Mission: To support Christ’s mission in the local, state, and national commu-nities. Matthew 25:35…”for I was hungry and you gave me food, was thisty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed me. I was naked and you clothed me. I was sick and you visited me. I was in prison and you came to me.” :40…”truly I say to you, as you did it not to one of the least of these, you did it not to me.”

St. John‘s Outreach Committee met on Sunday, January 6th. The meeting was opened with a reading and prayer.

Jan. 2 ECW Luncheon Meeting Jan. 6 Outreach Meeting

Jan. 8 Theology and a Pint

Jan.10 Annual Reports Due

Jan.12 Men’s Group Meeting

Jan.13 Vestry Meeting

Jan.15 St. Julian’s Meeting

Jan. 21-23 Trinity Institute at GAC

Jan. 26-27 Jr High Diocesan Youth Event

Jan. 27 Annual Meeting & Potluck

Jan. 29-31 “For the Bible Tells Me So”

– GENERAL FUND

TREASURER’S REPORT – GENERAL FUND

MDGs?
At the start of the new millennium, leaders from 191 nations, including the United States, agreed on a plan to cut extreme global poverty in half by 2015. Together, they created the United Nations Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Recognizing that people of faith are key to realizing these goals, the Episcopal Church at General Convention last year voted to make these 8 goals the top mission priority for the church over the next three years.
1. Eradicate extreme poverty and hunger.
2. Achieve universal primary education.
3. Promote gender equality and empower women.
4. Reduce child mortality.

Jesus had a history of changing water into wine.
Monks have a history of wine and beer making.
Episcopalians have a history of sherry drinking.
Many theological discussions have taken place over a glass of spirits.
St. John’s looks to continue that tradition.

On Tuesday, 5 December, we’ll host an evening of theological reflection at The Wine Café in Old Town from 8–930pm. Theology and a Pint will be a monthly gathering and casual discussion for anyone interested in exploring the intersection of faith, God, culture, politics, and generally anything which impacts the human quest for meaning.

As part of the Diocesan wide Celebration of Creation this fall, the Rev. Thomas D. Harries will lead a walking meditation on Sunday afternoon, October 15th at 3:00 PM in the Williams Nature Center south of Mankato. The walking meditation, with some introduction and discussion will take about 45 minutes. Afterwards there will be time for hot chocolate and conversation. This form of meditation is easy and joyful. Instruction will be provided. Everyone is welcome. Come! Bring a friend!

To reach the Williams Nature Center: Hwy 68, approximately one mile from the US169 junction, south of Mankato. The Center is located on the north side of the road. There is ample parking and the Center is handicap accessible.

TREASURER’S REPORT -- GENERAL FUND BUDGET

Income and Expenses for the period January – April, 2006, are summarized in this Treasurer’s Report. For the third consecutive month, Income fell below budget expectations. Although expenses remained controlled and within the approved budget, we did have an increase in the net deficit budget for the year. In the area of Pledge income, we have received $38,452 for the year, compared to a budgeted amount of $44,833. Plate income continues to do well, and we have received $1,641, compared to a budgeted amount of $667. Income for Flowers is $340, compared to a budgeted amount of $400. Finally, our Investment Income is in transition, as we withdrew our money from Nations Financial Group last month. We have invested it with the Pooled Investment Fund of the Diocese now, but will lose a partial month’s dividend. To date, the Investment Income is $1,137, compared to a budgeted amount of $1,167. With special incomes and one offset income amount, our total Income through April is $43,583, compared to a budgeted amount of $47,067, resulting in a current shortfall of $3,484.

From time to time St. John’s is responsible for providing worship to the residents of Mankato area nursing homes. In the past, Fr. Paul has done these mostly on his own and now he’d like to share the joy. And it is such a wonderful joy to be able to share God’s Word and to sing and pray with our elderly neighbors!

We are looking for volunteers to assist Fr. Paul in this important ministry. No special talent is necessary, but if you play a musical instrument or like to tell stories, or read, that’d be great! Volunteer duties may include, but are not limited to: assisting the residents with songbooks, showing hospitality, bringing a smile to the hearts of those who are lonely, and encouraging participation among the worshippers.

Mission: To support Christ’s mission in the local, state and national communities.
Matthew 25: 35 “…for I was hungry and you gave me food, was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.”
40 “…Truly I say to you, as you did it not to one of the least of these, you did it not to me.”

The ECHO Foodshelf project for the month of March was a HUGE success! Under the leadership of Betty Winkworth and with the fantastic support of the parish, (not to mention the cheerleading of one fuzzy priest) we gathered $3320 dollars in cash and 325.5 pounds of food. We are humbled by this generosity…