334 SE Tecumseh Road  P.O. Box 5  Tecumseh, Kansas 66542  (785) 379-5005                                                                                                              Reverend Sarah Marsh                                                                                               Contact Us: | E-mail | Map & Directions

THE TECUMSEH UNITED METHODIST CHURCH COUNCIL           The Administrative Council of Tecumseh United Methodist Church met Sunday, October 5, 2008 at 7:15 pm. Those present were Nelta Hennessey, chairperson, Pastor Josh Gooding, Ernestine Adams, Betty Fergola, Sarah, Timmy and Miri Gooding, Kathy Griffith, Rita Halderman, Steve Hennessey, Pat Krug, Donna Johnston, Neva Martin, Virginia Martinson, Willa Norwood, Darlene Peck, Nancy Rush, Carole Stone, Betty Waller, Barbara Whitlow, Christine Whitlow, Herb Whitlow.           Nelta led the devotional time with a reading from the book of Matthew and shared information from the United Methodist Program Calendar. When we agree to join the Methodist Church we promise to share the gifts we are given and to put those gifts where our heart is.           The minutes of the September 7 council meeting were approved as printed.           Committee Reports:           Herb (CERT) referred to his written report in council agenda packet. He shared the information that there is a generator available through government surplus and Tecumseh Township is willing to purchase it if TUMC would be willing to provide the funds to have it installed here at the church, enabling TUMC to have power during an emergency. The approximate cost will be $5518 for wiring and $600 for a concrete slab. Pat moved to proceed with plans to allow purchase and agree to installation costs. Virginia seconded. Council approved.           Ernestine discussed her written report on using the church grounds for burial or scattering of ashes. Her report states that this could be done around the marker and the tree – However, burial would be difficult due to tree roots. Scattering could take place in that location.           Kathy (Worship) reported that the worship committee did not meet during the month of September. Their next meeting will be October 23 and will finalize plans for Advent at that time.           Darlene (Missions) shared information from some mailings she had received. Society of St. Andrew’s is asking for help in their gleaning projects. The Bishop’s Round Up takes place in November and are asking for donation of food, health kits, etc. Community Action is also asking for help as they prepare to assist those in need winterizing homes and other needs in general.           Sarah discussed plans for the Halloween Event to take place here at the church. She is thinking a 4-6pm time might be good. She is planning to decorate cookies, decorating a trick or treat bag, small pumpkin painting. She will be needing donations of various items and cash donations to make purchases. She is planning activities 4-5:15, a devotional time with Pastor Josh, followed by a light meal of hot dog, etc. She is planning to send flyers home with Discovery Club students.           Rita (Education) has previewed some Cokesbury materials. Children’s Sunday School was split into two groups today-younger children and older children – and it seemed to work well.           Betty Waller passed the completed church brochures. Council discussed some suggested uses for them.           It was suggested that there be usher training offered. This suggestion was referred to the worship committee.           Virginia (SPPR) said it was suggested in her committee meeting that the speaker in the nursery room be repaired. This was referred to Trustees.           Carole (Congregational Care) reported that visitation will be October 12. Anyone interested in joining will be most welcome.           Pat (Finance) reported final plans for the Thank You Dinner October 19.           Nelta announced that Church Conference will be held December 7. She suggested having a pot luck dinner after worship, council agreed. Super Sunday meetings will not be held that evening but any committee needing to meet may do so. Ernestine needs committee reports in the office by November 14.           Pastor Josh shared information from the continuing education conference he attended this past week. He said there had been an interest in holding meetings for those wishing to join the church and is proceeding with plans. He suggested that committees should discuss some goal setting and then all committees meet together to set common goals for the church. He also shared his thoughts regarding an additional worship service.           Pastor Josh closed the council meeting with  prayer. Respectfully submitted, Nancy Rush, Recording Secretary