Morgan (Margaret) Platt was presented and elected as secretary of Holy Assumption Parish Council—Many Years! A general discussion regarding the parish house and deferred maintenance projects produced the following results: immediately replace the bathroom vanity and kitchen light; have an HVAC technician examine the oil tanks for safety and leaking; seek estimates for new windows and a rear screen door; seek estimates for flooring and replacement of ceiling tiles. The rent will need to be raised, over time, to reflect fair market value (based on a recently completed professional appraisal). Also proposed was the Diocesan mandated minimum 3% cost of living increase for Fr. Elijah. Parishes who can afford better are strongly encouraged (by the Chancellor and Archbishop) to exceed the minimum. Fr. Elijah discussed the state of the parish, both financial and spiritual, in connection to the state of the Archdiocese. We are doing very well by comparison. Members discussed minor adjustments to the rector’s compensation, but with no specific proposal. The church financial planner will be available after Liturgy today to complete paperwork and answer questions if anyone has them. Financial suggestions/questions should be made today while he is on hand!
the Altar & Volunteer Society will meet following Liturgy today to discuss Nativity fund-raising. All are welcome to attend!
you are invited to St. John the Baptist Orthodox Church, Canonsburg, on Sunday, 7 December at 9:30 am for Liturgy and the visit of the Miracle Working Icon of St. Anna. Following Liturgy there will be a talk by Abbot Sergius of St. Tikhon’s Monastery. Register with Fr. John Kotalik by emailing: frjohnkotalik@gmail.com.
as part of an upcoming Homiletics Class, Fr. Elijah needs three or four volunteers to listen to a practice sermon and discuss the impressions/reactions. All participants remain anonymous. No writing or reading is required. Father will deliver a sermon after church on 11/23. You are invited to stay for a few minutes. The help is greatly appreciated!
please stay tuned for information regarding upcoming Thanksgiving and Christmas charity outreach projects. Our parishes always do an excellent job reaching out to those in need during the holiday season. This year, the Birthright Giving Tree and Adopt-A-Family projects will provide support for basic necessities, rather than “luxury” items. Please remember this when it comes time to pitch-in! Thank you, in advance, for your support. May God bless your generosity!