Newsletter Issue #92-10/11 (October-November)
Printer-friendly versionTable of Contents
-Schedule of Meetings for Worship
-11th Month Query
-News
-DC Interfaith Climate Event Hosted by FMW
-Quaker Treasure Bread Returns to FMW
-Upcoming Events
Monthly Meeting for Business Minutes - September 11, 2022
-Clerk’s Report, September 2022
-Business
ADDENDA
-Trustees
-Proposed FMW Minute on the War in Ukraine
-Proposed FMW Minute on the War in Ukraine
-FMW Rental Report - August 2022
Monthly Meeting for Business Minutes - October 9, 2022
-Clerk’s Report, October 2022
-Business
ADDENDA
-Finance & Stewardship Committee Annual Report
-Ministry and Worship Committee Annual Report - October 2022
-Hunger and Homelessness Annual Report - October 2022
-FMW Rental Report-September 2022
MEETINGS FOR WORSHIP ~ ALL ARE WELCOME
Sundays: 9:00 - 10:00 am (in-person and online)
10:30-11:30 am (In-person and online. Join here.);
6:00-7:00 pm (in person)
Wednesdays: 6:00 - 7:00 pm
Monthly Meeting for Business: 12:15 pm, November 13 (2nd Sunday)
Masks required.
For more information, email admin@QuakersDC.org.
11th Month Query: 11. EDUCATION
Do you provide religious education, including study of the Bible and of Friends' history and practices, in your Meeting? Do you ensure that schools under the care of Friends exemplify Friends' principles? Do you support and strive to improve the public schools? (from Baltimore Yearly Meeting “Faith & Practice” Queries. For more see: Education; Science and Religion; The Arts and Religion)
News
WIN-Sierra Club-Interfaith Power & Light Interfaith Climate Event hosted by Friends Meeting of Washington on October 23: First in-person campaign kick-off
On Sunday, October 23, the FMW community welcomed members of over a dozen DC faith organizations and other climate-concerned residents to an event exploring the impact of so-called natural gas on climate and human health. Eight speakers discussed the alternatives to burning fossil fuels in our homes and buildings, and the urgency of transition to electric heating and cooking–which, in DC, will be sourced from 100% renewable energy sources by 2032.
Also discussed: the group’s new citizen science investigation of pollutants from gas stoves–specifically the nitrogen dioxide (NO2), a powerful pulmonary irritant that aggravates to asthma and other respiratory conditions. If you have a gas stove and would like to participate–or if you know someone who does, you can learn more and join the investigation here.
Quaker Treasure Bread Returns to FMW to support Personal Aid for Friends in Need
From Friend Bob Meehan–the baker
Friends! Below is a picture of a “starter” Quaker Treasure Chest Fruit Bread ready to multiply to fill your larders, gift baskets, or freezers to raise funds for our Personal Aid Committee. There is no line item for Personal Aid in the FMW operating budget but they perform an essential service for members and attenders who need help with their expenses or scholarships to participate in Quaker events. Prior to covid we’ve joined together to raise about $1,000 per year during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays for nearly 20 years.
As you can see on the label, this is a wonder of 8 fruits and two nuts but no milk products or candied fruits. You’ve seen it on the refreshments table since August. This is a treat whether as is or with your favorite spread, cool or toasted. It lasts 1-2 weeks in the fridge or up to 6 months in the freezer. It has gravitas at 1 1/2 pounds. It makes great gifts and survives mailing. Beware: it can be addictive! Cost: $15/one loaf, $12.50/loaf for 2 or more.
So let’s get started. Please order in advance by emailing me your name, phone number, number of loaves wanted, and day for pick up at FMW (Nov 13 or Nov 20). By special request, I can arrange alternate delivery options. Payment is due upon delivery.
–In the light, Bob Meehan, baker Email: bobmeehany62@gmail.com
Events
Quaker Spiritual Development Programs - Full schedule for November 2022
Election Eve Meeting for Worship at FMW, Monday November 7 at 7:00 pm
We will hold in prayer the work that so many across our country are doing for free and fair elections, the hope that people dedicated to peace and justice will be elected and the unwavering commitment we have to consistently seek Truth. Quaker meetings across the country are gathering on election eve under the concerns of the Quaker Call to Action https://quakercall.net/ We are reminded that even a small group of people joined together in spiritual concern has power. Let’s join together in calling on the Spirit to guide and sustain us and our whole nation as we vote and determine our common future. For more information contact Diane Randall, email: diane.e.randall@gmail.com
Kenyan Crafts Sale at FMW, November 20 at Rise of Meeting
Friend Jean Smith has lived in Kenya for decades and helps Kenyan village women’s collectives sell their crafts. The proceeds allow them to support their families and village development projects.
FMW Committee Fair, November 20, Assembly Room at 12:15
Joining an FMW Committee is a great way to be part of the running of the Meeting and to build relationships with other community members. This will be a great chance to talk with folks in FMW’s various committees looking for members to begin in 2023. For more information, contact Nominating Committee clerk Michael Beer, email: MikeBeerDC@gmail.com
Visit with Julie Tayac Yates, Matriarch of the Piscataway Nation, Quaker House Living Room, Sunday, November 20, 12:30 pm
FMW’s Committee on Peace and Social Concerns is excited to host this visit and conversation with Julie Tayac Yates. Julie will be speaking with FMW’s First Day School children in the morning, then joining us at 12:30 for a more adult conversation about growing up Piscataway, what it means to be Native American and what solidarity and Right Relationship might look like in DC and Maryland. For more information contact Peace & Social Concerns member Helena Cobban, email: HCobban@gmail.com
Friendly Quaker Film Club special showing, Nov 20, 4pm in Quaker House: “The Movement and the Madman” and conversation with producer Robert Levering. This film tells the little-known story of how the two national antiwar demonstrations in the fall of 1969 helped prevent the Nixon administration from launching a major escalation of the Vietnam War, including the possible use of nuclear weapons. The film shows that protests matter, even if the participants don't realize it at the time. (Spoiler alert: Quakers played a crucial role!) This is the roughcut of a film that will air on PBS next year. It has only been shown a handful of times. You can learn more here: www.movementandthemadman.com
FMW Financial State of the Meeting, Quaker House, December 18, 12:15pm
Finance and Stewardship’s detailed report and discussion of FMW’s financials, projections. For more information contact Jason Terry/F&S, email: Jason@jaterry.com.
Meeting for Business Minutes-September and October 2022
Friends Meeting of Washington
Monthly Meeting for Worship with a Concern for Business
Minutes - September 11, 2022
Attendees: 20 in person, 5 online
New Attendees: Andrew Ross
Query for Worship Sharing: What steps could I take to be more welcoming to newcomers to our Meeting? What is stopping me from taking these steps?
Clerk’s Report, September 2022
Upcoming Events
Quaker Spiritual Development Programs - Full schedule for September 2022
FMW’s Quakerism 101 – Fall Class starts Tuesday, September 13, 7:00-8:30 pm. Register here. For more info, read this or contact Ann Herzog, aherzog333@yahoo.com
“Caste” One Book Project, BYM Working Group on Racism, Wed, Sept 14, 7:00 pm
Register online here. Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents, The Lies that Divide Us by Isabel Wilkerson is an important book for those seeking to understand historical and present-day racial prejudice and trauma.. WGR members will host this reading group via Zoom.
For more info contact Ellen Cronin, email: ecronin343@gmail.com.
Discussion on “Radical Transformation, Sunday, September 18, 12:00 pm. in person and on Zoom. Read Vanessa Julye’s important new Pendle Hill pamphlet and discuss how it applies to Friends Meeting of Washington. Are our current structures functional? For whom? Why are they largely staffed with older white people? Join on Zoom, For more information, contact Debby Churchman, dchurchm@yahoo.com
Listening to the Heart of Genesis: A Contemplative Path, September 18, 12:30 pm (hybrid) In Quaker House and On Zoom.
Rabbi Leila Gal Berner offers a fresh experiential approach to personal contemplation, based on a Christian method of reading Scripture. Her adaptation, kriat ha-kodesh (reading the sacred), is welcoming and accessible to readers of all backgrounds. Rabbi Berner explains rabbinic perspectives on the stories in Genesis and suggests questions for contemplation, interspersed with chants and silence. Groups throughout North America are using her method. Register here.
Contact: Sabrina McCarthy, sabrina.mccarthy@verizon.net, cell (240) 778-5234.
The Quaker Indigenous Boarding Schools: Facing our History and Ourselves,
Quaker House and on Zoom, Sunday, October 2, 12:15-1:45 pm Talk by Paula Palmer, who has conducted important research on the role that Friends played in implementing the federal government's policy of forced assimilation of Native children. Flyer and more details.
Contact: Steve Chase, SteveChase338@gmail.com
Child care and First Day School have re-convened! Please let other parents know. For more information contact Marissa Yeakey, Marissa.Yeakey@gmail.com
Baltimore Yearly Meeting’s March Interim meeting will be hosted by FMW on March 25, 2023!
Tenant Updates- Activities at our Meeting House (Rental Report is below)
- Rental bookings and income well ahead of prior years
- Two new tenants as of Sept 1 – a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a graphic designer.
Business
Marriage & Family Relations Ctte - Martha Solt
First presentation of marriage of Thomas Cannady Wrenn and Michael August Vallebuona. This request lies over for a month, as is our custom.
Report on BYM Annual Sessions - David Etheridge, plus others
Report
FMW Anti-Racist Queries (agreed in 2020)
1. How will we provide opportunities for those most likely to be directly affected by the choices we are contemplating to influence the decision making process?
2. How could the choices we are contemplating affect those who have been harmed by systemic, institutional, interpersonal and/or internal racism?
3. To what degree have privilege, class, stereotypes, assumptions, and our ability to include other perspectives affected this decision making process?
4. How will the choices we are contemplating promote equity, diversity, and inclusiveness? Will they enable us to be more friendly and whole, engaging across racial divisions?
5. How do the choices we are contemplating support the declaration of our Yearly Meeting that we aspire to be an anti-racist faith community?
One friend raised concern regarding the absence of minority voices in BYM and FMW communities.
Another friend agreed and asked for ideas for how to better accomplish drawing minority individuals to our meeting.
One friend noted some methods were included in the pendle hill pamphlet, Radical Transformation, and noted that this issue was of active importance to the futures committee. They also raised the idea of reaching out to Kenyan Friends communities. They also raised the idea of alternative worship methods.
One friend noted that there was significant distress during the discussion of the BYM Spiritual State of the Yearly Meeting, and asked for this to be addressed.
David Etheridge noted that most of the hurt feelings were by white Friends.
One friend noted that Friends of color had been coming to BYM for years asking for something to be done about racism within the religious community of friends, and that their concerns had been ignored or had been responded to in an unhelpful fashion. This friend noted their gratitude for David Etheridge, but noted a lack of action by the meeting as a whole. They noted that the meeting’s business was primarily done by those with resources and time, which primarily overlapped with older white individuals, and this was going to be a difficult issue to solve.
One friend noted with gratitude that we were returning to the issue of racism in our community.
One friend noted that many Friends have friends or family members that are minority members and that the meeting should attempt to draw in and make them feel welcome.
One friend noted that they felt that the lack of asian and latino voices in our community was an issue, but not a problem, and that the primary problem was the lack of black voices. They noted that there were many varied forms of worship across communities, and that our form of worship was highly different than those typical among latino communities. They raised the idea of focusing our rental agreements on minority members and using our programs and activities (such as AVP) to better connect with minority communities.
One friend expressed their gratitude to David Etheridge for working on this problem and that they looked forward to the long term struggle of working through it as a meeting and as a part of our larger communities.
Mary Jane Simpson Scholarships - Anne Kendall
Report Summary Full Report
One friend asked if the Barbara Nnoka luncheon will be coming back.
Anne Kendall said that it was.
One friend noted that the MJS Scholarship has been only given to individuals of color for roughly the past 20 years, and that this kind of outreach was one of the ways we as a community can connect with minority communities.
One friend noted their gratitude for the program, and as asked if the individuals needed aid in developing college plans.
Anne Kendall noted that most recipients already have a set college plan, but some need help in developing a viable plan, and that the committee is fortunately well resourced in providing that help through youth voices.
Friends accepted the report with gratitude.
Minute on the War in Ukraine -Helena Cobban, Barbara Briggs, Peace & Social Concerns
Here and below is the re-worked Minute, shaped with the help of Friends who expressed concerns with the original draft, who are now comfortable with the new language.
One friend thanked PSC for taking their concerns to heart in redrafting the minute.
One friend thanked PSC for all of the work done in crafting the minute. They noted that they would like to help in spreading the minute to a larger audience.
One friend asked what the next steps for Friends should be.
One friend responded that this minute was the next step, and in being a voice for sanity. They noted that one friend had an issue with the previous minute in that there was not an action recommended that friends could take in the minute, and that while those actions were not included in this version of the minute, there were many actions friends could take, including contributions to humanitarian aid.
One friend noted one action friends could take is to encourage other governments to support a ceasefire.
One friend noted one action friends could take is to bring it to interim meeting and spread it among friends, and to also provide direct support to Ukrainian refugees and families.
One friend requested that our minute be sent to BYM and the Quaker UN office,, with the goal of spreading the minute to other quaker communities and yearly meetings.
One friend noted that the minute does not include a call for non-violent resistance, but that there are many organizations involved in supporting non-violent resistance.
Friends approved the minute.
Nominations - Nominating Committee
-Library, Records, and Handbook: Kylie Carpenter, Patrick Turley, and Brandon Engel.
-Trustees: See Below
Michael proposed a reset schedule for Trustees, with new terms beginning on October 1st of each odd year.
Friends approved the reset schedule.
Faith Williams submitted their resignation from Trustees.
Friends accepted Faith Williams’s resignation from Trustees.
Jim Bell was nominated to serve on Trustees from now until 2023.
Friends approved Jim Bell’s nomination.
Letty Coffin was nominated to serve on Trustees from 2021 to 2027.
Friends approved Letty Coffin’s nomination.
Friends approved Patrick Turley’s nomination for Library, Records, and Handbook until December 31st 2024.
Friends approved Kylie Carpenter’s nomination for Library, Records, and Handbook until December 31st 2024
Friends approved Brandon Engel’s nomination for Library, Records, and Handbook until December 31st 2024.
Friends approved Julie Johnson for clerk of Religious Education until June 30th 2023.
Friends approved Justin Potisit nomination for Finance and Stewardship until December 31st 2024.
Friends approved Basil Kiwan for Marriage and Family Relations until December 31st 2024.
Membership - Rob Farr
Lucia Elena Sanchez's transfer from Chattanooga Friends Meeting.
Friends approved the transfer.
Tristan Kirkman's transfer from Herndon Friends Meeting.
Friends approved the transfer.
One friend noted Tristan’s friendly, welcoming energy and thanked him for his service as recording clerk.
Rental Report
One friend requested clarity on FMW’s budget deficit.
Another friend offered to give them more information later on.
Friends approved the minutes.
Meeting for Business concluded at 1:53 pm.
ADDENDA: ATTACHED COMMITTEE REPORTS
Trustees:
- Term Ending 2021: 3 vacancies
- Term ending 2023: Faith Williams, Dan Dozier (2nd term), Bill Foskett, Mark Haskell, Martha Solt (2nd term)
- Term ending 2025: Elaine Wilson (clerk), Chris Wickham, Bruce Kellogg, Dante Bucci
- Term Ending 2027: Chad Dobson, 3 vacancies
Proposed FMW Minute on the War in Ukraine
Presented at FMW’s Meeting for Business, September 11, 2022 by Committee on Peace & Social Concerns
War is never the best answer. It brings death, injury, destruction, and disruption that often spreads far beyond the immediate "war zone." It hardens hearts and attitudes, too often leading makers and survivors of war to dehumanize members of the "other" side.
Like many around the world, members of Friends Meeting of Washington were deeply disturbed by the invasion of Ukraine that Russia launched in Second Month 2022, and by the destruction that invasion visited (and continues to visit) on the people of Ukraine, on the already-tenuous food security status of nations of the global South, on global efforts to combat climate change, and many other aspects of the interconnected world we live in.
We have searched our hearts for the best way to respond to the invasion, mindful of valued teachings such as that of early Quaker Margaret Fell who said, " We are a people that follow after those things that make for peace, love and unity; it is our desire that others’ feet may walk in the same, and do deny and bear our testimony against all strife, and wars... and [we] love and desire the good of all."
We appreciate the facts that our president has not sent U.S. troops to Ukraine; that he has remained careful not to escalate tensions with Russia to the point at which a direct conflict between these two nuclear-armed nations might erupt; that he has provided humanitarian aid for the people and communities devastated by the war; and that in this case he has stressed our country's strong opposition to the practices of invading or occupying other people's countries.
But we are also deeply dismayed at the strongly military nature of the response of our government to the crisis in Ukraine and its apparent reluctance to seek direct talks with Russia to explore ways to end the fighting or to support the efforts of other governments to do so. Indeed, President Biden and some cabinet members have made ill-considered statements that implied a desire for "regime change" in Russia. Those statements, like the strongly military nature of Washington's interventions in Ukraine, have dangerously increased the level of tension between our country and Russia, two countries whose massively capable nuclear arsenals give their leaders unique responsibilities for the survival of humanity and the natural world we live in.
We are mindful, too, that every million dollars paid to arms manufacturers to procure arms for Ukraine is a million dollars that the U.S. government could have invested into much-needed social and infrastructure programs worldwide or here at home.
Friends Meeting of Washington calls on Pres. Biden to work for an immediate, all-parties ceasefire in Ukraine in order to halt the carnage there and to allow a swift return to the high-level diplomacy with Russia, Ukraine, and all other interested parties that is needed to bring about a lasting end to this crisis. He should pursue this diplomacy with the goal of speedily attaining lasting, sustainable formulas for both the intra-Ukrainian governance issues and the broader Europe-wide security issues that underlay the eruption of the current conflict.
FMW Rental Report - August 2022
Prepared by Brian Lutenegger, Event and Rental Manager
Financials –FY23 and FY24 Bookings
Here is a breakdown of where we are in term of bookings for FY23 as of August 31, 2022 in comparison with other past and future fiscal years.
The charts above show more than $127,000 in FY23 bookings prior to the start of the fiscal year on July 1st as well as more than $37,000 in new bookings during August 2022. So we’ve booked just over $181,000 for FY23 at the end of the second month. Our budgeted goal for FY23 is $300,000.
We’ve also booked $6,500 worth of events for FY24. Our fiscal year runs from July 1 to the following June 30th.
Financials – FY23 Earned
In August, we earned $19,900.25 for events successfully completed and more than $45,000 fiscal year to date.
Approximately 25% of earnings during August came from events booked on Peerspace.
August Events
The following activities occurred at FMW during August:
- DC Minyan continuing to hold regular services along with another Jewish community – along with celebratory events connected to these communities
- Two weddings for non-FMW members
- One memorial service
- Several staff retreats / conferences / workshops
- Weekly Al-Anon meetings
- Several celebratory events for individuals and nonprofits
- Eight days with film crews
- A group of German and American students holding a series of meetings in Washington
- School for International Training students preparing to go overseas for the semester
Office Space Rentals
Income from office rentals has changed in recent months due to turnover in tenants.
This fiscal year, we have so far collected $35,690 in office tenant rent. Our fiscal year budget is $150,000.
At present, we have ten nonprofit and small business tenants. This includes two new tenants as of September 1st – a psychiatric nurse practitioner and a graphic designer. Two of our existing tenants plan to move into one of our vacant spaces together, so we will have two more spaces up for rent by October.
Opportunities for the FMW community to help with rentals
Please think about whether your employer, an organization whose board you sit on – or even yourself for a special event – might be able to make use of our event rental spaces. Of course, at least for now, these events would need to be kept small and happen safely.
If you have ideas for content that we can post on Facebook and Instagram that might be of interest to a wide (not necessarily Quaker) audience, I am happy to consider.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fmw.event.venue/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsmeetingofwashington/
Finally, if you know of any potential new office tenants, please connect them to me.
#### END of September Meeting for Business Minutes ####
Friends Meeting of Washington
Monthly Meeting for Worship with a Concern for Business
Minutes - October 9, 2022
Query for Worship Sharing: How has spirit dealt with thee since last we met?
In person attendees: 20
Online attendees: 7
New Attendees: Justin Potisit, Gaby Blanco
Clerk’s Report, October 2022
In Memoriam:
A memorial service for John Scales will be held on Oct. 30 at 12pm.
For questions, contact Joe Izzo or Dan Dozier
Larry DuPouis: During the height of the AIDS epidemic, Friends Meeting of Washington organized and hosted a weekly coffee house that provided a welcoming respite for those with the disease and their caregivers. Many Friends participated in sustaining the project, which earned the Meeting the gratitude of the LGBTQ+ community. Larry Dupuis, although not a Friend, was a regular volunteer who could be counted on for friendship, hard work, donated food, and sustained good cheer. We report with sadness his death on September 30, 2022 and note with gratitude his volunteer energy that gave comfort to many during those frightening times. - Delivered by Grant Thompson
Upcoming Events
- Meeting for support of Transgender Friends, Tuesday, Oct 11, 7:00 pm - on Zoom
Political attacks on transgender people are mounting, with legislation and executive orders introduced in most states. As Friends who profess a testimony of equality and integrity, what is our response? Please gather with us to consider this question.
Join on Zoom
- Washington Interfaith Network “Electric Slide Bus Tour”, Saturday, Oct. 15, 11 am
WIN invites members/attenders of affiliated faith organizations to join an “Electric Slide” Bus Tour through the District. This is an opportunity to connect the climate work we are doing to public housing, public lands, and Black Equity Through Home Ownership (BETH). Register here. -
Speeding DC’s Transition off Gas: Protecting the Planet and the Health of Our Families, Sunday, October 23, 12:30-2:00 pm in FMW’s Assembly Room and online.
Join Zoom. By phone dial: 301-715-8592. Enter Mtg ID: 979 505 413#
Peace and Social Concerns is thrilled to sponsor this report-back and campaign-building session with activist leaders with Washington Interfaith Network, Interfaith Power and Light and DC Sierra Club on recent progress, organizing next steps and our new citizen science research on gas stove emissions (which you can join!)
For more information, contact Barbara Briggs, email: BarbaraHBriggs@gmail.com -
Work Days at Catoctin and Shiloh Quaker Camps, Oct 10, 15, 21, 29 and Nov 6, 12
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED to help with general cleanup, cabin demolition and planting of native chestnut trees! Details and sign up here! Contact: Anne Honn, Volunteer Coordinator, Email: anhonn@gmail.com.
FMW Community Highlights & Kudos
- Welcome to the world Marjorie (Meg) Grout! Kate Oberg (aka Mom) reports that Meg arrived early and healthy, weighing 8 lbs 8 oz. Parents: “reeling” but also healthy (weight not reported).
- The wedding of Chris Zubowicz and Heather Weaver was held in good order on Saturday. Many congratulations to the happy couple.
- Child care and First Day School have re-convened! Please let parents know. For more information contact Marissa Yeakey, Marissa.Yeakey@gmail.com
- Thanks to Ann Herzog for all of her hard work in organizing our second Quakerism 101 class, which concludes this Tuesday with a session on Quaker Process.
Tenant Updates- Activities at our Meeting House
-
Today’s DC Minyan Sukkah building with invited Quaker participation
(See attached report.)
Major Business
Marriage and Family Relations - Martha
Second Presentation of the wedding Michael August Vallebuona and Thomas Cannady Wrenn
Friends approved the presentation.
Finance & Stewardship Annual committee report - Merry Pearlstein & Grant Thompson
One friend requested information regarding Balloon Payments. Grant replied that a Balloon Payment is a mortgage where monthly payments do not eventually pay off the debt, and renegotiation will be required. This will be required of FMW in 2032. The prior friend let the meeting know about the upcoming Quaker Fundraisers Gathering, which will be held on November 3rd and 4th.
Friends accepted the report.
Ministry and Worship Annual Committee Report - Jean Capps
One friend noted that in the report, there was a hope to expand on Quaker Chaplains.
Jean noted that the role of Quaker Chaplains would be focused on universities.
Friends accepted the report.
Nominating - Michael Beer
Archer Griffin to Hunger & Homelessness Taskforce. Friends approved the nomination.
Steve Chase, Peace and Social Concerns, 2nd term. Friends approved the nomination.
One friend requested information regarding whether or not we nominate and approve for taskforces. Another friend noted that this information was in the handbook.
Membership - Rob Farr
Associate Membership: The children of Lucia Sanchez, Oliver and Jorge. Friends approved.
Transfer: Patrick Lozada from Davidson (NC) Monthly Meeting
One friend vouched for Patrick’s good standing, noting that he is well loved in the Washington community. Another friend praised Patrick’s thoughtfulness in the young adult friends committee. Friends approved the transfer.
Property Committee - Ken Forsberg & Michael Wood
1. Plans to hire a contract Weekend Events Coordinator, which F&S supports and expects to be revenue neutral. Merry spoke to Bill Strein, Personnel clerk, about this and he is also supportive. My sense is the revenue neutrality means we don't need approval for this, so it's an FYI, but I defer to others on that question.
One friend noted their support for the notion. Another friend requested information on the overall charge. Another friend noted that this charge was going to be negotiated and would be based on an hourly rate. Another friend noted that a competing rate was $500 for a wedding ceremony and $1000 for a wedding ceremony and reception, and that FMW planned to pick up the cost for social security taxes. Another friend asked if there was an individual in mind.
Property committee is still working out the details to the extent that there will not be a financial impact of the hire on the meeting.
2. Plans for an unbudgeted capital expense of about $25,000 to replace windows in Quaker House, for which I believe we need approval. These windows are at or near the end of their lifetimes, so our sense is it's necessary.
One friend praised the past service of the intended vendor. One friend asked whether the surrounding wood would also be replaced. Michael and Ken said yes.
One friend noted that, for that price, an English contractor who works on Quaker meetings could be found, with a likely competitive quote. One friend noted that there were 8 windows (rather than 4) and that the expected cost was closer to $26,000. One friend requested information on how the intended windows would match the existing architecture. Michael noted that the matter had been considered and the windows would match. One friend requested information about where the funds were coming from.
Another friend noted that the meeting was currently in deficit, so the funds would be coming from our reserves. Another friend noted that these expenses would be added to the previously predicted budget.
One friend noted that only one quarter of individuals financially support the meeting.
One friend noted that they were unable to approve the expenditure without viewing the windows given the existing deficit, but they were willing to stand aside. This friend hoped to provide additional input to the committee.
Friends approved the $26,000 expenditure for the 8 windows. One friend stood aside.
3. Plans for a deck over the west lawn. Two parts to this.
a. This is a pretty significant change in our plans and in the look of the campus, that we did not arrive at lightly, so we would like to share the path to this decision with the Meeting.
b. This will involve an unbudgeted capital expense of about $25,000 that needs approval.
One friend requested information about the plants around the periphery of the garden.
Ken noted that only the lawn would be covered and the plants and gardens would remain.
One friend noted their sadness, and that the meeting has spent roughly $100,000 to make the lawn work, and that the meeting was previously overoptimistic and that the lawn was a lost cause. They noted their support for the notion.
One friend asked whether we owned the plastic lawn coverings. Another friend stated we do not.
One friend asked whether it was possible to view the proposed deck plan ahead of time. Ken stated that there were pictures available online. One friend who had used the vendor praised their work.
One friend also requested information regarding cost. Ken noted that the existing estimate was roughly $25,000 for the materials. One friend requested the name of the intended color. Ken noted the color was Biscane. One friend requested information regarding the use of a ramp. Ken noted that there would be a roughly one inch wedge used as a transition to the existing infrastructure. One friend raised the idea of using a black owned business for the materials. Friends approved the $25,000 expenditure.
Hunger & Homelessness Taskforce Annual Committee Report - CJ Lewis
See attachment.
Friends accepted the report.
Proposed FMW sponsorship "Annual Homeless Memorial Service: The Longest Night of the Year" at NY Avenue Presbyterian Church on December 20/21.
Hunger and Homelessness Taskforce and Peace & Social Concerns support this leading brought by Patty Murphy, who writes: But: for many years I have wanted to see if FMW would lend its name as a sponsor to the "Annual Homeless Memorial Service: The Longest Night of the Year" which occurs at NYAvenue Presbyterian Church on December 20, or 21 each year. On this day, very many cities in the US remember those who have died over the year in the homeless community. It usually features various local priests, pastors, rabbis, imams and others who provide an ecumenical service, read the names of all of those who have died known to be in the homeless community. There is also often a procession with a coffin representing the Homeless which all follow up to Luther House to memorialize. I have checked, and sponsorship simply implies including "Friends Meeting of Washington" typed on the back of the program that is given out to those attending. No money is required. I have attended each of these services unless I am in India for the last several years, and will continue to do so going forward.
One friend noted their surprise that we hadn’t done this before. Friends approved the sponsorship.
Friends approved the minutes.
Meeting for Business concluded at 1:52 PM.
ADDENDA: ATTACHED COMMITTEE REPORTS
Finance & Stewardship Committee
Annual Report, October 9, 2022
This report covers the period September 1, 2021, through August 31, 2022.
The Committee notes that a shift has taken place in Friends Meeting of Washington
over the past several years. For decades, we managed our own affairs as a relatively
small faith community staffed by volunteers and a small paid staff. But the decision to
undertake a major renovation financed with a mortgage has imposed large (and
sometimes unanticipated) burdens on our community. We now must manage and pay
for not only our religious home but also a venue that we actively market. To be candid,
many of our traditional systems and practices are strained to support this
transformation. As the Committee entrusted with the financial health of the Meeting and
with encouraging voluntary support, we are struggling. Administrative burdens imposed
by our new reality have often been too heavy for old systems to support. Unexpected
expenses have cropped up. Volunteer time has been harder to find. The Committee is
working hard to upgrade and patch systems where possible and to find ways to address
new problems as they emerge. We ask for the Meeting’s assistance and support during
this multi-year process.
The past year has been a period of ongoing challenge and transition for both FMW and
our Committee. Although seemingly now on the wane, Covid19 has continued to affect
event rental income, as has the problem of trying to maintain a reliable, attractive
surface in the Lower West Garden, our most in-demand event rental venue. We
continue to work closely with our new bookkeeping firm (Access Accounting); we have
transitioned to new accounting and bill-paying software, and we are pleased to report
that the handoff of responsibilities to our new Financial Coordinator is going well.
- Routine committee activities have included
- the development of the Meeting’s operating budget;
- coordination with the Property Committee in developing capital budgets;
- drafting the giving budget for the Meeting;
- reviewing periodic financial reports;
- monitoring the Meeting’s finances, including its various banking and investment
- accounts;
- reviewing and recommending changes in the balancing of investment funds as
- appropriate in anticipation of market conditions;
- reviewing and recommending disposition of various dormant funds;
- reviewing and approving proposed staff pay increases; and
- approving the engagement of additional technical support for campus activities.
Communication efforts have included ongoing relationships with other committees,
individual members and attenders, and the Meeting overall.
We worked closely with other Meeting committees to determine their financial
needs and reporting requirements.
We prepared and mailed timely notices confirming Friends’ taxable contributions.
We acknowledged Friends’ generosity through personal thank you notes.
We corresponded with BYM regarding our apportionment payment and other
issues.
We continue to seek better ways to clearly communicate the Meeting’s financial
position to our members and attenders.
A crucial ongoing objective is the documentation of financial procedures, software and
systems to facilitate current operations as well as future transitions in personnel. We
hope to spend less time quenching immediate fires and refocus our efforts on
fundraising and making certain that the Meeting’s financial practices reflect its values
and are clearly communicated to its members and attenders.
As previously noted, the Committee works with all other Meeting committees to
determine and, to the extent possible given our projected operating deficit, meet their
financial needs. We (particularly Neil Froemming and Anita Drever, our former and
current Financial Coordinator, respectively) work especially closely with the bookkeeper
to be certain that committees such as the Mary Jane Simpson Scholarship Fund have
access to current, accurate financial information. We also commune with the Property
Committee and Trustees to confirm mutual understanding of reporting and financial
responsibilities.
Our fundraising subcommittee continues to generate regular appeals for donations to
the general fund, especially targeting efforts to expand the number of Friends who make
regular contributions to the Meeting. Work on planned giving and the revival of the
Capital Campaign is in process and will be the focus of greater attention in the near
future.
We were delighted to welcome Jason Terry and Justin Potisit as new members this
year. With their advent and that of Anita Drever as Financial Coordinator, the current
demographics of our committee more nearly reflect those of the Meeting as a whole,
providing increased confidence in our future. We note, however, that younger members
face the demands of jobs, families and other obligations and may find it difficult to
participate fully in some Committee activities. We seek additional members who have
financial expertise and who are committed to helping FMW achieve secure its financial
future. Membership in the Committee is open to members and attenders alike.
The Committee believes its description in the Meeting’s Handbook is generally
accurate, although it may propose minor modifications for consideration.
Respectfully submitted,
Grant Thompson, co-Clerk and Assistant Treasurer, Merry Pearlstein, co-Clerk
Dan Dozier, Bill Foskett, John Bluedorn, Meg Greene, Jason Terry, Justin Potisit,
Neil Froemming, former Financial Coordinator, Anita Drever, Financial Coordinator
David Miller, Treasurer
Ministry and Worship Committee
Annual Report - October 2022
Ensuring the good order of Meetings for Worship is a major responsibility of the Committee. Many changes had to be made to keep Friends safe during the pandemic that began with the lockdown in March 2020. FMW has gradually opened the Meeting House for in person worship and other Meeting activities. Support included multiple opportunities for Meetings for Worship in person and on Zoom. The 10:30 am Meeting for Worship was also offered in hybrid form (in person and via Zoom). This has allowed Friends from around the world to join FMW for worship. The 9:00 am Meeting for Worship continues to meet only on Zoom. For some Friends, worship via Zoom is the only worship they have had available to them since the COVID pandemic began. There is also an outdoor Meeting for Worship when the weather permits. The committee collaborates with the Clerks, FMW staff and other committees to carry out responsibility for Meetings for Worship.
The committee convenes Memorial Meetings for Worship, schedules committees and individuals to sit Head of Meeting (the main meeting), worship sharing for loss and clearness committees for individuals.
Several Spiritual Development Programs under the care of FMW are managed by the M&W Committee (see attachment) and serves many Friends from FMW and the wider Quaker community. (See attached Sept. 2022 Spiritual Development programs report). Among these programs, Adult Quaker Religious Education has conducted two sessions of Quaker 101, one in the Spring and one this Fall, with 20-30 participants for each session. Participant backgrounds include new attendees, Friends with some background in Quakerism and a few with strong backgrounds. Evaluations are done after each session and results are used to adjust the program. Sessions are recorded and will soon be available to the wider FMW and Quaker communities on the FMW website. The committee notes, with appreciation, the widespread support from the Meeting community with funds, volunteer facilitators for individual sessions and tech support for Zoom and recording the sessions.
Earlier this year, Friends approached the committee to ask that the title for the separate 10:30 am Meeting for Worship that had been called “Special Welcome for Gays and Lesbians” be laid down. They explained they felt a separate meeting was no longer needed because LGBTQ+ Friends are integrated into all aspects of the Meeting (a cause for celebration) and continuing with this distinction was not only not needed but continued to “separate” them from the Meeting as a whole. Meeting for Business accepted the minute from the committee and made this change.
The committee is currently working with the Religious Education Committee to welcome children back into to the 10:30 am Meeting for Worship after an absence for over 2 years due to the pandemic. We have missed the young people in the Meeting and are excited for them to return. The pandemic has presented FMW with many challenges for keeping attendees safe, while at the same time reducing barriers to participation.
In consultation with the FMW community the committee produced the Spiritual State of the Meeting that contributes, in turn, to the BYM Spiritual State of the Yearly Meeting. Feedback was requested through surveys, called meetings and individual contributions. Overall responses were very positive, but some Friends felt the Meeting needed to do more to take steps to address racism and create a welcoming environment for all Friends and seekers. The report was presented to the FMW Meeting for Business for followup on the concerns and recommendations. BYM is also attempting to address racism throughout the entire Yearly Meeting. Work on this is ongoing.
As we look forward to our work in the coming year, the committee will be exploring where Quaker practice can be strengthened throughout all aspects of Meeting life. A special initiative will be to explore the formal role of Quaker chaplains, primarily as liaisons with local universities, a practice already informally in place. We are also exploring how the BYM and other Quaker Queries and Advices can be used throughout the activities and communications in the Meeting.
Delegating some key functions of the committee to individual or groups of members has facilitated the workload of the committee and provided the Meeting focal persons for some functions:
- Memorial Meetings: Joe Izzo
- Adult ed/Spiritual Development Programs: Ann Herzog
- 9:00 Meeting for Worship: Ann Herzog
- Head of Meeting Schedule: Was Amit Pandya; replacement TBD
- Clearness Committees: Jean Capps
- Worship Sharing on Loss: Kathy Powell
- Quaker Chaplains: Joe Izzo, Liz Pomerleau
Respectfully submitted,
Jean Meyer Capps, Clerk
Ministry and Worship Committee
FMW Quaker Spiritual Development Programs
September 2022
Friends who participate in FMW’s Quaker Spiritual Development (QSD) programs can support and enrich their spiritual journey. Monthly and recurring QSD programs currently available through FMW can be found here. In addition to the recurring programs, the Ministry & Worship Committee facilitates Workshops and Presentations that address topics of interest to Friends which are listed below.
Current Classes, Workshops & Presentations
Quakerism 101 –
FMW’s Quakerism 101 class consists of five sessions that will provide a strong foundation of understanding as you begin your spiritual journey into the rich tradition of the Religious Society of Friends - Quakers. Current sessions are held on Tuesdays, 7:00-8:30 pm from September 13th through October 10th. The committee anticipates offering the course again in the Spring and Fall of 2023.
Session 1. Quaker Worship & Vocal Ministry
Session 2. Quaker History
Session 3. Quaker Faith & Practices
Session 4. Quaker Testimonies
Session 5. Quaker Process
For more information contact Ann Herzog, email: aherzog333@yahoo.com
2023, Quakerism 201: A Deeper Dive
Interested in a “Deeper Dive” into Quaker thought and practice? Through this in-depth Book Study Group you will read and discuss books like John Woolman's Journal; Robert Barclay's "An Apology for the true Christian Divinity"; Margaret Hope Bacon's "The Mothers of Feminism"; Michael Sheerin's "Beyond Majority Rule" and other thought provoking books on Quaker faith and practice. A Deeper Dive will meet for 90 - 120 minutes on the third Sunday of every month starting on November 20th. Taking one book at a time, Joe Izzo, a member of Friends Meeting of Washington, will moderate the discussion. Contact Joe Izzo, jizzo4102@gmail.com for more information.
Spiritual Friendship Circles
Spiritual Friendship Circles of 3 or 4 Friends meet monthly to reflect and share discernment around specific queries addressing their spiritual lives. In order to learn more contact: Tish Thames, viticia@gmail.com.
If you would like help in starting a group for FMW’s Quaker Spiritual Development program, please contact Ann Herzog at aherzog333@yahoo.com, cell 202.246.5125.
FMW Hunger and Homelessness Annual Report
October 2022
Traditional Programs:
- Church of the Pilgrim
- Christ House
- The Grate Patrol
- So Others Might Eat
- The Shoebox Project
Church of the Pilgrim
This year's request is: $250.00 to assist with purchasing the turkey, cheese, bread, yogurt, peanut butter and jelly, granola bars, plastic bags paper bags and plastic utensils and napkins. Plus unknown cost of water each month.
Patty Murphy has been providing hot stew, bag lunches and haircuts to homeless men and women who show up at the dutch door of the kitchen facing the backyard of the Church of the Pilgrims for 30 years. Zorba's has been selling us the food for most of these years for $450 per month. They have decided to provide the food for free from now on.
We could use some committed additional volunteers, as three of our volunteers are now well in their 70's, and would like to take a month off time to time from volunteering (11-2pm) each first First Day of the month.
The Grate Patrol - requesting $400 per month
Emilie Schmeidler states, Last spring, as we were trying to get Grate Patrol relaunched, we met with Peace and Social Concerns with a budget estimated on the pre-covid costs. This year we are feeding fewer people than we did before covid. I am trying to be mindful of costs while at the same time trying to make the food, including snacks, healthy. So far, I've only bought food for two months (slightly less than $300 each month). We had some left-over paper supplies to draw on these months. Starting now, I'll also need to buy paper lunch bags, sandwich bags, napkins, and odds and ends.
Christ House
Gray Handley and his family continue to support Christ House with meals on the last Sunday of the month without requesting reimbursement from the Meeting.
So Others Might Eat (S.O.M.E)
We have not resumed our in-person support of SOME. It has proven impossible thus far to recruit a core team of Quakers who will commit to showing up at 6:15am on a Saturday once a month. We contribute funding alone at this point. We ask that the Meeting continue to budget $6,175 for S.O.M.E.
The Shoebox (Backpack) Project
This year the event will be held December 3 and 4, 2022.
In FY 21, Shoebox spending was $18,584 and donations were $49,040.
As of April 2022, spending was $25,783 and donations were $20,740.
FMW Rental Report, September 2022
Prepared by Brian Lutenegger, Event and Rental Manager
Financials –FY23 and FY24 Bookings
Here is a breakdown of where we are in term of bookings for FY23 as of September 30, 2022 in comparison with other past and future fiscal years.
Our budgeted goal for FY23 is $300,000. The charts above show that we’ve booked over $194,000 in rentals so far this fiscal year. Our fiscal year runs from July 1 to the following June 30th.
We’ve also booked $6,500 worth of events for FY24.
Financials – FY23 Earned
In September, we earned $45,236.70 for events successfully completed and nearly $96,000 fiscal year to date. Approximately 10% of earnings during September came from events booked on Peerspace.
The following activities occurred at FMW during September:
- DC Minyan continuing to hold regular services along with another Jewish community – along with celebratory events connected to these communities
- Two weddings for non-FMW members
- A bat mitzvah
- Memorial services
- Several staff retreats / conferences / workshops
- Weekly Al-Anon meetings
- Several celebratory events for individuals and nonprofits
- Film crews
- School for International Training students preparing to go overseas for the semester
Office Space Rentals
Income from office rentals has changed in recent months due to turnover in tenants.
This fiscal year, we have so far collected $37.295 in office tenant rent prior to counting most October rent. Our fiscal year budget is $150,000.
At present, we have ten nonprofit and small business tenants. Two of our existing tenants plan to move into one of our vacant spaces together, so we will have additional vacancies.
Opportunities for the FMW community to help with rentals
Please think about whether your employer, an organization whose board you sit on – or even yourself for a special event – might be able to make use of our event rental spaces. Of course, at least for now, these events would need to be kept small and happen safely.
If you have ideas for content that we can post on Facebook and Instagram that might be of interest to a wide (not necessarily Quaker) audience, I am happy to consider.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fmw.event.venue/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/friendsmeetingofwashington/
Finally, if you know of any potential new office tenants, please connect them to me.