christchurch2007

Christ Episcopal Church
www.christchurchrb.org






















Annual Report and Meeting 2006

January 28, 2007


Christ Church Vestry 2006

Senior Warden---Robert Dennison

Junior Warden---Dar Hoover

Treasurer---Andy Tomat

Clerk---Vic Cooper

Susan Mulledy De-Frank

Suzanne Enriquez

Lynn Kious

Jeanne Kipp

Blake LaMar

Robert Nelson

Jeanne Hogan

David Walbeck


Clergy and Staff

Rector---The Reverend Robert W. Cornner

Secretary of the Vestry---Sharon Martinkus

Curate---The Reverend William H. Ledbetter

Associate Priest---The Reverend Wally Beitzel

Priest in Residence---The Reverend Norman Ishizaki

Minister of Music---David Bradfield

Director of Adult Christian Education---Lizz Beitzel


Our Parish Vision and Mission

To bring people to Jesus Christ by

Nurturing a Christian community that inspires spiritual growth
through our Episcopal faith.

We Fulfill our mission by:

 Respecting the dignity of every human being

 Praying and worshipping

 Maintaining a balance among Scripture, tradition, and reason

 Fostering an inclusive community

 Welcoming newcomers into our community

 Participating in individual and cooperative stewardship

 Providing a church that serves as a beacon of our faith


Scripture Passage for 2007

"The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed
that someone took and sowed in his field;
it is the smallest of all the seeds,
but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree,
so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches."

Matthew 13:32

CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH
REDONDO BEACH, CALIFORNIA
MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL MEETING
JANUARY 29, 2006

Fr. Bob Cornner and Senior Warden, Christine Budzowski called the meeting to order at 10:35 a.m. in the Parish Hall, with the opening prayer.

Senior Warden Report

Senior Warden Budzowski presented her annual reporting highlighting the accomplishments of the parish including the mutual prayer ministry between Christ Church Redondo Beach and Christ Church, Red Shirt Table, South Dakota; sponsorship of the Red Shirt Art Project Gallery event, and work on the parish Endowment and Mission Funds. The Futures Committee to present a report.

Meeting Minutes

Susan Mulledy DeFrank moved and Bob Dennison seconded to approve the Minutes of the 2005 Annual Meeting. There being no objection, the minutes were approved.

Treasurer’s Report

Treasurer Allan Dawson presented the Treasurer’s Report noting that although a deficit had been budgeted in the 2005 budget, there was actually a small surplus. The surplus was due, in part, to an increase in December pledges and the fact that no rental reserve had been set aside.

Futures Committee Report
Futures Committee members, Christine Budzowski, Susan Mulledy De-Frank, Andy Tomat, and David Walbeck presented the report; committee member, Jeanne Hogan, was unable to attend the meeting, however her leadership in the committee was noted. The committee stated that its goal was to establish a plan for the good management of the parish resources by developing guidelines for accepting, investing, managing and using long-term funds. Two specific investment accounts were described, the Mission Fund and the Endowment Fund. Donations and other available funds are to be held in the Mission Fund until used for donor or vestry designated purposes. The goal of the Endowment Fund will be to ensure the long-term continuity of Christ Church. A resolution of the vestry was presented regarding the establishment of the two funds and resolving that distribution from the funds shall not be made to the operating budget except under special circumstances. The Futures Committee will continue oversight of management of the funds. The committee will work with the Diocesan Office of Planning Giving to establish procedures for the acceptance of non-cash donations.

In conclusion, the committee reported that a seminar, “Life Planning,” conducted by representatives from the Diocesan Office of Planning Giving would be held at Christ Church on Sunday, March 19, 2006.

Casa De Los Amigos Report
Fr. Cornner presented the Casa De Los Amigos Report and expressed appreciation to the members of the Casa De Los Amigos Board of Directors. A video describing the Casa was viewed. Fr. Cornner discussed the sale of the Casa to the Diocese that will generate funds that may enable the parish, in partnership with the Episcopal Housing Alliance to create more affordable housing.

Rector’s Report and Recognition for Service
Fr. Cornner presented the Rector’s Report recognizing the vestry members as well as members of the Christ Church community who contribute to the various tasks and activities of the parish. Fr. Cornner expressed appreciation to the following for their contributions to the Christ Church community with special gifts:
 Ginger Consani, Altar Guild President
 Hannah McLaughlin, St. Stephen’s Gathering
 David Bradfield, Director of Music
 Lizz Beitzel, EFM, ACE and Keeping Holy Time
 Wally Beitzel, EFM and Liturgical assistance
 Fr. Norm Ishizaki, Priest in Residence
 Kate Kios, Jennifer Carlock, and Larry Fleischer, Acolytes
 Gwen Fleischer, 3-D Crèche
 Sylvia Allen and Suzy Marshall, Mystery Gardeners and Catechesis
 Janet Murray, Red Shirt Project Chair
 Maureen Murphy, Daughters of the King Chapter President, and Red Shirt Project
 Jean Prewitt, Casa de Los Amigos Board President
 Muriel Schultz, Head of Counters
 Jeanne Hogan, Futures Committee Chair
 Kathleen Ramjohn, Hospitality 2005 Chair

Ear of the Vestry
Fr. Cornner reported that the Christ Church community is invited and encouraged to provide input into the decisions being made by the vestry. Incoming Sr. Warden, Bob Dennison noted that the vestry meeting is open to all and that forms will be available for comments to the vestry.

Recognition of Retiring Vestry Members
Betty Steib, Mark Bennison, Allan Dawson, Elizabeth Pringle and Christine Budzowski were recognized and thanked for their service.


Prayer for Faithful Departed of Christ Church
Prayers were offered for Foster Ricardo, Sr., Bertram South, Roger Hoover, and Sheppard James Consani.

NEW BUSINESS

2006 Parish Budget
The budget was presented by Allan Dawson indicated that budgeted receipts will cover all budgeted operating expenses and a portion of the budgeted rental reserve.

Nominations and Election of New Vestry Members
There being no nominations from the floor, Bob Simpson moved and Karen Dennison seconded to approve the election of the following Vestry members:

3-Year Positions
Lynn Kious, Jeanne Kipp, Robert Nelson and Dave Walbeck.

1-Year Position
Vic Cooper

2006 Senior Warden, Bob Dennison was presented with the Senior Warden pin.

2006 Convention Delegates
The following were nominated and/or volunteered to be considered by the Vestry as delegates and alternates for the 2006 Convention:

Sandy Nelson, Gail Connolly, Gwen Fleishcher, and Susan Mulledy DeFrank.

Call for Meeting of Vestry
Fr. Cornner and Sr. Warden Bob Dennison announced that the meeting of the vestry would be held immediately following adjournment of the annual meeting.


Closing Prayer and Adjournment
The meeting was adjourned at 11:50 p.m.

Submitted by Gail Connolly


2006 Reports and Life at Christ Church


Senior Warden’s Report

The ability to work with the remarkable people that make up the leadership in this church is a blessing to me. The vestry this last year handled the sometimes difficult issues facing the parish with grace and thoughtful consideration.

This year, again, Father Bob’s energy and hard work has been an inspiration to me. This is especially so considering the challenges he and Madelyn continue to face. His attention to the details of keeping this church running as a temporal and spiritual organization is something that is easy to take for granted just because of his steadfastness in accomplishing that task. The annual meeting is a good opportunity to express the thanks we have for his work.

The past year has also served as an example of the generosity of the members of our parish family. Several times this year parishioners have identified a need for the parish and funded a solution. The anonymous gifts have enriched us all. I think the gifts are expressions of thankfulness for the joy this church brings in our worship together, for which we in turn can be thankful.

I also want to take this opportunity to thank Andy Tomat and Bob Nelson for their tireless work in managing the budget and parish finances. Andy has done a great job at the usually thankless task of being treasurer. He has also done excellent work in communicating the financial intricacies to the members of the parish. Bob has worked with Andy in developing a budget process that makes the variables in the budget understandable. For a Senior Warden without the time, inclination or talent to do that work, their efforts are especially appreciated.


Bob Dennison, Senior Warden 2006


Rector’s Report: 2006

"The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed that someone took and sowed in his field; it is the smallest of all the seeds, but when it has grown it is the greatest of shrubs and becomes a tree, so that the birds of the air come and make nests in its branches."

Matthew 13:32

I have chosen this one verse parable from the Gospel of Matthew as our Scripture Passage for 2007. It is one of several parables that Jesus uses to teach us about the Kingdom of Heaven. My hope is that we will consider how Christ Church is like the mustard seed which is like the Kingdom of Heaven.

Last year, our EfM first year group offered us a brilliant sermon on the mustard seed. What they offered has been percolating in my spirit this past year. As I prepared for our annual meeting, the mustard seed finally came to the surface again, like the persistent and hardy plant that it is.

I offer this brief parable as a way to help us form a better understanding of our past and the year to come.

We are a physically small church, like the mustard seed, but we have a history of growth in the most unusual ways. Like the mustard seed, it could be said that Christ Church has grown spiritually and has become a home for many people. We abide in God's love and that is what is growing in us and what invites others to abide here too.

This parish started the Casa De Los Amigos Senior Housing home that has provided 135 affordable apartments for senior citizens in Redondo Beach.

This parish has become the home to many people in recovery from various kinds of addiction. There is at least one meeting here 6 days a week.

For many people in search of a loving community of faith, Christ Church has been our home. Young and old have found a place in the gracious and welcoming branches of this tree and discovered the love of God in the faces of our brothers and sisters with whom we share “one Lord; one faith; and one baptism.”

The mustard seed and the plant that springs from that small seed remind us that God uses the smallest things to create the most valuable and lasting gifts. The seed of God’s love has been planted in the Christ Church garden and a home has sprung up for us all.

As we begin this new year of grace, let us continue to see the mustard seed in all we begin, continue, and end. I pray for the faith the size of that small seed and the joy of the home it may produce for many who are still in search of a place of true peace, unity, and love.

God’s Peace in the Mustard Seed We Are,

Bob+

My report continues with thankfulness and gratitude to those who have served in leadership positions in this part of God’s Garden beginning with our vestry.

The Vestry

The vestry has the responsibility for maintaining the ongoing work of the parish through budget, planning, and support. 2006 was a year of continuing growth and change. Many of the changes may not seem obvious to the casual observer. Like the growth of the mustard seed, many of the actions taken this past year will be seen in later years. Our vestry has labored in prayer, love, peace, and the Holy Spirit to move us along the paths of financial health and stewardship in ways that will make our ability to serve and to offer more to God and others increase in magnificent mustard bush ways.

Thanks to Robert Nelson, we have completed our parish audits as required by the canons of the Episcopal Church and the mandates of sound business and stewardship principles. Robert is also to be thanked for chairing our Budget Committee this year and presenting us with a realistic and prudent budget for 2007.

Thanks to Andy Tomat, who served as our parish Treasurer for maintaining the budgetary guidelines accepted at our last annual meeting and further clarifying for the vestry and parish the ins and outs of our budgetary process. Andy has also been a consistent help in seeking better ways for us to do our work in the office and in the church.

I want to thank Dar Hoover, our current Junior Warden, and Blake LaMar (Our Building and Grounds person) for their work with our rental units and property issues. This is a very challenging part of service to the parish. Many repairs are currently underway on the property that require time, presence, and competence from Blake. Our front rental was vacated in December, but thanks to Dar Hoover’s commitment and knowledge, the vacancy was filled by January 15, 2007.

I want to thank Jeanne Kipp for taking on the Hospitality Ministry of making sure we have what we need to celebrate together during Coffee Hour each week. Jeanne makes sure that we have plenty of cups, coffee, plates, forks, spoons, knives, and coffee to keep us going each week. You will also see her frequently taking on the tasks of doing coffee hour from set up, to service, to cleaning up afterwards. She models for us what it means to be a servant leader. She is also a member of the Monday Morning Counter Team who make sure our contributions get counted, deposited, and credited to us. Jeanne is also a person whose insights are greatly valued by me and the rest of the vestry.

I want to thank Susan Mulledy-DeFrank, whose continuing service to this parish on the board of Casa de Los Amigos and the vestry has allowed a real understanding and coordination of efforts by both boards during a year of challenge. Susan has also been a major organizer and/or participant in the many of our community building and Outreach fundraising events. She has served on our Parish Futures Committee as it has developed policies and procedures that will provide for a good future for the ministry of Christ Church. Susan has agreed to stand for election for a three year term on the vestry after completing a one year term this past year.

I want to thank Lynn Kious who has jumped right into doing the work of the vestry. Lynn will be heading up our Property Footprint committee to explore ways we can best steward our property and space to glory of God and the service of others. Her extensive background in property and real estate have been a real gift to the parish.

I want to thank Vic Coooper for accepting a call to complete an unexpired term on the vestry and serving as our Clerk. Vic has a wonderful history with the parish and a family that serves on a regular basis. Vic brings his good sense, legal training, and grateful appreciation for Christ Church to all of our deliberations. He has been asked by the vestry and has accepted the nomination to serve a full three year term.

I want to thank Dave Walbeck, whose contributions to our Futures Committee work have been outstanding. Dave and his family began their time with us by attending a Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper. He marks that experience as the one which brought into this faith community and has dedicated himself to sharing what he and his family found that special night. Dave continues on the vestry and the Futures Committee providing us with graceful leadership.
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Therefore, on behalf of the parish, I would like to thank all of those who serve so faithfully and well on the Christ Church Vestry. Some of you have served one, two, or three years. Those who are finishing their service on the vestry next month have made a real difference in the life of this parish.

Thanksgiving for Service Completed on Vestry

Bob Dennison, Suzanne Enriquez, and Jeanne Hogan are our 3 graduating vestry members whom I would like to honor and thank at this time.

Bob Dennison

Bob Dennison is no stranger to the vestry. His humor, wisdom, judgment, and prayerful presence have been a gift beyond measure to me, the vestry, and to the whole Christ Church family. Bob is able to express his opinions on issues with which we deal, but allows that his word on the issue is not the final one. Bob is a consensus builder and he has provided all of us with a model for our leadership on the vestry and in the community of faith. Bob has demonstrated that it is possible to disagree without creating resentment and a loss of faith and grace. Thank you Bob for allowing us to learn from you and for leading us through this past year and in previous years.

Jeanne Hogan

Jeanne Hogan has been a real leader on this vestry. Over the course of her two years, she has led the in members to give to support the long term future and ministries at Christ Church. Jeanne worked with her committee and the vestry to shepherd the process by which we could finally offer more options for giving and for planning for how such funds could be used responsibly. Jeanne also brought new members onto her committee who have now moved into positions of service on the vestry. She has been a wonderful mentor and friend to all of us on the vestry. She has also been a major supporter in our Outreach programs, helping to raise funds and developing a coherent and usable Outreach policy. Thank you, Jeanne.

Suzanne Enriquez

Suzanne has been a faithful member of our vestry contributing to our deliberations and offering help in carrying out our decisions as a vestry. This was Suzanne’s first term on a vestry and represented a real time of discernment and learning for her. In the midst of her service, she had the difficult experience of caring for her father who died of cancer this past year. I am very thankful for the service Suzanne has offered to God and for loving concern and insights as one of our new parish members. Thank you Suzanne.

I have some additional thanksgivings to offer for people in this church who serve here and who help deepen our life of faith and community.

The Casa De Los Amigos Board of Directors

Christ Church is blessed with dedicated and caring souls who serve on the Casa De Los Amigos Board of Directors. The Casa project is a ministry that spans over 30 years of service and has provided a home for many senior citizens over that period of time. Our current board has continued the tradition of providing quality affordable housing in Redondo Beach for older citizens. Under the amazing leadership of Jean Prewitt, the Casa Board has improved the overall running of the Casa and has provided much time, energy, and considerable talent to the process of creating an expanded ministry to senior citizens in the Redondo Beach area who are in need of low income housing and other valued services.

Jean has been blessed by a board of competent and caring people. Each and every person on the board has given of their many gifts to further the mission of the Casa. In 2007, we hope that the dedicated service of the board will result in an announcement of a new and creative ministry in partnership with the Episcopal Housing Alliance, an initiative of the Diocese to address the affordable housing needs of seniors and others.

I want to personally thank Jean Prewitt (President), Jody Stantley (Vice President), Ginger Consani (Secretary) and Keith Watamanuk (Treasurer) for serving as our executive committee. I would also like to thank our other board members: Susan Mulledy-DeFrank, Mark Hereford, Mike Noland, Leta Parkes, Dave Pedersen, Rob Robertson, Anna Marie Tippins.

Adult Christian Formation

This year Lizz Beitzel continued to offer Lectionary Insights using the technology of the Internet (http://lectionarylizz.livejournal.com/) to help expand on the Adult Christian Education of the Heart offerings for our parish. Lizz is a wonderful scholar, who is able to get and to cut to the chase and offer us insights into the lessons and collect each week that are easy to read and understand. She and her husband, Father Wally Beitzel have continued to provide an excellent education program for a growing number of very appreciative students, many of whom have taken on major leadership roles in the parish.

I would encourage more of our members to consider this most valuable path for deepening and enriching their lives as Christians and as a preparation for increasing their work as disciples of Jesus.

Thank you to Lizz and Wally, our leaders.

Catechesis of the Good Shepherd

I would like to thank Sylvia Allen for her continuing loving devotion and service as our catechist in the Good Shepherd atrium. Sylvia faithfully prepares herself for each Sunday through her own formation as a catechist and a Christian and to offer our children the gift of her presence and the message of God’s love.

Thank you, Sylvia.

St. Stephen’s Gathering

I would like to thank Hannah McLaughlin for continuing to provide leadership for our St. Stephen’s Gathering. After using the series, Seasons of the Spirit for a year, Hannah requested that we continue to use this lectionary based curriculum. She has a great team of teachers who have offered their time, talent, and energy to serve our children. Hannah invited members of the congregation to help create new costumes for the annual Christmas Pageant. Anyone who attended the pageant will attest to how much these new outfits added to the drama of the evening. St. Stephen’s Gathering teachers include Karen Dedo, and Kelle Brown.

Hannah wrote:

We are in our 2nd year of using Seasons of the Spirit. The children and teachers really enjoy using the program that incorporates the scriptures with fine art, child-centered & age appropriate lessons and crafts. We have a core group of 3 teachers but would welcome more assistance from others on a once a month volunteer basis. We have about 5-6 children attend on Sundays.

I want to thank all of these teachers for their faithful commitment to serve our children at Christ Church. Thank you Hannah, Karen, and Kelle.

Our Counters

I would like to thank Muriel Shultz for serving as the head of our faithful and true stewardship accounting team. Each Monday, Muriel, Ann Cooper, Jeanne Kipp, Betty Steib and Marjorie Marsden have worked in teams to make sure that everyone who gives to the church’s mission are properly and discreetly recorded and then reported back to those who give. Thank you, Muriel, Betty, Ann, Jeanne, and Marjorie for your important service to Christ Church.

Parish Communications

Christine Budzowski brought Christ Church into the 21st Century by personally creating our web site (www.christchurchrb.org) and our Weekly Email Updates. Since the new year or just before, Christine has trained me to take over the Email Update. I do want to encourage more and more of our parish membership to subscribe and to read this weekly update in order to know what is happening. You can subscribe by going to the website and placing your email address in the subscribe box. Once you hit the button you will be taken to a form that asks for more information. Once completed, you will receive a confirmation email to which you must respond in order to subscribed. After that, you should be receiving your Update ever Thursday.

The Vestry has also authorized and purchased a new software to establish an up-to-data base of our membership. We lost our last database and I have been unable to send out birthday and anniversary cards to you all. Please help us get our new system up and running with the latest information available. Thank you.

Flower Team

I want to thank Peggy Consani and the entire flower team for the spectacular flower arrangements and decorations with which they continue to grace our sanctuary. Every Sunday invites happy anticipation of what beautiful arrangements will greet our eyes. Thank you, Peggy and the entire flower team.

This year we lost Ruth Kuesser, one of long time Flower Team members. She was a loving and gentile soul whose praise of God was seen in the flowers used in worship.

Thank you, Peggy and the Flower Team.

Altar Guild

I want to thank Cathy Walbeck (Altar Guild Director), Ginger Consani (Treasurer), and Jan Moore (Altar Guild Scheduler) and the entire Altar Guild membership who, with great devotion and love, keep us worshipping together in color, silver, bread, wine, oil, candles, and fair white linens. They set the Table with grace and faithfulness each and every Sunday. I really want to thank you all for your support of the Family Service this past year. Thank you Cathy, and the entire Altar Guild (see the Altar Guild Report for the names of these wonderful folks)

Thank you, Cathy, Ginger, and Jan.

Service Worship Books

Each and every Sunday, we produce a service book designed to keep us all together in worship which is the genius of The Book Common Prayer. Hymns are selected, readings and collects inserted according to our lectionary, and the various elements of the Liturgy of the Word and Table are placed before us, like a good meal.

The vestry and clergy of this parish value and give thanks to God for Anne Fay’s ministry in trying to standardize, improve upon, correct, and revise these service books so that they accurately reflect our worshipping tradition and style as Episcopalians in a format which is very user friendly. Anne is currently creating a cyber style format that will allow us to do this work more easily.

Thank you, Anne.


Servers on Sundays are the flesh and bones of our Sunday morning worship. Our Ushers greet us at the door with a welcome word and smile and make sure receive what we need to worship; count us and our offering for the morning; help us know when to go forward for communion; and basically shepherd us through the morning. Our Readers share the word of God with us and help lead us in prayer. Our Chalice bearers gently and lovingly offer us “the cup of salvation.” Our Acolytes, Kate Kious, Larry Fleischer, and Jennifer Carlock lead our coming in and our going out and perform other very important functions around the altar. Thank you, Kate, Larry, and Jennifer. And thank you to all of those who serve on Sundays whose names appear below.

Thank you, all who have found the perfect freedom of service to God and others.

The Christ Church Choir & Musicians

I want to thank David Bradfield and the fabulous parish choir and musicians who lead us in worship each week. David shares his honest, joyful, and talented soul with us each week, selecting music that expresses the Gospel for each Sunday and that is capable of lifting our spirits up to God’s presence as a community.

This past year we were saddened by the death of Hal Wakeman, a long time member of our choir and our man on the banjo. We have missed Hal and pray that he continues to grow from grace to grace in the communion of saints.

Thank you, David, musicians, and choir.

Dawn Switzer
Gwen Fleischer
Helen Beauchamp
Jan Moore (Posting of music and back up to David when he is on vacation)
Beverly Metcalf
Elizabeth Beitzel
Betty Garren
Teresa Foster
Suzi Marshall
Ana Maria Maresca
Duncan Macintosh
Ron Kipp (cello)
Kenny Brown (electric guitar)
Gary Horton (acoustic guitar)
David Bradfield (choir director, keyboardist, acoustic guitar, and most recently, accordion thanks to the generous donation made by Ms. Kathleen Ramjohn)

Christmas Tree Gift Giving Ministry

I want to thank Terri Watamanuk and her whole family for continuing to run our Christmas Gift Giving ministry the past few years. Teri works with the organization that identifies families in need and then she collects the gifts provided by members of the parish and takes them to the family. This year was another very successful campaign and more gifts were requested and given than in previous years.

Thank you, Terri and Keith

Corazón Ministry

I want to thank Dave Carter for his continued faithful and passionate support and leadership of the Corazón ministry. Dave is a skilled craftsman with a huge heart for people. When he takes our folks south of the border to build a home, they come back with a broader notion of ministry and a desire to return. I also want to thank Father Bill Ledbetter for his support and participation in this wonderful ministry.

Thank you, Dave, Father Bill, and all of those who went south to build a house for God.

Stations of the Cross in Lent

Father Wally Beitzel has increased his visibility and ministry at Christ Church during the past few years. He leads the Lenten Stations of the Cross on Fridays and is a regular member of the clerical staff in the worship services on Sundays. Thank you, Father Wally.

Hospitality Supplies

I want to thank Jeanne Kipp for keeping us supplied with all of the essential paper goods and supplies that this parish uses week after week. Pat has a very demanding schedule and I really appreciate that she has dedicated her time and energies to this most important ministry of hospitality. Thank you, Jeanne.

Parish Administrator

I want to thank Sharon Martinkus, our fine Parish Administrator, for another year of loving, caring, and competent service to this parish family. She is the backbone of our financial and communication system in the community and is a real blessing to us all. She is also the person who makes sure that our prayers are rightly recorded for each Sunday so that we can remember those who are in need or to give thanks for those who have died or for the many joys and occasions of our lives. Thank you, Sharon.

Child Care

As a parent of two adult children, I have seen the powerful influence that a loving person can have on our young children at Christ Church. Christ Church is blessed to have Aimee Cook, Sabrina Gutierrez, and Johanna Bradfield as our child care providers this past year. Children know when they are cared about and loved. Aimee, Sabrina, and Johanna let our children know that they are wanted, seen, and loved.

Thank you, Sabrina, Aimee, and Johanna.

Assisting Clergy

I want to thank Father Norm Ishizaki, Father Wally Beitzel, and Father Bill Ledbetter for their support, friendship, and continuing ministry here at Christ Church. Norm is our senior priest in residence. His wisdom and good sense of things learned over a 30 ministry at St. Alban’s in Westwood provides me with an exceptional counselor and friend.

This year, Father Wally Beitzel was licensed by Bishop Bruno to function as a priest in the Diocese of Los Angeles. Wally and I have been friends for many years prior to my call to serve as rector at Christ Church. It is a joy and pleasure to know and serve with Wally.

Bishop Bruno called me back this past summer and asked if I would be willing to offer a newly ordained deacon by the name of William (Bill) Ledbetter. We have been blessed to have Father Bill with us. His official start date was this past September, but he really started to become part of the Christ Church ordained ministry immediately. We celebrated Bill’s ordination to the priesthood on the feast of the Epiphany and offered a parish party for him the next day.

Thank you Norm, Wally, and Bill.

The Communion of Saints

Finally, I want to thank God for those whose lives and ministries were a vital part of this parish and who have died. I believe it is important to offer thanks for all of those whose ministries and lives in the past have made possible our life here together.

Sheppard James Consani
Charlotte Langstaff
Margaret Vasquez
John Conrad Hauerwaas
Dylan Jayms Woodard
Ruth Kuesser
Marvis "Pard" Jerome Keyser
Tera Mykly McCollough

Father of all, we pray to you for those we love, but see no longer. Grant them your peace; let light perpetual shine upon them; and, in your loving wisdom and almighty power, work in them the good purpose of your perfect will; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Finally, I would like to offer my continuing thanks for the loving and caring understanding of the parish family who have been steadfast in their prayers for me and for Madelyn. We have been given the precious gift of time together for another year and we are grateful beyond words for this gift.

God’s Peace in Thanksgiving,

Bob+

Parish Reports Continue

Curate’s Report

Father Bob asked me to write a short report for the annual meeting, something about what my first few months have been like here at Christ Church. First of all, it has been a great blessing to be sent here by Bishop Bruno. I cannot thank him enough for sending me here to assist Bob; a new priest could not ask for a kinder, wiser mentor. Christ Church is a remarkable community of Christians and the warm welcome for me, Barbara, Lucia and Aurora is appreciated by us all. Like all newcomers, we were hoping for a church community where the whole family would be welcome and able to be involved in the parish. As a parent I am grateful that children are so appreciated here and obviously loved. As a married priest I am immensely grateful that my wife, Barbara, has been welcomed into the family of Christ Church and she has appreciated the opportunity so sit in the congregation and listen to a (non-Bill) sermon for a change.

It was a blessing to serve here as a deacon and take part in leading our congregation’s worship under Fr. Norm and Fr. Wally’s guidance. All three priests -- and the acolytes, chalice bearers, David and the choir -- have had their part in helping me learn to be a priest at the altar. It has been a blessing to proclaim the Gospel as preacher here at Christ Church. Preaching is really a joint venture between the preacher, congregation and the Holy Spirit and I have felt your help and the Spirit’s as well when giving sermons here. Thanks for your feedback and thanks, too, to Bob Nelson for watching his stopwatch. I look forward to every opportunity for sharing the Good News of Christ with you in the months ahead.

I also want to say what a blessing it was to be part of the Corazon house building project. I loved the opportunity to work alongside Christ Church parishioners in this act of mercy and solidarity with our brothers and sisters in Christ. Being a deacon and now priest at Christ Church has also given me an opportunity to serve others in need both in your name and in Christ’s name. I look forward to working beside you this year in serving Christ in others.

Thank you all for your welcome to me as a deacon and your welcome as your newest priest. Thank you, too, for welcoming me into the EFM fellowship and St. Stephen’s gathering. Your prayers, acts of kindness and your thoughtful gifts have been a great support to me in my ministry: thank you, thank you, thank you.

God bless the Christ Church family and make us a beacon of Christ’s love in the
South Bay.

Bill+

CHRIST CHURCH FUTURES COMMITTEE
Report for the Annual Meeting, January 28, 2007

• The Futures Committee was formed in the Fall of 2004. Current committee members are Ann Cooper, Allan Dawson, Susan Mulledy De-Frank, and David Walbeck.

• The Futures Committee is responsible for developing guidelines for accepting, investing, managing, and using long-term funds. Long-term funds are defined as those monies – gifts, donations, bequests – that are designated for uses other than parish operations and those monies that are not designated for a specific use.

• In 2005, the Vestry directed the Treasurer to open two accounts with the Diocesan Investment Trust for these long-term funds– one for the Mission Fund and one for the Endowment Fund. The purpose of each of these funds is described in the attached chart. The initial deposit into these accounts was $303,960. Donations and earned interest have increased the amount of these funds to $365,685 (this number taken from November 2006 Treasurer’s report).

• At the Committee’s recommendation, the Vestry authorized the Treasurer to open an account with Morgan Stanley to provide for a mechanism for Christ Church to receive certain non-cash gifts, such as appreciated stocks and bonds.

• A seminar on “Life Planning” was conducted by a representative from the Diocesan Office of Planned Giving. He provided information on topics such as Wills and Trusts, Healthcare Directives, and personal/family financial planning, including Planned Giving. Copies of the handout provided at this seminar are available from the Diocese; please contact one of the committee members or Father Bob if you’re interested.


2007 Proposed Budget

See Handouts at Church on Sunday


2006 OUTREACH AT CHRIST CHURCH

The members of Christ Church participate, as individuals and as a community, in a number of activities in which we reach out to those in need. These activities fall into two categories, according to the format for reporting to the Diocese. These are budgeted commitments and special appeals.

Outreach Commitments – Specific expenses budgeted and approved annually by the vestry include:

• Mission Share – the contribution we, as a church community, make to the Diocese to assist with the needs of other members of our Episcopal community. For 2007, our Mission Share is budgeted at 15 percent of our 2005 operating income and is paid to the Diocese on a monthly basis.

• Corazon – the commitment we, as a church community, make to participate in building a house in Mexico. We share in this effort with the First United Methodist Church. For 2006, our portion of the cost for construction materials was $1,933. As a parish, we raise funds through bake sales, the Christmas sale, and the monthly coffee-hour Outreach box to offset the cost of the build. We raised $5,027 in 2006 through various events to support our outreach efforts, enabling us to increase our support to two Corazon builds in 2007.

• Shared Bread – in our local community, we also partner with the First United Methodist Church in supporting their Shared Bread program which offers meals for the homeless and needy on Wednesday evenings.

Special Appeals – Examples of Special Appeals we support:

• Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) – Episcopal Relief and Development (ERD) saves lives and builds hope in communities around the world by providing emergency assistance, rebuilding devastated communities, and offering long-term solutions in the areas of food, security, and health care. We contribute by responding to solicitations for emergency uses, such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods, and we donate the proceeds from our annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper. Monies donated in the Lenten boxes (Mite boxes/Hope Chests) are also passed through directly to ERD.

Christ Church members may send private donations directly to ERD. Checks submitted to Christ Church, with ERD on the memo line, are passed through directly to ERD.

• Rector’s Discretionary Fund – funds donated directly to the Rector for him to use at his discretion to meet needs, which he identifies.
• Christmas “Adopt-a-Family” Program – gifts contributed by parish members and families for needy families. Each year, one of our members identifies needy families in the local area and provides suggestions for clothing, toys, gift certificates, and other items. Parish members make selections and bring the wrapped gifts to the church, for distribution to the needy families. We, as a church, do not account for the dollar amount of the gifts.

• Other Special Appeals – fund raising efforts for specific benefits. Occasionally, the vestry may identify a specific need and approve an appeal for funds.


Life at Christ Church

Opportunities for Spiritual Growth through Worship, Formation, and Service

As we begin another year of Grace together, please look at the long list of opportunities for ministry at Christ Church and the larger church. The Church is not a consumer product or service that we purchase, but a community of individuals who come together to be formed into the likeness and image of God in Christ through worship, service, and other experiences that allow us to develop a closer relationship with God and other people and to be transformed by and through all of our relationships.

May God bless you as you share more and more in the Life at Christ Church.

COMMUNICATIONS

Communications at Christ Church in 2006 has continued to develop in new directions. The website includes a Calendar of events on the home page that is updated regularly to include upcoming parish events. Each week the Email Update keeps 157+ subscribers informed about who is serving us each Sunday, those who need our prayers in the parish, an almost weekly Gospel Reflection, the ACE at Ten questions, and news of other Christian formation opportunities and events sponsored by other parish groups, and Stewardship news. .

These changes in the way we communicate allow more frequent sharing of information and even those who have moved away from the parish are able to keep in touch through email. Our postage costs have been reduced substantially. Amazon.com purchases through the web site and the Email Update have resulted in improved communication and reduced costs.

The Email Update is our weekly parish news-E-letter that is emailed to all members of the parish who sign up for it on the Christ Church web site (www.christchurchrb.org). Through this valuable communication opportunity and the web site we attempt to keep us all up to date on the life of the parish and to provide articles by staff and others that are designed to be helpful in developing a better understanding of the Christian Faith and a deeper spiritual life. (50 issues per year with a current list of 152 people subscribing to the Update )

The Christ Church Website (www.christchurchrb.org) was authorized by the vestry three years ago and thanks to our then, Senior Warden, Christine Budzowski, it provides an excellent way for our parish to reach outside our local community. In combination with the Email Update, the website connects our members with other resources for their Christian formation and faith. Each week, Father Bob, Father Bill, and Lizz Beitzel produce such material for the local parish, but we have discovered that these written offerings are being read and appreciated beyond our local parish boundaries (Mustard Seed stuff).

A NOTE ON BLOGGING EXPERIENCE: Father Bob took a class at last year’s Ministry Fair during which he learned how to set up a weblog. Needless to say, he came back armed with a little bit of information and know how and a real desire to use it for the benefit of the parish. Below you will find the various blogs that he and other members of the parish have created to improve communications in the parish.

Current Christ Church Weblogs

CHRIST CHURCH 2007 BLOG will chronicle the year of activities at Christ Church using mostly photographs with some narration. We welcome photographs and coverage provided by members of the community. www.christchurch2007.blogspot.com

CHRIST CHURCH GOSPEL REFLECTIONS BLOG is offered by Father Bob each week and addresses the assigned readings for the week. Father Bob’s hope is that folks will use these reflections as part of their preparation for Sunday in combination with their own prayerful reading and the commentaries provided by Lizz Beitzel (see below). http://christchurchrbgospelreflections.blogspot.com/.

LECTIONARY LIZZ BLOG offers a weekly commentary on the collect and lessons assigned for that Sunday. Lizz is our Director of Adult Christian Education, our EfM trainer, and an active contributor to the life of this parish. http://lectionarylizz.livejournal.com/

ACE OF HEARTS BLOG is a weekly quiz on something connected to our readings, liturgy, theology, church history, saints, and seasons. The question is asked in our Email Update and answered on the blog and at the beginning of the 10:00 AM service each Sunday. Father Bill is our ACE master of ceremonies. http://christrbaceofhearts.blogspot.com/

SERVING ON SUNDAY AT CHRIST CHURCH BLOG is a listing of those scheduled to serve as ushers, readers, and chalice bearers. The readings for each Sunday are also provided by either a link to the Episcopal Lectionary or as printed directly into the schedule. http://servingatchristchurchrb.blogspot.com/

CHRIST KIDS ART WORK BLOG found at http://christchurchkidsart.blogspot.com/
allows our children to offer the Gospel through their own special vision as expressed in various art forms.

MUSIC FOR SUNDAY BLOG provides the hymns and songs that will be sung each Sunday for those who would like to make these hymns and lyrics part of their preparation for worship. The music of the church is said to be a way of “praying twice.” http://musicforsunday.blogspot.com/

THE SAINT STEPHEN’S GATHERING BLOG at http://ststephensgathering.blogspot.com/
Contains the schedule of classes for the year and other notes on the class for parents and teachers.

FLOWERS AT CHRIST CHURCH BLOG gives the viewer a chance to see the beautiful flowers that decorate the church on Sundays and also includes a piece on someone involved in this flower ministry of the church. http://christchurchflowers.blogspot.com/

CHRIST CHURCH OUTREACH BLOG is fairly new and only has one photograph posted on it from the Corazon build this past fall. I am hoping that we can add stories from those who have helped raise money for the build and from those who went on the builds as a way of increasing our understanding and expanding our hearts for this most important ministry. Of course, we do other outreach projects which will also be recorded in photography and story. If you would like to help on this blog, give Father Cornner at call.
http://christchurchrboutreach.blogspot.com/

GOSPEL OF SAINT MARK BLOG offers some of the topics we covered last year as our Wednesday night Bible study group read St. Mark’s Gospel. We are currently in Saint Luke’s Gospel and invite all interested persons to attend. http://gospelofmarkatchristrb.blogspot.com/

CHRIST CHURCH DISCERNMENT AND CONFIRMATION PREP BLOG is designed to help people make a decision about confirmation in the Episcopal Church. When you get to the blog, you have to scroll to the bottom first and make your way back up to the top in order to follow the order of the information presented. This will be fixed over the next few months so you can go from top to bottom. http://christchurchdiscernment.blogspot.com/

CHRIST CHURCH WORSHIP COMMITTEE BLOG contains notes and photographs regarding our planning of services at Christ Church. As our group meets, future notes will be posted. http://christchurchworshipcommittee.blogspot.com/

SAINTS IN THE WINDOW BLOG shows the stain glass windows in the church and offers information about each one. This blog was put together in conjunction with an ACE of Heart presentation offered by Lizz Beitzel.

http://saintsinthewindowatchristchurchrb.blogspot.com/

Our website is an excellent source of information for our parish family as more and more of our members become computer literate and a sign to others that we are an open and loving community available to them.

Weekly Messenger Bulletins provide information about our ongoing activities. Items for the bulletin are submitted to Sharon Martinkus.

Kiosk Announcements also help keep us informed about life in the parish and also provide signup sheets for Coffee Hour, Flower Donations, and other special needs of the congregation.

WORSHIP

This year I would like to encourage you all to make regular Sunday worship a high priority in your lives. I know how busy life today can be. When you make the effort to come to church each week, you make a difference in the world. Worship changes us and because we are changed, our world is changed into a more loving and compassionate place. Here are some of the ways we worship and the opportunities for service and formation that are life changing.

The Holy Eucharist is the central act of worship in the Episcopal and other liturgical churches. (Every Sunday and on other Feasts and Fasts).

Holy Baptism is the entrance rite into the church. It signifies our willingness or the willingness of our parents to commit us to Christ as Lord and Savior. We encourage all members of Christ Church who have not been baptized to consider doing so. Please contact Father Cornner for further details.

Episcopal Visitation and Confirmation is a time of great celebration in the life of Christ Church. We will be presenting those who either wish to be received into the Episcopal Church or confirmed into the ministry of the Episcopal Church. Bishop Anderson was here at Christ Church in May and our next visitation is scheduled for 2007. Those who wish to be Confirmed this year may chose to be presented at an area Confirmation or wait for our next Episcopal Visitation.

Acolytes serve at the altar, carry liturgical banners, books, crosses, candles, and ribbons in procession and recession. This is a wonderful service for individuals of all ages. (Needed at all services)

Lay Eucharistic Ministers and Chalice Bearers serve the chalice at every Holy Eucharist and LEMs are also authorized and trained to take communion to people in the hospital or who are confined to their homes. (Needed at all services)

Ushers are responsible for greeting worshippers who come to the church and for making newcomers feel welcome. They also help pass out material needed for worship, make sure that the Bread and Wine are brought forward at the offertory, collect and count the offering and the number of people in attendance and who take communion for the parish registry. Ushers also direct the flow of traffic during the service so that the taking of communion or other liturgical actions are done with order and dignity. Towards the end of the service the ushers make sure that the sanctuary is ready for the next service or is cleaned up at the end of the last service. If you are interested in serving in this ministry of hospitality, please contact Father Cornner. (Needed at all services)

Lectors read the assigned readings from Holy Scripture and offer the Prayers of the People at every service. We welcome anyone who would like to read to call the Church Office and leave your name and contact information (Needed at all services)

The Music Ministry offers those who would like to develop their musical skills an opportunity to do so and to serve God and this community through the gift of music. If you are interested in joining the choir, talk to David Bradfield, our wonderful minister of music. (Choir and Instruments at 10 AM Sunday Service and other special services during the year)

Music Report - David Bradfield

I would like to thank each and every member of the choir/music team for his or her hard work. Our church continues to be blessed by a committed and talented group of singers and musicians.
Ours is probably one of the most unique groups in church music! Given our eclectic instrumentation (electric guitar, cello, keyboard synthesizer and computer) it's no wonder that you never quite know what kind of music to expect and that's what keeps our worship fresh, alive and changing.

I'm pleased to report that music for worship is alive and well at Christ Church. There is good participation by both Choir and Congregation. We continue to have a healthy balance of contemporary and traditional music. This eclectic mixture is part of what makes our community so inclusive. It includes music for everyone as we build community in Christ.

The Altar Guild sets the table for worship each week and takes care of the sacramental needs of the parish. If you would like to serve on the Altar Guild, call the Church Office and leave your name and contact information. (Needed at all services)

Altar Guild Report: The Altar Guild is a quiet, “behind the scenes” and deeply spiritual ministry devoted to setting Christ’s table for Eucharist with linens, silver, and vestments, as well as bread, wine, water, holy oil and other elements of worship. We are an inclusive group and welcome all who wish to serve.
2006 Altar Guild Financial Report

Altar Guild income generally comes from designated memorial donations and fees from Baptisms, weddings and memorials celebrated at Christ Church. The expenditures were for sacramental fixtures, altar vestments, linens and supplies.

Balance as of 01/01/06: $6,998.22
2006 Receipts (Deposits): $1,400.00
2006 Expenditures (Debits): $1,566.40
Balance as of 01/01/07: $6,831.82
Thank you for serving this past year – especially Jan who prepares our schedules.

2006 Christ Church Altar Guild
Jeanne Hogan Joan Marchant Margaret Mitter Ana Maresca
Jan Moore Janet Murry Sandie Nelson Caroline Prasad
Betty Steib Dee Trudell Cathy Villanueva Cathy Walbeck
Jackie Holder Lucy Woodard

--- Cathy Walbeck, 2006 President

THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER

We offer thanks to the family of Stan Stephenson for their generous gifts of 80 Book of Common Prayer which were given to God in loving memory of the father, Stan. Thank you buoys and your families!

The Flower Committee creates the magnificent flower arrangements seen in the sanctuary and around the church. They also give members of the parish opportunities to dedicate the flowers on the altar to give thanks for some blessing of life or in memory of those who have died. If you would like to learn to do such beautiful arrangements contact the church office.
(Provides flowers at every service. Signup sheet for dedications is found on the kiosk)

Please sign up on the kiosk. You don’t have to be a floral designer to join the flower team. We need you if you enjoy flowers.

For the Flower Team, Peggy Consani

The Stations of the Cross is a traditional and very moving worship experience and a good preparation for Easter. (Friday Evenings during Lent)

Worship on Wednesdays Each Wednesday we worship together using The Book of Common Prayer. This is a special time for those who attend.


We begin by sharing food at 5:45 PM, either potluck or prepared and offered by members of the gathering. This is very informal and includes time to get to know each other.

At 6:30 PM, the church is opened for those who would like to pray and meditate.

At 7:00 PM, worship begins. Our normal service is Holy Eucharist, but on special occasions we may also use other forms of worship from The Book of Common Prayer.

At 7:30 PM, we return to the parish hall for Bible Study that incorporates contemporary films and explores the great themes of our faith and how they define and form who we are. Check your Email Update for the latest study project underway.

The Liturgical Planning Committee meets as needed to plan, implement, and evaluate how we worship. This is a great opportunity to learn about how services are created. Please contact Father Cornner if you are interested in serving on this committee.

OUTREACH OPPORTUNITIES

The Mission Share Fund supports the work of the diocese and various missions and ministries. The Mission Share Fund allows us to extend the work of the church beyond our local community. It also assists us in the development of new ministries in our community. (15% of operating budget 2005)

Casa De Los Amigos Senior Housing Board of Directors provides oversight and leadership for the 135 unit Casa De Los Amigos Senior Housing ministry at 123 South Catalina in Redondo Beach. (4 meetings per year and other meetings as required)

Shared Bread at the United Methodist Church feeds local residents who are in need of a good meal and a loving environment. Christ Church takes the lead on the 5th Wednesdays of each month. Please contact Elizabeth Pringle for more information and to sign up to serve. The dates for 2007 are January 31, May 30, August 29, and October 31.

Corazón is interdenominational organization that raises money for building homes in Mexico for those who would otherwise not have such housing. In addition, members of this parish can actually participate in the building of such homes. This past year funds for Corozon were raised through various fund raising events and through the generous donations of parish members. (Fund raisers throughout the year with Build in September through November)

CONTACT PEOPLE: DAVID CARTER AND FATHER BILL LEDBETTER


The team that went to Mexico to do the last build was led by Dave Carter, Susan Foster, and Father Bill, and included Velda Ishizaki, Allen Franz, Margaret Mitter, Tom and Patrick Boland.

Our Curate on Corazon

This year we built one house together with the United Methodist congregation. Nine Christ Church members participated in the October build and others contributed financially by preparing food for the builders and by praying for us to have a productive day and safe travel to and from Tecate, Mexico. This year we have raised enough money to participate in the building of two houses.
Thanks to all of you for your contributions, for shopping at the holiday bazaar and for giving on Outreach Sunday which provide our needed funding. Please consider joining us on either of our two expected building trips this year.

Bill+

The Episcopal Relief and Development Fund provides funds to assist victims of various disasters around the world. It is a national ministry that allows money given to go right to the area in need with little or no overhead expense. (Good Friday Offering, Blue Bucket Offering, and Lenten Mite Boxes with ingathering on Easter Day).

The United Thank Offering Ingathering provides funds to assist people in need at the local parish and diocesan level.

Christmas Family Gifts Ingathering provides a caring response of gifts for a family that is in need in our community. (Advent)

CONTACT PERSON: TERRI WATAMANUK

Ornament and Holiday Fund Raiser provides beautiful ornaments and other holiday items to raise money for outreach programs in the parish.

Christmas Caroling at the Casa De Los Amigos and other locations is an annual event for the whole parish. All members are invited to go caroling and then enjoy light refreshments afterwards. (Third Sunday in Advent following the Children’s Christmas Pageant)

CONTACT PERSON: DAVID BRADFIELD

CHRISTIAN FORMATION

Child Care
Our goal is to provide a clean, safe, and caring environment for our youngest members. We are blessed to have Aimee Cook and Sabrina Gutierrez as our faith child care providers. Both of these fine young women are college students. All childcare providers must take a diocesan 4-hour course designed for those who work with children and be willing to have a background check. (50 Sundays 8 AM and 10 AM and selected other Parish events)
CONTACT PERSON: FATHER BOB CORNNER

St. Stephen’s Gathering is offered to children and their parents. Beginning in September of 2007, a new format which includes a Children’s Chapel conducted in the parish hall will be added. Plans and organization for this format are underway. The St. Stephen’s Gathering is designed to meet the needs of children between the ages of 6 and 11.

We are in the process of developing an expanded set of offerings for our children from age 5 to 18. Please watch for these exciting new opportunities as we begin this year of grace. If you would like to participate in the planning and implementation of these programs, please see Father Bob or Father Bill.

All adults assuming primary roles in any youth program must take a diocesan 4-hour course designed for those who work with children and be willing to have a background check.

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is offered to children between the ages of 3 and 6. The atrium allows children to express their God-given spirituality in an environment that is conducive to learning, praying, and sharing with others. (Mid-September through mid-June) All teachers must take a diocesan 4-hour course designed for those who work with children and be willing to have a background check.

From Sylvia Allen

The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd was developed by Sofia Cavaletti, an internationally known Biblical scholar and is based on principles of child development by Maria Montessori. It is used in countries around the world in Roman Catholic, Episcopal and Protestant churches. The Catechesis of the Good Shepherd is the religious education curriculum of choice in the Diocese of Los Angeles.

This is the beginning of my sixth year as Catechist for Christ Church. The children at Christ Church are Wonderful!!!!!As a classroom teacher for many years I find this program to be exquisitely age appropriate.

In the atrium the children learn: to set the altar, the events of the liturgical calendar, where Jesus lived, worked and died , parables and prophecies and biblical stories.

The Atrium offers a class for children attending the 8 o’clock service, while their parents are enjoying coffee hour and a class during the first part of the 10 o’clock service. The children return to their parents, in time for the Eucharist.
CONTACT PERSON: SYLVIA ALLEN, CATECHIST

Rector’s Study provides a time of reflection on various themes of faith with special attention to how we integrate our faith in our lives. The sessions are formed based upon requests from the congregation and then offered to the whole parish. These sessions can be of any length and duration and may also be conducted on the Internet through email exchanges and through use of resources online. If you would like to recommend such a session, please call Father Cornner (310) 613-5146 or drop him an email at rwcornner@aol.com. See announcements in our Email Update for upcoming sessions.

Adult Confirmation Preparation and Renewal is provided for all members of the congregation who either wish to be confirmed or received in the Episcopal Church in the near future or who would like to deepen their understanding of the Christian faith and spirituality. This preparation will be offered during Lent and the Easter season. See the Email Updates and the Weekly Bulletin for times and dates of these sessions. Contact Father Cornner at (310) 613-5146 or at rwcornner@aol.com.

Baptism Preparation is required for all parents, sponsors, or individuals who desire to be baptized. Baptisms are performed on Sundays at one of our main services or as arranged with Father Cornner. Individuals wishing to prepare for baptism should contact Father Cornner at (310) 613-5146 or at rwcornner@aol.com.

Marriage Preparation is required for all couples planning to be married according to canons and rubrics of The Book of Common Prayer. Generally speaking, the time of preparation is between 9 to 12 hours and must be started before a date for a wedding is confirmed. Couples wishing to be married should contact Father Cornner at (310) 613-5146 or at rwcornner@aol.com.

Counseling Services are available on a short-term basis with Father Cornner. Referrals for longer-term counseling can be arranged by contacting Father Cornner.

Parish Retreats/Camping
This is an opportunity to plan and carry out retreats or camping activities here at Christ Church. Many of our members have never been on a retreat at such beautiful and deeply spiritual places as Mount Calvary in Santa Barbara. Or maybe camping in the great outdoors is something you would like to help plan. Many of our members have never been to Camp Stevens or to Camp Wrightwood, two of our Diocesan camps in Los Angeles. This can be a great ministry opportunity that would benefit our parish. Interested? Give Father Cornner a call. (In the planning stage)
CONTACT PERSON: FATHER CORNNER

A.C.E. of Hearts is designed for many of our busy members who would like to learn something about their faith in addition to what is provided during the services on Sunday. Father Bill Ledbetter is responsible for creating these weekly mini-lessons and presenting them at the beginning of the Ten O’clock Family Service. Each week an ACE of Hearts question or two is included in our Weekly Email Update. On Sunday, Father Bill offers the answer(s) and some further explanation of the answer(s) in a brief 2 to 3 minute presentation. The answers are also provided on line at www.christrbaceofhearts.blogspot.com/ the answers are published in the Weekly Email Update for those who missed the service or who attend the Eight O’clock service. Do you have a question you would like included in the ACE of Hearts? Send them to Father Bill at williamledbetter@mac.com.
CONTACT PERSON : FATHER BILL LEDBETTER

Diocesan Ministry Fair is a yearly opportunity to gather with Episcopalians from all over the diocese on a Saturday to worship, learn, and get to know our other brothers and sisters of the faith. We need someone at the 8:00 AM service and someone at the 10:00 AM service to organize this wonderful offering from the diocese. (Spring of 2006)
CONTACT PERSON: NEEDED

HOSPITALITY AND COMMUNITY

Hospitality Supplies Procurer is the person who is responsible for purchasing weekly paper supplies for the kitchen and restrooms. The HSP will be provided a list of supplies order blank against which to inventory our supplies. Once the needs are determined, the HSP will give the list to Sharon in the office for filling. Once the supplies arrive, the HSP will put the items into the storage room. Please contact Father Cornner if you are interested in serving in this ministry of hospitality at (310) 613-5146 or rwcornner@aol.com. I will put you in touch with Jeanne Kipp.

CONTACT PERSON: JEANNE KIPP

Weekly Coffee Hour after each service is an opportunity to make our fellowship time after the services a more welcoming experience. There are sign up sheets for each Sunday on the kiosk in the parish hall. If you have any questions, contact the Church Office.

CONTACT PEOPLE: SHARON MARTINKUS AND FATHER BOB CORNNER

Hosting Occasional Receptions after Funerals Ministry is an opportunity to help grieving members of our parish or others whose loved ones are being buried from this church meet with their families and friends in our parish hall and have light refreshments provided. This is a ministry that has taken place without any real organized effort to make it available when needed. If you would like to help with this ministry please contact the Church Office.

CONTACT PERSON: NEEDED

The Blue Garage is a men’s group who have taken on various service projects in the parish including but not limited to our annual Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper.

Mother’s Day Celebration has been marked and celebrated in various ways over the years at Christ Church. This is an opportunity for a few individuals to organize this year’s Mother’s Day celebration. Interested? Call the Church Office.

CONTACT PERSON: NEEDED

Father’s Day Celebration is similar to Mother’s Day and could be an excellent opportunity for service in the coming year. Interested? Call the Church Office.

CONTACT PERSON: NEEDED

Sociable Seniors is a wonderful fellowship of senior members of Christ Church and Saint Cross in Hermosa Beach. There are regularly scheduled meetings and activities that are appealing. (This is a joint ministry we share with St. Cross)

CONTACT PEOPLE: BETTY STEIB AND JAN MOORE

The men of the Blue Garage and their associates traditionally host Shrove Tuesday Supper. They plan and serve this special and well-attended meal the night before Ash Wednesday. (February 20, 2007)

CONTACT PERSON AND WORKERS: NEEDED

The Annual Bishop’s Ball is a diocesan-wide gathering of high school aged Episcopalians.
CONTACT PERSON: FATHER BOB CORNNER

Other Community Building Events

Even as this list of opportunities is being compiled, our Sanctuary Art Ministry Team is formulating some wonderful opportunities for us to gather for fun and to be of service. If you have an idea for other community building events, let us know in writing to the Church Office.
CONTACT PERSON: NEEDED

Sharing of Facilities with 12 Step Groups and Others is a very important part of our ministry at Christ Church. Our 12 Step partners help us fill our parish hall and other facilities with the kind of spiritual presence that makes Christ Church the vibrant home of the Holy that it is. They have also donated money for improvements in the parish hall. They are generous and helpful partners.

CONTACT PEOPLE: SHARON MARTINKUS AND FATHER BOB CORNNER

Voting Place for the neighborhood

Christ Church is a welcoming place for the whole community and happy to provide space for the exercise of our most precious rights as citizens of the United States.

CONTACT PEOPLE: SHARON MARTINKUS AND FATHER BOB CORNNER


CARE OF OUR CHURCH FACILITIES

Occasional Cleaning and Painting Project around the parish offer the opportunity for spiritual growth through service and fellowship. In the near future we will be inviting folks to volunteer for such activities.

Weekly cleanup of church, parish hall and grounds after services is about being good stewards of our spiritual home. It is important that each of us seeks to keep our home as inviting and clean as possible by picking up after ourselves. We only have a once a week cleaning crew, so it is important to keep things nice by our individual and group efforts.

Reporting Facility Concerns provides additional assistance to the rector and vestry. If you see something that needs attention, please contact the Church Office. Rentals owned by the Parish continue to a source for funding our parish budget. This past year no large scale improvements were undertaken.

GOVERNANCE

The Vestry is the elected board that makes decisions about the routine care and operation of the church as well as providing short and long term planning for the future ministry of the parish. (12 meetings per year, 2 retreats, and meetings as required)

The Audit Committee conducts annual audits of our church finances, makes recommendations to the vestry and Finance and Budget Committee on ways to improve our process and follows up each year to see that the recommendations that are made and implemented by the vestry are being followed.

The Finance and Budget Committee provides strategic financial guidance to the vestry and makes recommendations to the vestry concerning any and all matters pertaining to the financial business of the parish. This committee is concerned with the ongoing short and mid-term planning and budgetary concerns of the parish.

The Futures Committee is charged with creating long-term investment policies and procedures and recommending investment and funding options to the vestry for authorization and implementation.

Weekly Counters provide discreet and timely counting of all monies that are given to the parish each week and then deposit these monies in the bank. They also maintain an accounting of money given by individuals within the parish for income tax purposes. Statements of Giving are sent out quarterly.

The Annual Meeting is a celebration of the year just past and a preparation for the year to come. New vestry and delegates to Diocesan Convention are presented and elected; reports of ministry are presented; and a new budget for the year is presented. Generally this meeting is held on the Sunday closest to the end of January that does not coincide with the Super Bowl.

Diocesan Convention meets each December to conduct the business of the Diocese of Los Angeles, similar to our own annual meeting, but on a much larger scale. Delegates from all over the diocese meet in convention to hear about the past year and to consider the challenges and budget for the new year.
Father Bob Cornner, Father Bill Ledbetter and Father Norm Ishizaki
3 Delegates and 2 alternates from Christ Church (primarily Vestry members)

Deanery Representation

The Episcopal Church in this diocese is organized into deaneries. We are part of Deanery 8 that includes all of the Episcopal parishes and missions of the South Bay and also Long Beach. The Clericus gathers once a month at a different church each time to discuss common concerns and ministries.

Clericus: Father Cornner

Other Meetings as required attended by our elected Representatives to Convention (3 regular/2 alternates)

Jan Moore serves as the Deanery 8 Treasurer

South Bay United Episcopal Churches is a sub-group of Deanery 8 which is made up of St. Michael’s in El Segundo, St. George’s in Hawthorne, Holy Communion in Gardena, St. Timothy’s in Compton, St. Cross in Hermosa Beach, St. Andrew’s in Torrance, Christ Church in Redondo Beach, and St. Francis in Palos Verdes. The rectors and vicars of these churches gather for lunch once a month to discuss ways we can provide ministry to our congregations through joint, mutual, cooperative programs.
Father Cornner, Convener