Dear St. Andrew’s Community,

Last night your session met to work through a full agenda of important issues. The meeting went just a bit over three hours, but a lot was accomplished. Here are some highlights:

• The meeting began with the introduction of three new members who will be joining St. Andrew's. They shared the reasons for wanting to become involved at St. Andrews's and were warmly welcomed.
• Pastor-elect Rev. Jennifer Fraser joined us for the first two hours.  Jen was able to meet the new members and offer thoughts and perspective on several issues, as well as getting to know members of the session.
• The Health Advisory report was received, which recommends no in-person worship until at least January.  One of the factors is the need to be able to live-stream any service effectively so those who are not able to attend can still participate.  Jen noted that she has been part of just such an effort at her current church and will be able to offer some practical wisdom she has gained in the process.
• The session discussed the plan to replace Chris Davis.  On the recommendation of the Personnel Committee and elders from the Worship Committee, we will look for an interim pianist/accompanist that can do the needed work to provide video performances (solo and with Erin) in the months ahead as the future of the music program is being redefined with Jen's leadership.
• I presented the guidelines for pastoral transitions used by our Presbytery, which includes a covenant between the session and me defining my role after December 1.  The covenant was adopted and will be shared with the congregation next month.
• The current financial status and initial budget for 2021 were presented.
• The stewardship campaign is now underway. All supporters should be receiving a letter and pledge card soon.  With the arrival of Rev. Fraser, this is an exciting new chapter in St. Andrew's history.  We hope everyone will be willing to support the church at the same level or higher in 2021.
• While the meeting was taking place, the Dodgers defeated the Tampa Bay Rays 8-3, thanks to standout performances by Clayton Kershaw, Mookie Betts, and Cody Bellinger. The moderator did not let the game distract him from his solemn duty.

Steve

Chris Davis sends un update from Tiawan...

• Out of quarantine
• Enjoying family & friends
• Substitute teaching in kindergarten class
• Practicing my table tennis skills