September Open Session Meeting Notes
Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2026
Time: 6:30 PM
Location: Faith Classroom
Attendees: Rev. Ev; Beth Fite (Chair/Lay Leader); Gene Jones; Audrey O’Donald; Liz McCauley; Mike LaRock; Larry LaRue; Kennis Sigmon; Jessica Grau; Jimmy Porter; Sarah Wright; and Debra Hockey (Secretary)
Welcome and Opening Remarks: The meeting began with Breakthrough Prayer.
Spiritual Formation, Gene: focus was love for others and that God loves everyone
Leadership Equipping, Choosing What Matters Most: Prioritizing Mission When Resources are Limited and the key idea is that when leaders cannot do everything, they must discern what matters most and align resources accordingly. Biblical basis is Acts 6:1–7 where the early church facing resource and capacity issues. The church prioritized responsibilities, empowered others, and reorganized ministry so the word of God could continue to spread. The goal was to advance the mission, not protect every activity. Haygood has more than 50 ministries, traditions that matter, and people who care deeply about particular programs and missions. When resources are limited, leaders must discern what God is calling Haygood to prioritize in this season. Faithful leadership means stewarding what has been entrusted to the church and focusing resources where they can have the greatest kingdom impact. As the 2027 budget process begins, the question is not simply how to find enough money to continue everything, but where the resources entrusted to Haygood in this season should be placed.
Ongoing Business, Facilities: Gutter-cleaning estimates are still in progress. The low-voltage street lights are godo as is. Blacktop cracks need to be sealed again, with the parking lot potentially addressed later. Sealing quotes are in progress. We received quotes for a selected a vendor to replace the collar stop. Tree trimming is planned for November.
Business, Worship Sound: Need to install an antenna system to combine and elevate the receiving RF antennas, improve line of sight, and improve signal clarity. Quote presented and approved. Work to be complete by 11/1.
Business, Journey To Easter: Invitation sent to Methodist cohorts to seek partnership. Results will be presented at the coming meeting then we’ll determine next steps.
Financials: Monthly giving is in each bulletin, for the previous month. The 2027 budget request was sent to ministry leaders, with requests due September 30.
Closing Prayer
Next Meeting: October 20 at 6:30 pm
