Heard It at Council (October 2015)

October 13, 2015

Council met for a comprehensive review of the Capital Campaign case statement: Do justice. Love mercy. Walk with God. Old South Church’s $6.55M Campaign for the Future. As we approach our 350th anniversary we are keenly aware of the gifts of legacy from previous generations that lay the foundations for today’s ministries. Our Faith. Our Time. Our Future ...

The room was filled with energy as Council discussed the progress of the Campaign Committee. This Committee has undertaken a listening process over the last two years which included three all-church retreats. In October, a leadership retreat was held including Council, Deacons, Trustees, and the Capital Campaign Committee to reflect on the process and continue to refine the vision of the campaign. The current draft Case Statement is a much-evolved iteration of a statement presented to Council in June. The major feedback at that time was to lead with a more positive focus and to better define the idea of a “distributed” church. Since then, several themes have recurred, evolving somewhat in form and message. Social justice (outreach), Christian formation (internal programming), and improved use of space and technology continue to be priorities. Less urgent are growth targets and addition of certain staff. Also, some of the renovation ideas have been scaled down. The current Case Statement is a much-refined reflection of the congregation’s vision of itself as it looks to the future.

In the current version there are three ministries as follows: 1) Do Justice (Micah 6:8 Do Justice Fund) touching on social justice, homelessness, community outreach, and renovations to the building to facilitate this work. It is envisioned as a five-year fund and includes staffing; 2) Love Mercy (Progressive, Merciful, Christianity blows through our Open Door) focusing on widening Old South’s reach through the internet, social media, and technology. It would also ensure physical accessibility in the church; 3) Walk with God (Laboratory for Christian Leadership) which intends to train leaders as interfaith organizers and peace-builders in the world. A final piece is a 350th Anniversary fund which involves several commemorations and events.

Council congratulated the Committee on excellent progress and hard work then undertook serious discussion. One concern is the generally spend-down nature of the proposal over a five year period. If more of the items were long-lasting (physical renovations or endowed projects) then there would be less problem at the end of five years in terms of cutting programs and staff. Accessibility was championed as a key priority, a must-have, to include the Chancel and Gordon library as well as the addition of hearing loops. Paul Kuenstner presented estimates of various renovation projects including the undercroft. In its current form, the undercroft cannot accommodate programming given the lack of alternate egress. A basic renovation would include opening a wall through the foundation to provide stairs and an exit as well as minimal functional updates. To the contrary, the club room lacks accessibility despite adequate egress. Unfortunately, the club room cannot be brought up to accessibility standards in a reasonable way given its configuration. These issues affect planning. For example, homeless outreach or internal programming would need to be carefully planned with space in mind.

Several Council members noted that the proposal does a great job of reflecting Old South Church’s sense of itself. The overall goals were discussed including fundraising targets. Working closely with the consultant, the Committee suggests that the proposed campaign is in a manageable range. However, the steering committee will continue to seek feedback.

Several Committee updates were heard. The Stewardship season is upon us, this year with an Open Door theme. Planned Giving is hosting its annual dinner event, in recognition of legacy gifts. Both of the children’s choirs are now in full swing, First (younger) and Festival (older). The Membership Committee has hosted historical tours of the church. Confirmation Class has a new structure and will share retreats with other churches. The All-Church Retreat was a big success, attracting 45 members of all ages. Outreach noted two upcoming events: Career Lift Up on November 16th with City Mission Society and food service at Boston Living Center on November 30th. Volunteers are welcome. The Trustees continue to monitor the proposals of the Capital Campaign and continue to provide oversight for the church’s Boston Public Library assets.

Rev. John Edgerton adjourned the meeting by giving thanks for this day, our work, and our forbearers.

Lisa Mahnke, Clerk