7 from Kevin - December 2023

Kevin Jeske-Polyak • December 1, 2023

We all understand the importance of keeping our gathering spaces clean, organized, and ready for use. Doing so requires a team effort. We are so lucky and thankful to have Suzette on our housekeeping team! Assigned to us by DT's Refurbishing just a couple of months ago, Suzette works 3 hours on Monday and 3 hours on Fridays, but she works so efficiently and performs such a thorough job, it seems like she is here much longer. We really appreciate the way she cares for St. James.
Printing and copying are necessary for day-to-day operations at St. James, but we are vigilant about keeping such costs as low as possible by minimizing unnecessary printing and using digital alternatives when we can. During the past 2 years, the folks at Image Matters have been extremely adept at helping us regularly monitor and analyze the monthly volume of copies printed at St James. As a result, we have been able to optimize the terms of our lease contract to reduce our expenses.
Our recent switch to Clearview Security company has been a refreshing change. Upgraded technology, improved software, and responsive technicians have made it simpler for us to provide improved security at a reduced cost! Clearview Security is a locally owned business whose team of security professionals has been providing integrated security solutions for commercial, residential, institutional and government clients since 1969.
Fr. John Mark checks all the boxes when it comes to demonstrating what is needed from a great Rector. He effectively communicates the teachings of our faith. He inspires, motivates, and guides us towards a deeper understanding of our faith. He offers guidance in times of trouble and provides comfort in times of need. He also helps to attract new members to the congregation through his powerfully relatable sermons.
Our Doorstep Volunteers assist unhoused and low-income neighbors who reach out to St. James for help. They prepare and distribute bagged lunches from our doorstep and provide assistance and referrals for help with utility bills, rent, clothing, and other basic needs. Our Doorstep volunteers also provide assistance to the staff by answering the telephone, greeting visitors, and performing other important clerical tasks.
Investing can be intimidating, but financial advisors can help us navigate the waters and make informed decisions. They can also provide valuable insight into the market and help us develop personalized investment strategies. We are grateful that Bob Williams is our Church Financial Advisor. Fully licensed by all Federal regulatory agencies, Bob is the Regional Director of Financial Marketplace Inc. He and his team of 4 advisors and 4 support staff do an outstanding job of managing our Endowment Fund and overseeing our investment strategy to ensure St. James is poised to remain financially sound as we enter our second 100 years.
Our Centennial Campaign Committee has played an essential role in gathering input, prioritizing facility upgrades, and doing all the right things to achieve our intermediate fundraising goals. As chair of the committee, Katharine Pearson Criss has provided outstanding leadership. Her passion for the project and appropriate sense of urgency has served as a beacon of light and the catalyst that has kept the committee focused and on pace.