Interfaith of Topeka
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October 2007 Minutes
Minutes Interfaith Board Meeting
First Congregational Church-UCC 17th and Collins, Topeka
October 23rd, 2007
6:00 pm
Faith Sharing: Meeting opened with prayer and Faith Sharing by Rev. Tobias Schlingensiepen. He provided a sweeping review of the history of the Congregational-United Church of Christ. His discussion made clear the commitment of the Congregational-UUC church to tolerance and social development.
Board Meeting: Started at 7:00 pm. Present were: Don Anderson, David Beale, Bill Gitchell, Christian Kramer, Jim Mosher, Father Norbert Licktieg, Jan Price, Sanford Pomerantz, Jerry Quiring, Ashraf Sufi, Phil Wilkes, Sallye Wilkinson, Joe Hendrixson. Also attending were Rev. Tobias Schlingensiepen and Rev. Kent Stone
Report was given to the board concerning the recovery of Jack Rardin. Jack was in an auto accident that, while not requiring surgery, severely limited his mobility. Jack’s guidance and vision for the development of the Thanksgiving service was felt throughout the Board Meeting. We wished him a speedy recovery.
The bulk of the meeting was dedicated to completing final planning for the Thanksgiving Service. The presence of the full Board at the site of the Service allowed for rapid clarification of outstanding issues. The support from First Congregational was exceptional as key members took the initiative to make sure the program would run smoothly.
Treasurers Report: $1,099.17 available in checking. Total from checking and invested funds $7,479.24 NexLynx fees paid to maintain website and Domain name for Interfaith.
Annual Meeting: The Islamic Center of Topeka has agreed to host the upcoming annual meeting. Unity agreed to be a backup location.
Interfaith Education:
Bill Gitchell will contact Bill Wagnon from the Kansas Board of Education. The hope of the Board is that we can meet with Dr Wagnon on our February meeting. We would like to discuss the state of religious education in Kansas public schools. We would like to gain a better understanding of the possibilities and the challenges.
Dr Mattson Visit to Topeka: Dr Sufi reports that Dr Mattson, President of the Islamic Association of North America, will be able to come to Topeka in April 2008. We should be able to have an Interfaith Meeting with her as the keynote speaker mid afternoon on Saturday or Sunday of her visit. The topic suggested for her address was “Trends in Islam”. Dr Sufi will be asking Interfaith to assist in the development of the public program and will report back to us concerning exact dates.
December Meeting: Request made to find location for Board Meeting December 18th or January 8th. Bill Gitchell will check on Library room availability and report back.
Faith Sharing next meeting will be by Christian Kramer.
Next meeting 6:45pm Topeka/Shawnee Library.
Submitted for approval by Wm Gitchell
September 2007 Minutes
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Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting
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Date
Time
Location
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Sept. 25, 2007
Topeka/Shawnee Public Library, 6:00 p.m. Thanksgiving Committee
About 6:45 p.m. Faith sharing
About 7:45 p.m. Business Meeting
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Recorder
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Jackie Lakin
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Interfaith of Topeka Mission
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Interfaith of Topeka is comprised of people from a variety of faiths and religious traditions. We bring together individuals who are willing to put aside their prejudices and open their minds and hearts to new possibilities. We are willing to engage in the process of working together to build an active community, strong in its shared values of faith, compassion, human dignity, and mutual respect where the expression of love and peace replaces hate and violence.
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Members (present at meeting X; absent at meeting left blank)
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X
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Don Anderson
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X
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David Beale
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Joel Edwards
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X
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Bill Gitchell
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Daljit Jawa
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Christian Kramer
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X
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Jackie Lakin
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Norbert Lickteig
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C.R. Macchi
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X
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Jim Mosher
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X
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Deepak Parulkar
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Jan Price
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Sanford Pomeranz
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X
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Jerry Quiring
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X
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Jack Rardin
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Karen Sessel
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X
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Ashraf Sufi
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X
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Phil Wilkes
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Sallye Wilkinson
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Joe Hendrixson–Class of 2007
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X
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Barbara Karnowski
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Vacant Class of 2007
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Vacant Class of 2009
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Agenda Items
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Objectives
Key Points Discussed
Action or Follow-up
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1
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Opening Prayer: Christian Kramer
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Christian was not available. Bill Gitchell said a Baha’i prayer.
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2
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Faith Sharing: Christian Kramer, Healing Mother Earth
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Christian was not available.
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3
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Addition of New Business
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None
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4
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August 28, 2007 Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting Minutes
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Minutes were accepted. Jackie will be out of town during the October board meeting.
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5
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Treasure’s Report
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Key Points Discussed: Phil Wilkes reported a Total Liquid Assets: $7,294.55. Dues received from Temple Beth Shalom and Westminster Presbyterian.
Action: Bulk mail permit is due for $175. Discussion by IF members indicated e-mail is primarily used for communication. Consequently, the bulk permit will not be renewed at this time. If a need arises later for bulk permit, it could be renewed.
Action: Domain name protection letter—did not seem reasonable offer. Nexlynx takes care of maintaining domain name. Offer from company not accepted.
Action: Telephone costs of approximately $58 per month does not seem reasonable—is does not appear useful. Website meets need. IF board voted to drop land line telephone service. Phil Wilkes volunteered to use his cell phone numbers as the IF contact telephone number.
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6
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Update on IF Board Issues—
Bill Gitchell:
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NA
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7
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Bulletin Board Update—Don Jacobs
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Don Jacobs sent the following e-mail to the board:
Nexlynx has completed the Discussion Forum. New users must register and sign the following agreement before being able to post comments:
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You agree not to post any abusive, obscene, vulgar, slanderous, hateful, threatening, sexually-oriented or any other material that may violate any applicable laws. Doing so may lead to you being immediately and permanently banned (and your service provider being informed). The IP address of all posts is recorded to aid in enforcing these conditions. You agree that the webmaster, administrator and moderators of this forum have the right to remove, edit, move or close any topic at any time should they see fit. As a user you agree to any information you have entered above being stored in a database. While this information will not be disclosed to any third party without your consent the webmaster, administrator and moderators cannot be held responsible for any hacking attempt that may lead to the data being compromised.
This forum system uses cookies to store information on your local computer. These cookies do not contain any of the information you have entered above; they serve only to improve your viewing pleasure. The e-mail address is used only for confirming your registration details and password (and for sending new passwords should you forget your current one).
By clicking Register below you agree to be bound by these conditions.
I Agree to these terms and am over or exactly 13 years of age
I Agree to these terms and am under 13 years of age
I do not agree to these terms
Also, I have the ability to remove posts or users who violate this agreement. However, Nexlynx is not able to provide the capability to put new users on "probation" for 2 or 3 posts to see if they will abide by our conditions. If we see this as critical to the functioning of the Forum, we should not go ahead. But if we can live with this limitation, then we are ready to proceed. I have a conflict for Tues night and will not be able to make the meeting. If you could read this at the meeting and let me know the feedback, I will know how to proceed.
Board members reflected on Discussion Forum. Questions arose how it is to be managed. Don will be moderator. Jackie will help upon occasion. Bill encouraged members to keep an eye out for problems and let Don know of issues. If inappropriate items should appear, IF board members can delete—offensive post deletes and can bots?? be blocked. Threats can be addressed if they come up. Bill volunteered to meet with anyone on IF board who needs help in logging onto discussion board.
It was decided that is best to try the Discussion Board to see what problems need to be addressed.
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8
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Spirituality Events—All
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Not addressed.
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9
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Thanksgiving Program Committee Report—“Thankful for Nature’s Bounty”
November 18th–Jack Rardin, chair
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Follow-up: The Thanksgiving Program Committee met. Jack announced Shawnee County Choral Society will not be participating at the service. Jim Mosher will contact Kevin Cullum at Washburn University and Jack Rardin will contact Steve Burke at Grace Episcopical.
Photos of local Peace Poles might be shown during the announcement.
Need to make copies.
Sign language needs to be promoted.
Rev. Cushingberry might a fourth presenter.
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9
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General Topics
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Key Points Discussed: Peace Poles will be featured at Thanksgiving Service.
Key Points Discussed: Bill did not immediately contact Bill Wagnon on the Kansas State Board of Education. Instead Bill met with Chris Hamilton and they discussed how to go about this slowly. He suggested a pilot curriculum in one or two communities. Topeka West, Washburn Rural or even Lawrence. It was suggested to look at programs that already exist and see what worked or did not work. Another thought was to have Bill Wagnon meet with the IF board to just share ideas. Only school anyone knew of was in the news few months ago in Texas. Not sure about this event. It was asked if larger districts in other states with large, diverse populations address this issue. Models do exist outside the country. Again, it was suggested it is a good idea for Bill to meet with state board president Bill Wagnon. If a course of study is every allowed, teachers would need professional development to deliver the instruction and answer student questions.
Also, it was mentioned that this nation is often perceived as a Christian nation. How would this belief impact studying non Christian religions?
This course would be an elective. Promote respect and better understanding among students in the school and in the international marketplace.
Action: Bill would talk to Bill Wagnon about meeting with IF board to discuss interfaith education. Also, talk to Barry Crawford at Washburn University. He might have some interesting ideas.
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10
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Next Meeting Date: Tuesday, October 23, 2007 at the Topeka/Shawnee Public Library
Faith Sharing Schedule for October: TBA
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TBA
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11
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Announcements
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Iftar is being held at the mosque on Saturday on Sept. 29.
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August 2007 Minutes
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Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting
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Date
Time
Location
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August 28, 2007
Topeka/Shawnee Public Library, 206 Menninger Room
6:00 p.m. Thanksgiving Committee
About 6:45 p.m. Faith sharing
About 7:45 p.m. Business Meeting
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Recorder
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Jackie Lakin
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Interfaith of Topeka Mission
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Interfaith of Topeka is comprised of people from a variety of faiths and religious traditions. We bring together individuals who are willing to put aside their prejudices and open their minds and hearts to new possibilities. We are willing to engage in the process of working together to build an active community, strong in its shared values of faith, compassion, human dignity, and mutual respect where the expression of love and peace replaces hate and violence.
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Members (present at meeting X; absent at meeting left blank)
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X
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Don Anderson
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X
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David Beale
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Joel Edwards
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X
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Bill Gitchell
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Daljit Jawa
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Christian Kramer
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X
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Jackie Lakin
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Norbert Lickteig
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C.R. Macchi
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X
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Jim Mosher
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X
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Deepak Parulkar
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Jan Price
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X
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Sanford Pomeranz
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X
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Jerry Quiring
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X
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Jack Rardin
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X
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Karen Sessel
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Ashraf Sufi
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Phil Wilkes
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X
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Sallye Winkinson
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X
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Joe Hendrixson–Class of 2007
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X
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Barbara Karnowski
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Vacant Class of 2007
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Vacant Class of 2009
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Agenda Items
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Objectives
Key Points Discussed
Action or Follow-up
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1
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Opening Prayer: Jerry Quiring
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2
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Faith Sharing: Jerry Quiring, Progressive Christianity
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Key Points Discussed: Jerry shared about anti-Baptist wing of the 1500’s Reformation. Anti-Baptist is to be baptized again–not at birth. The left wing or radical wing literally interpreted the Sermon on the Mount. Bases on The Complete Writings of Menno Simons 1146-1561. Menno is the name from which Mennonites is derived from. Amish still practice simplicity, turning the other check and live separately. They use the Bible and Martyrs Mirror showing that they come from a long line advocating peace. Mennonites also still believe in peace. Jerry read a children’s story about John Shrag from Peace Be With You by Cornelia Lehn. The story was about a pacifist in 1918.
During the time of Katherine the Great, many changes occurred for Jerry’s ancestors. They moved to Russian with the promise of not serving in the military. After her death, much migration with finally settling in Henderson, Nebraska. Also, settlements in Kansas happened during this time period. Not working on Sundays set them apart. Also, not serving in the military was part of the culture. Movies, drinking, smoking and dancing were forbidden. Jerry had many discussions with a Lutheran girl friend about religion. Later, he went to Tabor College in 1963 and in 1965 read a professor’s paper on “New Wineskins for Old Wine”. The paper reminded him of Lutheran discussions during high school–difference between form and substance. His questioning caused a rift during his college years but later he reconciled those issues.
Jerry attended a Mennonite seminary to try to find answers to his questions about life. After two years, transferred to Trinity Evengelical school. Popular place where he found out he did not want a systemic, doctrine of faith. In 1970’s, he studied faith as a process–based on work of Original Blessings by Matthew Fox. Later he traveled to Cairo, Egypt and discovered people are just people and missionary work is faith sharing. In 1982, when pasturing in small church, two new members did not want adult baptism. They felt Baptism as a baby was sufficient. The church leaders told him that the 1500’s rite was to be held. It was awful experience—form and substance locking heads.
Fox’s work added a new dimension with creation spirituality with painting, sculpture, creative dance. Jerry took creative dance—three women, young priest and instructor—feelings came out with the dance. Gave a sense of freedom—cosmic Christ. In 1990’s, he read Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time by Marcus J. Borg. Led to Jesus seminars where they talked about what are the actual words of Jesus. Finally, his journey led to Progressive Christianity.
Materials include: Westar Institute’s journal The Fourth R, The Progressive Christian journal, and Center for Progressive Christianity. Christians who have found an approach to God through the life and teachings of Jesus. The website is: The Center for Progressive Christianity www.tcpc.org. Last book was Christianity for the Rest of Us by Diane Butler Bass with its ten signposts of renewal: hospitality, discernment, healing, contemplation, testimony, diversity, justice, worship, reflection, and beauty. Faith Community Church is attempting Progressive Christian Church. His position is he still a Mennonite but believes change is still part of it. Harvey Cox was brought up—his name is associated with Progressive Christianity.
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3
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Addition of New Business
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Website was added.
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4
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July 24, 2007 Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting Minutes
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Bill took notes because Jackie had a meeting in Hutchinson. Very small group was present so Jerry Quiring’s presentation was postponed until August meeting. Also, Peace Poles were a discussion item moved forward to the August meeting.
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5
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Treasure’s Report
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Phil was absent and share via telephone prior to the meeting that not much has changed.
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6
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Update on IF Board Issues—
Bill Gitchell:
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Key Points Discussed: Bill shared about the changes on IF website. Not dependent on Dreamweaver so easier for IF board to contribute. Site is interfaithoftopeka.org
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7
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Bulletin Board Update—Don Jacobs
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Key Points Discussed: Don Jacobs gave an update about the Bulletin Board. To start the discussion, it is totally open for IF board use. When open to the public, they will register. Nexlynx is working on this. Only participants who fail to use the site properly will be blocked as a user. Very close to having discussion forum completed. Don will send us an e-mail when ready to use—about a month.
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8
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Spirituality Events—All
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Key Points Discussed: Ashraf sent an e-mail asking if anyone has a meeting room/banquet space for a Dec. 1 event with Dr.Ingrid Mattson, President of
ISNA (Islamic Society of North America) Need additional information but Karen will ask at the synagogue. Follow-up: Karen will contact her board and ask for permission for the event. She will write Ashraf.
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8
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Thanksgiving Program Committee Report—“Thankful for Nature’s Bounty”
November 18th–Jack Rardin, chair
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Notes from committee held at 6 p.m.
Key Points Discussed: Jack shared the arrangement of facilities. The choir section has fixed chairs. Sallye told Jim there is room for the harps. Also, the harps are committed to play. Jim said Aimee will not charge in interpret.
Follow-up: Jackie is working up a draft program. Sallye will bring one or two hymnals for next meeting to look at songs. She will drop by them by Red Carpet Services since she is out of town. Bill will check with Ashraf, Karen, Deepak, and Christian about main speakers as well as prayer/readings. Also, Sallye shared they have a projection system if anyone wants to do a multi-media presentation. And, they could project songs. The system would be operated by First Congregation staff. Sallye is not sure how snack should be arranged with desserts and drinks. Additionally, Sallye shared art work and other informational displays might be placed in the fellowship hall. Jack added that Aletha Cushenberry, Apostolic Church of Jesus Christ might be a presenter.
Action: During board meeting, Deepak shared that there will be a Hindu performance. Jim asked for help in promoting the use of a sign interpreter.
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9
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New Business
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Key Points Discussed: Sallye talked about Peace Poles founded in 1955 by Masahisa Goi (1916-1980) in Japan. 200,000 Peace Poles are located in 180 countries. She suggested IF promote placing Peace Poles in the community. She showed examples from a prototype created by her church First Congregation to creative ones located on the Internet.
Follow-Up: During Thanksgiving Conference, seek partnership with groups to help promote Peace Poles being placed in schools, churches, and other prominent site in the community. Perhaps UUFT youth who just purchased a Peace Pole could share their experience at table. Also, Sallye can present during the program.
Bill asked board members to think about places for placing peace poles.
Key Points Discussed: Interfaith Education: Bill said would like to promote a formal religious program in the state of Kansas for use in public schools. Some religions are talked about in Social Studies textbooks. IF members shared that materials are available from a variety of resources. Bill is going to invite Bill Wagnon from the Kansas State Board of Education to discuss this issue. Jack shared that CNN’s program on about God’s Warriors.
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10
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Next Meeting Date: Tuesday, September 25 at the Topeka/Shawnee Public Library
Faith Sharing Schedule:
September: Christian Kramer, Healing Mother Earth
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11
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Announcements
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Deepak—Indian Festival Sept. 9 from 10-3 in Gage Park to raise money for Habit for Humanity.
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June 2007 Minutes
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Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting
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Date
Time
Location
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June 26, 2007
Topeka/Shawnee Public Library, Marvin auditorium 101C
6:00 p.m.
Thanksgiving Committee
About 6:45 p.m. Faith sharing
About 7:45 p.m. Business Meeting
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Recorder
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Jackie Lakin
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Interfaith of Topeka Mission
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Interfaith of Topeka is comprised of people from a variety of faiths and religious traditions. We bring together individuals who are willing to put aside their prejudices and open their minds and hearts to new possibilities. We are willing to engage in the process of working together to build an active community, strong in its shared values of faith, compassion, human dignity, and mutual respect where the expression of love and peace replaces hate and violence.
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Members (present at meeting X; absent at meeting left blank)
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Don Anderson
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David Beale
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Joel Edwards
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X
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Bill Gitchell
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Daljit Jawa
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Christian Kramer
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X
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Jackie Lakin
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X
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Norbert Lickteig
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C.R. Macchi
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X
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Jim Mosher
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Deepak Parulkar
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X
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Jan Price
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X
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Sanford Pomeranz
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X
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Jerry Quiring
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X
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Jack Rardin
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Karen Sessel
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Ashraf Sufi
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X
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Phil Wilkes
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X
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Sallye Winkinson
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X
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Joe Hendrixson–Class of 2007
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X
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Barbara Karnowski
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Vacant Class of 2007
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Vacant Class of 2009
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Agenda Items
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Objectives
Key Points Discussed
Action or Follow-up
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1
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Opening Prayer
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Dr. Sufi conducted the opening prayer.
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2
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Faith Sharing: Dr. Sufi, Islam
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Key points discussed:
-Submission to will of God is a major factor in Islam.
-2nd largest religion after Christianity—1.5 billion Muslims
-Islam is for everybody—not just one race or country
-Realistic, simple creed is used.
-Oldest religion—God made people and appointed prophets including Adam, Noah, and Jesus. They are Muslims because they submitted to will of God.
-Only one God and no other deity. He is the creator and everything else is the creation.
-Humans are only different from other animals in that they have free will.
-When people did have oneness with God, he sent prophets.
-Prophet Mohammed talked about Abraham, Moses, Jesus and what they said about one God.
-Prophet Mohammed has much knowledge collected about him because he came as prophet after the time of Jesus.
-The history of Jesus was discussed including is role as a Servant of God. He is mentioned 27 times in the Koran. His miracles are reported as in the Bible.
-Mary is mentioned more in the Koran than in the New Testament. Most noble, beloved woman in history of universe. Mariam is Islamic version of Mary and often used in Muslim households.
-Jesus did not create laws, corrected laws of Moses. He is still alive and will come back.
-Moses is also mentioned extensively in Koran.
-Koran is holy book. Bible is a holy book because it came from the prophets. Koran is word of God. Koran means to read. Presents community, personal life and theological message, and stories about scripture.
-Family values include extended family, neighbors. Marriage is about 50% of Islamic life.
-After 9/11 interest has increased in the Koran. The readings brought by Dr. Sufi talks about the truths of the Koran versus what is misinterpreted or rumor.
Questions:
What is your background? Born as a Muslim in Pakistan. After moving to U.S. had revisit Muslim faith to teach his children. Then. to defend his religion to different faiths, he had to study his faith.
Suicide bombing is not condoned by Koran. It is a sin. Political situations create a sense of life worth not living and it is used to recruit suicide bombers.
Why is their head covering for women and separation of men and women? Modesty is most important men and women. Koran says to cover head but does not have to cover her face. Is it sin not to cover her head? No, it is between a woman and God. Separation during prayer is due to reading of prayers and is a matter of modesty when praying. Woman can be scholars, president of mosques.
What about dietary restrictions—different religions seem to have different viewpoints? Islam and Judism seem to have similar restrictions. Change in restrictions overtime was done by Christians in terms of dietary habits.
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3
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Addition of New Business
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Renewal of Storage Unit—Phil Wilkes
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4
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Approve May 22, 2007 Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting Minutes
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Action: Moved and seconded to approve minutes
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5
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Treasure’s Report—Phil Wilkes
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$1,273.72 checking
1,694.75 SBC Cash Fund
4,214.57 PAX World Growth Fund
7,182.57 Total Liquid Assets
Follow-up: Storage space on agenda for next meeting–$400 annual costs. Need more information. Visit set up for IF members to see what is in storage unit. Officers are encouraged to attend. Bill will set up with Christian.
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6
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Update on IF board issues—
Bill Gitchell
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Follow-up: Need to continue working on this project.
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7
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Bulletin Board Update—Don Jacobs
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Key points discussed:
Nexlynx Web Site Design and Development—Fixed Fee Estimates is $275. Users given password to enter discussion and make a comment. A tree diagram is used for discussion threads. Push enter to send to a gatekeeper. Check for content related to discussion forum. Once approved, message sent to anyone interested in this thread. Local, regional, or international. Don will donate costs and act as moderator with one or two others. Questions from board members included:
-Can we keep up with comments? Don’t want free for all comments. Or, do we want to have a comment reported to moderator that is outside of our boundaries. Can keep new person on moderator list until they are proven.
-Not many other bulletin boards for interfaith topics.
-Do we get a report on hits for IF?
-Can we ask for donations via IF website?
-Experimental group with IF to test?
Action: IF members test use of bb for next meetings. Don will donate costs of $275. Approved by a vote of yes.
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8
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Spirituality Events—All
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Follow-up: Continue item into July meeting.
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9
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Thanksgiving Programming—“Thankful for Nature’s Bounty”
November 18th–Jack Rardin
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Sallye’s church, First Congregation will host event.
Donation of funds is open.
Jack will set up meeting at First Congregation
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10
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Dialogue: Educational experience about not to fear what caused the founders of Interfaith to draw away from the group—earth based faith traditions raised concerns.–All
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Follow-up: Continue item into July meeting.
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11
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Dialogue: Meaning of Spirituality–All
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Follow-up: Continue item into July meeting.
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12
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New Business
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Follow-up: Continue item on storage unit into July meeting.
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13
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Next Meeting Date: July 24 at the Topeka/Shawnee Public Library
Faith Sharing Schedule:
July: Jerry Quiring, Progressive Christianity
August: TBA
September: Christian Kramer, Healing Mother Earth
|
Bill—oral report that be recorded. MP3 file from faith sharing. New technology that goes directly to computer. USB port.
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14
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Announcements
|
Key Points Discussed:
Dr. Sufi—Ingrid Mattson is coming to Topeka on Dec. 1 or 2. She is the President of Islamic Society of North America. Islamic Center will sponsor and IF could co-sponsor an event. Dr. Sufi will e-mail members for interest in serving on a committee.
|
|||||
May 2007 Minutes
|
|
Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting
|
Date
Time
Location
|
May 22, 2007
Topeka/Shawnee Public Library, Marvin auditorium 101C
6:00 p.m.
Thanksgiving Committee
About 6:45 p.m. Faith sharing
About 7:45 p.m. Business Meeting
|
|
|
|
Recorder
|
Jackie Lakin
|
||
|
Interfaith of Topeka Mission
|
Interfaith of Topeka is comprised of people from a variety of faiths and religious traditions. We bring together individuals who are willing to put aside their prejudices and open their minds and hearts to new possibilities. We are willing to engage in the process of working together to build an active community, strong in its shared values of faith, compassion, human dignity, and mutual respect where the expression of love and peace replaces hate and violence.
|
|||
|
|
||||
Members (present at meeting X; absent at meeting left blank)
|
|
Don Anderson
|
X
|
David Beale
|
|
Joel Edwards
|
||
|
X
|
Bill Gitchell
|
|
Daljit Jawa
|
X
|
Christian Kramer
|
||
|
X
|
Jackie Lakin
|
|
Norbert Lickteig
|
|
C.R. Macchi
|
||
|
|
Jim Mosher
|
X
|
Deepak Parulkar
|
|
Jan Price
|
||
|
|
Sanford Pomeranz
|
X
|
Jerry Quiring
|
X
|
Jack Rardin
|
||
|
|
Karen Sessel
|
|
Ashraf Sufi
|
X
|
Phil Wilkes
|
||
|
X
|
Sallye Winkinson
|
|
Joe Hendrixson–Class of 2007
|
X
|
Barbara Karnowski
|
||
|
|
Vacant Class of 2007
|
|
Vacant Class of 2009
|
|
|
||
|
Agenda Items
|
Objectives
Key Points Discussed
Action or Follow-up
|
||||||
|
1
|
Opening Prayer
|
Action: Barbara Karnowski held opening prayer in preparation for faith sharing.
|
|||||
|
2
|
Addition of new business–
Bill Gitchell
|
None
|
|||||
|
3
|
Faith Sharing: Barbara Karnowski
Family Federation for World Peace and Unification
|
Key Points Discussed:
Family Federation for World Peace and Unification was founded by Rev. Sun Myung Moon.
|
|||||
|
4
|
Approve April 24, 2007 Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting Minutes
|
Action: Moved and seconded to approve minutes.
|
|||||
|
5
|
Treasure’s Report—Phil Wilkes
|
Action: Received for audit.
|
|||||
|
6
|
Update on IF board issues—
Bill Gitchell
|
Action: Bill introduced new IF member Joe Hendrixson, Christian faith tradition.
|
|||||
|
7
|
Bulletin Board—Don Jacobs
|
Follow-up: Met last week with Nexlynx who is the IF internet service provider. They are working up a quote for the bulletin board. Don expects to have this information available at the June 26th board meeting.
|
|||||
|
8
|
Spirituality Events–All
|
Key Points Discussed:
|
|||||
|
9
|
Thanksgiving Programming—
Jack Rardin
|
Key Points Discussed:
“Thankful for Nature’s Bounty” is the theme
Possible speakers: Joe Hendrixson; Native American, short presentations from faith traditions represented by the IF board; Cambodian
Need to think about organization to support with donations.
November 18 is the date for the event.
Next meeting: 6 P.M. June 26, 2007
Jackie will bring copies of last year’s program to review for 2007 program ideas.
|
|||||
|
10
|
Dialogue: Educational experience about not to fear what caused the founders of Interfaith to draw away from the group—earth based faith traditions raised concerns.–All
|
Not addressed due to lack of time.
|
|||||
|
11
|
Dialogue: Meaning of Spirituality–All
|
Not addressed due to lack of time.
|
|||||
|
12
|
New Business
|
None
|
|||||
|
13
|
Next Meeting Date: June 26 at the Topeka/Shawnee Public Library
Faith Sharing Schedule:
June: Dr. Sufi, Islam
July: Jerry Quiring, Progressive Christianity
August: TBA
September: Christian Kramer, Healing Mother Earth
|
Action–Agenda Items for Next Meeting:
Key Point Discussed: Faith Sharing as a personal journey versus a more polished presentation. Both aspects have positive points. Some faith traditions do not have a written text or dogma. Presenters are encouraged to share their experiences on what led to their belonging to their faith tradition.
|
|||||
|
14
|
Announcements
|
Follow-up: Phil Wilkes is looking for presenters to cover various aspects of family history research and databases, especially relating to minority ethnic and cultural groups for Family History Research Conference to be held September 22, 2007, Family History Center, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Topeka, Kansas. Contact: Phil Wilkes at 224-5211 (cell phone)
|
|||||
April 2007 Minutes
|
|
Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting Minutes
|
Date
Time
Location
|
April 24, 2007
6:30 p.m. Gather at Topeka/Shawnee Public Library
7 p.m. Meeting Starts
|
|
|
|
Recorder
|
Jackie Lakin
|
||
|
Interfaith of Topeka Mission
|
Interfaith of Topeka is comprised of people from a variety of faiths and religious traditions. We bring together individuals who are willing to put aside their prejudices and open their minds and hearts to new possibilities. We are willing to engage in the process of working together to build an active community, strong in its shared values of faith, compassion, human dignity, and mutual respect where the expression of love and peace replaces hate and violence.
|
|||
|
|
||||
Members (present at meeting X; absent at meeting left blank)
|
X
|
Don Anderson
|
X
|
David Beale
|
|
Joel Edwards
|
||
|
X
|
Bill Gitchell
|
|
Daljit Jawa
|
X
|
Christian Kramer
|
||
|
X
|
Jackie Lakin
|
|
Norbert Lickteig
|
|
C.R. Macchi
|
||
|
X
|
Jim Mosher
|
X
|
Deepak Parulkar
|
X
|
Jan Price
|
||
|
X
|
Sanford Pomeranz
|
X
|
Jerry Quiring
|
X
|
Jack Rardin
|
||
|
|
Karen Sessel
|
|
Ashraf Sufi
|
X
|
Phil Wilkes
|
||
|
X
|
Sallye Wilkinson
|
|
Joe Hendrixson–Class of 2007
|
X
|
Barbara Karnowski
|
||
|
|
Vacant Class of 2007
|
|
Vacant Class of 2009
|
|
|
||
|
Agenda Items
|
Objectives
Key Points Discussed
Action or Follow-up
|
||||||
|
1
|
Opening Prayer
|
Action: Don Anderson conducted opening prayer
|
|||||
|
2
|
Addition of new business–
Bill Gitchell
|
|
|||||
|
3
|
Faith Sharing: Jack Rardin
Presbyterian
|
Key Points Discussed: Jack Rardin, IF board member representing Westminster Presbyterian introduced Rev. Scott Simpson who spoke about Presbyterian Church U.S.A. (does not have jurisdiction over Presbyterians in other countries). Over 2 million members and 11, 064 congregations in the U.S.A including Puerto Rico. He discussed What’s unique about P.C (U.S.A.)?
Based on reformed theology from 16th century Protestant Reformation and John Calvin. Believes in:
Form of Presbyterian Government is based on:
Organizational Structure shows unity and relationship
General Assembly—Mission and ministry world wide
Synod—a larger geographic area with 3 or more Presbyteries. Mission and ministry are represented and concentrate on connectiveness.
Presbytery—mission and ministry
Session—local church with ministers and elders
Scott Simpson describes himself as a teaching minister who holds sessions at Westminster.
Resources: Holy Bible, The Book of Confessions, and Book of Order 2004/2005
|
|||||
|
4
|
Approve March 27, 2007 Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting Minutes
|
Action: Motion made to approve and accept minutes
|
|||||
|
5
|
Treasure’s Report—Phil Wilkes
o Socially responsible growth fund
o Telephone responsibilities
|
Key Points Discussed:
$1036.55 checking
$6945.40 total with two funds and checking
All outstanding bills are paid.
Action: Treasurer’s report received
Key points discussed on socially responsible growth funds: Sanford reported on PAX fund in terms of long term impact. He suggested we keep this fund in spite of its current low growth because it is a relative low risk fund that is socially responsible. Discussion from IF members reflected on these points and Phil shared he’d like to see stronger performance. Also, Phil shared that they are more than one time of PAX funds. IF had PAX World Growth Fund.
Ashraf sent an e-mail report on long term mutual funds. His report included two funds:
Information included:
1. Vanguard ftse social index fund(vftsx). It does not screen for nuclear power companies.
2. Parnassus equity income (PRBLX). It avoids nuclear power but has positive screening for animal testing.
Action: Bill stated that we have reevaluated PAX fund and should leave it as it right now. Sanford is going to continue researching this issue.
Key points discussed on telephone responsibilities: Christian and Sanford are working to figure out phone message system. Has not been checked since November. Christian reported few phone calls are received. They will report out at the next meeting.
|
|||||
|
6
|
Update on IF board issues—
Bill Gitchell
|
Key Points Discussed by Bill concerning external committee membership. Don Anderson has represented IF on Faith in Action and Unity Council/Global Village. He needs to step down.
Faith In Action—first Tuesday of each month at First Christian Church. Meet with John McCullough. David Beale might attend.
Unity Council/Global Village—Table at Global Village might be manageable by IF board. Jack Rardin has worked previously and Jackie Lakin assisted him last year.
IF needs to replace Elaine Patton, former board member, who served on the United Way local Emergency Food and Shelter Program. Valeri Hysten from United Way shared they need a certain number of organizations represented to meet its requirements. They want to continue having IF membership. Bill will contact Valeri about United Way membership needs.
|
|||||
|
7
|
Bulletin Board—Don Jacobs
|
Follow-up: Don was not able to attending meeting but will report at May meeting on Bulletin Board progress.
|
|||||
|
8
|
Spirituality Events–All
|
Sallye—Check with Washburn on satellite conference—still working on resource details and timing.
Ashraf e-mailed the board about Dr. Ingrid Mattson presenting at an event.
Bill suggested no large conference but rather small meetings with local faith groups. American Shaolin Matthew Pollo was given as an example of a small event sponsored by the Topeka/Shawnee Public Library.
How big is spirituality—Bill noted dozens of people attended in the past due to large number of ministers involved who coordinated conferences with their church events. Spirituality conference is great but not drawing anyone to them. How does IF create more community involvement? Thanksgiving involves a congregation putting its best foot forward. Jerry asked Bill about an IF speakers’ bureau. As the meeting ended, the question about the meaning of spirituality needs to be an ongoing discussion.
|
|||||
|
9
|
Thanksgiving Programming—Jack Rardin
|
First meeting tonight prior to board meeting.
Key Points Discussed:
Next meeting in May 22, 6 pm before May board meeting.
|
|||||
|
10
|
New Business
|
Action: Need to continue pursuing this need to increase membership
|
|||||
|
11
|
Next Meeting Date: May 22, 2007 at library
Faith Sharing: Barbara Karnowski
Family Federation for World Peace and Unification
|
Agenda items for next meeting:
Educational experience about not to fear what caused the founders of Interfaith to draw away from the group—earth based faith traditions raised concerns.
|
|||||
March 2007 Minutes
|
|
Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting Minutes
|
Date
Time
Location
|
March 27, 2007
6:30 p.m. Gather at Topeka/Shawnee Public Library
7 p.m. Meeting Starts
|
|
|
|
Recorder
|
Jackie Lakin
|
||
|
Interfaith of Topeka Mission
|
Interfaith of Topeka is comprised of people from a variety of faiths and religious traditions. We bring together individuals who are willing to put aside their prejudices and open their minds and hearts to new possibilities. We are willing to engage in the process of working together to build an active community, strong in its shared values of faith, compassion, human dignity, and mutual respect where the expression of love and peace replaces hate and violence.
|
|||
|
|
||||
Members (present at meeting X; absent at meeting left blank)
|
X
|
Don Anderson
|
X
|
David Beale
|
|
Joel Edwards
|
||
|
X
|
Bill Gitchell
|
|
Daljit Jawa
|
X
|
Christian Kramer
|
||
|
X
|
Jackie Lakin
|
|
Norbert Lickteig
|
|
C.R. Macchi
|
||
|
X
|
Jim Mosher
|
X
|
Deepak Parulkar
|
|
Jan Price
|
||
|
|
Sanford Pomeranz
|
X
|
Jerry Quiring
|
X
|
Jack Rardin
|
||
|
X
|
Karen Sessel
|
X
|
Ashraf Sufi
|
X
|
Phil Wilkes
|
||
|
X
|
Sallye Wilkinson
|
|
Vacant Class of 2007
|
X
|
Barbara Karnowski
|
||
|
|
Vacant Class of 2007
|
|
Vacant Class of 2009
|
|
|
||
|
Agenda Items
|
Objectives
Key Points Discussed
Action or Follow-up
|
||||||
|
1
|
Opening Prayer
|
|
|||||
|
2
|
Addition of new business–
Bill Gitchell
|
Bill Gitchell presented Don Anderson a plaque for serving as IF president for two years.
|
|||||
|
3
|
Faith Sharing: Deepak Parulkar on Hinduism
|
Key Point Discussed: An overview of the Hindu faith traditions was shared by Deepak Parulkar.
|
|||||
|
4
|
Approve 2-27 Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting Minutes
|
Follow-up: Make minutes available in simple text so that it can be opened by all board members.
|
|||||
|
5
|
Treasure’s Report—Phil Wilkes
o Faith group IF dues
o Individual IF dues
o Revise membership form
|
Key Point Discussed: Phil and Ashraf shared that a CD from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment on pandemic influenza was sent to IF and church groups as a means to educate the public on how to act in an epidemic. Contact information is: http://www.kdhe.state.ks.us/ or call 785-296-1086
Key Point Discussed:
$1133.06 (checking)
$6861.96 (two funds)
Phil questioned the investment return on the PAX World Growth Fund. Follow-up: Ashraf and Deepak will investigate changing to a socially responsible fund with better results.
Follow-up: Phil discussed the phone bill. The phone number and responding to voice mail may be the responsibility of the vice-president. More information on the number will be reported in April by Christian.
|
|||||
|
6
|
Discussion on setting IF dues from faith groups–Bill Gitchell
|
Key Point Discussed: Membership dues are $15 for single; $20 per couple; and, $1 per member of faith group or whatever is feasible for that group. Changes in membership dues is up to the board and is not defined in the by-laws.
|
|||||
|
7
|
Faith group membership roles—Bill Gitchell
|
Key Discussion Points:
-If you are a board member representing a faith group, then that faith group should send notification of your representation. Each faith group/organization/church member should have two voting members who can vote at the annual meeting.
-It was determined that Deepak is an at-large member. At-larger members afford the opportunity to have more board members who bring wider representation to IF.
|
|||||
|
8
|
Procedures for adding new board members—Bill Gitchell
|
Key Discussion Point: Board members need to be appointed who can maximize participation. Individual organizations can join as well.
|
|||||
|
9
|
Update on appointment of Joe Hendrixson to IF board—Bill Gitchell
|
Action: Joe will be invited to join IF as an at-large board member.
|
|||||
|
10
|
IF Website, Faith group links. Electronic Bulletin Board—Bill Gitchell, Jackie Lakin, Don Jacobs
|
Key Discussion Point: Don Jacobs will donate the cost of establishing and maintaining an IF bulletin board. He will provide more details at the April meeting.
|
|||||
|
11
|
New Business
|
No Action: Committee memberships are still open
Key Discussion Point: Ashraf brought up that a new Islamic leader might be a good presenter for a joint program with Topeka IF and Kansas City IF. He will continue to update the board on this possibility.
|
|||||
|
12
|
Next Meeting Date: April 24,
Topeka/Shawnee Public Library
Faith Sharing:
|
|
|||||
February 2007 Board Minutes
|
|
Interfaith of Topeka Board Meeting
|
Date
Time
Location
|
February 27, 2007 6:30 p.m. Refreshments 7 p.m. Meeting Starts Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Topeka |
|
|
|
Recorder
|
Jackie Lakin |
||
|
Interfaith of Topeka Mission
|
Interfaith of Topeka is comprised of people from a variety of faiths and religious traditions. We bring together individuals who are willing to put aside their prejudices and open their minds and hearts to new possibilities. We are willing to engage in the process of working together to build an active community, strong in its shared values of faith, compassion, human dignity, and mutual respect where the expression of love and peace replaces hate and violence. |
|||
Members (present at meeting X; absent at meeting left blank)
|
X
|
Don Anderson |
X
|
David Beale |
|
Joel Edwards |
||
|
X
|
Bill Gitchell |
|
Daljit Jawa |
X
|
Christian Kramer |
||
|
X
|
Jackie Lakin
|
|
Norbert Lickteig |
|
C.R. Macchi |
||
|
X
|
Jim Mosher |
|
Deepak Parulkar |
X
|
Jan Price |
||
|
X
|
Sanford Pomeranz
|
X
|
Jerry Quiring |
|
Jack Rardin |
||
|
|
Karen Sessel |
X
|
Ashraf Sufi |
X
|
Phil Wilkes |
||
|
X
|
Sallye Winkinson |
|
Vacant Class of 2007 |
|
Vacant Class of 2007 |
||
|
|
Vacant Class of 2007 |
|
Vacant Class of 2009 |
|
|
||
|
Agenda Items
|
Objectives
Key Points Discussed
Action or follow-up
|
||||||
|
1.
|
Introduction of board members and officers & addition of new business– Bill Gitchell
|
Action: Board moved and accepted Barbara Karnowski as member representing Class 09. Follow-up: Jerry Quiring recommended Joe Hendrixson as a board member with further discussion to take place during March 27, 2007 board meeting. |
|||||
|
2.
|
Faith Sharing: Phil Wilkes–Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (an introductory DVD) |
Key Points Discussed: Phil shared a DVD on LDS that included: History, Organization, Core Beliefs, Temple and Meeting Houses, Code of Health, and Humanitarian Services. He noted he is the great-great grandson of Brigham Young. Other resources were Beliefs About Families, 13 Articles of Faith, Brief History of the Church, and the Book of Mormon. His faith sharing was followed by question and answer session. Resources from his presentation are located at: http://www.lds.org/portal/site/LDSOrg |
|||||
|
3.
|
Bill Gitchell, new IF president, shares his future directions for the organization.
Board members and guests are welcome to comment/make suggestions. |
Key Points Discussed on Faith Sharing: Bill shared that the type of faith sharing with Phil is his idea of how this activity should be conducted. Faith sharing is what makes IF unique. He hopes to attract more members and visitors by publicizing faith sharing and having it take place at the beginning of each meeting. Key Points Discussed on Committee Assignments: This is committee work taking place primarily within those groups. Brief progress reports would be given during board meetings. A sign up sheet was passed around to board members. A suggestion was made not to have a Spirituality Conference but instead attract well-known speakers for two or three events. Follow-up: Spirituality Conference Committee will continue this discussion and make a recommendation to the board. Key Points Discussed on Meeting Arrangements: The public library appears to be a neutral meeting place. It might be difficult to rotate from faith group facilities in that members need to readily know where meetings are being held. |
|||||
|
4.
|
Approve November Board Meeting Minutes
|
Action: Minutes were accepted and approved. |
|||||
|
5.
|
Treasurer’s Report—Phil Wilkes
|
Key Points Discussed: $6,335.09 total assets in checking and funds. SBC fund had a gain of 4%; PAX World Growth Fund had a 2% loss. Action: Treasurer’s report was accepted. |
|||||
|
6.
|
IF Website—Bill Gitchell, Jackie Lakin, Phil Wilkes Electronic Bulletin Board—Don Jacobs, UUFT guest
|
Key Points Discussed: Bill Gitchell shared that he would like the website to become more interactive with the community. Also, he wants to make sure every faith group represented by IF has a link to its site. Don Jacobs proposed IF establish a forum or bulletin board for the purpose of fostering ongoing discussion to specific topics selected by the board. Discussion took place on how inappropriate remarks not relevant to the topic could be addressed and how guidelines need to be established. Follow-up:
|
|||||
|
7.
|
New Business
Committee Appointments
|
Key Points Discussed: Don Anderson has represented IF on Faith in Action and Unity Council/Global Village. He needs to step down. Follow-up: New representatives to be found |
|||||
|
8.
|
Next Meeting Date:
March 27, Topeka/Shawnee Public Library
|
Action: Faith sharing by Deepak Parulkar at March meeting; faith sharing by Jack Rardin at April board meeting. |
|||||