Holy Comforter experienced a strong and vibrant year in 2024, marked by growth, resilience, and hope for the future. Despite being in a time of rector transition—when parishes typically face challenges in maintaining momentum—our church has flourished. Bishop Sam and Canon Massey have emphasized that growth during transition is rare, yet we have defied those odds. This success is a testament to our strong lay leadership, the steady guidance of Rector Emeritus David Williams, and the dedicated service of our supply clergy, all of whom have helped sustain and nurture our parish.

The renewed enthusiasm for vestry service is one of the most encouraging signs of our parish’s vitality. At the annual meeting in January 2024, nine candidates stood for election, allowing us to fill all open seats for full and partial terms. This was a significant milestone, especially given the challenges we’ve faced filling these roles in the years since the pandemic.

We were also delighted to welcome a new tenant to Comforter House this year. Alamance County Community Services Agency (ACCSA) moved into the first-floor space, bringing with them their mission to support the community through affordable housing, employment assistance, educational programs, and food nutrition services. We are proud to partner with ACCSA, offering space that enables them to continue making a positive impact in our community.

In early 2024, we took steps to refine our parish profile, aiming to attract rector candidates who align with our mission, values, and vision. By spring, our efforts began to bear fruit, and interest in Holy Comforter started to rebuild. The vestry spent much of the summer and early fall discerning with candidates, ultimately conducting in-depth, two-day interviews with three promising individuals.

In October, we were pleased to call The Rev. Rhonda M. Lee, PhD, as the next rector of Holy Comforter. Rhonda’s warmth, authenticity, and integrity immediately resonated with us. Her gifts for pastoral care, her passion for teaching, and her depth of experience in both spiritual and organizational leadership make her an ideal fit for our parish. We are excited to grow and thrive under her guidance.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge the exceptional leadership of my predecessor, Mark Thomas, who served as Senior Warden during a pivotal time for our church. Mark’s steady hand provided the stability and vision we needed to navigate uncertainty and lay the foundation for a successful rector search. I am deeply grateful for his dedication and for the opportunity to build upon the work he began.

As we move forward into 2025 with renewed energy and faith, I look forward to all that God has in store for us. Together, we will continue to embrace our mission, serve our community, and grow in spirit and fellowship.

Respectfully Submitted by Julie Swanner

2024 was a typically busy year for buildings and property. Thankfully we didn’t have any super expensive issues to contend with. I have tried to indicate the cost on these smaller projects where I can so everyone can understand some of the areas your generous contributions go to keep the Holy Comforter campus running.

HVAC | As many of you know, our HVAC system is fairly complex with many components and controls. This year we had typical maintenance and replacement issues associated with a system as old as ours. Blower motors, control valves, temperature regulators and control modules needed to be replaced. We had one issue that was related to a faulty component in our security system that shut down a couple of blowers in order to prevent the spread of a phantom fire. We spend about $10k a year on this type of maintenance. We had an issue with wet ceiling tiles over the summer. This was caused by our cold-water supply pipes “sweating” when moist air condenses on a cold surface. We are having the problem areas addressed in the next 30 days. Approximately $4,700

Great Hall Roof | There had been a leak in the roof that caused the roofing planks to start to rot. It had been an ongoing issue that was finally addressed this year by Shelter Construction. They did a great job and color matched the paint so you can’t tell that it was repaired. $7k

St A’s | We had a number of projects associated with our beloved St Athanasius. The soft spot in the floor was reinforced, the old carpeting was removed from the stairs in front of the alter, the flood light in parking lot was repaired (Duke Power), the ugly security lights over the front door were replaced by a historically accurate hanging light all in time for the Alamance County Annual Historic Property Tour in November. Thanks to Sandy, Gary, Deb and the Gants for helping make it such a success. The next project for St A’s is replacing, repairing and recovering the priceless stained glass windows. The Vestry just approved the project. The cost is $13,225 but it should keep the window safe for the next 20-30 years.

Parish House (Boyscout Hut) | The lower siding on the north side of the building has been replaced with pressure treated lumber and stained. We are going to allow the pressure treated lumber to dry for a few months and then re-caulk joints and apply another coating of stain. $1,300

Comforter House | Extensive work (approximately $8k) was done on the first floor to accommodate our new tenants; Alamance County Community Services Agency. There are almost a dozen people working out of Comforter House helping those in need in our community. After several patch jobs it finally was so rotted the small roof over the side porch that faces Davis St had to be replaced. Don Fogleman did a great job & the roof should be solid for the next 30 years +. $5k

Lighting in the Sanctuary | We continue to try and keep up with the bulbs in Sanctuary and Nave. Some of these are very difficult to get to but we have most all the bulbs working now. Unfortunately, some that were replaced a few months ago have “popped”. We are exploring going to LED lighting but this is not as simple as replacing a halogen bulb with LED. I will update you when we have a better understanding of the scope of the project.

Plumb Full Building | We cleaned out many years worth of accumulated junk from the building so we have storage room and room to work as needed.

General Maintenance | We have been working with Anthony Conolly to keep up with a lot of the painting. This has included the lines in the parking lots to the wrought iron fencing and railings. He has also caulked and repainted windows that were past due in needing attention.

Playground | We replaced some swings, repainted equipment and moved the funnel ball goal from outside the fence to inside the fence and put down 35 yards of mulch. $2,500. We will probably need 70 yards of mulch to really keep the weeds down. We will need to allocate $4,500 around March/April to re-mulch this area. Elevator Maintenance | Maintenance was scheduled for the 6th and then scheduled for the 13th. Now they are confident they will be here on Monday the 20th. I will report on any discoveries after they complete their work.

Parking Lot Expansion | We are exploring the cost of expanding our parking areas in order to accommodate more parishioners and support larger functions in the Great Hall. We would not move forward with a project like this without an open meeting with the congregation. Likely to be quite expensive.

Doors and Security | Our old fire and security system was no longer serviceable so we had to get a new system. We went through Securitas and took advantage of a discount program they were running that took the cost from $8k to $6k. We are looking into security cameras and new door locks as well. We continue to have problems with doors being left unlocked. I want to thank everyone who helps keep our church maintained and beautiful, especially Kelvin. We are lucky to have him. It would be hard to list all the things, large and small he does for us at Holy Comforter.

Respectfully Submitted by George Blaisdell  

Holy Comforter’s operating budget is funded mostly through pledges and unpledged gifts. We also receive property usage fees, investment income, and make certain planned withdrawals from our investment accounts that fund approximately ten percent of our operating budget. These combined sources generated revenue of $511,795 in 2024.

Expenditures for 2024 totaled $421,973, well below budget since we weren’t paying for a rector. The resulting surplus of $89,822 provides us a healthy cushion as we begin a new year and a new chapter in the life of our parish under the leadership of Rhonda Lee.

There are some revenues and expenses that do not appear in the operating budget; mostly these are operations or projects that are self-funding. For example, the Flower Guild is funded by designated gifts that do not flow through the operating budget, and Newlin Partnership and Comforter House are largely self-funded. The Lawrence Holt Mission fund supports LEAF at Elon, and those revenues also don’t appear in our budget. Finally, I should mention that Chris Seiler’s estate provided generously for our parish. Her gift also bypasses the operating budget; policy directs a portion of undesignated bequests to our Endowment, and in this case the remainder will fund a much-needed protective covering of the stained-glass window at St. Athanasius.

At year end, Holy Comforter had $143,529 in cash, and another $120,144 in certificates of deposit. Our reserve accounts are fully funded. We seem to be recovering from the financial fallout from the pandemic. Participation and giving both declined sharply for a couple of years, but we appear to be enjoying a resurgence of both. We celebrate this recovery and the loyal parishioners who are enabling it, but we can’t declare “Mission Accomplished” just yet. While we are pleased with the results of this year’s stewardship campaign, we are still about 14 percent below what was achieved pre-COVID. So there is still some work to be done.

We publicized a goal of $400,000 for our stewardship campaign this year. This is an aspirational number that would enable us to provide much deserved employee raises and improved benefits. Inflation and rapidly escalating health insurance costs affect employer and employees; we want to do everything we can to help our staff keep up with these rising expenses.

The Vestry set a less widely publicized “must have” revenue budget of $375,000. This number allows us to maintain current programs and operations but does not provide much for new initiatives. We believe there are still a few outstanding pledge cards that might eventually arrive. If yours is one of them, please know that it is not too late to send it in and know also that it will be very much appreciated. The latest total I have for 2025 pledges is $371,920.

Finally, I present the latest available values of our investment accounts below. Most of our investments are held in the primary investment account of the National Episcopal Church in New York and managed by firms selected and monitored by their investment committee. Some of the smaller accounts are held at Fidelity Investments in Boston.

• General Endowment Fund $503,137.31 (most recent statement, excludes $39k deposit in transit at year end)
• Harden Maintenance Fund 500,449.33
• Cecil & Edwin Gant Maintenance 204,675.14
• Mission Fund 114,502.89
• Lawrence Holt Maintenance 103,969.68
• Newlin Partnership 56,516.32
• Goodale Scholarship Fund 76,709.71
• Puett Emergency Fund 71,152.42
• Comforter House Fund 5,853.61

In addition, we are the beneficiary of the Wooten Maintenance Fund held at the Alamance Community Foundation and the Lawrence Holt Trust held at PNC Bank in Philadelphia. We receive annual checks from both funds. The Wooten Fund distribution flows through our operating budget, and as previously mentioned, the Holt distribution funds LEAF off budget. In 2024 we took distributions from the Endowment and Gant funds totaling $27,265; this money flowed through the operating budget.

The Endowment provided funding for Allied Churches, Newlin Partnership, the Stephen Ministry, Christian Formation, and the breakfast ministry. The Gant Fund paid for a new security system and repairs to the roof over the Great Hall. We would not be able to properly maintain our beautiful buildings and campus or fund our mission work were it not for the generosity of the benefactors who created these funds. On behalf of the Vestry, I extend our heartfelt thanks to each of our loyal parishioners for their ongoing support.

Respectfully Submitted by Sid Little Assistant Treasurer

The Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter endowment consists of several funds. The Endowment BOARD administers two funds invested with The Domestic and Foreign Missionary Society of the Episcopal Church (DFMS).

• General Endowment Fund
• Edwin H. and Cecil Gant Fund

At the beginning of 2024, the total amount in these two funds was approximately $605,000.

The Endowment BOARD of the Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter is pleased to report that $23,100 was distributed during 2024 from its administered funds.

From the General Endowment Fund – $15,200 to support the following ministries:
• Allied Churches
• Christian Formation
• Davis Street UMC Breakfast Ministry Serving at Holy Comforter Episcopal Church
• Newlin Partnership
• Stephen Ministry

From the Edwin H. & Cecil Gant Maintenance Fund – $7,900 to support the following projects:

• Roof repairs over Great Hall
• HVAC repair and Elevator repair

Thanks to your generous support, the endowment administered by the Holy Comforter Endowment BOARD received memorial donations, honorary gifts, recurring gifts, and planned bequests contributions totaling more than $58,000 in 2024. It is projected that this endowment will start 2025 at $725,000.

The distributions for 2025 from this endowment will be determined during the spring. Assets from this endowment are restricted to mission and outreach, specific capital needs, and other purposes that support the mission and goals of the church.

The Endowment BOARD thanks everyone who made gifts throughout the year. The distributions listed above demonstrate how your support has a positive impact on the ministry of Holy Comforter. The BOARD stands ready to provide information and guidance on all future giving. Our website provides details on making gifts to the endowment: www.holycomforterburlington.org/endowment.

Requests for Proposals (RFP) Use of Endowment Funds The Endowment BOARD will accept proposals in May and June from parishioners and/or parish committees/groups for the funds approved for distribution. Amounts typically range from $500 to $5,000. The application form is available from the parish administrator or from the Endowment website. Please submit completed applications to the parish administrator.

Endowment Fund Policies and Guidelines
A copy of the Holy Comforter Endowment Fund Program – Authorizing Resolutions and the Plan of Operation may be obtained online at our website (link above). A printed Endowment Fund Brochure may also be found on the website or by the church offices.

Parish Members of the Endowment BOARD
Pete Glidewell - At Large – Secretary - thru 2026
Pat House – Vestry - thru 2024
Steven House - At Large – Chair - thru 2025
Tom McLean – At Large - thru 2024
Chappy Moser - At Large - thru 2025
Rhonda Lee - Rector - Ex Officio
Julie Swanner - Sr. Warden - Ex Officio

Respectfully Submitted by Steven House

The Sunshine Committee takes meals to parish members who are sick. We organize and carry out funeral receptions and funeral meals for Holy Comforter Parishioners.

This is an active large committee with a different team each month having 4 or 5 members. All are welcome to join.

The past year of 2024 was a very busy year for the sunshine Committee
• Funeral Receptions | 5
• Sick Meals | 53
• Bishop Reception | 1

Under the Sunshine Committee is the “Red Ribbon” Thinking of You! This outreach began during Covid and has continued to a be a very meaningful connection with the Holy Comforter Parish. The “Red Ribbon” Boxes or Bags contain brownies, cookies, homemade bread or other surprises to let a newcomer or long time parishioner know we are thinking about them.
“Red Ribbon Surprises” for 2024
• Overall total deliveries | 392
• Newcomers | 3
• Meals | 11
• Funeral | 1
• From a Holy Comforter Parishioner: “I was here and someone remembered”

Respectfully Submitted by Susan Ryan Sunshine Chair & Nancy Slott Red Ribbon Chair 

Sunday Hospitality is each Sunday after their 10:30 Service in the small dining room off the parlor. Hostesses take turns serving home goodies, cookies and,something savory with coffee, water and lemonade. Parishioners enjoy visiting in the parlor and meeting new members. It is a wonderful way to be involved in Holy Comforter’s Parish Family.

Respectfully Submitted by Susan Ryan

1. “Ladies Who Paint” Art Show and Sale breakout space | Great Hall about 8 ladies
2. United Way Community Meeting breakout space | Great Hall, Small Dining Room, Conference Room, Auditorium
3. ABBS - Williams High School AP EOG Testing 60 individual tables, 4 Sessions over 2 days breakout space | Great Hall
4. 2 Book Club Meetings breakout space | Small Dining Room
5. 1 Neighborhood HOA Christmas Dinner breakout space | Great Hall and Kitchen
6. 1 Monthly Meeting for Downtown Pastors breakout space | Small Dining Room
7. Book Club Meeting breakout space | Kitchen and Small Dining Room
8. Birthday Party for 8 year old, Birthday Party for 1 year old breakout space | Great Hall
9. 2 Bridge Tournaments breakout space | Great Hall
10. Holy Comforter Event Rumage Sale breakout space | Great Hall Respectfully

Submitted by the Original Event Committee
Shara Partin, Martha Adams, Joanne McClusky, Susan Ryan

In 2024 parishioner members serving on the commission were Jim Romer, Patrick Rudd and Hu Womack. Jim was appointed for a second three-year term, continuing to serve as chair. In July there were two new hires, Jan Kelly and Allison Murphy as Nursery Coordinator and Nursery Assistant. This represented a deserved promotion for Jan, who had served previously as assistant.

We have been fortunate to retain all our very dedicated staff this year, as they continued to work diligently without the leadership of a rector. We also credit the able leadership of two Senior Wardens, Mark Thomas and Julie Swanner, who supervised the staff during the year.

In recognition of the hard work of our employees, and thanks to the generosity of parishioners during the 2025 pledge campaign drive, the commission was pleased to recommend compensation increases beginning in January 2025 for five staff members. According to standard procedures outlined in the Employee Handbook, commission members were assigned staff liaison roles and participated in the annual staff performance evaluations in late 2024. We also participated in discussions involving 2025 health insurance options for our two full-time employees, the Parish Administrator and the Rector, and with our consultation a plan was agreed upon that we all felt best met employee needs and the issue of affordability for the church. Respectfully Submitted by Jim Romer Personnel Commission Chair

• In January, we had a lunch at our annual meeting.
• In February, we had our pancake supper and started with the five Wednesday soup suppers followed by the Lenten program.
• In March, we had the last of the lenten suppers and on Palm Sunday between services had hot cross buns and made palm crosses.
• In April we had a Mexican lunch after church.
• In May , we had a parish picnic following youth Sunday
• In August, we had a lunch with Jill Patterson giving us a talk about her work in Spain
• In September, we had a welcome back picnic and bouncy house.
• In October we had a reception following Newlin Sunday with a variety of cakes
• In November, we had a reception following the second service on all saints. We also had a lunch for stewardship Sunday.
• In December, we decorated the other parts of the church other than the sanctuary and put up wreaths on all the outside doors. We also provided pizzas for the flower guild folk decorating the sanctuary for Christmas. Christmas Eve we had a reception in the parlor following the early service.

Susan Ryan organized coffee and treats in the parlor every Sunday there wasn’t a special event. She also organized several funeral receptions as needed.

Respectfully Submitted by JOANNE MCCLUSKY

The Lenten Program was presented as a “March Madness” forum about Saints. It was well attended and lots of fun. Sunday Adult Formation classes were led by our supply priest, Greg Farrand between the 8:15 and 10:30 worship services for six Sundays. Our parishioners have expressed much interest in additional adult formation classes. On the remaining Sundays throughout the school year, a Lectionary Bible study was led by Leslie Haines. Thank you, Leslie.

Respectfully Submitted by Diana Wallace

Children & Youth Christian Formation enjoyed the past 2 ½ years of growth following Covid with the teaching of Godly Play lessons by volunteers every Sunday during an expanded “Children’s Chapel” time. Having used all the material that that curriculum provided, I reached out to the Diocese. Bishop Sam introduced me to Kelly Ryan, now a Deacon, who in turn, introduced me to “Catechesis of the Good Shepherd”.

This is a curriculum based on Marie Montessori’s work with children. Christian formation is presented to children at 3 developmental levels: ages 3-6, 7-12, & 12 & older. Mourine Todd & I are presently enrolled in training on this highly effective method of sharing God, the Bible, and our liturgical traditions. Beginning this post fall, the children are now invited to a mixed-age “children’s room” –the Atrium– at our pre-covid Sunday School time (9:30) where they have hands-on experiences & presentations with the assistance of our dedicated volunteers, as well as musical instruction with our Music Director, Christin Baker. They join the congregation in the sanctuary in time to participate in the Eucharist with their families.

We look forward to expanding to the recommended 3 levels in separate rooms by this fall. Please let me know if you would like to participate in any way with this new endeavor! Thank you.

Respectfully Submitted by JOCELYN SAFRIT

here are eighty to one hundred participants under “Worship” who graciously and generously give of their time to make sure each worship service (including church services, funerals, weddings and special church services) is meaningful and efficient. Ushers, Lay Readers, Acolytes (Chalicist, Crucifer, Torch Bearer, Gospel Bearer), Flower Guild, Altar Guild, Music and Verger are part of the Worship Committee. Volunteers are always needed.

Respectfully Submitted by Diana Wallace

The past year has been a very rewarding time to be part of the music ministry at Holy Comforter! The adult choir once again welcomed new members and re-welcomed familiar faces. With the full choir stalls, we were able to share staple choral anthems from various centuries and traditions. Highlights included a cappella music for special services, well-known spirituals, multiple anthems for Lessons & Carols, and the full Fauré Requiem with chamber orchestra for All Saints Day. Throughout the year, we welcomed several guest musicians as well as utilizing talented pianists within our own congregation. The choir members continue to approach new and challenging music with eager minds and voices, and I am continuously grateful for their dedication!

In 2023, we started two new groups at Holy Comforter—a children’s choir and a handbell choir. The children have sung throughout the past year for major feast days and played an integral part in our Advent services by helping us light the Advent wreath. Before summer, when I asked the children what they’d like to do differently for their music time in the fall, they just said, “More singing!” With the transition from Godly Play to Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, the children have additional opportunities for singing and learning the liturgical cycle of our church. Hearing the children sing always brings a smile to my face, and they will continue to be involved in our worship music. Having handbell anthems several times throughout the year has been a wonderful addition to our musical life and worship. The ladies of the handbell choir continue to grow in confidence and abilities with every rehearsal, and I look forward to another year of their enthusiasm and camaraderie. New ringers are always welcome—the ability to read music is not required!

Looking forward to 2025, I am excited for the possibilities of musical offerings ahead. We will continue to welcome guest musicians to enhance worship services on feast days, and I have been in conversation with music directors at other local churches to offer combined special services. We have also discussed the possibility of offering services and music to members unable to attend church, and I hope we will be able to see these fledgling ideas come to fruition.

No report would be complete without offering thanks to the many people who sustain the music ministry in countless ways, both seen and unseen. To the congregation and staff, thank you for your outpourings of support. To David Williams, Mark Thomas, and Julie Swanner, thank you for providing such wonderful leadership in this time of transition and supporting our special worship services. To all choir members, thank you for faithfully attending rehearsals and services each week, challenging yourselves to learn new anthems, and growing in your musicianship. To Marilyn Tyler, thank you for providing accompaniment to music both in worship and for congregational events. And to all of those who offer support through kind words, donations, or appreciation, you have my unending gratitude. I look forward to all that the next year holds with our new rector, choir, and congregation, and I offer my deepest thanks and appreciation to all those who make our music ministry possible.

Respectfully Submitted by CHRISTIN BAKER Director of Music

The Altar Guild is currently composed of 32 dedicated parish members who undertake a variety of tasks primarily related to the weekly worship services. In order to do this the altar is set up for every service, hangings are changed seasonally, inventory taken of wine, wafers and candle oil, and linens are washed and ironed weekly.

This year there was an additional expense of the replacement of altar hangings which were damaged with communion wine. They were addionally damaged when dry cleaned. The funds to replace the hangings were from the flower guild and decoration funds. To recover the funds the Altar Guild had a Jumble Sale. The funds from this sale were used to refund the Flower Guild $5000.00 used to buy new hangings. The yard sale receipts over $5000 were donated to the Cathedral of All Souls in Asheville, NC to help restoration of the church after Hurricane Helene. The Altar Guild strongly encourages parishioners to join their team.

Respectfully Submitted by Ren Bryan

Our mission is to give glory to God and beautify our sanctuary for worship through floral design. For a $75 contribution to the Flower Guild fund, parishioners may request our services for Sunday altar flowers. Altar flower and reception arrangements for funerals are also created at the request of family members.

Here are the members of our team:
• First Sunday - Connie Griner, Brad Lingerfeld
• Second Sunday - Betty Brown, Julie Smith, Sandy Gerow
• Third Sunday - Janie Sellers, Ren Brown, Betsy Weatherly
• Fourth Sunday - Jennell Harris, Margaret Egede-Nissen, Patsy Isley, Mary Telander
• Fifth Sunday - Carole Moore

We welcome new members! No prior floral arranging experience is necessary, as we will pair you with an experienced arranger. Contact Connie Griner (336-260-8804) for more information.

Respectfully Submitted by CONNIE GRINER Chair

In January 2024, we held a new acolyte training session, successfully recruiting and training several new acolytes. With more than 20 parishioners now regularly serving as acolytes across our two Sunday services, this ministry continues to thrive.

As our average Sunday attendance has grown, we adjusted to meet the needs of our congregation by scheduling two chalicists at the 10:30 service. Thanks to David Williams, who recertified several chalicists, we now have ample coverage for this important role.

During this transition period, it has been my privilege to work alongside our supply clergy to ensure our services run smoothly. I look forward to collaborating with our new rector in the years to come, as we continue to grow and serve together as a church family.

Respectfully Submitted by STEVEN SWANNER Verger

Ushers greet parishioners and newcomers at the door, hand out worship programs, and pass the collection plates. They serve at each Sunday service, special services and funerals and represent our parish to new and old alike. Cat Sykes schedules the ushers and offers weekly reminders. We encourage parishioners to consider being ushers. We still are in need of a usher coordinator.

Respectfully Submitted by CAT SYKES, Parish Administrator

The lay readers of Holy Comforter are a vibrant group of individuals committed to using their skills and developing their spiritual gifts to the glory of God. Lay reading is one way that believers can share in the “priesthood of all believers” and in ministry when Christ calls his people to corporate worship. Lay readers assist in worship through reading the lessons and leading the Prayers of the People. In 2024 we had 4 new readers begin. Anyone who desires to be a lay reader should speak to Cat Sykes who schedules the ushers and offers weekly reminders. We still are in need of a reader coordinator.

Respectfully Submitted by CAT SYKES Parish Administrator

Please support Holy Comforter’s MISSION AND OUTREACH with your donations. Below you will see what past donations have done to help others in 2024.

Respectfully Submitted by CAROL THORNELL

The first Sunday of the month parishioners drop off needed items for ACAC in the Bell Tower; however, we encourage you to drop off items any Sunday. Needed items are listed in Weekly Words.

Over 1500 volunteers donated over 3000 hours of time and energy to Joe’s diner preparing over 42,000 meals for the community.

Honor Cards and other donations helped to house residents, reunify families, complete job applications and obtain jobs.

Respectfully Submitted by Martha Adams

The Comforter House learning center made significant progress during 2024. All remodeling was completed that was necessary to make the space usable for this (or future) mission work. Painting, decorating, cleaning, and additional supplies were provided by the sweat – equity of our board members and volunteers from the congregation. Thanks to David Day, Internet access was established to Comforter House and a card reader was purchased. (The card reader is available for other church functions and has already been used by the church yard sale to increase sales).

We held an Open House in the early fall for the church and community to raise awareness of the Afterschool.

We relied upon a partnership with Benevolence Farm, which included their providing transportation for a minimum of five students. Unfortunately, they were unable to meet that expectation. Without the minimum number of students’ guaranteed tuition, the board decided to delay opening until the issue is resolved.

The CH Learning Center Board Plans to meet in early 2025 to look at several options that will provide a financially sound opening this fall. Standby for an update in the New Year!

Respectfully Submitted by JOCELYN SAFRIT

Interest on the funds were divided among three recipients; each received $900. Approximately $76,500 remains invested. We encourage all those interested in supporting the educational needs of our youth to contribute to this scholarship fund.

Respectfully Submitted by SID LITTLE

LEAF had a very productive year in 2024. Highlights include joining forces with Catholic Campus Ministry in January to go on a mission trip and serve at St. Joseph Mission school -- a K-8 Franciscan School for Native American students in San Fidel, New Mexico. They also went to Twin Lakes and led worship in an effort to strengthen the partnership between LEAF and Twin Lakes. During the fall, students assembled Hurricane clean-up buckets and comfort kits for people who were affected by Hurricane Helene.

LEAF is always in need of donations and other forms of support for their mission. Each year Holy Comforter members provide home-cooked meals to be enjoyed after Sunday worship. We also bake cookies and provide cookie dough at the end of each semester. Monetary donations help provide for LEAF’s minister, Julie Tonnesen, a weekly worship service with communion, retreat opportunities, coffee hours, service and community outreach, interfaith opportunities, and pastoral support and spiritual counseling.

Respectfully Submitted by PAIGE YSTEBOE

The Mission Fund Committee which oversees both the Holy Comforter Mission Funds and the Lawrence Holt Mission Fund meets on an as-needed basis to consider submitted requests for funding.

Holy Comforter Mission Fund Funds are held in New York in the National Church’s omnibus investment fund. Our fund has an approximate market value of $115,000; we can use 4% of that each year subject to Vestry approval for any expenditures over $1000. Parishioners contribute regularly to this fund and encourage others to do likewise.

1. In July, the committee approved a grant of $1000 to aid with Alamance Community College tuition for a refugee student who is a relative of, and living with a parishioner. Ultimately, this grant was put on hold as ACC enrollment was postponed.

2. In October, a $1500 grant was approved to aid with nursing care of a parishioner who was awaiting eligibility for Medicaid funding to cover these costs. Ideally, this request would be covered by the Rector’s Discretionary Fund, however it was deemed an appropriate use of the Mission Fund given the current unavailability of this resource.

3. In December, a $2678 grant was made to the Burlington Community Land Trust. This organization is chartered to help individuals in the historic Morrowtown neighborhood (adjacent to Holy Comforter) achieve affordable home ownership. Kathy Hykes is a board member of this group, and can supply additional information about its workings.

Lawrence Holt Mission Fund The Holt fund was established by Lawrence Holt in 1923, and is managed by PNC in Philadelphia and currently has an approximate value of $115,000. Holy Comforter is one of several recipients for support in spreading the word of Jesus in Alamance County. We are the largest of several beneficiaries; we have a 38% interest and receive in excess of $8000 annually from the fund. We give $7800 a year to LEAF, and have accumulated a modest surplus that could be used for other projects that meet the strict restrictions set forth in Mr. Holt’s trust.

Respectfully Submitted by CONNIE GRINER Committee Chair

The NP between Newlin Elementary School and The Episcopal Church of the Holy Comforter is into its 12th year as a unique, thriving entity. Our mission has always been to enhance academic outcomes and promote equity in education by focusing on three major areas: literacy, support for food-insecure students, and to show general support for staff and students through our “Helping Hands” effort – helping wherever, whenever, and however we can. Ours is a service mission designed to share God’s love as we help fill gaps for staff and students as they strive for success. We are well into the 2024-25 school year with 18 trained Literacy Tutors and 9 Lucky Listeners working every week with individual students. Additionally, we support 79 students through the Backpack Pal Weekend Program. Lastly, we stand ready to show our support through volunteer efforts such as periodic ‘duty-free” lunch time for teachers or proctoring support during N.C. state assessments. As the student population continues to exhibit more personal needs, we are enhancing our efforts to support them with materials and supplies – through a Community Foundation Grant - both educationally and for health and hygiene as they enter adolescence.

Holy Comforter and its parishioners are supportive in three major ways. This mission is supported by the church at large through the Vestry budget. Also, individual parishioners make financial donations and support fund-raising efforts. Secondly, parishioners show positive support through their participation in events and supportive communications. Finally, there is a serious volunteer level from the 12 active Board of Directors and approximately 30 volunteers in the school in different roles. However, approximately half of the school-based volunteers are not HC parishioners. With a decade-plus history of success, NP contributions and interventions have evolved with the changing school and student population. Newlin Elementary is a challenging teaching environment. Needs are great. The Newlin Partnership shows and shares God’s love and care for us all as we live it through His strength “helping children (many of whom are just learning English) to become successful readers, helping overcome food insecurity through our Back-Pack Pal weekend assistance, and supporting those serving these students every day … mainly the teachers.” The teachers thank us; the ‘kiddos’ hug us. Our best for those who need it the most.

Respectfully Submitted by Janice Davis Chair

Meals On Wheels provides hot meals to individuals or couples in Alamance County who are unable to get provisions for themselves. Volunteers deliver 15-18 meals to approximately 14 residences and the routes normally take about an hour and a half.

This year Marilyn Tyler, Margaret Egede-Nissen, and Audrey Deadmon, Diana Wallace and Rene Burgess, Cherry Wrenn and Stan Williams, Jane and Jim Romer, Coral Erikson and Gretchen Peet, Janice Davis and Jim McAdams, Frank Harris, Pete Glidewell, Shara Partin and Martha Adams, and Lynn and Peter Dahl have delivered the meals for our church.

Many thanks to all but especially Marilyn Tyler as she, Margaret and Audrey are retiring. Marilyn, in particular, has been a stalwart of the program. Marilyn was my predecessor as chair and did two days of deliveries for years. We can’t thank her enough.

As of now there is one route open if anyone is interested in joining this most rewarding program. If you might be interested in volunteering, call me (336) 214-4877.

Respectfully Submitted by STIG EGEDE-NISSEN

Our ministry has continued to serve the parishioners of Holy Comforter, thanks to the support of the Vestry during this year of transition. We have trained two new Stephen Leaders who are helping to serve confidentially 4 members in crisis.

Our Journeying through Grief program with the help of Rick Weatherly touches family members who have lost loved ones. We are supporting the establishment of Grief Share at our church to be led by Terri Stevens and Janice Davis. We are recruiting a new group of ministers and a Stephen Leader for the new year. We will work closely with our Rector to keep this valuable ministry active at Holy Comforter.
Thank you for your support.

Respectfully Submitted by RENE BURGESS Stephen Leader Stephen Ministry

PARISH REGISTER
Baptisms | 2
Jordan James Furman December 15, 2024
Julien Jesse Furman December 15, 2024

Confirmations and Receptions | 0

Weddings | 0

Burials, Interments | 6
Christine Seiler April 18, 2024
Frances Swajkoski June 29, 2024
Mari Day August 1, 2024
Bill Adams September 21, 2024
Ed McClusky November 1, 2024
Nancy Jacobus December 18, 2024

Transfers In | 2
Emily Hackney February 23, 2024
Joseph Keith May 9, 2024

Transfers Out | 4
Allison Marie Booth February 23, 2024
Michael Eugene Booth February 23, 2024
Wyatt Charles Booth February 23, 2024
Jennie (Walker) Brunner February 23, 2024

NEW VISITORS | 27

REGULAR ATTENDERS & MEMBERS as of Dec. 2024 | 394

Minutes of the Holy Comforter Annual Meeting January 14, 2024, the Second Sunday in Epiphany

Session I was called to order in the nave of Holy Comforter at 10:00 a.m. by the Senior Warden, Mark Thomas. Ballots for vestry election, annual reports and meeting agenda were passed out to attendees eligible to vote. There were 104 in attendance counting children and visitors.

The Rev. James Melnyk conducted the service of Holy Communion Rte. II. During the announcements the completed ballots were collected, and the nominations committee left to count them.

Following the service, the congregation was invited to go to the Great Hall for lunch and Session 2 of the meeting.

Session 2 was called to order at 12:00 by the Senior Warden who made opening remarks about the work of the vestry and himself during this year of transition, which was unanticipated. There is more to be done by the new vestry including reviewing and possibly updating the profile submitted in June. We are different now than we were in June. The staff has stepped up and provided important support. He noted that our supply clergy are scheduled through March.

He opened the floor for questions or comments. A question was “How do you think we are different?” Mark noted the increased attendance at services, our active children’s program, our increasingly active programs of outreach and the simple increase in joy among our parishioners. A parishioner commented on the many hands who work to make our church beautiful and how blessed and thankful we are to have them. A parishioner thanked the parish for its long­term commitment to Allied Churches and noted how much our support means to the staff and residents, The Junior Warden, George Blaisdell, had nothing to add to his published report. There were no questions.

The Assistant Treasurer, Max Newbauer gave an update on the budget for 2023. He was happy to report that despite a potential deficit of $17,000 - $30,000 we ended the year with a surplus of $26,234. This was mainly due to the reduction in expenses from not paying a full-time rector’s salary, there was no massive maintenance cost, and the generosity of parishioners when a need was seen. He also noted that the solar panels are beginning to provide some energy savings, and this will increase with time. Our request for forbearance of $20,000 from our Diocesan Fair Share in 2023 was refused based on our cash, investments, and savings.

At their Jan. 8 meeting the vestry voted to give the part-time staff: Kelvin Bradsher, Cat Sykes (full-time), Julia Buffington, Christin Baker, and Jocelyn Safrit, a bonus of $500 each to be taken from the 2023 surplus. At the Jan. 8 meeting the vestry also passed a budget for 2024 of $375,000. It basically mirrors the 2023 budget due to the absence of a rector and not presuming what may be needed. To date the stewardship campaign has raised about 75% of that amount. The goal of the campaign is $450,000. This would allow the vestry and parish to do more in our ministry. He urged those who have not yet pledged to do so. He acknowledged that the campaign this year was late starting due to some leadership questions.

The question was asked if the 2024 budget allows for an increase in the rector’s salary. The Senior Warden noted that the salary negotiation is the second part of hiring a new rector and that everything would be considered at that time. Max thanked those who had worked with him to keep us on track, most especially Sid Little.

On behalf of the vestry Paula Boyd presented a pottery tray and stand to Mark and Angie Thomas for their dedication, patience and hard work this year. The tray was made by parishioner Susan Kern.

No Committee or commission liaisons had an addition to their published report and there were no questions from the audience.

Tom Mclean reported on the result of the election first thanking everyone who agreed to be on the ballot. The new members of the vestry Julie Swanner, Pat House, Alex Stevens, Sid Little and Gary Schilke.

There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:30.

Respectfully Submitted, Shara Partin clerk