Minutes 2016/1

Divine Mercy Women's Guild January 11, 2016

Before the meeting began and in preparation for Lent, Lauren presented the Guild Members with all the supplies we needed to create a Blessing Jar that we could fill with remembrances and special favors bestowed on us from God, a special jar we could fill not only during Lent but everyday.

BUSINESS MEETING

Elaine began the meeting with a prayer concerning trust and confirming that there is no limit to the generosity we share.

CORRESPONDING SECRETARY: Yvonne read several Thank You cards to the Guild; two from Msgr. Gerry, for his Anniversary Celebration and Christmas gifts that he said were most generous. He wanted the Guild to know that he purchased a new iPad. Deacon Dennis also sent a TY as did several Poinsettia recipients and the Peterborough Food Pantry who wanted us to know that our monetary donations helped purchase food for several families throughout the holiday season.

TREASURER'S REPORT: Beth presented a DMWG Trial Balance as of January 31,2016 which hasn't been finalized but reflects expenses and credits through the end of January 2016. An audit has been completed and a more precise balance will be available at the next meeting.

OLD BUSINESS

Sue extended a THANK YOU to Jean and everyone who helped with the Christmas Potluck and to all who worked on the Holiday Stroll and the Blood Drive and Linda Caracappa THANKS all who contributed Cuisinart Stamps which are being used to acquire items for the Parish kitchen.

Holiday Stroll: Beth distributed the 2015 Holiday Stroll Report, which included gross receipt amounts for both the Fair and Mini Fair with expense estimates and a breakdown amount total for each table (bake, cafe, crafts, raffle). This year's Stroll total was $7186. Beth indicated that she is still receiving expense receipts but we were given a comparison of income totals from 2006 through 2015 and this year's income is the highest by almost $2000. She will have a more accurate total number at the next meeting.

Blood Drive: Kathy said the drive was a big success; 60 pints of blood was collected which was greatly appreciated as was all the food and help by so many Guild members. She is hoping that the December Blood Drive can be held in the Divine Mercy Parish Hall; she will keep us updated.

New Aprons are available for $12; if interested contact Sue 525-4934

NEW BUSINESS

A BIG THANK YOU from Sue for supplying her with so many of your Old Christmas Cards

Craft Group: Helen Limina extended an open invitation to join the DMWG craft group, which usually meets twice a month in the Parish Hall on Mondays at 6:30. We work on craft projects for the Holiday Stroll all year; it's an informal group of ladies who enjoy being creative together. Helen also wanted ladies to know that all projects and ideas are welcomed and meeting attendance is not obligatory; if you have projects you work on at home and can't attend meetings, they also can be contributed to the Stroll.  The next craft meeting is January 25th at 6:30 in DM Hall.

Hancock Community Supper: Helen announced that a request was made by the Town of Hancock to permanently move the Supper date from April to February beginning this year.  Jean made a motion to change the date and it was seconded and passed. This year's Supper will be February 25th; contact Helen if you can help or need more info 924-5088

The Mystery Ride this year is in April. Janet and Claire will have more information at our March meeting.

Holiday Stroll Location: Sue asked Guild Members to discuss voting on the possibility of changing the location for this year's Holiday Stroll from Bass Hall to Divine Mercy Hall. It was suggested that a pro and con list be made with consideration to both locations; many members contributed their ideas, which involved cost, foot traffic, parking, community involvement, transporting of fair items, and space. After numerous heartfelt and positive exchanges among members, a ballot vote was taken (including three absentee votes) and the vote result: Divine Mercy Hall 18 Bass Hall 13.

Closing Prayer: Elaine's prayer asked for wisdom and guidance as we move forward with our new plans for Divine Mercy.

The meeting adjourned at 8:45. An assortment of treats were provided by Linda C, Lauren, and Cheryl L, the hot chocolate was delicious.

THANK YOU LADIES.

Our next meeting is March 14th; there is no February meeting.

Respectfully submitted by, 

Gracie Hartman, Secretary

Minutes 2015/11

Divine Mercy Women’s Guild November 9, 2015

Elaine began the November meeting with an opening prayer for Thanksgiving.

The meeting started at 6:30 with Divine Mercy Bingo led by Lauren, an Icebreaker and fun game, which helped to better acquaint us with our DM members. Denise Long was the top winner with the most bingos.

Sue welcomed Donna Ellis, our newest DM Guild Member

Sue asked DM Guild Members if they would agree, this one time only, to use our usual Food Panty collection for a Thanksgiving Dinner given by DM Parish. A motion was made by Elaine and seconded by Michele and accepted by all members. $175 was collected.

Corresponding Secretary

Yvonne read a letter and presented a framed Kitchen Prayer sent to DM from United Congregational Church in celebration of our new kitchen. All agreed that the framed prayer would be hung in the kitchen; Yvonne will send a Thank You card for the gift.

Treasurer’s Report

Beth passed out a copy of the current Check Register, which indicated entries through Oct. 31, 2015 and explained various expenditures. She also informed us that an audit was conducted. The new balance is $3,645.48

informed us that an audit was conducted. The new balance is $3,645.48

Old Business

Monsignor’s Anniversary Party: Sue thanked everyone who helped with the party, which was a huge success.

Constitution and By-Law Changes It was suggested that wording in Article VI be changed and should read “ The Constitution and By-Laws may be amended at any business meeting by a two-thirds vote of the membership present, provided one business meeting notice has been given to the membership. A motion to change the wording was made by Denise; Karen B seconded and the motion was accepted. With this addition, all the changes sent out to the members last month, were voted on and accepted.

New Business

Kitchen Care and Maintenance: Joyce addressed using the new kitchen and that we would all need to make sure it stays nice. Each group using the kitchen will be responsible for cleanup. There are supplies available for use but if special themed items are desired, then that expense will be the responsibility of the group.  She asked that any extra items purchased for a particular event be taken home. There will be instructions posted for appliance and equipment usage.

November 16^th Program: Lauren announce that Fr. Chris Alar, Director of the Association of Marian Helpers at the National Shrine of Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, MA, will explain the promise of God's mercy and the devotion of Divine Mercy at 7pm in the Parish Hall

Holiday Stroll:

Help is needed from everyone especially for set-up and breakdown.

Karen Bannister spoke before the Guild concerning several issues with regards to the Holiday Stroll. All details are listed in the November Guild Agenda and are as follows:

Friday Hours 10am-4pm   Sat. 7:30am-4pm;

Karen took care of parking for Sat. Use Depot Square for Friday

Piano players are in place (throughout the day) & Bell Ringers (11-12)

Balloons will be out front; Posters will be available

Card table requests were made at the meeting

Sign-up sheets for set-up and breakdown were available

Individual Areas

Crafts: Kathy Sullivan put out sign-up sheets for the craft area; crafts completed at home should be brought to Bass Hall on Friday morning to be priced and inventoried. There is a need for help all day especially on Saturday evening after the fair to pack up all items not sold; those items will be immediately brought to DVM Parish Hall for the Mini Fair after Mass on Saturday and Sunday.  For more info contact Kathy at 924-9967

Café: Beth put out a sign-up sheet; she needs help all day with various positions within the Café. She mentioned she would share her expertise with anyone interested in operating the Café in the future and that this year she plans on having extra help with all facets of the Café operation Bring a mug; free coffee is provided throughout the day for working members. Contact Beth for info at 588-2076

Bake Table & Cookie Trays: Janice announced that she would be in the Parish Hall Friday morning and that cookies should be brought to the hall at 8:30am. Cookie trays will be assembled from 9 –10am and immediately delivered to Bass Hall afterwards. Cookies and baked items can also be brought anytime DVM office is open and left in the kitchen with a note that they are for Janice. She will be at Bass Hall later Friday morning with prepared trays and on Saturday morning accepting baked goods. Janice will gladly pick up cookies and any donated baked goods; she is requesting 3 – 4 dozen cookies, all recipes are welcomed, cookies will be used for cookie trays. Additional small cookie plates are made and will be given to each of the participating Holiday Stroll churches. Help is needed both Friday morning at the church and at Bass Hall and all day Saturday. There is a sign-up sheet with designated time slots. If you want to sign-up to help or need more info, contact Janice 588-2356

Raffle Baskets: Linda Caracappa needs help on Saturday selling raffle tickets for the various baskets she has created. A sign-up sheet is available for participants. She also needs items to fill some of her baskets; homemade goodies (jelly, jam, relish, applesauce etc.) can be brought to the Parish kitchen closet; there’s a bin that says tablecloths towards the left on the floor. Gift cards are needed and can also be left in the bin. Raffle winners will be chosen at the Mini Fair after Sunday Mass.  For questions or more info contact Linda 924-3504

Blood Drive December 11^th:  Kathy Sullivan has sign-up sheets to help with the annual blood drive held at United Congregational Church. Help is needed with food donations and in the kitchen, making sandwiches, serving soup and preparing various finger foods. Food should be dropped off by 12:15pm at the church. Assistance is also needed helping with the blood donors. Kathy is hoping that next Spring DM will have a blood drive in our Parish Hall. If you can help in any way, Contact Kathy 924-9967

Christmas Party December 14^th The DM December meeting is also our annual Christmas Party. Sue will be the chairman; contact her if you can help or for any further information.  525-4934

Holiday Trees in Peterborough December 11^th & 12^th Lauren spoke about this event, which is held at the Community Center. She explained that Christmas trees are creatively decorated with a variety of themes and designs. Last year DM’s tree was awarded a gold ribbon in the “True Meaning Of Christmas” category, a beautiful tree encompassing the Nativity. Lauren would like DM to participate again and is asking for ideas and helpers to produce another spectacular creation. If you want to help contact Lauren 924-9664

Aprons: Sue is inquiring about obtaining more Guild aprons and the current cost. If you are interested in purchasing an apron and didn’t sign-up, contact Sue 525-4934

Elaine closed the meeting with a prayer and a beautiful, thoughtful sentiment, that of a grateful heart.

The meeting adjourned at 8:30 and was followed by refreshments delightfully presented by Joyce, Janice and Helen.  Thank you ladies, everything was delicious.

Twenty-Eight Guild Members were in attendance.

Respectfully submitted by,

Gracie Hartman, Secretary     

Divine Mercy Women’s Guild November 9, 2015

Minutes 2015/10

Divine Mercy Women’s Guild October 5, 2015

Our annual Pot Luck dinner began with Mass. Msgr. Gerry blessed the Blessed Mother Statue given to the parish by the Women’s Guild. After Mass all in attendance gathered in the new parish hall for dinner.

President Sue Koziell welcomed the Guild members and then introduced new members:  Ann Veverka, Patty Long, Claudette Levesque, Olga Murphy Maureen Petro, Kathy Wasserloos, Barbara Goodwin and guest Rene Rabideau; We proceeded to enjoy a wonderful dinner.

Business Meeting

Sue called the meeting to order at 7:50pm; 48 members were in attendance.  Sue began the meeting by thanking all who participated in Divine Mercy Reception Opening on September 26^th, especially to Denise Long who coordinated the event and a special Thank you to all the ladies who assisted Denise in making this such a memorable event for Divine Mercy.

Corresponding Secretary

Yvonne Murray read Thank you notes from Joyce Schmidt thanking the Women’s Guild for the Ethel Cavanaugh Award she was given at the May banquet, two notes from Deacon Dennis, for his birthday gift and the invitation for him and his wife to attend our May Banquet and from Donna Coty regarding the Hancock Community Dinner that was provided by the Guild and organized by Helen Limina.

Treasury Report

Beth McGurty distributed a proposed budge for 7/1/2015 – 6/30/2016.  She is still awaiting last year’s budget numbers because there has been no official audit. Beth used many of the same money amounts as last year for the new budget items, on the premise that most numbers would stay the same (Christmas Fair costs: chowder, Bass Hall rental space, Bell Ringers) the $400 Anniversary Present for Msgr. Gerry. She assured everyone that by our November meeting she would have the audit results. She indicated that the Blessed Mother Statue was shipped expeditiously and free with the help of Diane Castonguay A motion to approve the proposed budget was made by Yvonne and to accept by Jean Frechette, the motion passed.

Generations Together

Lauren Martin explained Generations Together has become a special family tradition during the Advent season.  Families gather together and make an advent wreath and share dinner. This event is supported by the Guild.  For more information or if you want to help, contact Lauren or Linda Caracappa.

Helping Hands

Joyce Schmidt asked that the Guild consider making two Helping Hand groups.  Each group would have a team leader; having two groups will help balance the responsibility for receptions and functions.

Hostess Chairman Cathy Buffum distributed a sign up list for monthly refreshments

Anniversary Party October 25, 2015

Linda C addressed Msgr. Gerry’s 40 Year Anniversary Party, which she is co-chairing with Lauren Martin. She described the menu and explained that this was a parish event and that all Divine Mercy groups would be involved and participating.  An Italian buffet, Msgr. Gerry’s favorite, will be served There is a need for food items and help to prepare, serve and clean up.  Contact the ladies listed above if you can be of assistance in any capacity.

Secret Angels

Kathy Sullivan distributed Secret Angel forms. She explained again that she was hoping for a large participation among Guild members and that Angels will be revealed at the June banquet. Two new angels forgot to pull names from the Secret Angel basket so please remember to do so at the November meeting.

Miscellaneous

Kathy Wasserloos has landscaping concerns and explained to the Guild that she would like to take up some of the old plants from the old church and re-plant them in the back of the new church.  She has a to-do list and will need help.

Jane Meneghini announced that the Pastoral Council will have speakers pertaining to the Pope’s Encyclical Letter on climate change and the environment, an interfaith event.  For more information refer to the Parish Bulletin or contact Jane.

Continued Business

Sue addressed changes to the By Laws that were made to clarify some points, mostly to laws that didn’t apply any longer.  She will go over everything at the next meeting and a vote will be taken. Sue will email changes to everyone and have copies for those who don’t have email.

Sue thanked Denise and Cheryl for their work in organizing the Pot Luck Dinner; it was a huge success and greatly enjoyed by everyone.

The meeting closed at 8:25pm

Respectfully submitted by,

Gracie Hartman, Secretary

Minutes 2015/09

Divine Mercy Women’s Guild September  14, 2015

New Registration Cards were given to all members and dues were collected.  Members were given the 2015-2016 Calendar and the September 14^th evening agenda.

 The meeting was called to order by President Sue Koziell at approximately 6:45, 31 members were present.

Prayer Advisor Elaine Giacomo’s prayer asked that the Guild members reflect on our last meeting in St Peter’s Parish Hall and that we should be excited about our new meeting space in Divine Mercy Church Hall.

Sue Koziell began the meeting by welcoming members Diane Castonguay and Claire Juengst and then proceeded to introduce the Executive Board Members.

Vice President – Lauren Martin

Recording Secretary – Grace Hartman

Corresponding Secretary – Yvonne Murray

Treasurer – Beth McGurty

Guild Advisor- Michelle Urban

Prayer Advisor- Elaine Giacomo

Director- Mary Ann Beard

Director- Ginny Chevalier

Sue announced to Guild members that the new parish hall will be locked promptly at 9pm; all meetings there must end by that time and she displayed a gavel which she will use, if necessary, to keep matters in order. She also addressed the new seating arrangement; using a podium in front of seated members, as a center focus for speakers; it was agreed that this new arrangement was preferred. She stated that the new church hall would only have round tables to use for future events.

Events and Calendar changes discussed at Executive Board Meeting:

September 26   Opening of Divine Mercy Church

October 4 Divine Mercy Church Public Open House

October 5 Potluck (moved from September)

(Mass @6:00 Divine Mercy Church)

October 25th Monsignor’s Anniversary Open House 2:00 – 4:00pm

Have only one meeting in the winter either in January or February depending on weather (snow date)

Move the Mystery Ride into April, so it would not interfere with Lent, maybe have a Special Lenten Program - Lauren Martin

The Annual Banquet would now be in June.

Treasurer’s Report

Beth McGurty reported that the current bank balance is $6377.27

The $10,000 to be used for the kitchen was distributed as follows: Refrigerator $1050 (discount of $600), Ten Burner Stove with Double Oven, Dishwasher with Sanitizer, 8’ Stainless Prep Table, Three Part Sink… Total for everything: $10,164.

Beth spoke about the new church and explained that there are two niches’ where two statues will be placed. In the right niche will be the statue of St Joseph beautifully refurbished by Sue Koziell and in the left niche will be a new statue of Mary (Our Lady of Grace) Beth passed a photo of the statue and explained that she ordered the new larger statue, because it would be more comparable in size to the statue of Joseph.  The older, smaller statue of Mary from St. Peter’s Church will be placed outside in the narthex of Divine Mercy. All the ladies agreed that it is a beautiful addition to our new church.

The cost of the new statue is $2475 (minus $200 from the sale of the old kitchen stove) for a total of $2275. The board approved the purchase and Beth asked for the Guild’s approval. Motion to approve was given by Rhea Taylor, seconded by Linda Caracappa.

Continued Business

The Hostess Committee Chair position needs to be filled. This person coordinates two or three ladies for each monthly meeting to provide refreshments. Janice McKenzie, past chair, explained the duties are simple, once you know the ladies who are helping, you might make a reminder phone call before the meeting. This year the Guild will be responsible to help with the Divine Mercy Church Opening, the Public Open House and Monsignor’s Anniversary.

Divine Mercy Opening

Denise Long sent a sign-up list for the Divine Mercy Opening on September 26.  She explained that some of the other Divine Mercy Groups would be helping with refreshments. Drop off will be on Friday 8:30 – Noon in the parish hall and on Saturday at 11:30.  Help to prepare food is needed from noon – 2 pm. There is also a need for help to serve and clean up.

Holiday Stroll

Chairs for Christmas Fair

Coordinator Kathy Sullivan

Craft Table

Bake Table Janice McKenzie

Raffle Table Linda Caracappa & Cheryl Lastrina

Café Beth McGurty & Denise Long

Karen Bannister will coordinate the Hall facility.

Linda Caracappa announced the need for canned items for one of the raffle baskets. 

Rhea Taylor will make 3 pinecone wreaths

Janice McKenzie addressed the need for a craft table coordinator to schedule people to set-up and clean up and times when help is needed at the table.

Secret Angels

Kathy Sullivan discussed keeping the Secret Angels program active. She explained that it was a nice way of remembering each other, bringing people together, maybe with a small token gift, or a card on a birthday or holiday.  She will bring sign up sheets at the next meeting.

Helping Hands

Joyce Schmidt will update the list at the next meeting.

Katie Kachavos spoke to the Women’s Guild regarding the removal and re-planting of some of the current plants and shrubs at St Peters including two Japanese Maple trees. She is concerned that when the church is demolished, plants will be lost and she would like to create a memorial garden using plants from St Peter’s, temporarily planting them somewhere in the cemetery next to the church with the possibility of a future move to Divine Mercy. Roots would need to be protected when moving the trees and she would need help from someone who is familiar with transplanting but she was convinced it should and could be accomplished successfully.

Food Bank Envelope $124

Elaine closed the meeting with a prayer and then asked for ladies to share memories they had of the Women’s Guild over the years since this would be our last gathering in St Peter’s Hall. Several ladies shared happy experiences with other members involving, potluck dinners, secret angels, mystery rides and more, which resulted in lasting friendships and an enjoyable exchange for all.

Respectfully submitted by

Gracie Hartman, Secretary