January 2025 Open Session Meeting Notes

Date: Tuesday, January 20, 2026

Time: 6:30 PM

Location: Faith Classroom

Attendees: Pastor Doug Sasser, Beth Fite (Chair/Lay Leader), Gene Jones, Kennis Sigmon, Larry Larue, Jimmy Porter, Mike LaRock, Audrey O’Donald (Associate Lay Leader), Carol Loyer, Sarah Wright, Jessica Grau, Liz McAuley, and Debra Hockey (secretary)

Welcome and Opening Remarks: The meeting began with Beth thanking all in attendance and Breakthrough Prayer. Guiding Principles for 2026 HUMC Leadership Board presented and will be reviewed twice a year in January and July. Any changes to principles would be voted on at the next Charge Conference. Leadership Board Covenant given to all members for review and signature. Meeting structure was explained, including a general business session open to all and a closed SPRC (Staff-Parish Relations Committee) session.

Spiritual Formation, Beth: Focus on preparing for growth

Vital Signs, Pastor Doug: 5 new members and 2 baptisms

Facilities Updates: Chapel repairs complete. Brick foundation and crack near Food Pantry entrance to be looked at by trustees. Larry received a quote for windows in the Chapel and that will be discussed next month. Also next month, update on the sign by Gene Jones.

New Business: Nancy Coughlin presented info on addressing the congregation’s various ministry and volunteer needs. Time and talent survey forms were completed ministry leaders. Will gather more from congregation. Goal is to equip various ministry events with an adequate number of volunteers to serve the event. Carolyn Jones presented a request to have the pastor photos put back up again. They are currently in a book in the office. Goal is for congregation to remember our history.

Upcoming Event: Ash Wednesday services, drive-thru and preschool, on February 18. Lenten lunches begin in February.

Closing Prayer: Carol Loyer

Next Meeting: 2/17 at 6:30