Minutes of Greater Marlborough/Hudson Interfaith Association Meeting
3:30pm, Wednesday, September 24, 2008
at First Church of Christ, Scientist, Marlborough
Attendees:
Mr. Ronald Brault of First Church of Christ, Scientist, Marlborough
Mr. William Fagan of the Baha'i Community
Rabbi Barry Krieger of Temple Emmanuel
Rev. Paulo Macri of Good News Christian Church
Ms. Abby Pettee of Hillside School
Rev. Doug Robinson-Johnson of First United Methodist Church of Hudson
Rev. Stephen Shick, Unitarian Church of Marlborough & Hudson
Rev. Linda Stetter of First United Methodist Church, Marlborough
Rev. Betsy Waters of The First Church of Marlborough (Congregational)
Opening. President Ron Brault opened the meeting with prayer.
Introduction of New Members. Rabbi Barry Krieger of Temple Emmanuel and Rev. Paulo Macri of Good News Christian Church were introduced and welcomed to the association. Ron also announced that Deacon Bob Hoaglund has agreed to represent Immaculate Conception Church in the association. Bob has had an extensive history with the association and at one time served as its president. He was unable to attend the meeting.
Minutes. Minutes of the April meeting were approved.
Financial. Ron Brault reported that savings in the St. Mary's account is about $365. The last major transaction was a $200 grant to the Unitarian Universalist Church of Marlboro/Hudson in support of the Flag Exhibit. Ron indicated that invoices will shortly be e-mailed out to the faith communities for the 2008/2009 year.
Renaming the Association. After discussion and consideration of several options, the membership voted in favor of renaming the association "Greater Marlborough/Hudson Interfaith Association.
Re-Election of President. Ron Brault was re-elected to the office of President without a contest. He indicated that he is happy to work without a Secretary and subsequently, as in the past, the position was not filled. Ron will continue to do the work of Treasurer until someone volunteers for the position (requires election per by-laws).
Foundation for Marlborough Charities. Ron updated the association about the Ron Brigham Estate. The executor indicates that most of the assets have finally been liquidated. He estimates total asset value will be about $800,000. This will be used to fund a foundation specified in the will for giving to Marlboro charities. Trustees of the foundation will consist of reps from the Historical Society, Clergyman's Association (aka Marlborough Interfaith Association), and three other organizations. Ron has e-mailed to the executor a desire to have association participation in formulating language governing trust administration.
Thanksgiving Celebration. It was decided to explore the feasibility of having the event at First United Methodist Church in Marlborough. The October meeting will be held there. The date for the celebration was set for Tuesday, November 25th at 7pm. Ron requested association members to let him know how their respective faith communities wish to participate, whether it be providing a musical group or a reading.er remusic or doing a reading. He also asked for names of individuals who might serve as the speaker.
Increased Calls from Needy Individuals. Betsy reported a marked increase in indigent people asking for assistance from her church. This sparked a discussion as to how the association can help. As a first step it was agreed that information needs to be pulled together on community resources available to respond to various needs. Linda will invite Rosalind Baker of Marlborough Community Services to the October meeting to help in this regard. Further steps that can be taken may become apparent as more information becomes available.
Peace Walk. Doug reported that there will be a Peace Walk originating in New London, CT and passing through Hudson on October 14th at 11:30pm. Anyone wishing to participate can contact Doug for further information.
Marlborough Hospital Volunteers. Ron reported that Bob Hoaglund told him that Mary Ann Stein (phone 508-486-5688) is now coordinating volunteers for the hospital. She is rebuilding the I/F Visitation Program. Anyone interested may contact Mary Ann.
Sharing Faith Community News. Attendees reported on a number of activities and initiatives taking place in their faith communities, as well as happennings in their professional lives..
Next Meeting. It was voted to have the next meeting on October 22nd at 3:30pm. It was also decided to have the meeting at First United Methodist Church of Marlborough.. Ron will work on scheduling meetings for the next several months instead of doing it monthly.
Respectfully submitted,
Ron Brault, President
