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Algona First Presbyterian Church

 

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Regular Session Meeting of First Presbyterian Church, Algona, IA May 23, 2022 – Meeting held in Church Kitchen at 7:00 P.M.

Pastor Austin Hill, Moderator, called the meeting to order and opening devotions from Exodus Chapter 13: Verse 17 and into Chapter 14. Pastor Hill asked session members what sticks out in the reading of God leading the Israelites. Pastor Hill asked for those who cared to share God’s touch in their lives and paths God has led for those sharing. Pastor Hill, Angelique Berry, Linda Scott, and Peggy Skilling shared their own individual experiences.

Pastor Hill declared a quorum was present.

Elders present – Angelique Berry, Stacy Simpson, Bob Runhke, Doug Reemtsma, Linda Scott, Peggy Skilling, Tom Easter, and Ron Koppen. Excused absence – Shannon Trunkhill.

Pastor Hill asked for a motion to approve the meeting agenda. Peggy Skilling moved to accept the agenda as presented. Ron Koppen seconded the motion. Pastor Hill called for the vote, and it was unanimously approved.

Pastor Hill called for a motion to approve the following Meeting Minutes – 1.) Special Meeting of the Session, Sunday, April 10, 2011; 2.) Congregational Meeting, Sunday, April 24, 2022; 3.) Regular Session Meeting on Monday, April 25, 2022; 4.) Congregational Meeting, Sunday, May 15, 2022. Bob Ruhnke moved to approve the four meeting minutes. Doug Reemtsma seconded the motion. Pastor Hill called for the vole, and it was unanimously approved.

Financial State: – Angelique Berry, Treasurer, shared information on the Check Register as to bills paid. Angelique stated Pastor Steven Nofel’s salary has been paid through Sunday, May 15, 2022, which was his final day serving as pastor at Algona Presbyterian Church.

Angelique Berry and Stacy Simpson plan to meet with Thad Lichter, accountant at Erpelding and Voigt, regarding the Ameritrade account held at Erpelding and Voigt.

Clerk’s Report- Holy Communion was served to 56 people on Sunday, May 1, 2022. Pastor Nofel served communion 7 people at Algona Manon. Total served – 76.

Question was brought up as to delivering communion to the shut ins. Pastor Hill stated that as Elders and Deacons, we can serve communion to shut-ins on the Monday after Sunday when communion is served in church. Pastor Hill suggested two people take communion to the shut ins. The people needing communion brought to them.

Glen & Faye Jones – They live at Van Buren Terrace and are on the main floor. Enter through the double doors, take a left and walk down the hallway to the east. Apartment # 109. Please call their phone (515) 295-2743 before going to their apartment.

Joyce Keith, Verona Canaday and Faye Kuhlman (I) are at Algona Manor. Property/Facility Requests- Matthew Muth and Alicia Pfeffer filled out a Usage Data Sheet for use of the church facilities with Pastor Steven Nofel back on April 15, 2022. Their wedding date is September 17, 2022. Pastor Steven Nofel approved this marriage prior to his resignation. David Skilling, CP (Commissioned Pastor at Garner, IA) has met with the couple since then. David Skilling will be officiating the wedding for Matthew Muth and Alicia Pfeffter. Bob Ruhnke moved a motion to approve the wedding of Matthew Muth and Alicia Pfeffer and usage of the church facilities. Linda Scott, Clerk of Session gave the marriage information sheet that needs to be completed to Peggy Skilling for David Skilling to have Matthew and Alicia fill out information that will need to be recorded in the Church Register. Motion was seconded by Angelique Berry. Pastor Hill for the vote, and it was unanimously approved. Pastor Hill will check with Committee of Ministry as to this marriage request.

Deacons next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, June 7, 2022, at 5:10 to 6:10 PM.

Motion to approve the Clerk’s Report was moved by Peggy Skilling and seconded by Bob Ruhnke. Pastor Hill called for the vote, and the motion carried unanimously.

Moderator Report: Pastor Hill reported that the first meeting of the Pastor Nominating Committee will be held on Tuesday, May 31, 2022, in the evening. Zoom can be used as well as meeting in person. Question was brought up as to money available to bring in candidates. Interview in person with a candidate, mileage will be paid. Motion to approve $2,500 to Pastor Nominating Committee was moved by Doug Reemtsma and seconded by Stacy Simpson. Pastor Hill called for the vote, and the motion carried unanimously.

Old Business: Ron Koppen reported having talked with Jamie Wolf from Algona Glass. West two windows to be installed by June 1, 2022.

New Business:Session member to chair the remainder of year for Christian Education. This was tabled until the June session meeting. Megan Ruhnke, Cassidy Peppmeier, Chuck Redemske, and Gerald Hanson have been active promoters for Christian Education during Kid’s Club and Sunday School.

2.Kim Benson, Church Secretary, presented information as to the proper cover for the Grand Piano to prevent further damages to it. Richard Mock, piano tuner, suggested purchasing a cover made to order. Richard requested that we send him the drawing, and he will then place an order. It would take about two weeks for getting it in. Motion was moved by Angelique Berry and seconded by Ron Koppen for Kim Benson to purchase the $400.00 piano cover. Pastor Hill called for the vote, and it was carried unanimously.

3.Kim Benson, Church Secretary, presented information on upgrading the church website. Kim has been working on making changes to our church website. A package option for $774.00 will have unlimited calls for 4-7 months. Each call lasts 25 minutes per call, and most people have things set in place in 6 months. Angeliques Berry mad a motion to approve paying up to $774.00, and Stacy Simpson seconded the motion. Pastor Hill called for the vote, and it was unanimously caried.

4. Evangelism Committee – Moderator, Angelique Berry, Committee Members: Renae Ruhnke, Betsy Petersen; Megan Ruhnke. Evangelism Committee Meeting was held on May 18, 2022, at 5:15 pm. Members met and discussed ways for our congregation to be active in the community and within our church. The committee will be ordering more T-shirts in early June. Evangelism Committee is organizing a Family Fun Night in conjunction with VBS, working with Hospitality and Mission Committees. Report is on file.

5. Hospitality Committee – Moderator, Peggy Skilling and Ron Koppen Activities hosted by the committee on May 1 st , 2022, Farewell potluck for Pastor Steve Nofel. Sunday, May 22, 2022, Reception for graduates held following Sunday morning service. Cassie Beenken and Jazmin Wiederin were recognized during church service and were presented with devotionals as a graduation gift. Coffee fellowship following church will continue throughout the summer if we have willing volunteers to provide treats. Our committee would like to welcome a new member, Shirley Gregg. We are excited to have Shirley join our team. Hospitality Committee is working on idea for Father’s Day as well.

6. Mission Committee – Moderator, Stacy Simpson, informed session that the Mission Committee this year alone has given out $20,000. Meals on Wheels routes for June are now covered. Lakeshore Center at Okoboji is needing help financially per Ian McMullen as he shared this request at the Presbytery meeting on March 1 st , asking congregations to consider donation of $1,000to help Lakeshore catch up on some deferred maintenance. Motion was made by Stacy Simpson to send $1,000 to Lakeshore Center. Ron Koppen seconded the motion. Call for the vote, and it was unanimously approved. IT was suggested that information about camp be put in the church bulletin letting kids/family know that our church will pay 75% of the cost for going to Presbyterian Church Camp at Okoboji. No action was taken on RAGBRAI.

7.Personnel – Doug Reemtsma, Moderator, No report.

8.  Property – Tom Easter & Bob Ruhnke Brian Brace is willing to help on property committee. Tom Easter put a new light in the office.

9. Technology- Ron Koppen/Doug Reemtsma: Need for a new computer, Wifi – camera security.

10. Worship – Angelique Berry, Moderator. Worship Leaders are set up for June and July. Ushers are needed in June.

Motion was moved by Peggy Skilling and seconded by Angelique to close the meeting. Motion carried. Pastor Austin Hill closed the meeting with prayer at 8:50 pm.

Upcoming Session meeting: June 30 th , 2022 at 7 pm.

 

Respectfully Submitted,

 

Linda Scott, Clerk of Session

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11:15 AM – May 15th , 2022 Congregational Meeting, First Presbyterian Church Sanctuary, Algona,IA.

Reverend Gordan Moen, Committee of Ministry, was moderator for the Congregational Meeting held on Sunday, May 15th , 2022. Clerk of Session, Linda Scott, declared that a quorum was present.

The purpose of the Congregational Meeting was Election of Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC). Rev. Moen thanked the following members of the Nominating Committee who served on this committee: Congregation at Large – Linda Redemske, Norma Ruhnke, Chris Schultze, and Matt Scott. Board of Deacons – Cassidy Peppmeier, Renae Ruhnke, and Faye Schluter. Ruling Elders – Angelique Berry, Peg Skilling, and Shannon Trunkhill.

Six members were listed on the ballot, but only five were chosen for the Pastor Nominating Committee to serve. The six members – Kyle Simpson, Renae Ruhnke, Justin Ruhnke, Jerry Yokem, Linda Scott, and Paul Peppmeier. Motion was made by Jason Etherington for nominations to cease. Lynn Kueck seconded the motion. Ballots were tallied and the five candidates selected to serve on the Pastor Nominating Committee are: Kyle Simpson, Renae Ruhnke, Justin Ruhnke, Jerry Yokem, and Paul Peppmeier.

Motion was moved to adjourn the Congregational Meeting by Jason Etherington and seconded by Paul Peppmeier.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Scott, Clerk of Session

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Regular Session Meeting of First Presbyterian Church, Algona, IA – April 25,2022

Meeting held in Church Kitchen starting time 7:00 PM.

Pastor Steve Nofel, moderator, called the session meeting to order and offered a prayer. For opening devotions, Pastor Nofel read a piece of Michael Limbaugh’s book, “Good News from North Haven”.

Pastor Steve Nofel & Elders present – Angelique Berry, Peggy Skilling, Shannon Trunkhill, Ron Koppen, Stacy Simpson, Tom Easter, Bob Ruhnke, and Linda Scott. Doug Reemtsma was absent. Quorum was met.

Guest attending – Pastor Austin Hill, from Fort Dodge Presbyterian Church in Fort Dodge, Iowa. Pastor Hill is also a member of the North Central Iowa Presbytery Committee of Ministry.

Pastor Hill covered Transition Issues with the session. Pastor Nofel’s last day of preaching in worship will be May 8th . The relationship between Pastor Steve Nofel and First Presbyterian Church will be severed on Sunday, May 15, 2022.

Adopt the Agenda – Additions to the Agenda were made per request from Stacy Simpson, Moderator of Mission Committee. Additions are – Information on Bethel Funds and Meals on Wheels in June.

A motion to approve the March 28, 2022, Presbyterian Church Session Minutes and the April 4, 2022, Joint Session Minutes of Algona and Irvington Presbyterian Church was made by Pastor Nofel and seconded by Peggy Skilling. Motion was unanimously approved.

Financial Statement – Angelique Berry, Treasurer, and Shannon Trunkhill

Discussion was held in regards of the Ameritrade account. Angelique stated Grace Freeburg requests being removed from the TD Ameritrade account, and a Session member should be put on along with Angelique Berry, current church treasurer, to have access to our investment account. Bob Ruhnke made a motion to remove Jim Voigt from the Ameritrade account as he has transferred his membership to Spirit Lake Presbyterian Church, Spirit Lake, Iowa and approve Stacy Simpson as session member added to the Ameritrade account along with Angelique Berry, Church Treasurer with online account access/control to view transactions, pay bills and track expenses with TD Ameritrade.

Discussion was also held on church credit cards needing to be canceled for Pastor Steven Nofel, and former Treasurer, Grace Freeburg. Stacy Simpson made a motion to discontinue UMB church credit cards for Pastor Steven Nofel as his position at First Presbyterian Church will end on May 15th , 2022, and former Treasurer, Grace Freeburg position as employee ended on March 31st , 2022. Peggy Skilling seconded the motion. Motion unanimously approved.

Motion moved by Shannon Trunkhill to approve the Financial Report, and Tom Easter seconded the motion. Motion carried unanimously.

Clerk’s Report – Holy Communion was served on April 3, 2022, with 61 people participating in taking communion. Holy Communion was served on April 14th , Maundy Thursday to 2 residents at Algona Manor and 31 people at church and for a total of 33 participating. Total communion served in April was 94.

Moderator Report – Pastor Nofel stated the Christian Education Sunday School will continue through May 15th with theme of “Fruits of the Spirit.” There will need to be a new Christian Education leader to take over for this position in the upcoming year when Sunday School starts again.

Old Business – Window replacement will take place when the weather is better. Ron Koppen has been checking up on the progress of the windows being completed.

New Business – Ushers/Greeters: Cassie Peppmeier has volunteered to organize for May helpers.

Kim Benson, office secretary, spoke with Matt Harris on April 6, 2022, regarding how to makechanges on the church website. Matt told her there was an option to purchase for $774, a package where we would have unlimited calls for 4-7 months. Each call could last no more than 25 minutes per call. During these calls, we would be speaking directly to a wordpress expert. There is an option for the company to update the web page, but once again, should we need changes down the road, we would not know how. I didn’t ask about that price. I have attached a copy of the most recent bill which is automatically renewed each year. Please notice that the Plus Hosting and Site Backup Pro are for a 3-year term. These services do not include any tech support. I have tried to make some changes and updates and will continue to do so as time goes on. It’s been a fun learning experience.

– Signed by Kim Benson.

NOTE: There was no action taken on this information at the April 25th meeting. It will be placed on the May 23rd Agenda under Old Business for Session to look at.

Committee Reports – Deacons Board Meeting held on April 5, 2022. Minutes are on file. Their next meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 3, 2022, at 5:15 pm.

Mission Committee Report – Meeting was held on April 25, 2022. Mission Committee received

$1,704.00 from Bethel Funds for non-budgeted mission support. The Mission Committee

recommends to Session to designate this gift to support PC(USA)’s response to the crisis in Ukraine, to help specifically with the refugee resettlement in the USA. Motion to spend Bethel Funds was approved by Mission Committee and presented to Session Members at our April 25th session meeting.

Motion approved unanimously by session. RAGBRAI is coming through Algona on Wednesday, July 27th , and the Mission Committee is considering doing something as a fund raiser. No action was taken on this item at our session meeting. More research needs to be investigated as to this project feasibility. Delivery of “Meals on Wheels” coming up in June.

Hospitality Committee – Easter Breakfast on Sunday, April 17th , was served from 9-10 AM. Menu included egg muffins, pastries, fruit, coffee, and juice. Cantata was held on April 24th with a variety of cakes, coffee/water. May 1st – Potluck Lunch with Irvington invited to join in Pastor Steve’s farewell. Upcoming event on May 22nd will be Graduation Recognition of High School Graduates – Cassie Beenken and Jazmin Wiederin. Gift of devotionals to be given to graduates.

Property Committee – Water fountain repaired by North IA Mechanical. Tom Easter repaired the Narthex O/S soffit with his boom truck, repaired the water heater in church as valve was leaking. Church parking lot snow removal is done by Dan Patton. Bob Ruhnke Tom Easter – Property Committee.

Peggy Skilling made a motion to adjourn the session meeting, and Stacy Simpson seconded the

motion. Unanimously approved. Pastor Nofel closed the meeting by having all join in saying the Lord’s Prayer.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Scott, Clerk of Session

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Congregational Meeting of First Presbyterian Church, Algona, Iowa

                Sunday, April 24, 2022, held after Worship Service in Sanctuary

Pastor Austin Hill, from 1st Presbyterian Church, Fort Dodge, Iowa, was Moderator for the Congregational Meeting on Sunday, April 24, 2022.  Pastor Hill is Vice Chairman of the Mission and Ministry Committee at Presbytery.

At 11:00 AM, Pastor Hill opened with prayer.  Quorum was declared by Pastor Hill.

Pastor Hill explained that Pastor Nofel requests to dissolve the relationship of Algona Presbyterian Church, Algona, Iowa, and Pastor Steven Nofel.  Pastor Hill stated that Sunday, May 8, 2022, will be Pastor Nofel’s last Sunday to preach.  Pastor Nofel’s final date of service will be on May 15, 2022.

Pastor Hill explained the process to setting up our Pastoral Nominating Committee also called – PNC – for short, to begin the search for a new pastor.

Pastor Hill asked for a motion to be made.  Peggy Skilling made the motion to accept Pastor Nofel’s request of resignation.  Jason Etherington seconded this motion.  Pastor Hill asked for all in favor to vote say Aye, and then asked if there were any Nay votes which there were none.  The motion was unanimously approved to accept Pastor Nofel’s resignation.

Pastor Hill requested a motion to close the Congregational Meeting.  Matt Scott made a motion to close the meeting.  Norma Ruhnke seconded the motion.

Pastor Hill closed the Congregational Meeting with prayer at 11:10 AM.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Scott, Clerk of Session

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Special Meeting of the Session – Sunday, April 10th, 2022 – Fireside Room

Pastor Steve Nofel called a Special Session Meeting following worship service in the Fireside Room after worship service.  Pastor opened the meeting with prayer at 11:00 am.  A quorum was present.  Pastor Nofel explained there was only 2 items on the agenda.

Agenda items: 1.)  Acceptance of Steve Nofel resignation as pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Algona, Iowa, and (2.) set the date of Sunday, April 24th, 2022 after church service to hold the Congregational Meeting to dissolve that relationship. Notification of the upcoming Congregational Meeting will be in the church bulletins for Sunday, April 17th, 2022 and Sunday, April 24th, 2022.

Motion was moved to approve Items #1 and #2. Motion was seconded to accept Pastor Steve Nofel’s resignation, and establish April 24th , 2022, as date of the Congregational Meeting.  Motion carried unanimously.  Pastor Nofel asked for a motion to adjourn the Special Meeting.  Motion was made and seconded.  Pastor and Session Members said the Lord’s Prayer and meeting was ended at 11:15 AM.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Scott, Clerk of Session

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Special, Joint Meeting of Algona and Irvington Presbyterian Church Sessions April 4, 2022

The Elders of First Presbyterian Church of Algona, and Irvington met jointly in a special called meeting of the Sessions with Rev. Steve Nofel on Monday, April 4, 2022 at First Presbyterian Church in Algona, Iowa.

Elders present from Algona Presbyterian Church were: Angelique Berry, Tom Easter, Ron Koppen, Doug Reemtsma, Bob Ruhnke, Stacy Simpson, Peg Skilling, and Shannon Trunkhill. Absent: Linda Scott.

Elders present from Irvington Presbyterian Church were: Kevin Benson, Carol Gridley, Linda Harms-Hensley, Deb Mueller, and Kevin Walker.

Guest: Rev. Sara Sutter from North Central Iowa Presbytery, Commission on Ministry

Rev. Nofel opened the meeting with prayer at 7:01 p.m. Moderator Rev. Sutter then called the meeting to order. Rev. Nofel spoke collectively to both Sessions of whom he asked to accept his resignation as their teaching elder and minister effective Sunday, May 8, 2022. He has accepted the call to become the Staff Interim in Presbytery of Baltimore, Maryland. After visiting with us about his decision, he was excused from the remainder of the meeting, but not before knowing how much he will be missed and how sad we are that he’s leaving.

Rev. Sutter’s meeting agenda was to craft a plan and a timeline during the transition of Rev. Nofel leaving. Congregational meetings will be scheduled for April 24, 2022 at both churches following worship to officially end our pastoral relationship.

Rev. Sutter will find someone to fill our pulpit Sunday, May 15, and Presbytery will help acquire pulpit supply after that date. Commission on Ministry will designate a moderator for Session meetings. (There is no need for assistance with youth ministry support and to lead Kids Club after school on Wednesdays since Kids Club will end soon for the academic school year.) Rev. Sutter will be in contact with Angelique Berry, moderator Worship Committee. According to Doug Reemtsma, Rev. Walter Reemtsma has agreed to officiate funerals, if needed.

It was suggested by Rev. Sutter for the Nominating Committee to begin thinking of the five persons they would like to elect to the Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC) with two members from the Irvington Presbyterian Church. The Nominating Committee should not meet before Rev. Nofel’s last day.

Nominating Committee Members are:

Congregation At-Large-Linda Redemske, Norma Ruhnke, Chris Schultze & Matt Scott

Board of Deacons-Cassidy Peppmeier, Renae Ruhnke, & Faye Schluter

Ruling Elders-Angelique Berry, Peg Skilling & Shannon Trunkhill

It was of the opinion of Rev. Nofel and Rev. Sutter that our churches are strong. We raised several commissioned pastors (CREs), which is a sign of good leadership. Rev. Nofel offered to write a letter of recommendation of our church as did Rev. Sutter, which is also optimistic. Both churches have a combined total of (178) active members-(142) in Algona, and (36) in Irvington.

The Hospitality Committee is planning a farewell reception before Rev. Nofel’s final date of Sunday, May 8, 2022.

The meeting adjourned at 8:23 p.m. with closing prayer by Rev. Sutter.

Upcoming Events:

• Sunday, April 24 Congregational Meetings to formally accept resignation

Choir presents spring concert, “We Are Singing Rejoice” at 3:00 p.m.

• Monday, April 25 Algona Session Meeting

• Sunday, May 1 Youth-led Sunday Service

• Sunday, May 8 Rev. Steve Nofel’s last day; Mother’s Day

• Sunday, May 15 Pulpit Supply (Rev. Sutter will find)

• Sunday, May 22 Pulpit Supply-Senior Sunday (Reception for AHS Seniors Cassandra Beenken & Jazmin Wiederin)

• Sunday, May 29 Pulpit Supply Memorial Day Weekend

Contact Information:

North Central Iowa Presbytery Committee on Ministry:

1. Rev. Austin Hill, First Presbyterian Church of Fort Dodge Work Ph) 515-576-2091 aus/nh@firstpresfd.org

2. Rev. Sara Sutter, United Presbyterian Church of Goldfield Cell Ph) 712-261-0681 sarabsuQer@gmail.com (Possible) Moderator of Session meetings:

1. Rev. Sara Hill, Associate Pastor, First Presbyterian Church of Fort Dodge Work Ph) 515-576-2091 sarah@firstpresfd.org

Respectfully submitted by,

Stacy Simpson, Clerk of Session, pro-tem

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First Presbyterian Church, Algona, Regular Session Meeting, March 28, 2022 

First Presbyterian Church of Algona, lowa, met for a regular session meeting on March 28, 2022 in the kitchen at 7:00 PM.

Pastor Steve Nofel opened the meeting with prayer and devotions from Philippians 2:1-4. Pastor Nofel called the meeting to order.

Attending Elders: Peggy Skilling, Tom Easter, Doug Reemtsma, Bob Ruhnke, Stacy Simpson, Shannon Trunkhill, and Linda Scott. Absent Elders: Angelique Berry and Ron Koppen. Quorum was declared. Motion to adopt the agenda was moved by Peggy Skilling and seconded by Shannon Trunkhill.

Financial Statement–Grace Freeburg, Angelique Berry, and Shannon Trunkhill

Grace Freeburg presented the financial report. Motion was made by Shannon Trunkhill and seconded by Stacy Simpson, Motion was approved. 

2021 Audit Committee, Angelique Berry and Lynn R. Kueck, met on March 8, 2022, to review the financial records and transactions for the 2021 year.. Iowa State Bank statements and reconcilements were reviewed for accuracy and balancing procedure. Checking account balances and end of month savings account balance were checked and in agreement with the church records. Each member reviewed randomly selected deposits and compared them to the actual deposit slips and deposit summary. Selected random checks and withdrawals were checked to verify check number, amount invoices, and payee as well as accounts and funds that were affected. The Audit was completed with approval and acceptance of the treasurer’s procedures. It was suggested that a third person be added to the Audit Committee.

Clerk‘s Report – Holy Communion was served to 49 people on Sunday, March 6, 2022.

A. Linda Scott, Clerk of Session, and Pastor Nofel attended by ZOOM, two called Meetings of the Presbytery of North Central . First one was on March 1, 2022, and second one on March 22, 2022. These meetings were in regards of discussing an overture to the General Assembly from Pittsburg Presbytery regarding domestic abuse.

  1. B. Property/Facility Requests: 
  2. 1. Women’s Community Bible Study–requested by Megan Ruhnke and Pastor Steve Nofel. Use of the Fireside requested for the 1st Saturdays of April and Request was made onMarch 21, 2022.
  3. 2. Garden Club requests use of the Fellowship Hall on April 11, 2022, starting at 5:30 PM. Request made by Walter Reemtsma on March 17, 2022.

Moderator Report – Pastor Steve reported that the topic for Sunday School will be “Fruits of the Spirit.”

 Old Business: 

  1. 1. Pastor Steve will write thank you notes to donors of the Window Project to let them know

it is greatly appreciated,

 New Business: Removal of inactive members from active role status.

Committee Reports: 1. Hospitality Committee served a Continental Easter breakfast on Sunday, April 17, 2022, from 9 – 10 AM.

. High School Graduates are Cassie Beenken and Jazmin Wiederin. College Graduates are Carson Simpson, and Kali Garman. Sunday, May 22nd, reception will be held for the graduates.

.Sunday, April 24th at 3:00 pm, the choir presents their Spring music program. Refreshments will be served following the concert.

  1. 2. Mission Committee organized a fund raiser with the manager of Pizza . Donation buckets were placed in the restaurant. $300.00 was the total donated.
  2. Evangelism Committee, Personnel Committee, Technology Committee, and Personal Committee – no reports

Pastor Nofel requested a motion to adjourn the meeting. Stacy Simpson moved the motion and Tom Easter seconded it. Motion carried. Closing by saying the Lord’s Prayer at 8:00 PM.

Next Regular Session Meeting: April 25, 2022 at 7 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Scott, Clerk of Session

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    First Presbyterian Church, Algona, Regular Session Meeting,             February 28, 2022

First Presbyterian Church of Algona, Iowa, met for a regular session meeting on February 28, 2022 in the Kitchen at 7:00 PM.

Pastor Steve Nofel and Elders:  Peggy Skilling, Tom Easter, Ron Koppen, Doug Reemtsma, Bob Ruhnke, Stacy Simpson, Angelique Berry, Shannon Trunkhill, Grace Freeburg, Treasurer, and Linda Scott.  All members were in attendance and quorum was declared.  Pastor Steve Nofel, moderator, called the meeting to order opening the meeting with prayer at 7:05 pm.  Motion to adopt the agenda was moved by Bob Ruhnke and Angelique Berry.

Approval of the January 23, 2022 minutes – Corrections were brought to the Session’s attention as to errors on the Annual Congregational and Corporation Meeting Minutes from January 16, 2022.  Correction on Action Item #5 Elect Audit Committee Members – (Lynn Kuecker) should be Kueck.  Continuing on that line – Motion for nominations to (case) should be cease.  Clerk of Session, Linda Scott, realized these errors and have corrected them.

Pastor Steve Nofel shared his report with the Session noting his appreciation for members of both Algona and Irvington Presbyterian Churches working using our talents and following the Lord to the best of our abilities. Pastor Steve encouraged Session members to continue our responsibility as elders making decisions and leading the congregation.

Financial Statement – Grace Freeburg, Angelique Berry, and Shannon Trunkhill

Grace Freeburg presented the financial report.  Grace is retiring from this position in March, and Angelique Berry will be taking over.  Motion moved to retain Grace Freeburg as a Back UP Treasurer as to making deposits & writing checks if needed in Angelique’s absence.  Motion made by Peggy Skilling and seconded by Bob Ruhnke.  Motion approved unanimously.

Angelique and Lynn Kueck will be doing the financial audit of 2021 records the first week of March.

Motion to have Kim Benson, church secretary, take deposit to Iowa State Bank.  Motion moved by Tom Easter and seconded by Ron Koppen.  Motion carried unanimously.

Clerk’s Report – Holy Communion was served to 55 people on Sunday, February 13.  3 home communions were served.  Total communions served was 58.

Communications to the Board: Women Networking Together sent invitation to the church as the church has a Chamber Membership. Linda asked three women as to their attending, and they said no. Linda Scott has called and made a reservation for her to attend this event on Monday, April 4,

Property/Facility Requests:

1.Relay for Life 2022 Daffodil Days of Kossuth County – Request by Chuck Redemske.

Use of the Narthex on March 7th – 9th.

  1. Cassandra Beenken Graduation – Requested by Sherri L Beenken.

        Saturday setup @ noon on May 21, 2022.  Sunday Event @ noon to 7:00 PM.

  1. Baby Shower for Tyler and Justine Garman – Requested by Serena Reemtsma

     Event on Saturday, June 4, 2022 using the Fellowship Hall and Kitchen.

 Moderator Report – Pastor Steve’s report was included in the session packet. He reported on several items that were mentioned above in the minutes.

Old Business: 1.  Motion was moved for Session members to pass the offering plates and communion elements starting with Sunday, March 6, 2022. Session will cover the month of March.  Motion voted unanimously.  Christian Education will be in charge of doing ushering in April.

  1. Window project – Ron Koppen checked and there are three windows already done.

Deadline for completion of project is May 31, 2022.

New Business:  1. Removal of inactive members from active role status.  Pastor Nofel suggested that Linda Scott, Clerk and he would go over the list in March checking the status of inactive members.

  1.   Approve Angelique Berry as Treasurer, March 2022.  Motion moved by Shannon and second by Ron.  Motion carried unanimously.
  2. Policy & Procedure on Sexual Misconduct of the Presbytery of North Central Iowa.  Papers were signed and turned in by Elders and Pastor Nofel.

Committee Reports: 1.  Hospitality Committee report from meeting on February 22, 2022 was submitted to Session members.  Report is on file.

  1. Mission Committee report submitted Stacy Simpson, Mission Committee Moderator is on file.  Motion made by Stacy Simpson and seconded by Shannon Trunkhill to collect the four special offerings through out the year.  Motion was approved unanimously.

Pastor Nofel requested the meeting being adjourned by saying the Lord’s Prayer at 8:00 PM.

Session Members headed to sanctuary to practice Communion set-up and distribution as a refresher course.

Next Regular Session Meeting : March 28, 2022 at 7 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Scott, Clerk of Session

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First Presbyterian Church, Algona, Retreat and Regular Session Meeting, January 23, 2022

First Presbyterian Church of Algona, Iowa, met for a regular session meeting on January 23, 2022 in the Fireside Room.

Pastor Steve Nofel and Elders: Peggy Skilling, Tom Easter, Ron Koppen, Doug Reemtsma, Bob Ruhnke, Stacy Simpson, and Linda Scott were present.  Angelique Berry and Shannon

Trunkhill were absent.  Quorum was declared.  Pastor Steve Nofel, moderator, called the meeting to order and opened the meeting with devotions and prayer at 1:15 PM.  Agenda was adopted.

Pastor Nofel requested each elder to share their Presbyterian Profile.  Elders shared their history of where they were raised, church connections, and things of interest so the elders could know more about each other and their journey in life.

Pastor Nofel handed out “The Grace of God & Living Grace Filled Lives” from The Presbyterian Handbook, Geneva Press, 2006, pages 110 -112.  Elders are encouraged to read over these passages and reflect on the Questions for Reflection in each section.

Pastor Nofel presented the various Church Committees of the Session explaining them.  Elders were allowed time to choose which committee(s) they would like to serve on.

They are as follows:  1. Christian Education – Pastor Steve Nofel

  1. Evangelism – Linda Scott
  2. Hospitality – Peggy Skilling & Ron Koppen
  3. Mission – Stacy Simpson
  4. Personnel – Doug Reemtsma
  5. Property – Tom Easter, Bob Ruhnke, suggested Brian Brace
  6. Finance – Shannon Trunkhill
  7. Technology – Ron Koppen & Doug Reemtsma
  8. Worship – Angelique Berry

Pastor Nofel encouraged committees to include church members into their committee.

Pastor Nofel asked for suggestions for Clerk of Session.  Discussion was held and LInda Scott volunteered to be Clerk of Session, 2022.  Pastor Nofel offered prayer before taking a short break by the session.

Reconvening, Session meeting continued with the following items:

  1. Approval of Regular Session Minutes from December 27, 2021 meeting.
  2. The Annual Congregational and Corporation Meeting Minutes from January 16, 2022, were reviewed.  Correction on Action Item #5Elect Audit Committee Members: Lynn Kuecker (should have been Kueck).  Continuing on this line – and Angelique Berry.  Motion for nominations to (case – should have been cease.)
  3. Financial Statement as of January 20, 2022 was also presented and approved.
  4. Sign-up sheet for Communion set up was passed around for elders to sign up when they can set up and clean up after Communion.
  5. Property/Facility Request – Chuck Redemske request use for Daffodil sales.
  6. Old Business: Window Project – Ron Koppen stated he would talk with Algona Glass on progress of windows.
  7. Statistical Report was approved by Stacy Simpson and Bob Ruhnke.
  8. Policy & Procedure on Sexual Misconduct for the Presbytery of North Central Iowa will be put on February’s Session Meeting agenda.
  9. Approval of Communion Dates: Feb 6/13, March 6, April 3, Maundy Thursday, April 14, May 8, June 5, July 3, August 7, September 4, October 2, November 6, December 4, Christmas Eve – December 24.  Pastor Nofel will be on vacation the first week of February, and he requested a Pulpit fill in for him.  Suggestion was made by Pastor Nofel to ask Emgade, a ruling elder in Mission work.  Motion was made by Tom Easter and seconded by Stacy Simpson.  Motion was approved.

Pastor Nofel, Moderator, closed the Regular Session meeting with all reciting the Lord’s Prayer.  Session was adjourned at 4:35 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Linda Scott, Clerk of Session

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