ST.

AIDANS EPISCOPAL CHURCH

17405 NE Glisan Street
P. O. Box 1319
Gresham, Oregon 97030

PARISH PROFILE
September 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Mission Statement (and Opening Scripture) ................................................................................5
Introduction .............................................................................................................................................6
Current Status of the Congregation .................................................................................................8
Our Hopes for the Future ....................................................................................................................9
Our New Rector .......................................................................................................................................9
Clergy Compensation ........................................................................................................................ 10
Our History ............................................................................................................................................ 11
Who was St. Aidan of Lindisfarne? ............................................................................................... 16
Our Community ................................................................................................................................... 18
- Some statistics ................................................................................................................................................................ 18
- Educational Opportunities......................................................................................................................................... 19
- Climate ............................................................................................................................................................................... 19

Parish Statistics ................................................................................................................................... 19

Worship ................................................................................................................................................. 20
- Regular services ............................................................................................................................................................. 20
- Other Services ................................................................................................................................................................. 20
- Music ................................................................................................................................................................................... 20

Christian Education ............................................................................................................................ 22

- Bible Study........................................................................................................................................................................ 22
- Sunday School ................................................................................................................................................................. 22
- Youth Group ..................................................................................................................................................................... 22
- Lenten Book Study ........................................................................................................................................................ 22
- Advent Book Study........................................................................................................................................................ 22
- New Curriculum ............................................................................................................................................................. 22

Parish Life .............................................................................................................................................. 23

- Communication .............................................................................................................................................................. 23
o Email Blasts ................................................................................................................................................... 23
o Facebook ......................................................................................................................................................... 23
o Newsletter (The Torch) ............................................................................................................................. 23
o Telephone Tree ............................................................................................................................................ 23
o Website ............................................................................................................................................................ 23

- Fellowship ........................................................................................................................................................................ 23
o Coffee Hour .................................................................................................................................................... 23
o Cursillo Reunion .......................................................................................................................................... 23
o Prayer Ministry ............................................................................................................................................ 23
o TEAtime: A Cup of Friendship................................................................................................................ 23
- Fundraising ...................................................................................................................................................................... 24
o All-You-Can-Eat Crab & Shrimp Feed ................................................................................................. 24
o On-Line Partners (Powells Books & Amazon.com)...................................................................... 24
o Rummage Sale .............................................................................................................................................. 24
o SCRIP ................................................................................................................................................................ 24
o Wintergarden................................................................................................................................................ 24

Outreach Ministries ............................................................................................................................ 25

- Ambassadors ................................................................................................................................................................... 25
- Bottle and Can Recycling ............................................................................................................................................ 25
- Giving Tree ....................................................................................................................................................................... 25
- H.B. Lee Middle School ................................................................................................................................................ 25
o Christmas Dinner ........................................................................................................................................ 25
o School Library Outreach........................................................................................................................... 25
o SUN (Schools Uniting Neighborhoods) Program ........................................................................... 25
- Long-Range Planning Committee ........................................................................................................................... 26
- Pacific Gardens (Morning Prayer Services) ........................................................................................................ 26
- Shrove Tuesday Supper .............................................................................................................................................. 26
- SnowCap Community Charities ............................................................................................................................... 26
- Sundays @ 3 p.m. - Concert Series.......................................................................................................................... 27
- United Thank Offering ................................................................................................................................................. 27
- Welcome Bags ................................................................................................................................................................. 27
- Zarephath Ministries .................................................................................................................................................... 27

Buildings and Grounds ...................................................................................................................... 28

Financial Information ........................................................................................................................ 30
- Stewardship Program .................................................................................................................................................. 30
- Outstanding Debt ........................................................................................................................................................... 30
- Diocesan Program Assessment ................................................................................................................................ 30
- 2014 Operating Budget ............................................................................................................................................... 31
- 2014 Revised Budget ................................................................................................................................................... 31
- Pledging Pattern............................................................................................................................................................. 32
- Financial Institutions: .................................................................................................................................................. 33
- Designated Funds .......................................................................................................................................................... 33
- Endowments .................................................................................................................................................................... 33
- Bequests ............................................................................................................................................................................ 33

Parish Staff, Vestry and Committees ............................................................................................ 34

MISSION STATEMENT
Spread the Promise of Jesus Christ in and beyond our community
through worship, education, fellowship, and outreach.

This emblem was assigned to St. Aidan for his ability

to enlighten through the power of the Gospel.
Gold torch with red flames tipped white, on a blue field.

It has been said, One voice can make a song. One life can change the world.

Therefore, let your light shine before others,

so that they may see your good works and
give glory to your Father in heaven. Matt. 5:16 / NSRV

INTRODUCTION
After serving the congregation of St. Aidans for the past 17 years, the Rev. Scott Dolph
accepted the position of full-time chaplain at Good Samaritan Hospital in Portland, Oregon.
We have appreciated Fr. Scotts ministry very much. In his farewell article in our
newsletter (The Torch), Fr. Scott quoted Bishop Spong. Life is a treasure. We are blessed
and enriched by people again and again in the course of our lifetimes. Sometimes those
intersections of people seem so accidental and so impossible, but they are real and life-giving.
I am glad I had the chance to know Fr. Scott added, and I say that of each of you as I
depart.
Although Fr. Scott is greatly missed, we welcome the opportunity to reflect on our past and
to move forward into a new stage of parish life.
This Profile will attempt to detail how we visualize that future and describe our hopes and
dreams for our church home and the priest who will share the future with us.
Our search for a new rector began with an invitation to all members of the parish family (at
both our 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. services) to take part in a survey that would provide an
image of how we see ourselves, our ministry, and the characteristics we desire in our next
priest. The surveys were distributed to members of the congregation following the services
two weeks in a row. Members had various ways and opportunities to submit their survey.
The surveys were distributed to over 50 households, of which 41 members responded.
Those responding to the survey represented 13 people age 59 and under and 28 people
over 60. Of those that responded, 20 was the average number of years in attendance (with
a low of 3.5 years and a high of 48 years). We have 10 children 14 years old and underthe
hope of our future! The following questions were asked:
1. Why do you choose to attend St. Aidans?
2. Currently, in what ways do we at St. Aidans spread the promise of Jesus Christ
in our own community and neighborhood?
3. How can we at St. Aidans spread the Good News of Jesus Christ to our Latino
neighbors?
4. Please list additional ideas on how we might expand our programs to fulfill
our Mission. In what ways would you like to help?
5. Take a moment to reflect on your experiences at St. Aidans. Please describe
your most positive experience. Please describe your most negative
experience.
6. What gifts and skills do we need in our new rector to help us achieve what God
might be calling us to do next?
7. What is your vision for St. Aidans over the next few years?

Each question was designed to be open-ended and anonymous, allowing for candid
responses. This data was then formulated into one document for review and the responses
condensed into a narrative for this Profile. From the thoughtful answers to the survey, a
portrait emerged of St. Aidans Episcopal Church, as we know it today.
The majority of the respondents said that St. Aidans was home and that they had friends
here. There is also a strong feeling of Episcopal tradition and that, by and large, we are a
friendly and accepting congregation.
Through our outreach to the following: H.B. Lee Middle School/SUN Program, Friends of
Nadaka, Zarephath Kitchen, SnowCap, the NA groups, and our annual rummage sale, we
believe that these are ways we can fulfill our mission statement in our community and
neighborhood.
Because the Latino/Hispanic population has increased in St. Aidans community, many of
the respondents suggested Spanish and/or bilingual services. They also want to continue
support of Quinceaeras and other Latino/Hispanic services. There were also suggestions
that we advertise in Latino/Hispanic publications, offer classes in Spanish and ESL, have
picnics and invite the neighbors.
There were many different ideas put forth on how to expand our programs; however, the
main thrust was to focus on those things we do well now and expand them through
advertising and personal invitations. About one-third of the respondents were willing to
help.
We did ask our members to describe their most positive experience at St. Aidans as well as
their most negative experience. The majority of positive experiences recalled how people
were greeted when they first came to St. Aidans, and how they made and kept friendships.
There were very few negative experiences, but those that were mentioned included hurt
feelings, misunderstandings, a lack of commitment to some assignments, and conflicts
within some activities.
Of course, the really big questions had to do with what gifts and skills we need in our new
rector to help us achieve what God might be calling us to do next. The majority of the
respondents want someone with Spanish language fluency. We also want a leader who is
Christ-driven, with an outgoing personality, caring and possessing good administrative
skills. Gender was not a major issue (it was mentioned only once).
Our vision for our future is growth: young families, lots of children, the ability to provide
childcare, more teens and outreach to the Latino/Hispanic community in our
neighborhood.
To quote Fr. Scott, We have made strides toward a vision for the future; a future that now
includes ever increasing openness to the neighbors in Rockwood and a sense of mission to
serve in this corner of Gods vineyard.

CURRENT STATUS OF THE CONGREGATION

As mentioned earlier, St. Aidans is home to the people of our parish, and all the images of
warmth and affirmation associated with that word certainly apply here. It is our spiritual
home where we come for guidance, leadership and inspiration, and to be supported in our
Christian journey. It was clear from the responses that the people of St. Aidans also take
delight in their relationships with one another. Many of the important things they want
and many findin their church are fellowship, comfort and the camaraderie of the parish
family. Some expressed the related desire for good communication among members, and
that the church be a place of peace and loving-kindness.
The people who attend St. Aidans do so for a variety of reasons and proximity is not a
major factor. We have people in attendance from all over the Portland/Gresham Metro
area (from 32 miles to just a few blocks away). The traditional formal style of worship
appeals to a large segment of the congregation. They enjoy participating in the services,
the liturgy, the Eucharist, and are refreshed and uplifted by the experience. Several people
attend St. Aidans because they were invited by friends and co-workers, married an
Episcopalian, or their friends attend here. One responding family found us on the Internet.
Members of our congregation will give rides to those of our aging congregation who are no
longer able to drive and others are able to take The Lift (public transportation for the aged
and infirm). Sadly, however, several are unable to attend because of infirmity and look
forward to home communion. For those with disabilities, we do have handicapped parking
spaces and easy access to the nave. There is also easy access to the restrooms; however,
they are in a building separate from the church and the stalls are not truly accessible.
We have come to realize that there is a real need to extend our worship offerings to the
Latino/Hispanic community in our Rockwood and Gresham neighborhoods. St. Aidans has
become a popular place to hold Quinceaeras. However, when people who attend ask
when our Spanish or bilingual services are scheduled, we reluctantly admit that we dont
have any at this time.

OUR HOPES FOR THE FUTURE

We have dreams and visions as evidenced by the responses we received to our survey. To
quote from the INTRODUCTION:
There were many different ideas put forth on how to expand our programs; however,
the main thrust was to focus on those things we do well now and expand them through
advertising and personal invitations. About one-third of the respondents were willing
to help.
Our vision for our future is growth: young families, lots of children, the ability to
provide childcare, more teens and outreach to the Latino/Hispanic community in our
neighborhood.
In regard to growth and outreach, we recognize that we have a lot to offer our
Latino/Hispanic neighbors. It was exciting to hear that, during the Table Talks we held
following the receipt of the parish surveys, there was overwhelming interest in support for
conducting bilingual services at St. Aidans.
Also discussed during the Table Talks was the hope that someday, as in the distant past, we
could have a full-time rector. Realistically, at this time, we can only hope for a rector at
60% compensation.

OUR NEW RECTOR

Once again, to quote from the INTRODUCTION:
The really big questions had to do with what gifts and skills we need in our new
rector to help us achieve what God might be calling us to do next. The majority of
the respondents want someone with Spanish language fluency. We also want a leader
who is Christ-driven, with an outgoing personality, caring and possessing good
administrative skills. Gender was not a major issue (it was mentioned only once).
All of the above were mentioned in one form or another in our Table Talks. Members of the
congregation also want someone who is child/youth friendly, outreach-oriented and can
find the balance between administrative duties and pastoral care.

CLERGY COMPENSATION
Recognizing that the Total Compensation Package for our new priest is always a subject for
negotiation, St. Aidans is prepared to pay our rector a Total Compensation Package, which
would include:
Stipend
Housing and utilities
A pension plan and group life insurance provided for the priest through the
Diocese and paid for by the parish through contributions of 18% of salary
A contribution to insurance premiums for the medical and dental insurance
policies provided through the Diocese
Automobile expenses at a maximum of $200 per month
Christian Education expenses
The actual details will be negotiated with the Vestry. The Diocese provides workers
compensation, paid for by the parish, which covers all employees, including the priest. In
addition, our priest will be entitled to four weeks of vacation each year.
Realizing that priests are encouraged to take periodic sabbatical leaves, St. Aidans would
consider a sabbatical leave after five years of service to our parish. This would be the
subject of negotiation between the priest and the Vestry.
With prior approval, the parish will pay reasonable moving expenses in an amount to be
agreed upon with the Vestry. The Vestry requires at least three bids from professional
movers.

Likowski Hall (Administrative/Sunday School building)

10

OUR HISTORY
The challenge in writing our history was not where to begin, but how to begin. Those of us
who make up the Parish Profile Committee represent a part of the history of St. Aidans
Episcopal Church. Angie Groce is the newest member of St. Aidans on the Committee,
having attended for 12 years. Angie has taught Sunday School, chaired the Stewardship
Committee, served on the Vestry and was also Senior Warden. In 2008 she started
TEAtime: A Cup of Friendshipa group that meets monthly. Marlene Haldors is a longtime member of St. Aidans (41 years) and has taken many roles over the years including
President of the ECW, taught Sunday School and chaired several bake sales and bazaars;
Pat Roses Uncle Adelbert and Aunt Helen Rees were among those who wanted to begin
this mission in East Portland. Pat was the first secretary at St. Aidans (working with Fr.
Murdock), is the Historian and Archivist for the church and sings in the choir. Byron
McKinlays father was the Deacon assigned to the fledgling congregation, and Byron has
served on Vestry and as Diocesan Convention Delegate several times. Byron is also a
member of the Altar Guild, the Flower Guild, the Grounds Committee and took the photos
for this Profile. LindaCarol McKinlay (Byrons wife) is the Vestry Liaison to the Parish
Profile Committee, has served as Diocesan Convention Delegate, chaired Stewardship and
the annual rummage sale, is the current Offerings Teller and sings in the choir.
It was Pat Rose who pointed out the appropriateness of the Lectionary readings for the 5th
Sunday after Pentecost (July 13, 2014) in that they were rich with references pertaining to
subjective words that reflect our reliance on HISTORY.
Genesis 25:19-34 / reflects the kingdom of God, recognized. Esaus hunger for flesh made
his birthright irretrievable.
Psalm 119:105-112 / abiding by your laws, unswerving devotion for these promises.
Romans 8:1-122 / St. Paul wrote that the Romans did not need to be fearful; those abiding by
promises made, recorded in history. We cant belong to the Spirit of Christ, if only flesh is of
interestthrough SIN.
Matthew 13:1-9, 18-23 / another reminder of how our careless seeding may be uneven, not
productive and wasted. We may become food soil, bearing a yield of a hundredfold.

HISTORY bears it out: If we turn and learn what is preserved in both old and new records,
we may find our feet and minds adhering to a devotion brought to us through the centuries.
Traditional hymns, prayers and outreach may be mundane; the reliability of basing beliefs
on reliable sources brought to us via our historic preservation.
On May 5, 1959, a group of people, including Adelbert and Helen Rees, met at the Wood
Village City Hall to discuss the feasibility of beginning a mission to meet the needs of people
living in the middle East Multnomah County area. This group was helping to fulfill a
dream of the Rt. Rev. Benjamin Dagwell that churches would be established in the East
County area.

11

In March of 1959, a Committee of Perpetual Deacons, consisting of the Rev. Messrs. Will
Marsh, Glenn Eaton and Donald McKinlay, met with the Rt. Rev. James W. F. Carman, Bishop
of Oregon. They came to call his attention to the necessity of establishing a missionary
beach head in the area north of Stark Street and east of 162nd Avenue in unincorporated
Multnomah County.
On July 8 The Rev. Donald McKinlay, having served for a short time at St. Lukes Episcopal
Church in Gresham, was reassigned to Grace Memorial Episcopal Church in Portland. Grace
Memorial had become the first sponsor of the new mission church in East County. The first
service was held in the gymnasium of North Rockwood School (330 NE 172nd Ave.) on July
19, 1959, at 10:00 a.m. The Rev. Donald McKinlay, member of the Perpetual Diaconate,
conducted the service of Morning Prayer, which was attended by 43 people.
On July 29 the Name Committee suggested the following names to be considered for this
new mission: St. Patrick, St. Francis of Assisi, Church of the Resurrection, Church of the
Messiah, and Prince of Peace Episcopal Church. There were three ballots cast and each
time St. Patrick received the majority vote. Despite the outcome of the balloting, St. Patrick
was not chosen as the name of the church. According to old-time church members, Bishop
Carman rejected the missions choice, saying it was too Roman Catholic-sounding. Faced
with the prospect of starting over in the search for a name, the mission turned to the Rev.
John Richardson of Grace Memorial. Fr. Richardson told members about a great saint
named Aidan, of whom he thought so highly that he named his son after him (read Who
was St. Aidan of Lindisfarne?elsewhere in this report). There was consensus that St.
Aidan would be a unique and excellent choice, so on September 23, 1959, the mission
church in Rockwood officially became St. Aidans Episcopal Church.
Again, the vision of Bishop Dagwell affected the turn of events for St. Aidans. He said he
would like to see one mission begun, without being saddled with a heavy debt, making the
main efforts of the congregation not money-raising, but rather in the things of the spirit.
Bishop Carman also desired to see such a mission develop.
In November of 1960, a prefab structure was erected at 301 NE 172nd Avenue on a piece of
property donated by Ambrose Seliger. The idea of a portable building, which could be used
by succeeding missions whenever St. Aidans moved into their own church, was promoted.
This portable was possible through the Diocesan Development Program and was loaned to
St. Aidans location at NE 177th Avenue and Glisan Street until such time as the church was
built.
In the summer of 1962, with encouragement by The Rev. Dr. Lansing Kempton, Trinity
Episcopal Church (now Trinity Cathedral) took over the sponsorship from Grace Memorial
and purchased the four-acre site (at NE 174th and Glisan); built the chapel, supplied the
furnishings, and the pipe organ ($85,000). In 1964, after a fire gutted the portable, which
now housed the kitchen, the rectors office, and the Sunday school rooms, Trinity helped to
finance the construction of the two other buildings now known as Murdock Hall (the Parish
Hall) and Likowski Hall (Administrative/Sunday School building).

12

The Rev. Thomas Murdock was the first Vicar of St. Aidans, whichat the timewas a
parochial mission of Trinity Church in Portland. Under his leadership, St. Aidans
established a large footprint in the community. An early example of reaching out to the
community started right away. A Vacation Bible School, which began in the 1960s, was
well-attended. One year, the children used 50,000 sugar cubes as building blocks to build
the City of God, the ideal city, here on earth. Another example of this effort was the
exchange of pupils with the predominantly black congregation of St. Philip the Deacon. At
that time, races had much less contact with one another. It was hoped that the exchange
would foster an understanding and a comfort level with those who differed from nearby
neighborscertainly an action that will be fully rewarded in Gods realm!
When we became a Parish on April 9, 1967, Fr. Murdock was installed as St. Aidans first
Rector, and the clear title to the church was turned over to the congregation by Trinity
Church. However, we were still financially responsible for paying off the mortgage for the
other two buildings. In 1971, Joan Johnson was selected as the first female member of the
Vestry. The mortgage was burned in April 1986 and Bishop Dagwell, Fr. Kempton, and
Ambrose Seliger were noted as moving spirits in the beginnings of St. Aidans.
In 1967, a number of churches in East County realized that they could better serve the
hungry in the area by combining forces, each contributing to a central food pantry, which
would then distribute the food to the needy. We now know it as SnowCap. SnowCaps first
location was at Savage Memorial Presbyterian; it then grew and moved to a second location
adjacent to Trinity Lutheran Church. SnowCap now occupies a building near the Rockwood
Methodist Church on SE Stark Street. Its move in the late 1990s reflected the trend of the
immediate neighborhood, with a concentration of low-cost housing, mostly along the MAX
(municipal rapid transit) corridor.
On April 20, 1970, Fr. Murdock announced that he had accepted the call to become Rector
of Emmanuel Parish in Coos Bay, Oregon.
From September 1, 1970, through December of 1982, The Rev. James B. Likowski was the
second Rector of St. Aidans. Fr. Jim believed in the importance of community service and
was a member of the Eastmont Christian Cluster (of churches) along with Covenant
Presbyterian, Rockwood United Methodist, Lynchwood Christian and Epiphany Lutheran
churches. Together they got Eastco Loaves and Fishes started at St. Aidans in February of
1972.
In October of 1987, Loaves and Fishes sent a letter of thanks for 10,902 volunteer
hours and 34,813 meals served from St. Aidans kitchen during the previous year. In
1997, Eastco Loaves and Fishes was able to move to the East Portland Community
Center (a much larger space they could call their own) at SE 106th Avenue and Stark.

13

On May 28, 1972, the mud field

located between Murdock and
Likowski Halls became the
Josefa May Rees Memorial Garden. Jo
Rees was the wife of The Rev.
William R. Rees, who had served St.
Aidans as rector pro-tem until the
arrival of The Rev. James B.
Likowski. Jo Rees was an
inspiration to all who knew her
during long years of a debilitating
illness (multiple sclerosis). Since
she passed away in 1972, many
members of the congregation have
interred the ashes of their loved ones in this lovely garden. Their names are recorded on
memorial plaques on the outside wall of Likowski Hall.
In 1982, Fr. Jim answered the call to accept the position of Chaplain at Good Samaritan
Hospital.
Until Christmas 1986, when The Rev. Richard Welsh was called to be a permanent Priest in
Charge working with us half-time (20 hours/week), we had several interim priests. Among
them were The Rev. David Lounsbury, The Rev. Paul Cheek (assisted by Fr. Art Andrews,
our Associate Priest at the time), and The Rev. Lauriston McCagg. During this time, the city
of Gresham annexed a good portion of the Rockwood area and overnight, without moving
an inch, St. Aidans moved from (unincorporated) Portland to the city of Gresham.
Fr. Welsh was installed as our Rector on December 11, 1988, and served us until his
retirement in 1995.
During his tenure, Fr. Welsh was instrumental in the founding of St. Aidans Place, Inc., the
first nonprofit daycare center and respite center for people with Alzheimers disease. He
was inspired by the fact that his wife, Helen, had been diagnosed with Alzheimers in 1989,
and that there was no place other than a foster care home where she could be placed.
St. Aidans donated a good portion of its property on the west, and adjoining property was
also made available for purchase. St. Aidans Place was built and managed in conjunction
with Legacy Health Systems and opened in September 1991.
The path to St. Aidans Place (now Pacific Gardens) was built by Boy Scouts under the
leadership of one of our own boys, Jake Berninghausen.
St. Aidans Place is a 33,000 sq. ft. Alzheimers care facility, which houses 40 residents with
Alzheimers and other forms of dementia. Divided into four wings, each with 10 studio
units, each wing was designed so the resident rooms open up to, and encircle, a dining and

14

activity room. This open arrangement allows staff to constantly monitor the residents,
while also encouraging their independence. A residential kitchen and laundry room,
private outdoor gardens and plenty of indirect natural light further enhance the residential
wings.
Since its opening, at least 16 other groups in Oregon have started programs for Alzheimers
patients, using St. Aidans Place as a model. In 1997, St. Aidans Place was awarded the
Community Design Award by the City of Gresham.
In 2006, JEA Senior Living, a privately-owned and operated management and development
company based in Vancouver, Washington, purchased St. Aidans Place and renamed it
Pacific Gardens.
The Rev. Scott Dolph became our interim priest in May of 1995, expecting to serve for one
and a half to two years while St. Aidans searched for a permanent priest. In November of
1997, St. Aidans (with Bishop Ladehoffs permission) called Fr. Scott to be our permanent
Rector. Fr. Scott instituted Mass on the Grassan outdoor service in honor of our patron
saint held on the Sunday closest to August 31, followed by a barbeque and potluck
luncheon.
This Patronal Festival was originally held on the south
side of the church building, but we had to deal with the
street noise from Glisan Street. With impetus from Fr.
Scott, and much intensive labor, an outdoor worship
area was developed on the west side of our property,
which helped considerably to cut down the street noise
during Mass on the Grass.
Before school began in 2008, Deacon Jean McAfee (now
deceased), Chuck and Coleen Howard, and Diane Parker offered a fingerprint and ID clinic
to families in order to have the ability to identify a lost child, should the unthinkable
happen. George DeWitz, a parishioner, designed a seminar for people looking for work.
The seminar included information on how to look at the hiring process from the employers
point of view and about learning work skills and new job tactics. These free sessions began
on May 21, 2009, and proved to be successful.
March 16, 2014, was Fr. Scotts last Sunday with St. Aidans. Its somewhat coincidental
that he left St. Aidans for the same reason as Fr. Jim Likowski., who was also called to be a
Chaplain at Good Samaritan Hospital.
St. Aidans is still a relatively small congregation; not rich in financial resources, but yet it
continues its legacy of reaching out in needed ways with Time and Talent. As things
change, so does this church. It has adjusted to the changing cultural tide of the day, which
is not always easy or comfortable. It is frightening to see membership recede, the ageing of
our parishioners, and the neighborhood change inexorably. In these days, when church
membership is not so much seen as a given aspect of family life or a way to establish a place
within society, St. Aidans continues to be a beacon lighting the Way.

15

WHO WAS ST. AIDAN OF LINDISFARNE (Holy Island)?

Feast Day: August 31
Born: circa 590: Died: 651
Little is known of Aidan of Lindisfarnes early life, save that he was born in Ireland, and as a
young boy may have studied under Saint Senan on Scattery Island, County Clare. Aidan
later became a monk and lived at the great monastery of Iona, which St. Columba had
founded. He was a humble man, who was greatly loved and respected and was the kind of
person anyone would love to call "friend."
During the seventh century Northumbria, comprising the kingdoms of Bernicia and Deira,
was a battleground in which the fate of rival kings determined whether the Celtic or the
Roman Church should be the prevailing missionary influence. In 616, when King Ethelfrith
of Northumbria was defeated in battle and slain, his son Oswald took refuge in Scotland
and was converted to Christianity at Iona. Edwin, the new king, also became a Christian, but
under the influence of Saint Paulinus, Bishop of York, whose allegiance was to Rome. After
Edwin's death in 633, Paulinus abandoned his work in northern England. Oswald returned
from exile and eventually became king, whereupon he sent to Iona for a bishop who would
preach the gospel in Northumbria.
The first bishop, named Cormn, met with no success and soon returned to Iona, reporting
that the Northumbrians were too stubborn to be converted. The monks got together to talk
about the situation. Aidan criticized Cormns methods and suggested that Cormn had
been unreasonably harsh with his unlearned listeners, and "did not first, as the Apostle has
told us, offer them the milk of less solid doctrine. He then explained that, as St. Paul says,
first teach them simple lessons, then when the people have grown stronger on the Word of
God, they can begin doing the more perfect things of God's holy law.
When the monks heard such wise words, they turned to Aidan. "You should be the one to
go to North England to preach the Gospel," they said. It was immediately resolved to send
Aidan to Northumbria as bishop, and Aidan went willingly. He humbly took on his new job
with a spirit of prayer.
Aidan arrived in Northumbria c. 635 with twelve fellow monks, and with Oswald's consent
made his headquarters on the offshore island of Lindisfarne, close to Oswald's castle at
Bamburgh. It was a fruitful partnership, with Oswald, on occasion, having to interpret the
words of Aidan, who lacked fluency in the English language.
When Oswald was killed in battle in 642, Aidan worked equally well with Oswin, king of
Deira. Aidan preached widely throughout Northumbria, travelling on foot, so that he could
readily talk to everyone he met. When Oswin gave him a horse for use in difficult terrain,
Aidan quixotically gave it to a beggar soliciting alms. Oswin was angry until, as Bede
recounts, Aidan asked if the son of a mare was more precious to the king than a son of God.
Oswin sought Aidan's pardon, and promised never again to question or regret any of his
wealth being given away to children of God. Both Oswald and Oswin are venerated in
England as saints and martyrs.

16

Scores of Scottish and Irish monks assisted Aidan in his missionary work, building churches
and spreading Celtic Christian influence to such a degree that Lindisfarne became the
virtual capital of Christian England. Bishop Aidan also recruited classes of Anglo-Saxon
youth to be educated at Lindisfarne. Among them was Saint Eata, abbot of Melrose and
later of Lindisfarne. In time, Eata's pupil, Saint Cuthbert, also became bishop of Lindisfarne.
So many monks from this monastery later became saints that Lindisfarne became known as
the Holy Island.
In 651, a pagan army, led by Penda, attacked Bamburgh and attempted to set its walls
ablaze. According to legend, Aidan prayed for the city, after which the winds turned and
blew the smoke and fire toward the enemy, repulsing them; hence his patronage for
firefighters.
When Oswin was murdered in 651 by his treacherous cousin Oswy, king of Bernicia, Aidan
was grief-stricken. The saint outlived Oswin by a mere twelve days, dying on 31 August, in
the 17th year of his episcopate in a shelter he had erected against the wall of his church in
Bamburgh.
The monastery he founded grew and helped
found churches and other monasteries
throughout the area. It also became a center of
learning and a storehouse of scholarly
knowledge. Saint Bede the Venerable would
later write Aidans biography and describe the
miracles attributed to him. Aidan was also called
the Apostle of the English, unlike St Augustine
who was merely the apostle of Kent.
We can learn from St. Aidan's life that the
witness of a joyful, kind person is a powerful
influence on others. When we find it difficult to
see the good in people, we can whisper a prayer
to St. Aidan and he will help us.
===========================
General Convention in 2009 provisionally combined
the commemorations of Aidan and Cuthbert, resulting
in new lessons and collects.

St. Aidan: Holy Island, Lindisfarne Priory

PRAYER (contemporary language): Everliving God, you called your servants Aidan and
Cuthbert to proclaim the Gospel in northern England and gave them loving hearts and gentle
spirits: Grant us grace to live as they did, in simplicity, humility and love for the poor; through Jesus
Christ, who came among us as one who serves, and who lives and reigns with you and the Holy
Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.

17

OUR COMMUNITY
St. Aidans is situated in the heart of Rockwood. Rockwood sits at the far eastern edge of
Portland, the western edge of Gresham, and is bounded on the north by the Columbia River.
In the late 19th century, a stone marker was placed every mile east of the Portland
courthouse, and Rockwood developed at the 10-mile mark in a rocky, wooded area that
was later the inspiration for the name of the community. Rockwood was part of
unincorporated east Multnomah County, but it was annexed by the City of Gresham in the
mid-1980s and has an approximate population of 16,000. Once home to growing families
inhabiting single-family homes, Rockwood has seen its share of changes in the last halfcentury.
SOME STATISTICS:
St. Aidans is one of 13 churches in the Metro-East Convocation. Of these 13, five are in east
Multnomah County; only St. Aidans is located in the Rockwood area.
The Rockwood community has become dramatically poorer in the past 30 years. Nine out
of 10 children are on free or reduced lunch in the areas two distressed school districts.
Families residing in the area are twice as likely to be on food stamps as are other
Oregonians. About one-quarter of families are below the poverty line. The lack of
affordable housing greatly contributes to the high level of poverty in this community.
In Rockwood, approximately 60% of people are Caucasian. This is a relatively low
percentage of Caucasians for Gresham and Multnomah County. Compared to other
neighborhoods in Multnomah County, Rockwood has a relatively high percentage of
Latino/Hispanic residents37%. Furthermore, Rockwood has a higher proportion of
Latino/Hispanic residents than Oregon as a whole, at 23.5%.
Most households in Rockwood speak English64.9%, which is a low percentage for
Gresham and Multnomah County. The second most commonly spoken language in
Rockwood is Spanish, with 24.4% of households using it as the primary language.
Approximately 17 different languages are spoken in the Rockwood community.
The median household income in Rockwood is about $32,430, compared to $57,460 for
Gresham and $49,316 for Oregon.
Men barely out-populate women in Rockwood, by 1.8%. To put this in perspective,
Rockwood has a lower percentage of women and a higher percentage of men than
Multnomah County.
Of the 5,570 household units in Rockwood, about 30% are owner-occupied; 64% are
renter-occupied; 7% are vacant.

18

Of recent development in Rockwood is the construction of a new satellite police station for
the City of Gresham, less than a mile from St. Aidans. In addition, an East County
Courthouse has recently opened, serving those with limited transportation resources.
Some of the negative statistics of the Rockwood area offer great outreach opportunities.
St. Aidans, as well as other churches in the area, provide outreach to those in need of
community services. St. Aidans Parish Hall is a meeting place for various neighborhood
associations.
EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES:
Higher education in the Portland/Gresham Metro area includes Portland Community
College, Mt. Hood Community College, Portland State University, University of Portland,
University of Oregon Extension, Oregon State Extension, Oregon Institute of Technology,
Warner Pacific College and Multnomah University. All are accessible via public transit.
CLIMATE:
Portland, Oregon, gets approximately 45 inches of rain per year, whereas the U.S. average is
37. Snowfall is five inches, whereas the average U.S. city gets 25 inches of snow per year.
The number of days with any measurable precipitation is 149. On average, there are 142
sunny days per year in Portland. The July high is around 82 degrees; the January low is 34
degrees.

PARISH STATISTICS (gleaned from the Parochial Reports)

2009
Baptized Members
Average Sunday Attend.
- 1st Sunday in Lent
- Easter
- Pentecost Sunday
- 1st Sunday in Advent
Total Church School
Students
Baptisms
Confirmations
Received by Bishop
Pledging Units
Total Amount Pledged

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

226
91
90
159
69
75

268
79
86
132
112
77

164
78
67
130
69
77

159
87
72
117
77
75

168
80
79
138
82
90

N/A*
N/A
77
115
70
N/A

9
8
1
0

17
4
0
0

10
7
2
1

10
3
1
0

14
0
0
0

10
6 so far
0 so far
0 so far

82
81
$98,000 $106,034

74
$97,600

70
$95,418

61
$94,244

61
$92,607

* N/A = accurate figures are not available at this time

19

WORSHIP
We welcome and invite into St.
Aidans Parish all people who seek to
love God in an open and supportive
community based upon the example
and teachings of Jesus Christ. We
especially welcome people who feel
they may not be welcome in a church.
We confess that as a community we
are not already perfected in love. We
seek to become more fully loving, and
we welcome all who wish to join us in
this journey.
The main entrance at the northwest corner of the church

REGULAR SERVICES:
We currently have two Holy Communion services on Sunday morning: one at 8:00 a.m.
(Rite I) and one at 10:00 a.m. (Rite II with music).
These services are supported by a small but active 12-member Altar Guild and a cadre of
nine adult acolytes/servers (who are also LEMs), supplemented by two youth, who assist
on the first Sunday of each month. St. Aidans is pleased to have five youth Lectors who
rotate throughout the year to read on the first Sunday of the month, as well as 14 adult
Lectors.
St. Aidans also has 11 Licensed Eucharistic Ministers, who assist in dispensing communion
at the altar, and four Lay Eucharistic Visitors (plus two in training), who take communion
to our shut-ins and those who are not able to make it to Church.
We have always had members of the congregation volunteer to usher on a rotating basis,
but in 2013, we formally established an Usher Guild.
OTHER SERVICES:
Due to the high percentage of Latino/Hispanic residents in our neighborhood, we host a
good number of Quinceaeras. These are Latino/Hispanic celebrations of a girls 15th
birthday. We also lead an abbreviated service of Morning Prayer on the first Sunday of
each month at the neighboring Pacific Gardens, a residential facility for those with
Alzheimers and other forms of dementia.
MUSIC:
Our organ is a small, three-rank Mller pipe organ, which provides music for the Sunday
10:00 a.m. service, and often use our electronic keyboard (by Roland). On occasion, we
play percussion instruments and are fortunate to have several talented musicians in our
congregation (two violinists/violists and two flutists). A paid, part-time organist/choir
director leads the 12-member volunteer choir.
20

An icon of St. Aidan of Lindisfarne that was written for us

hangs on the south wall in the Narthex.

Note: General Convention in 2009 provisionally combined the commemorations of

Aidan and Cuthbert, resulting in new lessons and collects
Lectionary Readings for August 31
Psalm 104:32-35 / Isaiah 55:6-12 / Romans 12:6-13 / John 10:25b-30
Collects: Preface of a Saint (2)
PRAYER (traditional language): Everliving God, who didst call thy servants Aidan and Cuthbert
to proclaim the Gospel in northern England and endued them with loving hearts and gentle spirits:
Grant us grace to live as they did, in simplicity, humility and love for the poor; through Jesus Christ,
who came among us as one who serves, and who liveth and reigneth with thee and the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen.
PRAYER (contemporary language): Everliving God, you called your servants Aidan and Cuthbert
to proclaim the Gospel in northern England and gave them loving hearts and gentle spirits: Grant us
grace to live as they did, in simplicity, humility and love for the poor; through Jesus Christ, who
came among us as one who serves, and who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God,
now and for ever. Amen.

21

CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
BIBLE STUDY:
A small, dedicated group from St. Aidans and St. Lukes (a nearby parish in the Metro-East
Convocation) meets weekly to read and discuss the lectionary readings for the following
Sunday.
SUNDAY SCHOOL:
During the school year, with the exception of the first Sunday of the month and Major Feast
Days, our children gather in the church at the beginning of the service. Following the
Collect of the Day, they are dismissed to class and return to church for The Peace and Holy
Eucharist.
YOUTH GROUP:
Our youth meet from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. Light
refreshments are offered, followed by various activities.
LENTEN BOOK STUDY:
On Wednesday evenings during Lent, following Stations of the Cross and a simple supper
prepared by the participants, one or more chapters of the assigned book is discussed. The
last three books read were:
2012 - Why is there a Menorah on the Altar? Jewish Roots in Christian Worship by Meredith
Gould;
2013 - What Episcopalians Believe: an Introduction by Samuel Wells, and
2014 - Twelve Steps to a Compassionate Life by Karen Armstrong.
ADVENT BOOK STUDY:
On Wednesday evenings during Advent, following Evening Prayer and a light supper, one
or more chapters of the assigned book is discussed. The book for 2013 was Embracing
Emergence Christianity by Phyllis Tickle.
NEW CURRICULUM:
At its July 2014 meeting, St. Aidans Vestry made a significant commitment to Christian
Education for all ages, by approving the purchase of a new curriculum for a multi-age
Sunday School, for Youth and for Adults. This will provide good support for teachers, and a
resource for everyone who wants to engage in Bible Study at St. Aidans
The new Feasting on the Word Curriculum: Teaching the Revised Common Lectionary
incorporates the Feasting on the Word commentary style to explore one of the lectionary
passages in ways suitable for all participants. Each age level provides comprehensive,
accessible biblical background for teachers from four perspectives. This curriculum is
based on award-winning Bible commentaries, written and edited by a distinguished and
ecumenical collection of scholars, and used by many Episcopal priests and bishops in
sermon preparation.
.

22

PARISH LIFE
COMMUNICATION:
Email Blasts
These are sent when time is a major factor in the communiqu.

Facebook
This is one more way to keep in touch, post pictures and to spread parish news.
Were up to 99 likes and looking forward to receiving more.

Newsletter (The Torch)

The Torch is published monthly. Our wonderful copy machine allows us to print,
staple and partially fold The Torch mechanically. A dedicated team prepares the
newsletter for mailing in order to be received in a timely fashion.

Telephone Tree
The Telephone Tree is activated to notify members about special events, service
time changes, and funerals.

Website
Lots of information can be found on our website including the calendar, our Interim
Rectors Blog, photos, The Torch, and links to online Community Partners.

FELLOWSHIP:
Coffee Hour
St. Aidans has quite a reputation for its Coffee Hours. Each Sunday, two to three
families are assigned to host coffee hour (a couple of times during the year). Some
are casual and others can be quite elaborate. In any case, the food is always good
and gives members of the congregation an opportunity to visit, to talk and to share.

Cursillo Reunion
St. Aidans Cursillo group meets monthly, except during Lent when other parish
study groups are scheduled. We meet in Murdock Hall to sing, share our Christian
life, and enjoy snacks. One does not have to have made their Cursillo to join in the
fellowship, but we do encourage them to consider doing so.

Prayer Ministry
The Prayer Chain is comprised of a score of members who respond immediately to
needs for urgent prayers. Upon request, phone calls and emails go out immediately
and the names are forwarded to the office to be included on the Prayer List (found
in the Narthex)

TEAtime: A Cup of Friendship

This group meets monthly, except during LENT, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the
kitchen of Murdock Hall. It formed out of a desire for the women of St. Aidans to
gather, share dinner, drink good tea, laugh and enjoy each others company. Women
new to Saint Aidans are especially encouraged to attend. We even have a few
former parishioners who drop in from time to time.
23

FUNDRAISING:
All-You-Can-Eat Crab & Shrimp Feed
This major fundraiser was begun in 1990, and we will be celebrating its 25th year in
2015. With seven seating sessions throughout a four-day period, we have often
served over 1,000 people in house. In addition, we sell multiple take-out orders. It
is said that it takes a village to raise a child; this takes a good portion of the
congregation to pull it off.

Online Partners (Powells Books and amazon.com)

Anyone who logs on to our website @ www.staidans-gresham.org can find a link to
both of these sites. A percentage is rebated to St. Aidans from items ordered
through these links.

Rummage Sale
St. Aidans rummage sale usually takes place at the beginning of May. For the past
two years we have gone ecumenical and partnered with Gethsemane Lutheran,
which holds its sale at the same time. As people pay for their purchases, we hand
out flyers advertising Gethsemanes sale and vice versa. This year, all the clothing
that didnt sell (65 pounds) was donated to SnowCap. All the other items were
given to The Childrens Club, which offers quality childcare 2-1/2 to 12 years of age.
A sliding scale assures accessibility to all income levels.

SCRIP
The scrip program is a non-profit operation in partnership with the Tualatin Valley
School District for the purpose of fund-raising for schools and nonprofits (such as St.
Aidans) through gift card sales. Orders are taken on the first Sunday of the month
and on the following Sunday we distribute the gift cards. St. Aidans receives a
percentage of each gift card sold, but the buyer gets the full value of the gift card
purchased.

Wintergarden
This is an annual Christmas crafts bazaar held in late November. It consists of
parishioner-made crafts and food items, along with local vendors who purchase a
table (from us) to sell their wares.

The entrance from the parking lot to both the

church (to the left) and Murdock Hall (to the
right)
Murdock Hall is where most of our fundraising
events take place.

24

OUTREACH MINISTRIES
AMBASSADORS:
With the leadership of Deacon David Longwood (recently deceased), St. Aidans Greeters
became Ambassadors. Their task is to arrive before the 10:00 a.m. Eucharist to help
guests feel comfortable and welcome. A special invitation to the coffee hour is given and a
Welcome Bag is offered. A personal note of welcome is written and mailed by the
Ambassadors to those who sign the guestbook.
BOTTLE AND CAN RECYCLING:
Of the $1,601.51 that was collected for Episcopal Relief and Development in 2013, $320.05
was from redeemable bottles and cans turned in by church members and taken to the
redemption center by members Bruce Richardson and LindaCarol McKinlay. Another
$144.45 was collected during the first seven months of 2014.
GIVING TREE:
Every year, after Thanksgiving, St. Aidans Giving Tree can be seen in the Parish Hall with
numerous tags hanging on it. These tags represent various wish list items from SnowCap
Charities. Church members take a tag, shop for the gift item listed on the tag and place the
unwrapped gift under the tree. They can then hang an ornament on the treethe more
ornaments, the more gifts for community members in need!
H.B. LEE MIDDLE SCHOOL (various projects for our neighborhood school):
Christmas Dinner: St. Aidans hosted students and their families from H.B. Lee
Middle School and the SUN Program Coordinator to its second annual Christmas
dinner celebration on 12/09/13. Barbara Gault decorated the tables with beautiful
centerpieces. Following dinner, we all sang Christmas songs led by LindaCarol
McKinlay and her trusty guitar. The big hit of the evening was a visit from Santa and
Mrs. Claus (Mike Vidito and Deacon Coleen Howard). Thanks to Bill Berninghausen,
the children were able to have their photos taken with the jolly couple. The
students were also led in crafting a picture frame for their photos. Our friends from
East County Church of Christ provided the craft materials and crafting expertise for
the picture frames. It was a fun-filled evening and we look forward to next years
dinner. Many church members made the evening possible.

School Library Outreach: Two of our church members assist the school librarian
with miscellaneous library duties for this neighborhood middle school.

SUN (Schools Uniting Neighborhoods) Program: SUN Community Schools in

Multnomah County are full-service neighborhood hubs where the school and
partners from across the community come together to make sure kids and families
have what they need to be successfulin school and in life. St. Aidans partners
with H.B. Lee Middle School for an Afterschool Snack Program. We have a steady
number of students stop by for snacks one day a week (Wednesdays) after their
work at Nadaka Nature Park, adjacent to St. Aidans. There is support from church
members, and we have a good variety of food for the students each week. The
coordinator for the SUN Program also attends these weekly sessions.

25

LONG-RANGE PLANNING COMMITTEE:

This committee met on various occasions during 2013 to develop a plan for the future of St.
Aidans. The committee also began work on a document that would stand as a foundation
for future development over the next ten years.
PACIFIC GARDENS MORNING PRAYER SERVICES:
A team of church members leads Morning Prayer services on the first Sunday of every
month at Pacific Gardens Alzheimers Special Care Center, which is adjacent to St. Aidans.
In the past, there were three teams; however, due to age and other factors, there are now
just two.
SHROVE TUESDAY SUPPER:
Shrove Tuesday is the last feast before Lent and we do it right! In 2014, parishioners and
guests came to enjoy yummy pancakes, scrambled eggs and all the fixings. We had great
fun as we ate and visited. We collected 62 pounds of food donations and miscellaneous
items, as well as $214.00, for SnowCap (see below), which assists community members in
need. It took many people to make this annual event a success.
SNOWCAP COMMUNITY CHARITIES (NEIGHBORS HELPING NEIGHBORS):
SnowCap Community Charities, established in 1967, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, philanthropic
organization in the Rockwood area created to provide food, clothing, advocacy and other
services to the poor in East Multnomah County. St. Aidans continues in its tradition to
partner in this outreach to the community.
On Sundays, parishioners fill our Feed My Sheep basket with pantry staples, high-protein
foods, personal hygiene necessities, as well as clothing and bedding requests. These
donations are blessed and then delivered.
SnowCap donations from St. Aidans in 2013 included:
Food.....1,410 lbs.
Personal Hygiene...55 lbs.
Clothing....11 lbs.
Xmas Presents (Giving Tree)...29 lbs.
School Supplies...................................104 lbs.
+ $40.00 (46 lbs. of supplies to H.B. Lee)

Cash Contributions...$541.00
Some of the food and cash for 2013
came from the Shrove Tuesday Supper
to which several of the Metro-East
Convocation churches had been invited.

In 2013, we donated 47 lbs. of fresh produce

from our garden.

26

During the summer of 2013, the Executive Director of SnowCap contacted St. Aidans with a
request for parish volunteers to support a new program to provide client services once a
month in the evening. This service expands support to those clients that are now working
but still need assistance. Recognizing the importance of such a request, several
parishioners explored parish interest in this service of outreach at the Ministry Fair held in
September 2013; interest proved to be strong. We had seven church members sign up
during the Ministry Fair, and an additional seven signed up soon thereafter. SnowCap
conducted a team training, and St. Aidans first service night was scheduled for 01/22/14.
Enthusiasm is high among volunteers. In addition, a silver lining has emerged: some
volunteers view this once-monthly evening ministry to be a gift for them as well. It allows
them an opportunity to serve when, typically, their work or school schedule prohibits them
from participating during the day.
SUNDAYS @3:00 P.M. CONCERT SERIES:
St. Aidans began its four-part concert series in the Fall of 2012, hosting a variety of
musicians on various Sundays throughout the year. Beginning with the 2014-2015 series,
the focus will be on outreach to the Portland/Gresham Metro area. No admission will be
charged; however, a freewill offering will be taken to help defray expenses. We presented
San Francisco-based singer/songwriter Bobby Jo Valentine on 08/09/14 (a Saturday, due
to his schedule). Our second concert in the current series will be John Bennett & His Jazz
Quintet (with a Sing-a-Long) on Sunday, 11/09/2014. Future plans may include a mariachi
band and a choral concert in early 2015.
UNITED THANK OFFERING:
Reflecting our gratitude for the many blessings we have, there were two ingatherings
during 2013. The May/June ingathering netted $267.72, and the November/December
ingathering netted $237.07, for an annual total of $504.79.
WELCOME BAGS:
Our Ambassadors give these bags to our first-time guests. Each bag contains a welcome
letter, information about the parish, a copy of our Annual Report, a current copy of The
Torch (our newsletter), a current copy of Forward Day by Day and some candy. In 2013 we
distributed about 20 bags.
ZAREPHATH MINISTRIES:
In 1985, several of the churches in the Gresham area decided to confront the needs of our
hungry people in East County. Zarephath Kitchen served its first meal on Christmas Day in
1985. Housed in a building owned by Trinity Lutheran Church in Gresham, Zarephath
Kitchen provides hot lunch to approximately 140 people each weekday from 11:00 a.m.1:00 p.m. Meals are free to all comers and usually include a soup, a salad, bread and
dessert. St. Aidans team consists of about a dozen church members and their friends, who
volunteer one day a month. The other ministry, Zarephath Pantry, offers take-home food to
the hungry.

27

BUILDINGS & GROUNDS

St. Aidans sits on approximately three
acres of land, with three large buildings
and a large unpaved parking lot. The
grounds are actively tended by a small
group of dedicated parishioners.
Members of our congregation, as well as
those who visit us, comment on the effect
of the total campus, seeing it as a special
place which is both calming and inspiring.
The buildings consist of the Church, the
Parish Hall (Murdock Hall), and the
Administrative/Sunday School building
(Likowski Hall). These buildings are sound,
but in need of routine maintenance.

Fall foliage outside Likoswki Hall

North of the Church is the Parish Hall (Murdock Hall), which is large and readily accessible
via a covered or uncovered walk from the Church and contains a commercially-rated
kitchen.
Likowski Hall (the Administrative/Sunday School building) is northwest of Murdock Hall.
The Josefa May Rees Memorial Garden is located in the triangular area between Murdock
and Likowski Halls. Herein lie the cremains of some of our founders, parishioners, and
family members

The Church, which was

designed by Richard
Sundeleaf, is of a simple,
plain design which dresses
up well for high services
such as Christmas, Easter
and Pentecost.

28

The view of St. Aidans from NE Glisan Street.

1. Church
2. Murdock Hall
3. Likowski Hall
4. The Green
5. Josefa May Rees
Memorial Garden
6. Play Yard
7. Vegetable Garden
8. Parking
9. Former location of
Paper Recycling

10. NE Glisan Street

29

FINANCIAL INFORMATION
STEWARDSHIP PROGRAM:
In the past, the Kick-Off for the stewardship program began with a combined service at
9:00 a.m., followed by a wonderful luncheon, a potluck dessert and often a guest speaker.
Everyone received a pledge packet for the coming year and was encouraged to take it
home, pray about it, and return on or before the Ingathering. The stewardship chair
recorded the pledges as they came in. Additional pledge packets were placed on a table in
the Narthex each Sunday, giving another opportunity to make a pledge. Members not
attending the Kick-Off Luncheon received their pledge packets in the mail. In 2013, during
the six Sundays of the stewardship campaign, six parish members of the parish agreed to
take a Sunday and give a personal perspective of stewardship.
The 2014 Stewardship Program will be handled a bit differently. Services will be kept at
the advertised schedule (8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m.) and our Kick-Off will be introduced in
the sermon. The pledge packets will be mailed to all members the following week. During
the campaign we will blend the Prayers of the People as suggested by TENS with Form III in
the BCP. On the Ingathering Sunday, the Stewardship Ministry Team will provide the
dessert for both coffee hours. Following the 10:00 a.m. service, there will be a potluck
coffee hour.
The stewardship chair will complete a final report toward the end of November, in time for
the Parish Treasurer to prepare the coming years budget.
OUTSTANDING DEBT:
With the exception of the DPA, we are pleased to declare that St. Aidans has no outstanding
debt.
DIOCESAN PROGRAM ASSESSMENT:
Unfortunately, St. Aidans is not current with DPA payments. The Parish is currently
discussing DPA forgiveness with the Diocese. As of December 31, 2013, the Parish was in
arrears approximately $98,000. Our payment history is as follows:
DPA Paid:
2009 (50%) $ 10,671
2010 (50%) $ 10,431
2011 (0%) $0
2012 (0%) $0
2013 (29%) $ 6,200
2014 (22%) $ 4,800*
* Projected from $ 400 /month

30

2014 OPERATING BUDGET:

The operating budget for 2014 shows a breakeven budget where income and expenses
were equal. This included the $4,800 of budgeted DPA payments. With the resignation of
our previous Rector and one other staff change, the budget was revised in May 2014. As of
June 30, 2014, the Parish was operating within the limits of the revised 2014 budget.
ST. AIDANS 2014 REVISED BUDGET:

ST AIDAN'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

2014 Revised Budget

2014 Budget
OPERATING INCOME Contributions
Crab Feed
Other Fundraising
Other Income
CBH Rental
Other Building Use
Total Operating Income

96,644
8,000
5,000
1,450
6,000
2,800
119,894

OPERATING EXPENSE Office Expense

Utilities
Building & Grounds
Christian Education
Parish Life
Music & Liturgy
Clergy Administration
Taxes
Total Operating Expense

32,931
14,875
12,110
1,000
1,300
9,162
38,371
5,660
115,409

Operating Income less

Expense

4,485

4,900

DPA Expense

Designated Collections
Designated Expenditures
Total Income less Expense

(415)

31

PLEDGING PATTERN (taken directly from Pledge Card records*):

Annual Pledge

2009

2009

2010

2010

No. of
Pledges

Total Dollars

No. of
Pledges
1
8
9
8
10
11
16
13
1
4
81

Total Dollars

$1 - 99
$100 - 299
$300 - 499
$500 - 699
$700 - 999
$1,000 - 1,299
$1,300 - 1,999
$2,000 - 2,999
$3,000 - 3,999
$4,000 - 5,999
TOTALS
Yearly Average per
person

Annual Pledge
$1 - 99
$100 - 299
$300 - 499
$500 - 699
$700 - 999
$1,000 - 1,299
$1,300 - 1,999
$2,000 - 2,999
$3,000 - 3,999
$4,000 - 5,999
TOTALS
Yearly Average

14
13
11
10
7
15
11
4
2
87

$2,444.00
$4,532.00
$6,280.00
$8,244.00
$8,080.00
$23,960.00
$24,780.00
$14,540.00
$9,020.00
$101,880.00
$1,171.03

$52.00
$1,526.00
$3,364.00
$4,500.00
$7,930.00
$12,220.00
$24,742.00
$30,820.00
$3,500.00
$17,460.00
$106,114.00
$1310.05

$1263.25

2012

2013

2013

No. of
Pledges
1
10
10
5
6
12
10
6
4
5
69
per
person

Total Dollars

No. of
Pledges
1
5
6
7
5
5
14
7
5
5
60

Total Dollars

$1,364.03

2011

No. of
Total Dollars
Pledges
2
$120.00
9
$1,870.00
6
$2,200.00
11
$6,400.00
5
$4,290.00
11
$12,820.00
8
$12,058.00
10
$24,380.00
2
$6,600.00
3
$13,900.00
67 $84,638.00

2012

$52.00
$2,298.00
$4,170.00
$2,720.00
$4,580.00
$13,704.00
$15,522.00
$14,980.00
$12,912.00
$23,180.00
$94,118.00

2011

2014

2014

$62.40
$929.00
$2,160.00
$4,060.00
$4,004.00
$5,900.00
$21,274.00
$16,400.00
$15,720.00
$24,010.00
$94,519.40

No. of
Total Dollars
Pledges
7
$1,327.00
4
$1,400.00
11
$6,384.00
4
$3,200.00
8
$9,260.00
13
$20,012.00
4
$9,580.00
4
$13,020.00
6
$28,424.00
61 $92,607.00

$1,575.32

$1263.25

*As noted above, the figures on this page are taken directly from the Pledge Cards and differ from those on
the Parochial Report due to changes in the financial status of parishioners during the pledge years.

32

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS:
St. Aidans maintains checking and share accounts at U.S. Bank. The checking account is
used for deposit of contributions and payment of bills. In addition to the operating
checking account, there is a money market account for unendowed designated funds and
three accounts for use during specific fundraising events. All expenditures are approved by
the Vestry through the approval of the annual budget and are disbursed by check, and
require two signatures. Any expenditure outside budget parameters requires specific
Vestry approval.
In addition to the U.S. Bank accounts, the Parish participates in the Diocesan Endowment
Fund and St Aidans has a current balance of approximately $50,000. In 2011, the Parish
received approximately $200,000 in a bequest from a long-term member. The funds are
invested in mutual funds through Wells Fargo Investment Advisors.
DESIGNATED FUNDS:
The Parish has designated (not endowed) funds, which have been collected over a number
of years for specific purposes. Some of these funds receive money on a regular basis and
have regular disbursements (altar guild, altar flowers, hospitality, etc.). Other funds only
accumulate during specific fund-raising or as a result of gifts (memorial, organ fund,
parking lot fund, etc.). Currently, the two largest funds are the Memorial Fund ($15,000)
and the Organ Fund ($19,400).
ENDOWMENTS:
Endowed funds may never be spent. The earnings from these funds are used for the specific
purpose of operating expenses.
BEQUESTS:
Jack Malcolm, a parishioner and local florist, left his estate to several churches in the
Gresham area. St. Aidans was the recipient of $200,000 in 2011. Verbal restrictions on the
bequest (from the Trustee to the previous Rector, Scott Dolph) were that the funds be used
for music, flowers, and church programs. It was the interpretation of the then sitting
Vestry that the funds were not to be used for building improvements or DPA payments.
Since 2011, funds have been used for a portable keyboard, underwriting a concert series in
2013 and 2014, signage along Glisan Street to communicate programs and services, and
most recently a sound system for the church to enhance music quality and allow older
members to better hear services. The Strategic Funds Committee is comprised of four
parishioners who review all requests and, if approved, passes them on to the Vestry for a
final decision.

33

PARISH STAFF, VESTRY AND COMMITTEES

Present Staff:

Interim Rector, Mother Jaime Sanders, Worship

Interim Deacon, Coleen Howard

Part-time Parish Administrator, Rob Stoltz

Treasurer /Bookkeeper, Lorraine Crawford

Sunday School Teacher, Jackie Goodnight (with rotating volunteers)

Sextons
o Andrew Agler
o Sharon Keady
Vestry:

Senior Warden, Rebecca Wirkkala (2017), Christian Discipleship/Worship &
Spirituality

Junior Warden, Andrew Agler (2016), Building & Grounds/Christian Discipleship

Clerk of the Vestry, Chris Greenaway (2017), Stewardship & Administration/Building
& Grounds

John Gurney (2017), Outreach/Buildings & Grounds

Linda Hammond (2015), Worship & Spirituality/Outreach

Leslie Hirsch (2015), Worship & Spirituality/Parish Life

Lyman Houk (2015), Stewardship & Administration

LindaCarol McKinlay (2016), Outreach/ Stewardship & Administration

Diane Nash (2016), Parish Life/Worship & Spirituality

Lorraine Crawford
Chris Greenaway
Gloria Trunk
Rebecca Wirkkala

Long-Range Planning Committee

Lorraine Crawford

Marty Gault

Byron McKinlay

Gloria Trunk

Mike Vidito
Parish Profile Committee:

Angie Groce

Marlene Haldors

Byron McKinlay

LindaCarol McKinlay

Pat Rose
Strategic Funds Committee:

34

35