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Paul Carew & Hugh Tilson, Co-Chairs of 2002 Canvass

As you all know, during the 2002 budget planning process, decreased projected revenues for this current fiscal year necessitated reductions in some critical parish functions. In that regard, the vestry made the decision to leave the position of director of Christian education vacant for the year.

This position performs crucial administrative oversight for the development of the curriculum and training and supervision of teachers for our children's Church School Program. The director is also responsible for the Vacation Church School and other children's programs, and serves as a liaison with the Preschool, with clergy and laity as related to Christian education in the parish. Because of this vacancy, the functions of the director are being performed by other staff, clergy, and volunteers. However, these individuals have their own full-time responsibilities and performing the duties of the director of Christian education detracts from their duties and reduces their effectiveness. In addition, because the functions of the director are spread out over several people, their effort is fragmented and not as efficient or coordinated as it could be.

Since the vestry's decision, several financial indicators have suggested that the economy has improved. Based on that information, it was recommended in March that it was an opportune time to try to find the resources to fill this important staff position. The vestry approved a supplemental canvass with the specific intention of hiring a new director of Christian education as soon as possible this year. Between April 14 and May 19, an extended canvass requested pledges from those parishioners who chose not to pledge last year for whatever reason, as well as request augmented pledges from those who did. The goal of this campaign was to raise an additional $25,000 in 2002 pledges in order to support a director of Christian education. A letter was sent to all parishioners summarizing the reason for the supplemental campaign and asking them to consider the unique opportunity to pledge support for the teaching and communication of God's message to our children here at the Chapel of the Cross.

As of May 15, $32,436 has been pledged in this supplemental campaign, enabling the rector to hire Gretchen Jordan to fill the position of director of Christian education. She will begin work in mid-July. We are delighted to welcome Gretchen and are thankful for everyone who responded to the special request to fund the position of Christian education director.

© 2002: Chapel of the Cross