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Following is a brief recap of the November 2025 Church Council meeting:

  • November’s Leadership Discussion: Congregational Safety Plan
    • Main Doors remain locked unless reception office is staffed
    • Other doors remain locked at all times
    • Staff remain vigilant about being aware of who is in the building and reporting as needed
    • Church and preschool staff participated in a consultation with UA Police
    • UA police commended us for being proactive with our safety plan
    • Remote access is currently available on CDP door, will soon be installed on front main door
    • Recommended to consider training 8 people to serve as a Community Response Team
  • Approval of Consent Agenda including staff and financial reports.
  • Ministry Team Updates:
    • Laura Hudson discussed facility use as a ministry. The vision was to have space large enough for activities that don’t necessarily involve worship while still building faith and community. Holy Trinity’s facility is used for church-sponsored events such as meals, funerals, receptions, Church-Fam Connect, youth groups and the Child Development Programs. It is also utilized by members for private events and community groups for weekly, monthly or annual gatherings. Holy Trinity views this as part of our outreach to the community. Non-member groups do not pay a set fee to use the space but are encouraged to make a donation as they are able.
    • Dan Perry reported on annual gains for Mission Endowment Fund, half of which are used to pay off the loan for the organ. The remaining proceeds are distributed as grants to the community, Southern Ohio Synod or ELCA missions, and Holy Trinity ministry activities. The congregation will have the opportunity to approve the recommendations at the annual meeting in January 2026.
  • Council also discussed:
    • The new Breeze database and online directory which will be introduced to the congregation as part of the congregational meeting on Sunday, December 14.
    • Council Nominations for the 2026 term (nominees to be announced soon).
    • Reviewed HopeWood Pines list of projects/needs and associated costs. Council voted to fund $10,000 with the understanding HopeWood would apply it where it’s most needed. Holy Trinity’s contribution will come from our recently received Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC).
    • Pastor Steve asked Council’s thoughts re: creating an emergency assistance fund. Discussed wanting to support those in need while noting this is not a long-term solution. Should we consider creating a group that would establish guidelines for the distribution of such funds? There was also discussion about groups Holy Trinity supports that are better equipped to help those in need.
    • Based on staff recommendations, a motion was approved to conduct Christmas Eve worship services at 4:00 and 8:00 pm this year. The 11:00 service has not been well-attended since the pandemic with less than 10 people in attendance in recent years and only 4 last year. 
    • Initial review of 2026 Ministry Spending Plan draft. Staff will be in touch with ministry leaders in the coming month re: budget considerations for next year.