ST. MARY STAR OF THE SEA, PARISH COUNCIL
Council Minutes for REGULAR meeting of November 18, 2002
President Barbara Karsky called the meeting of St. Mary's Parish Council to order
in the Church basement at 7:06 P. M. Present were Barbara Karsky, Pres.; Rosemary
Frombach, V. P.; Neil Lynch, Sec'y; Fr. John Golas; Elected members Tom Carrier,
Carole Charette, Jon LeBlanc, Susan Lewis, MaryJane Oliveira, Edward O'Reilly,
Mary Yale; Trustee Edward Cruess, Sr.; and Jane Derasadourian plus, representing
the Education Committee, Karen Herbert. Absent were Deacons Michael Sponzo and
Thomas Sutak; Pat Messina and Laure Welch; Trustee Elizabeth Creehan; Theresa
McGrath and MaryLou Meigs.
Barbara called on Fr. Golas who asked for a moment of reflection followed by a
reading, with comments, of the gospel for the following Sunday. He then charged the
members to discuss among themselves someone or something they care for .
MINUTES: Rosemary reminded the Council that it had been agreed
that, along with those present, absentees from a Council meeting be included in
the Minutes. Absent from the September 30th meeting were Deacon Thomas Sutak;
Carole Charette and MaryJane Oliveira; Trustee Edward Cruess; Theresa McGrath
and MaryLou Meigs. It was moved (Mary, Ed C. ) that the Minutes, as corrected,
of the September 30th meeting be accepted. Carried unanimously.
EDUCATION: Karen distributed and commented on a report from MaryLou
on the K-8 CCD program. Jane next gave an overview of this year's confirmation
program, elaborating on a meeting held recently of all 9th and lOth graders in
which they were asked to share their feelings about conf111nation and what it
represents. As regards adult education, Karen noted that Deacon Mike, on December
10, will make a presentation on Bioethics, dealing with crucial issues relating
to birth, life, and end oflife. Karen again reminded the Council that a lenten
series for adults is in the formative stage.
LITURGY: Jon informed the Council that Ken Muccino has resigned
as coordinator of lectors. There have been some concerns raised over the inconsistant
quality of the readers. Susan and Tom agreed to come up with a draft of qualifications
for lectors. It was again suggested that a workshop type meeting of them be held
on a regular basis, and that there be some preliminary training for those wishing
to become lectors. Ed C. asked for an update on the efforts to increase the number
of those involved with the usher ministry. Jon said that there too his group is
working to standardize procedures. Fr. Golas added that the nature of the new
church may require more than four ushers at a mass. Finally, Jon said that the
suggestion box in the church is "up and running. "
RESPECT FOR LIFE COMMITTEE: Barbara reported on the recent fundraising
campaign for the Pregnancy Center. $2,600 has already been received with about
half of the baby bottles returned. She also informed the Council that a sub-group
of teens is being formed, its focus being respect for the unborn.
NEW CHURCH UPDATE: Fr. Golas reported that, although progress
is being made regarding the drawings, actual construction is still on hold. He
assured the Council that, despite the delay, we are staying on budget. On another
subject, Fr. Golas noted that a new maintenance position has been established
with mowing of the cemetery , a topic of some concern, part of the job description.
He expects to have the position filled by January.
NEW BUSINESS: Ed O'Reilly made a presentation on the advantages
of establishing a St. :Marys Church Website with the express purpose improving
communications between staff and parishioners. Fr. Golas agreed to underwrite
expenses if the Council approved the idea. Rosemary volunteered to work with Ed
on the project. It was moved (Ed C., Mary) that Ed O'Reilly proceed with the establishment
of website for St. Mary, Star of the Sea Church. Carried unanimously.
Barbara discussed a conflict over cantor selection at funeral masses. Fr. Golas
discussed church policy regarding personnel at such masses.
Citing family and work obligations, Thersa McGrath has submitted her resignation as
Youth Minister at St. Mary's.
The next meeting of the Parish Council will take place on Monday, January 27,2003 in
the church hall basement, with an anticipated starting time of 7 P. M. F r . Golas concluded
this evening's meeting with a Hail Mary after which Barbara adjourned the meeting at 8:45
P.M.
Cornelius Lynch, Secretary