The Annual Report for the January 29, 2023 Meeting of the Congregation

Informe Anual 2022 en Español (clic aquí)

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church Mission, Vision and Core Values

Agenda for the January 29, 2023 Annual Meeting

Minutes of the January 30, 2022 Annual Meeting

State of the Church

Senior Pastor’s Report – Pastor Karla

Spanish Language Minister’s Report – Pastor Alicia

St. Mark’s Church Council President’s Report – Chris Lewis

Property Committee Report – Chris Lewis

Financial Statements

2021 Audit Report – Diane Wages

Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2022 – Diane Wages

2023 Proposed Budget – Diane Wages

2023 Memorial Endowment Proposed Budget

Election of Congregational Representatives

Candidates for Church Council 2023

Candidates for Legacy Committee 2023

Candidates for Nominating Committee 2023

Candidates for Pacifica Synod 2023

Ministry Reports  

Pastoral Acts – Pastor Karla       

Altar Committee-Ann Larsen

Coffee Ministry Report – Ann Larsen

Angel Tree Ministry Report – Caye Smith Bolin

Communications Report – Debbie Lechner

Legacy Committee & Memorial Endowment Report – Chris Lewis

Member Care Ministry Report – Dorothy Geier

Thursday (Lutheran World Relief) Quilter’s Report 2022 – Betty Ren

Prayer Quilt Ministry Report – Roz Nelson

Project Hand – Sue Connors

Security Report 2022– Robert Nava

Internship Committee Report 2022 – Gabby Gutierrez

Youth/Children Report 2022 – Melissa Hernandez

Worship and Music Annual Report 2022– Hester Kessler

Music Director Annual Report 2022– Jason Chase

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church Mission, Vision and Core Values

God’s Mission for St. Marks:  

Celebrating God’s love and forgiveness, we serve others.
We welcome everyone to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, where individuals and families can grow in their relationship with Jesus and one another through a variety of worship styles, ministries and service.

God’s Ideal Vision for St. Marks: 
Following Jesus’ example we feed the hungry, clothe the naked, welcome the stranger, nurse the sick, and visit the imprisoned as we see Jesus in the faces of those we serve.

Living Our Core Values: 
We strive to model our Core Values in our day-to-day behavior, both within St. Marks and in our daily lives.  When we fall short, we pray for God’s divine intervention and support to help us remain true to our highest and best selves.  

PRAYER

• We pray for guidance from God. Prayer brings us closer to God.  God promises to answer.
• We pray for each other and for those in need within and outside the walls.
• We pray with thankfulness.
• We promise to listen – prayer is conversation.

ACCESSIBILITY

• We promise that all will have access to worship.
• We promise to remove barriers and project invitation and welcome.
• We promise to step out in faith with openness to what God wants us to be and acceptance of the diversity of cultures and people.

SERVICE

• We promise to develop and/or support Christian-based and other service/support organizations to achieve our vision.
• We promise to support the needs of one another just as we support those outside our walls.
• We promise to keep our doors open to all in need and share what we have.

COMMUNICATION

• We promise to listen to all with understanding, grace and patience.
• We promise to use all communication methods to share the gospel with others and all our members.
• We promise to use a variety of communication methods to connect with, inform, and educate our members, guests, and the larger community.

EDUCATION

• We share what we have learned about Christ and His redeeming love with others.
• We offer education opportunities to teach and learn about Jesus through worship, music and teaching, Bible study, Sunday school, confirmation classes, youth programs and outreach activities.

WORSHIP

• We provide convenient, relevant, meaningful worship experiences that appeal to the broader community and to the diverse members of our congregation.
• Our worship engages the spirit, reveals the truth, celebrates through music and song, and prepares us to share God’s message of love and forgiveness.
• We create worship opportunities that are inclusive, multi-generational and engaging for youth.

YOUTH

• We promise to intentionally provide a safe environment to learn about and seek God through relevant and age appropriate opportunities to worship, serve and learn.

HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS

• Our words and actions build each other up, encourage and support each other.
• We practice empathy and forgiveness.
• We encourage openness, honesty and transparency.

January 29, 2023, Annual Meeting of the Congregation

AGENDA

Call to Order

Opening Devotion and Prayer:  Pastor Karla

St. Mark’s Mission

Agenda Review for the January 29, 2023, Annual Meeting

Check for Quorum of 35 members (in person and Live ZOOM participants)

Approve of Minutes of Congregational Meetings

• January 30, 2022, Annual Meeting

Recognition of Members and Ministry Groups

Reports:

• Pastor Karla Halvorson – Pastoral Report
• Pastor Alicia Saenz – Pastoral Report
• Property – Chris Lewis
• Chris Lewis – Church Council
  • Thank you to retiring Council Members:  Mary Lizarraga

Approve 2023 Budgets

• 2023 Budget
• 2023 Memorial Endowment Budget

Election of Congregational Representatives

• Candidates for 2023 Church Council  
• Candidates for the 2023 Legacy Committee
• Candidates for 2023 Nominating Committee
• Lay Representatives for the 2023 Pacifica Synod Conference

Directions for Voting

• After “in-person” Annual meeting in sanctuary (if attending)
• After Live ZOOM meeting via online link to ballot (see newsletter for link)
• Monday, January 30, 2023, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM, noon, paper ballot to Office

Closing Prayer – The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as in heaven. Give us today our daily bread.  Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us. Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil. For the kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours, now and forever.  Amen. 

St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church MINUTES

January 30, 2022, 68th Annual Meeting of the Congregation

MINUTES

Call to Order

Opening Devotion and Prayer:  Pastor Karla and Pastor Alicia

St. Mark’s Mission

Agenda Review for the January 30, 2022, Annual Meeting

Check for Quorum of 35 members (46 in person and 13 Live ZOOM participants)

Approved of Minutes of Congregational Meetings:

• January 31, 2021, Annual Meeting

MOTION:  Herb Geier      SECOND:  Billy Cox      Approved at in-person meeting.                            

Approve 2022 Budgets

• 2022 Budget
• 2022 Memorial Endowment Budget

MOTION:    Dick Bolin       SECOND:  Ann Larsen                               

APPROVED:  79 Votes, 79 YES   1 Abstain

Candidate Elections:   80 ballots cast; 24 online, 56 paper ballots.  Not all included votes for every individual on the ticket.

Election of Congregational Representatives:   79 YES votes for all 6 candidates

• Candidates for 2022 Church Council
  • Chris Lewis
  • Erick Posada
  • Skip Knudsen
  • Robert Nava
  • Sheri Barker
  • Krystina Torres, Treasurer

• Candidates for the 2022 Legacy Committee:  78 YES votes for 2 candidates.
  • Dick Bolin
  • Carol Whittier Ross

• Candidates for 2022 Nominating Committee:  78 YES votes for 4 candidates.
  • Rachael Perez
  • Diane Nissen
  • Doug Nerat
  • Erv Gotschke

• Lay Representatives for the 2022 Pacifica Synod Conference:  80 YES votes
  • Dick Bolin
  • Caye Smith Bolin

Reports:  See 2021 ANNUAL REPORT

• Pastor Karla Halvorson – Pastoral Report
• Pastor Alicia Saenz – Pastoral Report
• Property – Bob Lechner
• Sheri Barker – Church Council (See closing message & prayer attached)
  • Thank you to retiring Council Members:  Diane Flint-Wages,

Bob Lechner, Rachael Perez, and Michael Marquez

Directions for Voting

• After “in-person” Annual meeting in sanctuary (if attending)
• After Live ZOOM meeting via online link to ballot (see newsletter for link)
• Monday, February 1, 2022, 8:00 AM–12:00 PM, noon, paper ballot to Office

Closing Prayer – Sheri Barker

Meeting Adjourned:  12:30 PM

Respectfully Submitted,

Sheridan Barker

Outgoing President for Rachael Perez, absent due to work requirement

Pastor Karla Halvorson 2022 Annual Report

“Everything should be done in a fitting and orderly way.”

I Cor 14:40

Some say another name for God is “Good Orderly Direction”.  Although we cannot claim anything close to divine order, we are certainly working to get organized and ready for whatever God will bring our way.

Worship

This year worship was conducted entirely indoors with on-line options.  We have varied between Facebook Live, YouTube Live and Zoom.  Andrew Vargas, Nathan Estrada, and Deb Lechner continue to improve and evaluate the feedback and usability.

Attendance has been steady, for which we are grateful.  For a full report, read Deb Lechner’s communication report.  Thank you all for the effort you take to be here or on-line for worship!    Whatever we can do to make it comfortable for you, we will do.  

Music

We enjoyed a combination of four liturgies this year, including one written by Jason Chase, St Mark’s Director of Music.  We will enjoy a new liturgy written by Jason during Lent 2023.

We have been graced with the gifts of Lisa Mansfield as bell choir director.  Come ring bells with us on Tuesday evening, 6:30 pm!  You do not need experience, just willingness.  It’s a joyful time.

We are grateful for the enhancing beauty of the organ as played by Margaret Gaillard and Jason Chase.  The second service musicians, Laura Marquez, Manuel Alverez, Gloria Cortez, and Xoel Marquez bless us most Sundays and during our bilingual worship services.  We are beginning to hear more from our youth as well.  Logan Fountain has played three times this past year, and Christmas singing was led by Laurie and Michael Mansfield.  Let’s keep this trend going!

Concert series

It has begun!  We began the Concert Series with a benefit kick off in May.  It was extremely well received.  The official “Concert Series” began in September, followed by the November organ concert.  We will continue the 2022-23 series with a Saturday concert in March 2023 and a mid-week organ concert in May.  We hope to build our reputation for concerts that bring joy.  Jason and our musicians have not disappointed! 

Pastors/ Administration/ Staff/ Office Volunteers

Pastor Alicia Saenz is one of the hardest working women I know.  We are in awe of her dedication to finish her seminary work and finally become ordained.   Her report will detail her many trips to seminaries in the US, countless hours of coursework and additional reports and meetings with the candidacy committee of Pacifica Synod. 

It is a joy to work with Cindy Diaz, who is talented and kind.  Her fluency in written and spoken Spanish helps our mission at St Mark’s immensely.  Cindy works closely with all our staff, ensures they have what they need, and works closely with both Pastor Alicia and me to be sure bulletins and PowerPoints are complete and each service has what is needed.

Maria Luisa Guzman, our custodian, is a gift from God.  She continues the dedication shown by our former custodian, Margarita Alvarez, and is both flexible and thorough.  Please thank her for her work!  Everything is cleaned and sanitized in an orderly way.    Cindy, Maria Luisa, and I meet monthly to plan and support one another. 

Melissa Hernandez enthusiastically leads our youth and children’s ministries.  She and I meet weekly to plan children and youth Christian education and all- family outings.  Her weekly texts and emails keep us informed and her children’s messages are very engaging! Melissa easily leads our Confirmation class when I am not available.  (Please also see Children and Youth section.)

Much thanks to Tom Larsen, lead counter, and David Barker who arrive early Monday morning to count and deposit offerings.  We could not do this without you!

Dennis Coughlin is here several days per week, trouble shooting, building, repairing, and supervising outside contractors.  We are so very grateful.

Kyra Petrin and team care and beautify this campus year-round.  She’s the woman behind the colorful flowers that grace our entrances and the vision for the future.  We see her during the week, watering and ensuring growth.  Kyra, your work brings us joy.

Children and Youth

Our Children and Youth ministries have blossomed and are growing thanks to Melissa Hernandez and our Youth Planning Team.   We now have nursery available all morning, Sunday school and Confirmation or all congregation events offered nearly weekly, All family events, and plans for youth focused worship, Vacation Bible School and Confirmation camp. 

Vacation Bible School was a highlight of this year and definitely an all-congregation effort.  Our planning team worked diligently to prepare staff, curriculum, décor, music, skill learning opportunities and safety training for all youth and adult helpers.  We had 42 children and youth participate and 28 adults!  Some of the youth served as junior leaders and high school students led as full leaders and teachers of various skills. They all did a fantastic job!   We learned a lot and are better prepared for VBS 2023.

With your help and generosity, we were able to send 8 kids to Confirmation Camp!  The Easter pancake breakfast served the double purpose of a fun fellowship time and a “Send A Kid to Camp” fundraiser.  Funds remain to send kids to the winter retreat also hosted by Lutheran Retreats, Camps and Conferences.

We gave Bibles to students in our Confirmation class, devotionals to our junior helpers at VBS and “My First Bibles” to 3–6-year-olds at our Palm/ Passion Sunday children’s service.  All of our youth pageant days are very well attended.

All-family events this past year included swimming parties, SeaWorld, and Balboa Park.

We invited the youth from Glory Chinese Lutheran to join us for Confirmation classes.  They are wonderful kids, and we thoroughly enjoy them!

They joined us also for our Christmas pageant, adding Glory’s Sunday school kids as well.  This is a foretaste of the great feast to come when all nations will gather to glorify our Lord!

Congregational Council

You have an incredibly hard-working council which currently consists of 9 people.  Chris Lewis, president, Sheri Barker, Vice president, Erick Posada, secretary, Krystina Torres, Treasurer, Pastor Alicia Saenz and Pastor Karla Halvorson, and Mari Lizagarra, Melissa Hernandez (children and youth) Robert Nava (safety) Skip Knudsen (music and worship) and Oscar Uribe (property). 

Christian Education

We were blessed in 2022 with wonderful Bible studies and learning opportunities.  Sheri Barker led the Lenten Bible study on evangelism and sharing our stories, James Jerpseth and Pastor Alicia led Sunday morning Bible studies and we enjoyed a variety of All Congregation events on Sunday mornings.  “Stories of Our Lives” continues to be a very important aspect of our lives together.  If you would like to share your life story, please speak with Pastor Karla or Pastor Alicia.  Our Tuesday afternoon, 3 pm Bible study, which focuses on the upcoming Gospel, is open to anyone in person or on Zoom.  We hope you can join us.

Mutual Ministry/ Internship Committee

This year, we launched a new ministry team which encompasses two needs of this congregation.  Mutual Ministry is a group of lay people who meet to support and help with discernment for the pastors and the future of the congregation.  The goal of Mutual Ministry is to work out details to live into our calling to be the “Priesthood of all believers” (1 Peter 2:4-5).  (Please reference “ELCA Mutual Ministry” for more details and the Mutual Ministry handbook).  Currently, this group serves the additional requirement as Pastor Alicia’s Internship Committee.  Pastor Alicia was granted a 6-month internship as the final requirement toward ordination.  Diane Nissen serves as the Mutual Ministry chair and Gabby Gutierrez serves as the chair of the internship committee.  Once Pastor Alicia’s internship is completed, this same group will continue the work of Mutual Ministry.  Other members of this committee include Erick Posada, Chris Lewis, Lu Bucknell, Pastor Alicia, and me.  Mutual ministry will meet quarterly, while the internship committee is required to meet monthly.

Synod Council

I was elected to a two-year term on synod council beginning summer 2021.  This has included sub-committees regarding the synod’s personnel handbook, work on increasing diversity and inclusion in our synod, and serving on a task force for a synodical endowment fund.  Pacifica Synod Council meets about four times per year, twice in person and twice on-line.  I truly enjoy the camaraderie and finding out about additional resources and grants that will benefit St Mark’s!

Grants
We joke in our Congregational Council that we never let a grant go by!  This past year we received, among other grants, the Latino Ministry Grant ($10,000) , the Warner Trust Grant for children’s ministries ($1,000) the Matthew 25 grant for social services, and a few others.  We have also asked you to apply for Thrivent Action Team Grants, and with these $250 grants, have accomplished many projects worth about $8,000. 

Lutheran Social Services Updates

Our work with Lutheran Social Services continues to flourish.  We love working with Gabby Bernal, Danney Alkana and Mari Lizagarra with Upward Bound and Talent Search.  We enjoyed a presentation from them in May describing their work with first generation low-income students and helping them through high school and college.   Our ties with LSS Project Hand and Johnny Violora and Enrique Enriquez have grown as more of our members assist with the monthly food distributions, including Chula Vista Rotary Club.  We pray for their ministries weekly and were recognized at their annual banquet. 

Ecumenical Work and Community Outreach

We have experienced two wonderful ecumenical services with St John’s Episcopal Church, Community Christian Church, and St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church and a Unitarian minister.  We look forward to building our network of ecumenical and interfaith partnerships. 

We attended Faith and Blue, an opportunity to “build bridges and break biases” .  St Mark’s takes this pledge seriously as we actively pray for and befriend our police and firefighters, offering a break room, snacks, prayer quilts, weekly prayers for safety for them and all those they serve, and supplies for the children they encounter. 

Our God’s Work Our Hands Sunday was very well attended.  An annual event in the ELCA, this Sunday is set apart to be God’s hands and feet in our world.  This year we collected items for the homeless and the Police department, learned about Lutheran World Relief quilts, assembled Blessing Bags, made cards and tamales and visited some of our homebound, worked at Living Coast Discovery Center, created teacher appreciation gift bags, and invited people to church from the corner of Hilltop and I! Then we relaxed and enjoyed lunch together.

Areundaun Korean and Glory Mandarin Lutheran

Our friendships with these two congregations are blessed by God.  We have a good working relationship, accommodate each other’s needs, and are respectful of the property and each congregation’s items.  This takes constant work and diligence, but it’s always worthwhile. 

Congregational Statistics

Baptisms

• Isaac Velasco Hernandez,
• Yeshua Omar Ibarra,
• Luke Ryan Craker,
• Leia Evelyn Craker,
• Claire Renee Waibel,
• Angeline Cubero,
• Noah Cubero

Confirmations– not this year, but quite a few next Fall!

New members

• Gerd and Ofelia Pfeiffer
• Maria Luisa Guzman
• Suni and Walter Berenger

Deaths

• Betty Vest
• Bob Dreesen
• Bud Egdahl
• Dorothy Nader
• Shirley Fortner
• Jeanette Supri
• Aimee Bentz

What’s next?

We look forward to an active, purposeful year for St Mark’s:  Your Congregational Council will work hard and harmoniously, with an emphasis on improving building and grounds and evangelism and outreach; We will find new ways to reach out and share the love of Jesus; We will celebrate Pastor Alicia’s ordination and embark on a brave new path embracing more of her gifts and talents; We will find new ways to pray for each other, grow spiritually, mentor new members, and utilize the gifts and talents God brings us; We will care for one another, have fun together; We will celebrate our young people and allow them room to grow into the people God envisions and they want to be.  We will trust God, pray, work and play, and enjoy the gifts God has given us.

2022 Spanish Ministry Report
Hispanic Minister: Alicia Sáenz

“I give thanks to my God always for you, for the grace of God that was given to you in Christ Jesus.”

1 Cor 1: 4.

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, I must start with thanking God for all of you, for all the blessings that the Lord has bestowed in us and in our church community during 2022. 

The beginning of the new year presents a time to both look back on the previous 12 months and to look ahead to what the New Year may bring. Reflecting on the past year, it’s hard not to appreciate the blessings we’ve experienced in all our congregation. 2022 has been a very dynamic year for St. Mark’s, we had more interaction with the community around us then prior years, we joined another church for two ecumenical services, we provided services that the community considered big blessings, as was the Vacation Bible School, which some families really appreciated as they didn’t have the means to have their kids sent to a day camp so the parents could work while kids were on school vacation. We showed the community our mission, we didn’t tell them our mission, but we showed we celebrate God’s love and forgiveness by serving others, by serving our community.  We were also able to serve the community by offering drive through ashes on Ash Wednesday and an Altar on the Day of the Dead for the community to be able to come, light a candle remember their loved ones that are now with God, light a candle in honor of them, and even teach their kids about the “Day of the Dead” tradition. We had a traditional posada in which all kids who wished to participate were included.

During 2022 COVID-19 continued to produce uncertainty and stress in the community we are called to serve. By now, we have all been impacted by this pandemic, which has been overwhelming for so many.  My prayers and support are with you.

I am grateful to God for allowing me the blessing of serving St. Mark’s and for allowing to serve alongside Pastor Karla, we are blessed to have her, we are still working on getting to be more and more one congregation in two languages. Thank you all for working alongside with us building for the Kingdom of God.  Thanks to all of you for serving and caring for our church, for each other, for those in need and for the Chula Vista Community during 2022.  During these hard times of decease and economic inflation, you faithfully continued with your offerings, you contributed with donations, you contributed with your talents in a way that is outstanding, in a way that makes me see the Holy Spirit working in our midst, for only God would be able to move your hearts and inspire you to do the work that is needed in order to accomplish the goals that God has for us in getting his message of salvation to all, putting others before yourselves.

Let’s celebrate, congratulate each one of the members of St. Mark’s for all the accomplishments we reached with the help of God and for the glory of God.

It has been an incredible year and I am indeed grateful for how passionate and selfless you have been.  We are grateful to God for this year, I look forward to another amazing blessed new year.  In 2023, we will continue with our Ministries and our Mission helping in any way we can, we have big challenges ahead of us, but we will face them one day at a time, I know we can because God is with us, he has demonstrated His faithfulness to us!  

We celebrate with joy the achievements and challenges during 2022:

Goals:

• Following the Instruction of our Lord Jesus Christ in the Commandment of the Great commission and bring the good news of justification by grace through faith in Jesus Christ to the community of Chula Vista.
  • Increase the number of people who attend the Spanish Worship Services at St. Mark’s Church
  • Continue with our Bible study every other week and during Christian education on Sundays.
  • Recruitment of volunteers within the congregation for different activities and committees of the church.

2022 Achievements:

• The Worship Service in Spanish has maintained an in-person attendance and audience for the Stream Live transmission every Sunday. 
  • Attended special meetings and community events.
  • School Open house at Hilltop Elementary, the first in person event since the pandemic started. St Mark’s donated nachos that I and some volunteers from the second service served and in exchange for the nachos, donations were given to the school for the school art program.
  • Winter program at Hilltop Elementary School, helped with the cake walk. Donations were given to the school in exchange for a chance to participate in the game and get one of the 11 cakes donated by St. Mark’s for the event.
  • Helped with organization and implementation of events:
  • Drive through Ashes on Ash Wednesday
  • Day of the Dead
  • Posada

Baptisms

• Baby Isaac
• Angeline Cubero and Noah Cubero

Regular Activities

• Re-started the potlucks on the second Sunday of the month after the Worship Service in Spanish. This meal has the purpose that current members invite family and friends to come just as guests so that they know our church, our congregation, our Christian denomination. We hope that if they come as guests, without any pressure they might like our church and come back.
  • The Second service members of our congregation have worked very hard talking about our church to people around Chula Vista and its surroundings, as well as inviting friends and family. We will continue with these efforts during 2023.
    • Two members of the Second Service are actively serving in the Church Council, one of them will be taking an absence, but a different member will join for 2023.

Challenges:

• Most of the members of the Spanish Ministry work two jobs or don’t have the privilege of having weekends off, for this reason they are not able to participate in the monthly cleaning and other activities of our church. I try to organize them with a lot of anticipation so that they can ask for time off, if possible, on a Saturday for us to complete a project like cutting unwanted bushes and they also donate their time and their gifts as much as they possibly can.

Next steps:

• We have activities planned for outreach events to increase awareness and connections of St. Marks with the local community, like a drive thru ashes event for Ash Wednesday and possibly an event for Easter.
• Continue with efforts to show people the way to Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, for the Glory of God.

My Way to Ordination:

During 2022 I was able to complete a few of my classes for the seminary and with the help of Pastor Karla was able to resolve some Seminary issues for which I was not being heard.

• A lot of work had to be done with the Seminary and the Synod office in order to get an endorsement interview, which took place in October 2022, and I was endorsed to start my internship which was recommended to be for only six months due to all the years I have already spent doing the Ministry.  An internship Committee was organized to support me during my internship and to complete reports for the Seminary and Synod. 
• If all continues working good in the seminary and if God gives me the strength and wisdom, I will be ordaining this year, possibly in June or September.
• I had a meeting with Bishop David Nagler about my first call, it was scheduled by the office of the bishop.
• In anticipation to my ordination, the executive committee and a representative of the budget committee had a meeting with Pastor Tom Goellrich regarding grants for starting missions that would help with my salary when it is time to be called as an ordained Pastor at St. Mark’s.  We agreed to have another meeting with Pastor Goellrich after my ordination to see what the options will be at that time.

Conclusion:

Thanks to all of you for your contributions and support to our church and to me. It is a blessing to serve in such a faithful, supportive, and loving congregation.  May God Bless you always.

Respectfully,
Alicia Sáenz

St. Mark’s Church Council Annual Report 2022 President’s Report 2022

Dear St. Mark’s Family!

First, I would like to state my sincere gratitude for allowing me the opportunity to serve this congregation as a member of your Congregation Council in 2022.

I would describe this past year as nothing short of phenomenal! When one accepts a position of leadership, one can only hope that the organization will be responsive and supportive, and I have to say that everyone associated with this organization was all of that and more! The “can do” spirit of this this relatively small group of dedicated council members was stunning! They were presented with the numerous complexities and challenges commensurate with the continued process of transitioning through a very difficult period in the life of this congregation. In addition to the Congregational Council proper, there are many additional members who selflessly and quietly give of their time and talent to assist in every aspect of our mission. We will be recognizing the efforts of these members at the annual meeting.

It should be noted that the members of your Congregational Council are volunteers with varied levels of leadership experience and, coupled with an austere budget, were able accomplish a great deal this past year. I won’t go into detail here as each of the members will be providing reports of their own. However, in absence of an organized property group, I will provide, a separate report on property matters.

It goes without saying that we are truly blessed with two wonderful pastors who through tireless efforts and exceptional skills and resourcefulness, were able to revive, nurture and expand many of the ministries that had lost momentum. The candor, transparency and genuine affection demonstrated between the clergy and laity has been instrumental in promoting peace, harmony, and productivity within the entire organization.

I am pleased to report that we have 5 new candidates (names to appear in Nominating Committee report) to consider for positions of leadership going forward which will allow us to further expand our efforts to get the work done that is ours to do. Thank you to all who were interviewed and accepted the challenge!

In closing I would like to remind all of us that we have been called to serve the Lord in the various capacities in which we are engaged. He has given us the time, talent, and resources to carry out His mission and while we are tempted to take credit for our accomplishments, let us always remember that we are His instruments to carry out His ministries. Thank you all for your support during this past year. Let us all join together in His spirit to move to even greater achievements in the ensuing year!

Blessings,
Chris Lewis, President

Property Report 2022

Dear St. Mark’s Family:

In the absence of an appointed property task group, I am presenting a report based on input from Dennis Coughlin and Kyra Petrin and my own involvement with property matters.

Dennis Coughlin has been dedicated and responsive to the general maintenance requirements throughout the year and under his direct involvement and supervision, the following maintenance items were undertaken: 

• Repaired front door to the Sanctuary.

• Supervised the replacement of the panic bar mechanism for one of the back sanctuary doors.

• Added stronger door sweeps in Jacobsen Hall and Kitchen.

• Toilet repair by Project Hand room.

• Replaced flush valves in both the Women’s and Men’s restrooms downstairs.

• Assembled new lawn mower.

• Mouse traps and bait stations installed in the Kitchen. Traps also installed in the downstairs kitchen area

• Replaced furnace filters.

• Discovered leak in the Electrical room and oversaw the repairs by Santana Plumbing.

• Replaced benches (rotten wood) in the Pergola’s in the Patio area.

• Reconfigured the Altar Rails.

• Removed pews to allow for Disabled access.

• Repaired broken wires at audio/visual enclosure.

• Replaced electrical outlets in the office and the Sanctuary.

• Replaced Light sensor in the Women’s bathroom in the Narthex.

• Installed water leak sensor’s in the bathroom and sink area in the Altar room.

• Worked with Santana Plumbing to install water system isolation valves in the furnace room and near the street water meter.  

• Worked with Santana Plumbing to install hose bibs around lower sanctuary perimeter.

Kyra Petrin willingly accepted the responsibility to act as our Council Liaison for all landscape maintenance and renovation matters. Throughout the year, Kyra has been directly involved with and supervised the following:

• Due to a major plumbing issue, the hillside adjacent to the driveway on Hilltop Drive was left bare.

•  We had the area graded, tiered, and retaining walls were built. Drip irrigation was installed.
• The bottom tier was amended, and landscaping started.

• Parking lot and driveways were resurfaced.

• New hose bibs were installed around the campus, making life easier for me

• VBS kids planted a vegetable garden and also planted lavender along the sidewalk

• Work parties were held monthly during which we pulled weeds, spread mulch, trimmed trees and bushes, picked up litter and debris and added new plantings. These were attended by a core group of about a dozen dedicated volunteers.

• I planted a succession of sunflowers in homage to the people of Ukraine (their national flower)

• Thanks to lots of support from church members who donated their Thrivent grants to help buy plants, amendments, etc.

Goals for next year:

• Plant last section of garden by door to lower level.

• Finish planting terraced hillside.

• Clean up area by Project Hand and landscape.

• Clean up hillside along Hilltop Drive, install retaining walls and landscape.

From my own perspective in addition to the above, the following is presented:

• The installation of the sign on Hilltop Drive was completed.

• The drain piping from the rooftop downspouts to the street were completely plugged with debris and broken in some areas requiring the repairs and replacement of several sections.

• The contract for the installation of the upper campus fencing was executed and fabrication is underway with installation scheduled for late January to mid-February.

• The contract for the sale of a small portion of the Northwest corner of our parking lot was executed and escrow opened with an expected closure late Spring to early Summer.

• A sanctuary lighting survey has been competed with studies underway to determine the availability and cost of installing LED bulbs throughout the sanctuary thereby reducing our electrical costs significantly.

• The proposal for the upper campus upgrade/renovation has been competed with the anticipation of a meeting with key players between the Architect, Contractor, and Congregation to review the proposal for viability, costs, etc. The goal is to have the campus open for childcare by late 2024.

• I would like to thank both Dennis and Kyra for their dedication, responsiveness, and efforts to maintain the various aspect of this very large campus. They are the go-to people for all matters pertaining their various areas of responsibility.
• I would also like to thank the dedicated few who can be counted on to participate in the monthly work parties to assist in landscape and maintenance matters.

None of the above could have been undertaken without the on-going and faithful financial support of our wonderful St. Mark’s family! It is an honor to serve you!

Blessings,

Chris Lewis

2021 Annual Audit Report

With this report, the Audit Committee presents the results of its audit for the period beginning January 1, 2021, and ending December 31, 2021, of the financial books and records of St. Mark’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of Chula Vista, California.  The audit was performed on December 6, 2022, by a committee consisting of the following members:  Diane Nissen and Tom Larsen.  Diane Flint Wages audited the Legacy Endowment Funds.  Treasurer Krystina Torres was present to answer questions and provide information.

In the examination of receipts and disbursements, no material discrepancies were discovered, however, the committee did make note of the following items:

The following changes/events occurred during this audit period:

• In person gatherings resumed in April 2021 following an extended period of no in person gatherings due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
• The PPP Loan (Payroll Protection Program) balance of $25,000 was forgiven.
• Assets:
• Bank Accounts:
• Cash Balances total $345,950.31 as of December 31, 2021
• Union Bank
• Checking – $184,218.46

Note:  The bank reconciliation for the period showed a balance of $185,913.46, a difference of $1,695.  Correcting entries were made in January 2022.

• MMDA – $161,322.17

Note: $105,832.72 of this balance is set aside for future Facilities Expense. $25,000 is set aside for future pastoral health insurance expenses should the need arise. 

• Mission Investment Fund – $309.68
• Petty Cash – $100.00

• Receipts
• Scope of the audit included a sampling of bank deposits to identify the source of the funds and review the accompanying detail for proper classification in the financial statements. 

Although almost all deposits were properly documented, it was noted that documentation may be incomplete when other volunteers are fulfilling the duties.

• Recommendation:  Ensure that all volunteers are proficient in established procedures.

Disbursements

• Scope of the audit included a sampling of payments made to various individuals for reimbursement of expenses incurred.  The payments were checked for appropriateness, Request for Check documents, and backup including receipts, invoices, or other documentation.
• Payments were reviewed and all appeared appropriate.  However, some Request for Check were signed as “Council Approval” when specific Council Approval was not required.
• Recommendation:  In order to achieve consistency in procedures, Amend the Request for Check document to eliminate the Council Approval line when expenses are budgeted items not requiring specific Council approval.

Memorial Endowment Fund (Audited by Diane Flint Wages)

• Assets
• Confirmation of the December 31, 2020, Fund Balance of $156,060.11:

         Thrivent Moderate Allocation Fund-A        $154,755.11

         Banner Bank Checking Account –           $    1,305.00

• Disbursements
• Confirmation of Distributions for the period totaling $5,645.00   Approval of distributions were noted.

Committee records were complete and found to be in good order.

Based on the audit work performed, the Audit Committee found no significant, material departure from best practices of church accounting.  Testing performed also found that controls governing the financial operations appear to be reasonable considering all factors, including the size of the congregation and its budget.

Respectfully submitted,

Audit Committee

January 5, 2023

ST. MARK’S LUTHERAN CHURCH

Balance Sheet as of December 31, 2022

2023 Proposed Budget

2023 Memorial Endowment Proposed Budget

Proposed Candidates for Church Council 2023

NOTE:  A Council Term = 2 years.

A member is restricted to serving 2 terms in a row.

·  Chris Lewis:  1st Term, Year 2, elected 2022.

·   Sheri Barker:  2nd Term, Year 2, elected 2020.

·   Erick Posada:  1st Term, Year 2, elected 2022.

·   Melissa Hernandez:  2nd Term, Year 1, elected 2021.

·   Skip Knudson, 1st Term, Year 2, elected 2022.

·   Robert Nava, 1st Term, Year 2, elected 2022.

2023 Council Nominees:

• Krystina Torres
• Margarita Alvarez
• Dennis Coughlin
• Dorothy Geier
• Gerd Pfeiffer
• Melissa Hernandez

2023 Nominating Committee Nominees:

• Sheri Barker (automatic at end of Council Term)
• Herb Geier
• Bennie Valeu
• Patricia Villa
• Sherri Coughlin

Legacy Committee Nominee:

• Gabby Gutierrez

Candidates for Pacifica Synod 2023:

• Richard Bolin
• Caye Smith Bolin

Pastoral Acts Attendance 2022

Date	Time	Eyeballs	Facebook	YouTube*	In-Person	Newsletter**	Notes
2-Jan	9:00			52	66	83/11 (109/21)	Pastor Alicia both services, baptism at 9:00 am, covid surging encouraging online viewing
2-Jan	11:15			17	24
9-Jan	9:00			34	44	89/9 (112/16)
9-Jan	11:15			12	17
16-Jan	9:00			68		84/29 (110/47)	Primarily online because of covid surge
16-Jan	11:15			25
23-Jan	9:00			18	64	82/10 (108/23)
23-Jan	10:15			16	17		Budget Forum Q&A (5 online)
23-Jan	11:15			14
30-Jan	10:00			24	78	88/21 (106/30)	Bilingual service
30-Jan	11:15	13 on zoom		6	78		Annual Congregational Meeting
6-Feb	9:00			26	66	77/5 (104/11)
6-Feb	11:15			17	26
13-Feb	9:00			11	85	87/6 (110/9)
13-Feb	11:15			9	31
20-Feb	9:00			14	64	80/5 (103/11)
20-Feb	11:15			15	28
27-Feb	9:00			17	69	103/19 (108/21)
27-Feb	11:15			9	40
27-Feb	10:00			20			Stories of our lives – Elvira Saenz
2-Mar	5:30			13	30	108/6 (113/7)	Ash Wednesday
6-Mar	9:00	4		7	81	84/6 (101/12)	started live zoom
6-Mar	11:15	1		8	35
13-Mar	9:00	4		38	64	85/14 (102/20)
13-Mar	11:15	0		20
20-Mar	9:00	5		15	85	85/10 (107/15)
20-Mar	11:15	0		6	13
27-Mar	9:00	5		11	80	103/13 (124/18)
27-Mar	11:15	0		17	18
3-Apr	9:00	4		7	96	85/6 (105/16)
3-Apr	11:15	0		5	29
10-Apr	10:00	2		35	130	86/3 (121/11)	special bilingual child centered Palm Sunday service
15-Apr	6:30	2		13	31	76/5 (112/8)	Good Friday
17-Apr	9:00	7		16	110	89/10 (109/12)	Easter
17-Apr	11:15	4		11	28
24-Apr	9:00	5		10	74	81/9 (103/11)
24-Apr	11:15	0		5	28
1-May	9:00	4		12	75	81/8 (113/12)
1-May	11:15	0		3	20
7-May	3:00	NA		35		119/1	Concert
8-May	9:00	4		15	60	82/6 (103/12)	Mother’s Day
8-May	11:15	0		9	22
15-May	9:00	7		18	76	81/4 (112/13)
15-May	11:15	1		9	28
22-May	9:00	5		31	60	69/6 (112/14)
22-May	11:15	0		13	30
29-May	9:00	2		17	55	85/5 (108/10)	Memorial Day
29-May	11:15	0		4	70
29-May	10:00	0		49	NA		Stories of our lives – Bennie Valeu
5-Jun	10:00	0		41	84	58/3 (110/10)	Pentecost bilingual one service
12-Jun	9:00	3		6	68	77/7 (107/19)
12-Jun	11:15	0		4	24
19-Jun	9:00	3		9	70	83/2 (102/5)	Father’s Day
19-Jun	11:15	0		10	14
26-Jun	10:00	4		10	96	65/3 (101/11)	Celebrate VBS!
3-Jul	9:00	2		15	74	76/5 (112/16)	Bishop Andy
3-Jul	11:15	0		15	25
10-Jul	9:00	3		7	82	82/5 (100/7)
10-Jul	11:15		135	8	16		trying Facebook live again for the Spanish service
17-Jul	9:00	5		18	72	85/8 (103/10)	baptism
17-Jul	11:15		69	2	16		Spanish service wasn’t uploaded by the tech crew
24-Jul	9:00	5		14	77	80/7 (101/10)
24-Jul	11:15		96	2	20
31-Jul	9:00	3		16	70	86/5 (106/6)
31-Jul	11:15		59	5	N/A
7-Aug	9:00	2		8	66	82/5 (105/10)	guest pastor Karen Mahron
7-Aug	11:15		69	0	16
14-Aug	9:00	4		39	45	77/6 (103/12)	Pastor Alicia
14-Aug	11:15		41	6	25
21-Aug	9:00	4		18	75	87/10 (109/17)
21-Aug	10:00	2					legacy book club
21-Aug	11:15		46	2	25
28-Aug	9:00	6		33	67	71/9 (107/20)	Welcome Home Sunday!
28-Aug	11:15		48	9	29
04-Sept	9:00	6		14	60	87/10 (105/15)
04-Sept	11:15		78	10	16
11-Sept	9:00	7		21	78	83/8 (107/14)	God’s Work, Our Hands Sunday,
18-Sept	9:00	3		12	58	70/3 (92/12)
18-Sept	10:00		87	12			Stories of our lives – Gabby Gutierrez
18-Sept	11:00			2	18
24-Sept	3:00		37	48		111/4 (115/4)	Fall Concert
25-Sept	9:00	3		4		72/9 (96/12)
25-Sept	11:15		68	3
02-Oct	9:00	5		9	71	94/9 (112/12)
02-Oct	11:15	1	63	3	27
09-Oct	9:00	5		5	82	79/8 (102/19)
09-Oct	11:15	3	58	4	22
16-Oct	9:00	4		12	80	92/11 (101/12)	Annual Congregational Meeting
16-Oct	11:15	3	67	5	30
23-Oct	9:00	5		14	61	82/3 (107/13)
23-Oct	11:15	3	38	5	21		wasn’t uploaded to YouTube till 10/30
30-Oct	10:00	3	66	9		87/10 (103/14)	Reformation Sunday
6-Nov	9:00	6		10	70	80/3 (102/6)	All Saints Sunday
6-Nov	11:15		49	3	26
13-Nov	9:00	4		5	70	85/7 (104/11)	Veteran’s Day
13-Nov	11:15		55	8	29
20-Nov	9:00	3		19	71	81/8 (106/12)
20-Nov	11:15		84	13
21-Nov	10:00	NA	182	109		129	Jeanette Supri’s Funeral
27-Nov	9:00	3		14	72	50/0 (83/9)	Some people said they didn’t get the newsletter this week
27-Nov	11:15		67	6	29
4-Dec	9:00	5		33	66	95/15 (113/19)
4-Dec	11:15			3	33
11-Dec	9:00		6	14	57	87/8 (107/13)	back on Facebook for both services but through zoom so that we have a recording
11-Dec	11:15		3	7	31
18-Dec	10:00		4		146	85/7 (109/13)	Children’s Christmas Program and Posada (one service, 3 languages)
24-Dec	5:00			180	107	100/8 (115/19)	Christmas Eve
25-Dec	9:00			81	42		Christmas Day
25-Dec	11:15			18	16		Christmas Day

Baptisms

• Isaac Velasco Hernandez,
• Yeshua Omar Ibarra,
• Luke Ryan Craker
• Leia Evelyn Craker
• Claire Renee Waibel
• Angeline Cubero,
• Noah Cubero

Altar Committee Annual Report for 2022

The Altar Committee is proud to continue to serve the congregation and the staff at S. Mark’s.

The Committee is now down to 5 active members.  We would love to have help.  If you can’t come to our meeting on the 1st Tuesday of each month, but would like to help, please call me (Ann Larsen at

619-370-6840).  We could use help on a Saturday morning or after church on Sunday.  Want to learn to fill the small communion cups?  It’s not hard, just takes time. 

Saturday mornings we have several duties, besides setting up communion, cleaning the altar area and changing the parament colors according to the church calendar.  Sunday mornings we clean up after the 1st service and set up for the 2nd service. 

As we are now in 2023, we ask for continued prayers and blessings for our St. Mark’s Family. 

Again, we would accept any help you could give us.  Just call me.

Your St. Mark’s Altar Committee.
ANN LARSEN (619) 370-6840

Sunday Coffee Ministry

St. Mark’s hosts a time of fellowship after the 9:00am service on Sunday mornings. Coffee and snacks are served. Participants may make a small voluntary donation in order to cover expenses. This time of fellowship is both meaningful and well-attended by St. Mark’s congregants.

Ann Larsen superbly coordinated St. Mark’s fellowship time for many years. In late 2022, she relinquished this responsibility in order to focus on other areas of St. Mark’s ministry. We are grateful for Ann’s service and attention to the fellowship ministry. Caye Smith Bolin has accepted the role of fellowship coordinator.

In Fall 2022, Deb Lechner set up ‘Sign Up Genius’ as an on-line means of signing up to host fellowship hour. This is a convenient and effective way to assist with the coordination of the fellowship ministry.

Respectfully submitted,
Caye Smith Bolin

Angel Tree Annual Report

Angel Tree Christmas is a ministry of Prison Fellowship. Angel Tree partners with churches across the United States in providing Christmas gifts to the children of persons who are incarcerated. Parents who are incarcerated may contact a prison chaplain and request to participate in the program.

St. Mark’s has participated in this worthy ministry for approximately 30 years. Throughout this time, Dorothy Geier has consistently provided leadership to this effort. We are grateful for Dorothy’s commitment to Angel Tree Christmas.

In 2022, St. Mark’s congregants generously provided gifts to 12 families with a total of 21 children. Each child received a wrapped gift with a value of $25. In addition, each family received a gift basket which included age-appropriate gospel messages, an invitation to attend St. Mark’s, stuffed animals, and a $50 gift card for groceries. These gifts were personally delivered by St. Mark’s volunteers to grateful families.

Respectfully submitted,
Caye Smith Bolin

Communications and Marketing Report

Facebook Group – Our private Facebook Group has gone from 371 members to 413 members this year. We use the page to share important announcements, photos of events and the weekly worship services. Thank you for commenting, liking, and sharing fellowship on our private group page! It builds a real sense of online community.

YouTube and the Website – All our services are uploaded to YouTube to our St. Mark’s YouTube channel, reaching members of the congregation who aren’t on Facebook or part of the Facebook group. If you watch the service from YouTube, you can turn on closed captions which help if you’re having trouble hearing the service. We use the YouTube channel as our “online worship” page on the website.

Online Worship – We average 3-5 weekly viewers live on Zoom for the English broadcast and 3-5 on Facebook Live for the Spanish broadcast. Our views of the recorded service on Facebook or YouTube range from 5 to 70 per week. We are still serving enough people online that it seems important to offer the online option. If you’re travelling, or homebound or recovering from illness or if you live out of the area it’s nice to know you can still watch a service at home at any time or go back to hear a sermon a second time or listen to a favorite hymn again.

Cox Internet – We don’t seem to have as many problems with internet on Zoom and Facebook as we did before. We still have significant lagging but those of us watching online have gotten used to it.

Equipment – When we first started offering the service online, at the start of the pandemic, we used Sheri’s iPad because it’s what she had on hand, and it worked just fine. We gradually added more iPad, tripods and switching software and an additional technician to help with the broadcast. We currently have a pretty sophisticated set up, but we realize that the quality of the picture and the lagging that we experience may be due to the iPads. We’re hoping to get a grant this year to upgrade from iPad to cameras to greatly improve our broadcast quality.

Our Email Newsletters – We continue to offer weekly email newsletters. We have steady readership each week and it seems like a good tool for keeping the congregation informed. The newsletters share prayers and prayer quilts, share information about events scheduled at St. Mark’s, Angel Tree, monthly gardening, men’s breakfast and Bible study, and for hearing from the Legacy Committee, Council and Pastors. We’ve also been able to get contact information updated, take votes and surveys and to share music, pictures, and fun! We welcome submissions from anyone. It’s really been a great way to stay connected as a congregation!

Dedicated Audience –We have increased our newsletter readership to 223. About 130 of those readers open almost every email from St. Mark’s, another 25 open more than half of the newsletters. The feedback we get is very positive. Thank you to all the people who send in submissions every week, especially Pastor Karla, Chris Lewis, Sheri Barker, Roz Nelson, and Cindy in the office. Thank you to Bob Lechner, Sheri Barker, Dorothy Geier and James Jerpseth for sending newsworthy photos!

Printed Newsletters – We also send out a printed copy of the news once a month to anyone who doesn’t have email or who has requested to receive the news by mail. We’ve tried to pack a lot into the printed version and to make them meaningful.

Spanish Newsletters – We also send out a Spanish translation of the newsletter by mail to the Hispanic Ministry members once a month. Many thanks to Cindy for doing the translation, as well as copying and mailing both English and Spanish printed newsletters!

Contact Information – This year we upgraded the church database software, called Servant Keeper, to a digital version, making it more accessible for updating and use. We had a churchwide push to update contact information. We’ve added emergency contact information to the database and that has provided a nice safety net for members who live alone on several occasions this year. 

Our Website – is at stmarkschulavista.org The website continues to be a great place to read council minutes and watch a worship service or see the annual report. Most importantly, it’s how our neighbors find out about our church and what we offer.  Pastor Karla and I went through each page and updated and deleted pages that were outdated and put links to most used pages on the front page.

Online Presence – St. Mark’s has a LinkedIn page we also have a public “information” page for the church on Facebook. The website, YouTube, google maps, yelp, listing in Chula Vista Chamber of Commerce, SD Reader online, YellowPages.com, church.org, churchfinder.com and faithstreet.com continue to help with our outreach. These websites come up in search when you look for St. Mark’s Chula Vista. All of them (except the website) are free listings, no cost to St. Mark’s.

Marketing – Research shows that millennials with their young families shop for a church online and it’s important to look like the church that we want to be and to be in the places they’re looking. However, word of mouth is the best marketing! Thank you for sharing your love of St. Mark’s and inviting friends and neighbors to join you for worship and events here.

Respectfully submitted
Debbie Lechner

Legacy Committee & Memorial Endowment Report

St. Mark’s Lutheran Church Endowment Fund

The Legacy Committee is ready to receive your gifts and add to the Endowment Fund!  Add to the Legacy of our Church by helping to fund the following types of beneficiaries:

Church member projects/ministries

Community projects/charities (within communities served by congregation)

Church at large (statewide, nationwide, worldwide)

2022 members were:
Dick Bolin – Chairperson
Carol Whittier Ross – Vice Chairperson
Sharon Martin – Secretary
Karl Larsen – Treasurer (termed out)
Janet Collins – Member

2023 Nominees to fill vacancies are:
Gabby Gutierrez

Member	2020	2021	2022	2023	2024	2025	2026	2027	2028
Karl Larsen	2nd Term			Nominee
Sharon Martin	1st Term			2nd Term			Nominee
Janet Collins	1st Term			2nd Term			Nominee
Dick Bolin			1st Term						Nominee
Carol Whittier Ross			1st Term						Nominee
Nominee				Nominee

The Distribution Policy, per the bylaws is as follows:

• The Committee is limited to an annual distribution of 4% of the Fund balance, defined by the account balance as of December 31 of the previous year, which includes all interest, dividends, realized/unrealized capital gains from the previous year. Any distribution that is larger, may be approved by Congregation Council.
• There is a mandatory distribution required of the fund of 4% to fund ministry.
• A grant application will be available for requests. Recipients will be determined by the Legacy Committee.
• The Committee is not limited in its use of the distribution for ministry to its congregation. The Committee may share up to 25% of the distribution with the following recipients: our synod, ELCA Churchwide ministries, ELCA-related ministries, or all other non-Lutheran charities within the San Diego area.

This past year:

• We received a generous donation from a Church member/family estate and generous contributions from several other families within our Church. These were applied to the principal balance of the Endowment Fund and will assist our Church, and our local church community for many years.
• We met three times during the year to discuss the Faith and Finance book with Lisa Higginbotham from the ELCA Gift Planning area for Southern CA. 
• We also met with Lisa Higginbotham in November to attend a presentation for opportunities to assist our Church with Legacy giving.
• 2022 approved Budget was $6,242 which was distributed as follows:
  • $2,000 for St. Mark’s Youth Confirmation Camp; balance=$4,242
  • $1000 for Pastor’s Discretionary Fund; balance=$3,242
  • $1,500 for St. Mark’s Vacation Bible School; balance=$1,742
  • $1500 for St. Mark’s Evangelism Fellowship Fund; balance=$242
  • $242 for St. Mark’s Evangelism and Posada Lunch; balance=$0

Prepared by:  Dick Bolin, Chairperson

Member Care Ministry Report 2022

The Member Care team continues to meet monthly—usually the first or second Monday of the month at 1:00 p.m. in the Lower Level.  If you or someone you know is interested in this important ministry, please contact Dorothy Geier or Pastor Karla.

Of course, each member of St. Mark’s is automatically part of the Member Care Team because we pray for each other, visit, give positive reinforcement, notice if someone is absent, provide rides, send cards, etc.

Each meeting opens with a devotion and prayer.  Then we lovingly share our contact information for the month and ways to be helpful to our homebound and all persons in need.  Confidentiality is important. Sometimes a phone call is helpful, or a home visit with/without communion, or providing a meal or two plus lots of prayers. We are always thankful for those who have “bounced back!”

We’ve already stressed the need for an EMERGENCY CONTACT PERSON for all members of St. Mark’s.  If you have not done that, please contact the church office. Other ways we support our congregation are:  wear name tags, pray, send hand-written cards, send a large envelope of signed Christmas cards to those who can’t make it to church, Veterans Day celebration, story of our lives by members, provide bags (contain food, Bible, snacks, water) to hand out to homeless, visit & take tamales on God’s Work Our Hands Sunday, help with Angel Tree and St. Mark’s “Stars,” etc.  Each meeting ends with a closing prayer.

In the future we hope to have greeters outside the sanctuary.

We’d also like to find a speaker to help explain Veteran benefits:  transportation to hospital or PT, etc. 

Respectfully submitted,
Dorothy Geier/Member Care

Thursday (Lutheran World Relief) Quilter’s Report 2022

Lutheran World Relief is doing well this year.

Our quilt sale netted us much more than I expected. We have shipped 89 quilts this year and sold 30 at our annual fundraiser (total of 119 quilts).  We just had a large donation of material which will really help us.

We have plenty of help now on Thursdays to put quilts together. I still am looking for someone who can sew quilt tops.

Submitted by
Betty Ren

Prayer Quilt Ministry 2022

The Prayer Quit Ministry (which is All the members of St. Mark’s and all those attending our virtual services and receiving our Newsletter) has wrapped 131 recipients in prayer quilts and love this year, and we have tied additional prayers into 3 quilts.  We have also tied prayers into 181 prayer pockets.   These are about 4×5 inches – to fit in a pocket or a purse.  Each has a metal cross inside that says, “God loves you” and there are 5 “chains” of prayers for the recipient.  These are easily carried with you.  We have also given 8 baptismal prayer squares and 2 other prayer squares.    Please Call Roz Nelson (422-5463) or the church office (427-5515) if you would like to request a prayer quilt or pocket.

Prayer quilts and pockets are placed on the altar rail for the Pastor’s blessing on Sunday morning.  They are then taken to the narthex and tied by the congregation as they leave the sanctuary.  Pictures of the quilts, prayer pockets and prayer squares are in the Newsletter each week with the prayers being asked for.  We ask for your actual ties if you are in church, or your virtual ties if you are at home or visiting our website.

This year we have received a blessing from Abby Hansen’s (Ann Larsen’s sister) congregation.  They have downsized and we have received 60+ quilts (adult and child) that need only to have ties put in to be used.

We are a small group working in our homes and would really welcome (and need) others who would like to sew or put ties into our quilts to join us working in their homes.  Call. Roz or talk to her before or after services if you would like to be part of the PQM – sewing, putting ties in, or pinning quilts together.

We are thankful for your love, your prayers, and your donations of time, materials, and money.  Donations need to be designated to the Prayer Quilt Ministry.  If you are writing a check, it should be made out to St. Mark’s and designated to the Prayer Quilt Ministry.

Roz Nelson/Prayer Quilt Ministry

Project Hand 2022

The members of St Mark’s continuing to support Project Hand in a grand manner. 
Thank you from all that benefit from your generosity.

Project Hand consistently serves approximately 14,000 each year.  Many more received needed food from the San Diego Food Bank, from a monthly mass distribution on the campus of St. Mark’s.  In 2022, the drive thru distribution continued, after the walk up was changed to the drive-thru setting in 2021. This idea was presented by St. Mark’s as a safer and more efficient way to serve those in need.  This setting has been widely appreciated by all.

We continue to make a trip to the San Diego Food Bank in Miramar every two weeks or when needed.  We return with 1500 to 2000 pounds of food, which keeps the shelves at Project Hand stocked. Johnny keeps Project Hand running on a daily basis, along with his helpers.

Most of all, thank you again, we couldn’t do this without you.

Submitted by
Sue Connors

Security Report 2022

In the month of March 2022 I went to the CVPD to try to contact someone in regards of getting information on how to get an Officer to give us info/training on how to protect our Congregation.

They gave me the name of Officer Jeff Pace as our Community Relations for the Chula Vista area. I contacted him and we agreed on a plan and a date to talk about it.

Unfortunately he needed to be in Texas to attend a funeral and wasn’t available until April the 4th.  We continued our communication and added the possibility of having a room for them to use while obtaining at the same time, the Police presence on the Church grounds.

On May 27th, I asked him if the proposal for the break room was approved by CVPD CHIEF, and he responded to this on June the 6th, saying: Mr. Nava, we have some grateful officers for providing us with such room!

Also on June 23rd. Based on Pastor Karla concerns with the Spanish Congregation legal status, Mr. Officer J. Pace sent a link to “Welcoming City | City of Chula Vista (chulavista.gov)

In regards of CVPD Policies on immigration enforcement, which was not enforcement of proof of residency!

Also on this day, Chris, Officer J. Pace, and I, had a meeting and he presented to us the “Active Shooter” presentation to be presented to our Church members.

Unfortunately Officer J. Pace tested positive for COVID-19 and our plans stopped and resumed on July 19th after he tested negative for COVID.

Then finally, we received an invitation to the:  ACTIVE SHOOTER RESPONSE (LEARN HOW TO SURVIVE A SHOOTING EVENT) Presented by CVPD at the CV Council Chambers on August 31^st.  Chris, Bob Lechner and I attended it.

Other activities were brought to our Congregation, First Aid and how to do CPR and the proper use of the (forgot the name) electric apparatus for heart situations!

This was provided by others and not through me, but I contacted the CVFD for CPR training (they no longer provide it), The American Heart Association and they sent me information on resources for this matter.

All this was successfully handled thanks to the cooperation and actions of others, especially Mr. Officer Jeff Pace, Chris, Pastor Karla, Sheri, and others.

Thanks everyone for your support and great efforts for the realization of our plans of a safer Church/Congregation time!

Respectfully:
Roberto (Rob/Bob) Nava.

Internship Committee Report 2022

The Internship committee’s role is supportive and reflective, but not supervisory. The task is to give honest feedback to the intern, meet with the intern regularly, and complete midterm and final exams appraisals of the intern in relation to the objectives of the intern.

A member should be elected as the Chair of the Internship Committee to facilitate the effective functioning of the Internship Committee, the Chair of the Internship Committee is Gabby Gutierrez.

The president meets with the intern to establish the agenda for each meeting, maintains communication with committee members about the committee and, together with the intern, attends to the evaluation process.

The focus of the monthly meetings is to see how the intern is or is not meeting the established objectives of the internship, offering affirmation and encouragement, and provide support to the intern.

The Internship Committee is made up of:

• Pastor Karla (Internship Supervisor)
• Gabby Gutierrez (Chair)
• Mary Lu Bucknell,
• Dianne Nissen
• Erick Posada
• Chris Lewis

We met with Pastor Alicia in October and November. In October we got to share a bit of our stories and got to know the other members in the committee better, we reviewed the Internship process, our responsibilities, and the Internship goals.

In November Pastor Alicia presented an update of his academic progress and the ordination process. We talked about the schedule for the days spent at church as part of the internship.

The December meeting was waived in exchange for the Plan for the Posada on 12/18/22 since the planning and execution of this event is one of the goals of the Internship.

Our next scheduled meeting will be on 01/15/23.

Respectfully,
Gabby Gutierrez

Youth/Children Report 2022

My heart has always been in making people happy and what more than to make kids happy.

When they asked me to help with the kids, it was the most amazing thing because I had so many ideas and thoughts for the kids so I can say that during the past years we have made such a big impact.

With the help of Pastor Karla, Pastor Alicia, and the church community we have done so many things.

We provide many things for kids like Nursery, Confirmation, and Sunday School. Nursery is available for both services while confirmation and Sunday school are offered at 10:00am.

The thing that stood out the most was VBS. It was the first year of bringing it back and it turned out to be a great outcome. With the help of the planning team we got ready and prepared all the staff, curriculum, décor, music, skills, learning opportunities and safety training for all adults and youth.

In VBS we had a total of 42 children and youth participate and 28 adults. Some of our youth served as junior leaders and the high school students served as full leaders. We had a great experience and learned a lot. We are ready for VBS 2023 more prepared and ready than ever.

Another great outcome was confirmation, with the kindness of our church and the kids preparing a great breakfast we were able to send kids to camp. We handed out bibles to our kids in confirmation class and when we had our Palm Sunday.

We had a lot of family events/youth events like SeaWorld, swimming at the Geier’s, having a night out at Pastor Sarah’s church, and Balboa Park.

We ended the year so great with a three language Christmas pageant play. The kids from our service and from Glory Lutheran did a marvelous job in the play.

I look forward to a great 2023 filled with wonderful things.

Respectfully,
Melissa Hernandez

Worship and Music Annual Report 2022

This year has been one of change.  Pastor Halverson and Jason Chase collaborated on a new liturgy of our Sunday morning services.  These changes have been well received by the congregation.

In addition to changes in the liturgy, many changes were made to the sanctuary.  Due to the many members of the congregation experiencing mobility problems, two pews were removed in the front of the church to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.  Sections of the altar railings were also removed to accommodate a free flow of movement.

Jason Chase, St. Mark’s Director of Music, organized and arranged for musicians to present a series of concerts for the congregation and community. 

The first concert highlighted members of the community.  The second concert highlighted the talents of Jason, with an organ concert on our magnificent church pipe organ. 

Two more concerts are planned for the coming year.   On March 18, 2023, at 3:00pm, St. Mark’s will present a Spring Celebration Concert “The Moon & Stars.”  On May 17, 2023, at 1:00pm we will have a Spring Guest Organist Concert. Members of the congregation and community have been invited to become benefactors to support the concert series. 

Respectfully,

Hestler Knudsen

Music Director Annual Report 2022

Accomplishments & Goals Met:

Created, Developed & Performed our SMLC Concert Series

We scheduled and performed 4 concerts featuring over 30 artists, from vocalists & harpsichordists to French horn players & guitarists, to name just a few.

The first four concerts saw a combined 420 in attendance, and we look forward to ever-growing attendance numbers with the remaining concerts for this season.

In addition to the 2 scheduled concerts of this current season, we have added 2 additional concerts.

On Saturday night, March 4th, @ 7pm, the Concordia University 32-member Handbell Choir will perform a concert.  This is an exciting opportunity for the church as it opens the doors to another part of our community. 

In July, we will have an organ & piano duet concert, featuring pianist Jason Chase and organist Margaret Gaillard celebrating our Nation’s Birthday & Pride.

I am working directly with OrganStop who is doing our repairs & maintenance on our organ to ensure we can enjoy this incredible instrument for many seasons to come.

Co-wrote and edited the script for the Children’s Christmas play as well as assisting Pastor Karla with scene prep and staging.

Worked closely with Pastor Karla on all bilingual services to increase involvement in all areas of worship.  Also worked directly with musicians on style, tempo, music theory and language/translation issues.

Developing a more youth-involved participation in worship including pianists, guitarists, and vocalists.

Composed and wrote 2 new original liturgies for SMLC.

1st was sung during Lent of 2022 and the 2nd will be sung for the first-time during Lent of 2023.

I am also working with Pastor Karla in the development of a Continuing Education curriculum which will include 4-session classes and workshops in Music Appreciation; History of Opera & Musical Theatre; The History of Church Music from Gregorian Chant to Hillsong & Praise Bands and Songwriting.

Respectfully,

Jason Chase, Music Director