person services with live streaming.
Summertime brought its own challenges with many people away for parts or all of the summer. We decided to try an informal format for worship called “Gabbin’ with God”. Each week we looked at a different question; for example, is the OT relevant or are you born again. We began with prayer, sung if we could and discussed the question of the day. In preparation for each Sun- day, I prepared a ’fact sheet’ of some salient points which was distributed by CNN. The format was a great success and I look forward to more gabbin’ this summer.
Fall led us to Thanksgiving and a several special services. Elayne conducted a meaningful Memorial service paying tribute to those who have laid the foundation at QUC. Our Remembrance Day Service included for the first time for us, paying tribute to the families who support current veterans and the RCMP. Many thanks to Bev, Lucie, Helen, Vi and Jackie on the Outreach committee for a thought-provoking worship service on the activities sponsored by our congregation. Extra thanks for their ongoing work.
Advent rounded out our year. We worshiped this year with real focus each week on the Advent wreath and it’s words—Hope, Love, Joy and Peace. On ‘Love Sunday’ we gathered gifts for Centre 507 (the extraordinary amount will be seen in their report) On Joy Sunday, as a special act of Joy, we wore our favourite and somewhat whacky Christmas outfits. Who says you can’t lead worship in PJ’s? Our worship year ended much as it began, with Christmas eve. This year, 2022, though we were able to gather in person (while live streaming), sing many carols, light candles and share communion while welcoming the Christ child into our hearts and homes.
Apart from worship leadership, I have been involved in other activities of QUC—mostly social and including eating opportunities! What’s Up our coffee time on Tues mornings continues to be a beacon of friendship and conversation in the week. The Queenswood Quilters and Crafters have had an enjoyable year. Many have expressed gratitude to the church for the opportunity to gather; members also participated in providing items for the Fall Fling sale. The Religious Studies Group (RSG) chose this fall to restudy some of the questions from Gabbin’ with God and we had many lively zoom discussions.
Many, many thanks to Elayne Bonnell who is ‘worship support’; she has been a rock in ensuring hymns are chosen, communion is ready and other details for the service are taken care of. It was her idea to begin worshipping at tables which has been a marked success. Thanks Elayne.
I am grateful especially for the many deepened friendships at QUC; your kindness to me and my family is extraordinary. I look forward to 2023.
Respectfully submitted,
LCol(ret’d)the Rev’d Laurelle Callaghan
Ministry and Personnel Committee
The majority of the M&P Committee’s duties during 2022 were carried out as an extension of the Transition Steering Committee.
The Committee was pleased to renew Rev. Laurelle Callaghan’s part-time ministry appointment to September 31, 2023. Because she has donated so many hours of her personal time to Queens- wood, it was decided to increase Rev. Laurelle’s paid time to 12 hours per week. Some of the extra time will be required to accommodate her involvement in the preparation of the Power Point Sunday service presentations.
The Reverends Hilary and Robert Merritt once again provided excellent pastoral care to a number of our Congregants throughout the year. In their occasional absences, they make arrangements for continued care. A policy was established for Rev. Laurelle to provide pastoral care on an emergency basis. The Committee wishes to thank Lynda Rodney for being our pastoral care liaison.
The worship portion of the expanded M&P Committee was ably co-ordinated by Elayne Bonnell. She arranged the hymns for the weekly worship services, conducted the occasional service during the year, and worked with several LLWL’s, in particular, Heather McGrath, for Sunday services in the absence of Reverend Laurelle Callaghan.
During the year, Rev. Mike Perrault, who became our Pastoral Charge Supervisor upon the departure of Rev. Nancy, found it necessary to give up this role. He was replaced by Rev. Trisha Elliott. She has become a very welcome addition to the Queenswood Family through her extensive knowledge of the resources of the wider United Church.
Marilyn Webster continues to provide excellent service to QUC as our Office Administrator. Her work load has increased substantially with the adoption of the Power Point weekly worship service which was required for live-streaming.
Ray Bonnell retired from the Committee after many years of dedicated service. We thank Ray for his valuable contributions. Bob Rodney has taken over the ADP payroll duties from Ray. Marta Nuijten has remained part of M&P. We value her expertise, especially with budget preparation.
We look forward to a year of great change for Queenswood as the development of the property is expected to commence in late summer.
Respectfully submitted,
Don Morwick, Chair.
Transition Steering Committee
The mandate of the Transition Steering Committee (TSC) includes the decision-making authority and oversight over the scope, amount, source, and selection of all ministry and ministry support personnel, with appropriate liaison with Regional Council, and responsibility for the development of all organizational changes during our transition to a new form of Community of Faith at QUC.
During 2022, the TSC has focused on regular monthly meetings with our Minister, Rev. Laurelle Callaghan. These meetings have been key in supporting our pastoral relationship, as both our responsibility and our vital goal. Related activities have included the successful renewal of the Appointment of our Minister by Regional Council, and the development of procedures for Additional Ministry if needed, in the best interests of our congregation members and adherents. The regular hours allotted for part-time ministry were also increased from 10 to 12 hours per week, or 40 to 48 hours per month. However, the number of compensated hours does not equal the much larger number of hours that have been invested by our Minister. That reality is an ongoing challenge for both the TSC and Rev. Laurelle. We are very grateful indeed for the active ministry of Rev. Laurelle, as an experienced spiritual leader, during our transition as a community of faith. Her spiritual leadership within our community of faith has provided both hope and warmth to our collective spirit.
On the theme of spiritual care, ensuring pastoral care services for our Congregation also comes under the scope of our Committee mandate, while we are in transition. Our Ministry Team has also very fortunately included experienced Ministers Rev. Robert Merritt, and Rev. Hilary Merritt, who continue to very ably provide pastoral care to our Congregation. They have done so either by phone, or in person as appropriate, which has been greatly appreciated. We have truly been blessed in our total Ministry Team, who have walked with us on our pathway this year.
The tools we have used in support of our worship services have greatly evolved throughout this year, and have provided challenges to all involved. It takes disciplined administrative effort by several persons, and a coordination of efforts to produce the final version of the PowerPoint for Sunday services, as well as a technical team to set up and run the equipment each Sunday. The TSC has been involved to offer support since both the PowerPoint and live-streaming are signifi- cant changes within our worship ministry. Our ongoing Committee involvement in this area will focus on ensuring that the time and effort required for the PowerPoint production becomes far more reasonable for all involved. We most sincerely thank each and every person, be they staff or volunteer, for your time and effort that has gone into this new and evolving part of our minis- try.
The nature of the TSC mandate requires active and ongoing engagement with other committees or persons to achieve overall goals. This has included liaison as needed with our Ministry Team, our Worship Support person, members of our M&P Committee, and also with our Pastoral Care Liaison person. The collaboration of all has been most sincerely appreciated, in the best interests of our beloved Community of Faith.
Respectfully submitted,
Rose Marie MacLennan
Member, Transition Steering Committee
QUC Trustees
During 2022, the Trustees at Queenswood United were Frank Stacey (Chair), Rev. Trisha Elliott, Don Morwick, Marilyn Joseph, Bob Rodney, and Rose Marie MacLennan.
On 13 January 2022, Regional Council approved our proposal for property development with the United Property Resource Corporation.
There were no actual Trustee meetings during 2022; however, their representation was definitely active and continuous throughout the year, by means of the three Trustees who are the members of the Property Development Committee. They are Rose Marie MacLennan (Chair), Don Mor- wick, and Marilyn Joseph.
In October 2022, all six Trustees electronically signed the legally binding Agreements regarding our entry into partnership with the United Property Resource Corporation to redevelop the church property.
Respectfully Submitted,
Rose Marie MacLennan
Trustee and Recorder
On behalf of Frank Stacey, Chair of Trustees
Outreach Committee
A Small Church with a HUGE Heart.
What a difference the members of Queenswood United Church make in the lives of others. With COVID-19 still rampant, there were no in-person services until March 20, 2022. But still the Congregation responded with over-the-top donations.
The Outreach Group decided to focus on Centre 507 to enable us to do the most good. As a result, we collected money or granola bars and drinking boxes through the spring and summer with over $600 sent to 507 by September! The regular toiletry collection was held in September with an overwhelming supply sent to help those in need. In October, Richard Leblanc, the executive director of the Centre, made his first request for large cans of coffee. He noted that they used 5 lbs. of coffee a day and expected that it would increase as the colder weather approached. By December we had sent 24 cans to them. This will continue indefinitely. Many thanks to Jackie Tuttle who took them to the Centre each time she volunteered.
We are grateful to Jackie for transporting all your gifts to the Centre as well as volunteering there once a week. She keeps in touch with Richard and as a result had special requests for the Advent Mission Tree – critically needed were new socks (106 pr.), long johns (11 pr.), as well as toques (32), gloves and mitts (19 pr.), sleeping bags (7), and pyjamas (11 pr.). The total even included 3 more cans of coffee!
We are reminded that not all gifts require money – the Miriam Centre collects used stamps for their stamp sale in May; the Legion collects pop cans and tabs to support their work; and Centre 507 uses empty prescription vials to dispense individual portions of shampoo and body wash!
We have continued with our other activities. The “Bread” for Bread collection at each Communion service enabled us to send $400 to Centre 507 to help with their programmes. Thanks to Vi Newby for ensuring the collection boxes were out ready for your loose change. She also counts the collection and sends the money to Jackie to take directly to the Centre.
Lucie Deschamps is our KIVA “manager”, investing on our behalf. She reports that COVID has impacted the ability of many to repay their loans – some needed more time, smaller amounts repaid, or totally defaulted. The pandemic has affected so many in so many ways.
Outreach was honoured to be asked to conduct a service. On November 20, 2022, we presented “Loving our Neighbours, Near and Far” in which we were able to highlight some of the outreach work done by other members of the Congregation – Marilyn Joseph spoke of the Mission and Service Fund of the UCC, Frank Stacey told us of the folk at Veteran’s House, Bob and Lynda Rodney highlighted our Community Gardens and the produce they took to the CRC, and Jackie Tuttle took us through a day of volunteering at Centre 507. Many people spoke to us after the service indicating how meaningful our presentation was for them.
I am blessed with the hard-working support of the Outreach team – Lucie Deschamps, Helen Keeney, Vi Newby, and Jackie Tuttle. Without their input and willingness to help, this commit- tee would not exist. We are always looking for new members. If you would like to help, please get in touch with any team member.
Outreach is grateful for the faithful and generous support of the Queenswood Congregation. Remember – being a Christian is not just about what we believe – it is a way of life.
God Bless you all for caring and sharing.
Respectfully submitted,
Bev Morwick, Chair.
Pastoral Care
With the help of the Reverends Merritt we were able to meet the needs of our church members.. Covid still remains a problem getting visits in but phone calls did provide a service to those in need. We were also able to keep in touch with cards of good health, sympathy and thinking of you.
Respectively submitted,
Lynda Rodney & Sharon Boutin
Property
- Replaced the furnace 3 times
- Replaced smoke detectors
- Had new shutoff valve installed and new kitchen tap installed
- Had noise coming from furnace checked and fixed
- Had furnace airflow reduced
- Had thermostat replaced
- Fixed toilet in women’s washroom
- Repaired step in back of chapel
- Screwed down the walkway to the portable several times
- Repaired window opener in the chapel
- Replaced valve seat in outdoor tap
- small repairs as needed
Respectfully submitted,
Archie Newby
Co-chair, Property
Property Development
On 13 January 2022, Regional Council approved our property development project with the United Property Resource Corporation (UPRC).
During the month of March, with the guidance of Bob Richards, our Edge Property Consultant, the Committee began our exploration of the option to have our Chapel Building become a Com- munity Centre. Our initial goal was to develop a mission statement and desired outcomes for the Centre itself, from a perspective of starting with the end in mind, using a Logic Model. The mission statement developed reflects the need for a connected and welcoming community for both new and current residents alike. Community needs voiced by knowledgeable and experienced community stakeholders would need to form the basis for program development. Our role would not be for us to impose our own wishes upon the Centre, but to enable the development of a supportive and connected community.
UPRC had asked that we jointly meet with several key community stakeholders and organizations, so there has been a waiting period for that activity to begin. The Committee will now proceed with some conversations with community stakeholders as to community needs, clarify the possible sources of funding available to develop and operate the Centre, based on resident population eligibility, and confirm the legal and tax requirements involved in doing so. When our exploration is complete, and having spoken with UPRC and Kindred Works, we will then forward our findings and recommendations for consideration by our Congregation, and decision by our Council.
Beginning in March, we were asked by UPRC/Kindred Works to have conversations with churches throughout Ontario that were contemplating property development with UPRC, to re- late our experience working with them. Those conversations continue to occur, and the sharing of our experience has been helpful to other churches. Contact was also initiated with our neighbours here in Orleans to ensure their awareness and better understanding of our project. On 21 March I presented basic project information to the Council of St. Helen’s Church. I also contacted the Executive Director of the Queenswood Villa, and a subsequent conversation occurred between its new owner Spring Living and UPRC.
As part of the City Planning Process in relation to our project, a Community Meeting was held on 11 April under the auspices of City of Ottawa Planning Staff. The Committee and others from QUC attended the meeting which was appreciated. Knowing the need for early clarification of the intent of QUC, our desired role was stated as being to enable the building of community, working with community partners and others in the community, for the common good. The questions indicated the need for clarification of some aspects of the project, and possible impact on the surrounding community. The engineering team gave an in-depth and very progressive presentation, highlighting environmental and design features of the proposed development. Over- all resident reaction at the meeting was very positive.
In May, UPRC experienced some organizational change. Kindred Works was launched as the development and asset manager for UPRC. It can easily be confusing, so I will attempt to clarify. Kindred Works is the company with which we are working in terms of the property development process and property management going forward. UPRC is the corporation with which we have our legally binding agreements governing our property development. In support of Kindred Works, and in acknowledgement of the value of informing our community of our project, media interviews were conducted.
On 18 August, The Committee met by Zoom with Kris Tavella of UPRC for the latest update. UPRC had submitted the proposed partnership structure for formal Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Review. CRA had replied that they were not yet prepared to provide an official response at this time. Therefore, in accordance with Agreement provisions, we were informed that UPRC would prepare an alternative structure that would ensure protection of the charity registrations of both the UCC and QUC. Shared target for shovels in the ground at that time was August 2023.
In October the Committee worked intensely with UPRC to finalize the Agreements, upon which our Trustees were able to electronically sign the Agreements necessary. At the same time, UPRC was officially applying to CMHC for funding. We were also informed by UPRC that the percentage of affordable units had been increased from 30% to 40%. So that means that the percentage of market rate units will now be 60%.
The timing of when shovels will actually be in the ground will definitely need to be confirmed. The City Planning process has taken longer than previously thought. Meanwhile, Kindred Works has made application to demolish the portables, with later in the winter or spring as a target date. Folks have been engaged in sorting and clearing material in the portables for some time, but efforts have increased with the upcoming but unclear deadline in mind. We have been in communication with SDA on this matter as well.
So, the end of the year found us in preparation mode, while at the same time, waiting for a project timetable. There are a lot of pieces of the process that need to fall into place before the timetable becomes clearer. Fortunately, we have started to work with Rev. Miriam Bowlby who is the Di- rector of Church Engagement with Kindred Works. She will be our first point of contact during the development process. She has both the relevant academic training for her position, and experience in the property development process. Once again, God keeps sending us who we need, along our way. We say Amen.
Respectfully submitted,
Rose Marie MacLennan
Chair, Property Development Committee
Queenswood Crafters and Quilters
In this past year, the Queenswood Quilters and Crafters have become a more integral part of the QUC family. Membership is composed of both members of QUC who come regularly or drop in, as well as former members of a pre-covid quilt group to which I belonged. Both groups have joined in friendship and sharing ideas. While the crafts are important, the friendships formed have been vital. It has become a safe and welcoming haven to share life stories. Since we meet in a church sanctuary, and I seem to be the resident minister, conversation often turns to questions of faith.
Members have contributed to the life of QUC in donations to 507 (bringing items to drop at the door), donations to the Spring and Fall Flings, attendance at worship, as well as a highlight in joining in the November Ladies’ Lunch. Many projects completed are donated to various organizations that collect quilts for distribution—wheel chair quilts for seniors’ homes, cuddle quilts for ICU babies, Victoria quilts for cancer patients … wherever the need.
We look forward to another year of successful quilting.
Respectfully submitted
Laurelle Callaghan
Volunteers
Many parishioners were Volunteers this past year and a great vote of thanks goes out to ALL of them. The volunteers are:
V – Vivacious
O – Open minded
L – Loving
U – Understanding
N – Noteworthy
T – Tireless
E – Energizing
E – Ever ready
R – Righteous
S – Sensitive
May God Bless them all.
Respectfully submitted,
Lynne Stacey
Worship Committee
As pandemic protocols eased, Queenswood United Church was able to return to worship in our sanctuary with livestreaming available in March 2022. Previously we shared Zoom services with the number tuning in, averaging 20-28 persons. Thank you to Carol Pugsley and Lynne Stacey for their commitments to providing music and hymns for these services, despite the challenges of singing together and yet alone. In March we were finally able to resume sanctuary services with consideration for distancing, masks; and greater ventilation.
Livestreaming was launched with many challenges, a huge learning curve and brave souls: Don Morwick, Marilyn Joseph, Marilyn Webster, Alexandra MacKinnon, Gerard-Jean Sauve, and Archie Newby. We are grateful for their dogged commitment and dedication to this project and extend our thanks to “The two Daves”, Dave Clemis and Dave Patterson from Orleans United who provided support, education, experience and generosity of time.
Lent and Easter Services were in sanctuary and Easter Sunrise took place “on the hill”. Thank you to Rev. Trish Elliot and son Aiden who provided music supply for Easter Sunday.
In June, we celebrated the 97th birthday of the United Church of Canada with lots of singing and a picnic pot luck outdoors. Thank you Lynne for your portable piano.
Sunday gatherings continued in July, August, September and October (except for holiday Sun- days) in the format of Gabbin’ with God, with discussion of challenging topics led by Reverend Laurelle Callaghan. Livestreaming resumed on Thanksgiving, October 9, 2022.
There were four wreaths laid at our Remembrance Service on November 6th, 2022. Thank you to Lori Lyn Penny for providing music supply on short notice. It was our first-time singing God Save the King!
Our Remembrance and Healing Service on November 13th honoured 56 loved ones including those who contributed significantly to the life and growth of QUC during their time with us. Ad- vent and Christmas Services were celebrated in person. The Christmas Eve Communion Service was a triumph. Thirty-one people were present with glorious singing and music provided by Janet Hamilton.
Thank you to our Licensed Lay Worship leaders, Barb Johns and Heather McGrath and to all who participate in Worship at QUC.
From CS Lewis: “in Worship God Imparts Himself to us” Come and Worship.
Respectfully submitted,
Elayne Bonnell
