RETREAT OUTCOMES
ST THOMAS CHURCH, DUBOIS, JANUARY 20, 2006
1. OPTIMAL PARISH SIZE
a. The parish community enjoys its current size which provides family-like intimacy.
b. The community prefers to grow slowly and organically, following the direction of the Holy Spirit.
c. To accommodate larger attendance in the summer and those who cannot attend one set time for a service, a second service should be added on Sunday mornings during the summer season, with styles of worship differing between the two services.
d. Ushering is needed at services to help guide worshipers to seating that is available.
e. Better liturgical music and hymn singing is strongly desired, with a choir if possible.
2. YOUTH MINISTRY IN DUBOIS
a. A parish committee will develop programs for youth in Dubois by bringing together the wide variety of resources available.
b. The Wyoming Diocesan program, Wind and Wings, directed to youth ministry development will be used to support and help coordinate St. Thomas’ programs.
c. St. Thomas will provide special recognition and programs for youth who are currently active in our church.
d. A committee of Laura Glade, Janet Glaeser and Cindy Reinitz will join other community members to guide the development of this program.
3. THE OPPORTUNITY SHOP
a. The plan is to open and operate a clean, attractive, and appealing store to serve Dubois and the surrounding area by selling inexpensive clothing and collectibles, and by making grants to local charities focused on youth.
b. Rehab construction of the building is underway, with Wood Shed Construction as the construction company. Volunteers will assist in the construction.
c. The Shop has contracted with Kathy Vezzetti of Cody, WY to guide the development of the store. She turned around thrift stores in Cody and elsewhere.
d. Target date for store opening is May 15, 2006.
e. The Shop is separately incorporated, and has applied for tax exempt status.
f. A committee headed by Kass Harrell and Corky Emmons is steering the development of the store.
4. BUILDING USE PLANNING
a. The parish now owns five buildings and a storage shed.
b. The community room was built with contributions from the community and will continue to be made available for community uses.
c. The buildings are generally in good condition.
d. Everyone wants to preserve and revere the church building as a functioning church, because it is sacred space.
e. A planning committee will develop a comprehensive building use plan.
f. The committee will consist of: Dean Sersland, Lloyd Glade, Bob Grubb and others.