Council Meeting Highlights + February 21, 2022

Trinity's Congregation Council meets each 3rd Tuesday at 6:30 PM. All are welcome to attend and observe. To speak at a meeting, or with other comments or questions, email the council: council2223@tlcs.church.

Greetings from the Congregation Council!

Clint Buetow led us in a devotion to start our meeting this week, which reminded us that the road is not always easy. We are entering the season of Lent and atonement (“at-one-ment”). We are reminded that within each of our journeys, we are also gathered together as one, and accompanied by our Lord and Savior.

The following were the main topics of dialogue and action for the Council:

Compensation equity: As discussed at the Annual Congregational Budget Meeting in January, TLCS applied for the federal Employee Retention Credit (ERC). The TLCS Personnel Committee is working on guidance to assist with the decision-making when the ERC funds are received. In the meantime, some funds are immediately available. The Council approved allocating those funds toward pastor salaries, even though that does not yet bring those salaries as close to synod recommendations as would be ideal.

TLCS impact model: The Council moved to unanimously embrace the impact strategy model that was introduced at the Annual Congregational Meeting, and to affirm the proposed next steps for TLCS staff to move forward to develop key indicators and strategies. The model is designed to guide TLCS forward in our work to “Effect healing and transformation in the community.”

Team coaching training: The Council authorized spending up to $525 for team coaching training through the ELCA for TLCS coaches, which is scheduled for March. The TLCS coaches include a staff member, a couple Council members, and other leaders in the congregation. The coaches completed individual training a couple years ago. The group training provides additional growth for them that aligns with supporting the ministry work and impact model above. The remaining cost (over 50%) will be covered by the coaches themselves, as well as a grateful contribution from a donor specifically for this purpose.

Cold Weather Shelter (CWS): The Council discussed the relationship that we have with the CWS, and how it has evolved over time. The Council made the decision to work closely with the CWS in the coming months to discuss how we can continue to support the ministry, while also taking steps to address any liability concerns currently held by TLCS.

The Council will be hosting next week’s Lenten Soup supper. We look forward to accompanying each other during this season. Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions, thoughts, and interest in being involved in the many opportunities that are brewing here at TLCS.

Gratefully in God’s Spirit and with Deep Compassion, Your Church Council