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District 5 Minutes
Posted by Alice Paparatto
Jun 9, 2003, 13:10

May 8, 2003 District 5 Meeting

Christ Church Bloomfield/Glen Ridge

Rev. Paul Williams, Convener

21 representatives from District 5 were in attendance.

The meeting was opened at 7:30 pm with a prayer, followed by buffet dinner. At 8:00 the meeting began. Rev. Diana Clark, St. John’s spoke to the success of the Frederick Douglass event, noting that it was a great first effort for the District. It was suggested that we submit photos with a caption to the Voice and the Diocesan website. The event was also presented at Diocesan council. It was agreed that response to events like this from the parishes would build over time.

It was agreed that District 5 meetings would be held on the 2^nd Thursday every other month, with the next two meetings on July 10^th and September 18^th. It was suggested that we do potluck dinners, and meet while we eat.

The Process for these meetings was the central topic of conversation. What is the purpose of the group was the core issue. Develop an agenda for each meeting, with a central theme or topic selected, and have 15 minutes of discussion around a topic of event to bring people together. It was agreed that a project with subcommittees would be adopted as well, for major ongoing events such as the Frederick Douglass event.

• Currently the two ongoing events are development of a District wide youth group, and a Chaplaincy for Montclair State University.
• Center discussions on how we work to grow our congregations.
• Invite key players from each congregation to attend the meeting that is focused on their area of expertise.
• Offer theological and practical reflection on ministry that is selected, get feedback/sharing.

July meeting topics/projects: September meeting topic/Stewardship. Rev. Diana suggested song as an icebreaker – willing to do a labyrinth walk.

The meeting closed with a prayer at 9:00 pm.

Respectfully submitted,

Alice Paparatto