Page 8 - First Churches 2019-20Annual Report.docx

making is contributing to the spiritual health and worship of members of the FC congregation – both those who perform and those who listen. We are so blessed to have the access to the piano and organ, the beautiful exalted space in the sanctuary, and the people who are willing to donate their time, skills, talents and efforts. This music is essential to the continuation of First Churches.
Since we are not singing, I plan on requesting that we redirect some of the money allocated to purchase vocal music to renovation of the Steinway piano which is badly in need of attention – especially needing new bass strings.
Thank you:
Todd Weir and Sarah Buteux for helping make First Churches a special place to work. I have found that in times of stress (and it has been a stressful time) both of these leaders have been helpful, encouraging, flexible and non-judgmental. Jenna Sellars and Bill Holloway have both been attentive and helpful in attending to the needs of the choir and music program. The additional security on the building has helped me to feel safe – especially when I am in the church alone.
Submitted Sept. 14, 2020
Rebecca Phelps, First Churches Minister of Music
Church Administrator
Last year at this time, I was thrown head first into creating this Annual Report within my first 2 weeks. This year after my first full year at First Churches, I can say that I’m prepared and much less stressed!
It has been a pleasure to work with the wonderful staff and members at First Churches, and I feel at home here with you all.
My job was going strong, with rentals increasing, revenue rising, and no major issues until Covid-19 hit in March. Since then, my job has changed a bit, facility rentals are reduced to one or 2 recovery meetings, and people in the building have been reduced to a few members a week who have a need to be here.
Rest assured, the facility is being cared for, phone calls are being answered, mail is flowing, and bills are being paid! I am in the office Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, most weeks, and working from home on Tuesdays and Thursdays. My cell phone receives a forwarded call when people call the main line and I’m not here, so no important calls should be missed.
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