March 26

We are getting ready to start parish hall renovation this summer. The Diocese of Virginia sent a letter dated March 18 that provided approval from the Bishop and Standing Committee for St. Luke's to secure construction financing...good news! This is one of two required approvals. The second approval involves the congregation as we intend to use Church property as collateral. Canon 15, Section 2 states that the congregation must consent as we are encumbering real property of the Church and directs a congregation meeting be called. In consultation with Nick, I am calling that meeting 11:15 a.m. on Sunday April 18. I have asked the co-chairs of the Building for Ministry team, Treasurer, and clergy to be present to respond to any questions on the projects prior to a call for vote on the loan. This will be similar to voting as we did in our Zoom annual meeting held in February. It is very important that parishioners mark their calendar and plan to attend. Please watch for further communication on the meeting.

Also on the parish hall renovation. Don Hazen reported receipt of lab results on the asbestos study...no issues. More good news!

Our Junior Warden, Christine Kelly, in coordination with Tom Stallman, reports the new chiller system installation is about 90% complete pending start up testing and control integration with the overall HVAC system controls...even more good news!

Now one potential downer. I've received no response on my call for someone, or team of persons, to be responsible for the 2021 Pumpkin Patch. Our supplier is extremely anxious to know if we are going to have a patch this year. At some point the decision will be made for us if we don't soon make a commitment. Anyone feeling up to it, what do you say?

Thank you.

Richard McFarland

Senior Warden