Good Morning Everyone,

I want to update you on the steps that have been taken to date following on the decision of Synod Council adopting the Budget for 2012. I want to begin by expressing my appreciation to all those who have risen to the challenge and opportunity before us. The concept of "suspension" has given us a window of time for intentional, strategic examination of the ministries we provide and how we can best deliver these programs.

The Synod Council has provided us with a different topic of conversation in the field of diocesan finances apart from the "cut or keep" theme. I know that these decisions have been very difficult for many people to hear about as it was difficult for members of council in their debate and decision. The optimism I feel in light of this decision comes from the energy I sense within the diocese to accept the challenge and work toward building the solution.

A meeting of the Chairs of our diocesan committees, together with members of Synod Council, took place this past Wednesday, December 7th. We had an opportunity to discuss the 2012 budget and begin to get next steps going. The critical time frame takes us from now until the preparation of the 2013 budget which will get underway in May and June of this year. Pre Synod meetings will take place in the early fall leading to the November Synod. Members of Synod Council will be linked to each committee as they continue their work in order to facilitate a solid flow of communication to the Council.

I have attached to this letter a copy of the budget proposal that Synod Council approved along with the line item budget for your information.

When I assumed office as bishop, the Synod Council asked me what my expectations were of them. I responded that they are the governing body of the diocese for the two year period between Synods and I expect them to govern. It is a work we undertake together. The period leading from Synod 2010 to the present has been challenging and your Council has risen to the challenge.

I would like to place the same challenge before you and ask that you communicate it to the members of your parish and Church families. We will soon be engaged in our annual meetings and part of the work we will do at the local level will be to elect our synod delegates. My hope and prayer is that people in our parishes will want to be part of helping to shape the Church that has shaped us as we live out our vocation as followers of Jesus Christ. I also hope and pray that among those who step forward to offer as synod delegates will also be people who feel a sense of call to serve on the Synod Council offering their skills and talents.

Planning is underway for our anniversary celebrations in 2012 as we mark 150 years of service in the mission of Jesus Christ. Synod 2012 will be part of that celebration and I know that the planning team is working on an agenda that will tackle the business of the Church but also with a good measure of opportunity to share in fellowship, to be challenged, equipped and inspired in our common ministry together.

Thank you for the time and energy you give to your various callings. You are in my prayers always and at this time of year may the hope, love, joy and peace of Christ be with you as we come to celebrate the birth of Christ, Emmanuel, God with us.

In the Service of Christ,

Bishop Michael