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Rachel Hackenberg
Microsoft
[Pick the date]
Search and Call Tools for Congregations
Advancing the Spirit’s guidance into God’s future
INTRODUCING THE NEW
LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE
?
Who is God calling
us to become
Who is our
neighbor
Who are we
The new Local Church Profile is not just for congregations in search of a
pastor. All congregations are encouraged to engage in its process of
discovery every 3-5 years. The UCC Local Church Profile reflects valuable
data, assesses ministry, clarifies change, and helps advance the calling of
the congregation. Not just to be completed by a search committee – the
more participation, the better!
MINISTERIAL EXCELLENCE, SUPPORT & AUTHORIZATION
UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST
LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE
Olmsted Community Church
Olmsted Falls, OH
Senior Minister
Living Water Association
[Validation Date]
LOCAL CHURCH PROFILE CONTENTS
➢ Position Posting
➢ Who Is God Calling Us To Become?
➢ Who Are We Now?
➢ Who Is Our Neighbor?
➢ References
➢ Consent and Validation
“God is able to provide you with every blessing, so that
having all sufficiency in all things at all times,
you may abound in every good work.”
(2 Corinthians 9:8)
1. POSITION POSTING
a. LISTING INFORMATION
b. SCOPE OF WORK
c. COMPENSATION & SUPPORT
d. WHO IS GOD CALLING TO MINISTER WITH US?
1a. LISTING INFORMATION
Church name: Olmsted Community Church
Street address:7853 Main Street
Supplemental web links:
https://olmstedchurch.org/
https://www.facebook.com/OlmstedChurch/
Additional ecumenical affiliations: (e.g. denominations, communions, fellowships):
Conference: Ohio Conference
Association: Living Water Association
UCC Conference Staff Contact: Dan Roland, Search & Call Coordinator
Summary Ministry Description:
We are seeking a spiritual leader who will foster the growth of our congregation and help us
engage the new families who are moving into our community. We seek an energetic leader who
will empower our congregation to develop faithful responses to the Gospel, especially among
the youth, and to connect us to critical issues facing our world. We desire a leader who will
provide a clear sense of direction and be an agent of change in helping us define our mission
‘To Be Christ to the World,’ based on our faith, history, and tradition.
Photographs:
We invite you to explore the past 10 years of activities via short slideshows at the below link:
https://olmstedchurch.org/more/photos/
What we value about living in our area:
Olmsted Falls is a community of neighbors built on a rich history and local character. Our
residents enjoy the safety and familiarity of small-town values while being a part of one of the
largest metropolitan areas in the country. God’s work is evident in our community with
beautiful parks and natural resources providing activities and opportunities to enhance your
quality of life. We are located near some of the best hospitals and universities in the state, and
our top-rated school system makes Olmsted Falls an ideal place to raise a family.
Current size of membership: 441
Position Title: Senior Minister
Position Duration: Settled
Settled – a called position intended for longer-term ministry in which the minister moves
church membership to the congregation and moves standing to related association
Compensation Level: Full Time
Does the total support package meet conference compensation guidelines? Yes
1b. SCOPE OF WORK
The senior minister is authorized to delegate duties as necessary and create an organization
responsive to the congregation’s and community’s needs. Generally, the duties fall into the
following categories:
Worship
• Offers spiritual leadership by providing varied, meaningful, and challenging worship
opportunities for the congregation. Sermons are expected to be biblically based in
exploring contemporary issues.
• Prepares and leads Sunday worship including scripture study, crafting of liturgy and
bulletin, sermon preparation, guiding lay liturgists, planning of music in coordination
with musical staff or volunteers, preaching, offering of prayers, etc.
Pastoral Care
• Provides pastoral care and counseling, including visits to shut-ins and hospital-bound
church members.
• Leads weddings, funerals and baptisms.
Education
• Works closely with the Director of Faith Formation and Leadership of the Church
Preschool to develop programs to integrate youth into the fabric of the church.
• Inspires spiritual formation in others, based on their own deep spiritual foundation,
energizing and deepening the spiritual connections and faith understandings of others.
• Contributes to on-going Christian education of the congregation including confirmation
and new member classes.
• Facilitates adult bible study and other adult activities to explore and develop their faith.
Mission
• Help us sharpen our understanding of needs within the Olmsted community and engage
with new outreach opportunities.
• Support our current mission involvements around the world; encourage and facilitate
exploring further possibilities.
• Lift up mission concerns regularly in preaching and prayer.
• Increase the visibility of the church in the Olmsted communities.
Administration
• Provides executive leadership and administrative oversight to the ministries, programs,
and staff of the church.
• Attracts and retains the talent necessary to grow the church and meet a growing
congregation’s needs.
• Supports faithful financial development and stewardship.
Core Competencies:
Worship & Preaching: Is a consistently effective preacher and inspirational worship leader;
communicates a clear and consistent message through sermons that are carefully prepared and
artfully delivered. Understands the need for culturally relevant teaching that has integrity and
speaks to the heart of the congregation.
Leadership: Motivates, empowers, inspires, collaborates with, and encourages others. Has a
demonstrated skill in cultivating people (both staff and volunteers). Thinks of the bigger picture,
communicates a concrete vision for the future and fosters buy-in for this future state. Skilled at
addressing conflict and is not averse to addressing conflict.
Caring & Considerate: Demonstrates authentic concern for the welfare, needs, and success of
others; drives to create a culture and policies that manifest and nurture this type of
environment. Responds with empathy to the life circumstances of others; communicates a sense
of support in his or her very presence; demonstrates appropriate expressions of care.
Influencing Others: Encourages cooperation, teamwork, and participation. Provide resources
or make decisions, in service to the work at hand; uses verbal and nonverbal skills to
communicate respect for others, and to generate energy, passion, and commitment to an idea;
creates an environment that others want to participate in. Acts as a champion for the creation
and institutionalization of mission, vision and values.
Mission/Goal Orientation: A Servant Leader who possesses the ability to define issues and
focus on achieving workable solutions consistent with fulfillment of church mission and
consistent with the church’s ministry process. Committed to and able to bring about God’s
redemption in the world by working to bring people a knowledge of Jesus Christ, while working
towards reconciliation and justice.
1c. COMPENSATION AND SUPPORT
Salary Basis : meet conference guidelines / negotiable
Benefits (choose one):
Salary plus Benefits
What is the expected living situation for your next minister: We expect our settled minister to be
a visible, active member of the community. The minister should live in or near Olmsted Falls to
ensure that they are easily able to participate in church, outreach, and community events.
Examples include: speaking at Baccalaureate (all neighborhood churches participate),
participating in local celebrations like Memorial Day, July 4th, and Heritage Days, and being a
visible, approachable member within the community.
State any incentives (e.g. school debt reduction or retention bonus after a certain number of
years in position):
Describe peer and professional supports available for ministers in your association/conference:
The Living Water Association offers pastors opportunities for continuing education, personal and
spiritual development as well as Communities of Practice groups.
If applicable, describe how your church will adopt part-time adjustments in the pastoral schedule
to support a minister’s bi-vocational employment: N/A
1d. WHO IS GOD CALLING TO MINISTER WITH US?
Describe the ministry goals you envision your next minister co-collaborating with the
congregation to achieve.
- Olmsted Community Church is looking for a leader who will guide us in taking our
mission, “To be Christ to the world,” and expand upon it to include pastoral and
prophetic aspects of Christ’s ministry. We would like to improve congregational
engagement.
- Worship that speaks to the diversity of the congregation, including generationally,
and helps bridge the gap between long-time members and younger members and
families. We seek services and community outreach that are relevant and meaningful
to new members.
- Ministry that not only engages the youth but makes them feel like an integral part of
the congregation. Fostering a sense of home and safety in the church as well as
empowering them to become active in the church’s missions and general church life.
- Our preferred leader will work with the professional staff and lay leadership to
ensure that goals are set, communicated appropriately and realized. Someone that
fosters collaboration and a sense of team.
- We have several open positions on our staff. Our organist recently graduated from
Oberlin University and took a job in Texas. Our long time Faith Formation Director
retired in August. We are holding both of these positions open so that the new senior
minister can hire people that complement their strengths and fulfill their vision.
Describe how your vision of the minister you are now seeking will assist the congregation in
making an impact beyond its walls.
- Olmsted Community Church is seeking a leader that will maintain an active presence
in the community and beyond to strengthen our relationships with our neighbors.
They should be a consistent voice and leadership presence in the community and help
us develop new and creative community outreach opportunities and evaluate our
current endeavors.
Specify language requirements or culturally-specific capacities preferred in a next ministerial
leader, and why those matter to the congregation’s sense of calling.
The primary language spoken by our congregation is English. Our next minister must be
proficient in reading, writing, and speaking English. We appreciate attention to expansive and
inclusive language so all people might feel welcomed.
Based on what you have learned about who your church is, who your church’s neighbor is, and
who God is calling the church to become, describe four areas of excellence from The Marks of
Faithful & Effective Authorized Ministry that your next minister will display to further equip the
congregation’s ministry in these areas.
Spiritual Foundation:
- Exhibit an ongoing spiritual practice and commitment to lifelong spiritual
development and fulfill personal stewardship
- Living a life of discipleship
- Developing and maintaining a healthy sense of self as shaped by God, community,
and life experiences
- Exhibiting a strong moral character and personal integrity
- Inspirational teaching style that proves to be relevant, worldly and thoughtful
Building Transformational Leadership Skills:
- Demonstrating excellence in communication skills
- Building relationships of mutual trust and interdependence
- Understanding community (our congregation) context and navigating change with a
community
- Performing necessary administrative tasks including delegating tasks to appropriate
staff and committee members
- Demonstrate strong leadership skills as an administrator and spiritual leader
- Stewarding the resources of our church community
Call to Care for All:
- Practice self-care and life balance
- Provide hope and spiritual healing to our congregation and community
- Demonstrate an appreciation for and participating in ecumenical and interfaith
partnerships of the UCC
- Work to identify and overcome explicit and implicit bias in the life of the church
- Engage with and leverage our Stephen Ministers, to provide high-quality,
confidential, Christ-centered care to people who are hurting
Faith Formation & Education:
- Effectively leading faith formation across generations
- Exhibit and demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the scriptures
- Maturing in effective proclamation and preaching
- Bring life to the traditions, stories, and values of our church community
2. WHO IS GOD CALLING US TO BECOME?
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul,
and with all your mind.” (Matthew 22:37 NRSV)
Who is God calling you to become as a congregation?
Our congregation sits at an important crossroad. We have a rich history, stable finances, and are
based in a vibrant community. Yet our membership is stagnant to declining. As a congregation,
we have built a consensus around a purpose statement of “Love Thy Neighbor” and feel that
there are many opportunities to increase our outreach, deepen our engagement within our
community, and grow our membership.
Ideas include:
• Interface with churches in our area; coordinate interfaith services
• Develop a program to teach inclusion and acceptance of others
• Contact regional social agencies to understand where we can provide support
• Identify local mission opportunities for us to engage in
• Offer a “Welcome Wagon” to new people who move into the community
Additionally, there are several open questions that the congregation has struggled to address that
we need to face to determine who we are destined to become to best serve our neighbors. These
include:
• Formally declaring ourselves a UCC church. We are very strongly aligned with the UCC
but are resistant to making this declaration.
• In many ways we behave as an Open and Affirming church, but again have resisted
officially declaring this commitment.
• We proclaim that we a “warm and welcoming church”, but stories and examples abound
of both members and visitors not being welcomed, recognized or treated with the love of
Christianity (for example, those who are differently abled or do not reflect the
demographics of our more established congregation). We need assistance in this
transition and would like to be able to tell a different story.
• We are essentially segregated into two age demographics, with younger members (<40
years old) on one end of the spectrum and those nearing or enjoying retirement (>60
years old). The ideas, desires, and spiritual needs of these groups seem to differ, but we
believe there is a path to honor our history while building consensus around a strong path
to future growth. We do not expect this to be an easy journey, but one worth taking.
As noted in Section 1d, we are holding two staff positions open so that the Senior Minister can
hire these important members of their team. We recognize that in order to capitalize on the many
opportunities for congregational and spiritual growth, we must be dynamic and flexible in how
we staff the church.
3. WHO ARE WE NOW? “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39 NRSV)
a. CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTIONS
b. 11-YEAR REPORT
c. CONGREGATIONAL DEMOGRAPHICS
d. PARTICIPATION AND STAFFING
e. CHURCH FINANCES
f. HISTORICAL INFORMATION
3a. CONGREGATIONAL REFLECTIONS ________
Describe your congregation’s life of faith.
Following are the membership vows when joining our congregation:
First, we ask you to profess your faith in Christ:
• Do you desire to affirm your baptism into the faith and family of Jesus Christ? I DO.
• Do you renounce the powers of evil and desire the freedom of new life in Christ? I DO.
• Do you profess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior? I DO. These are the membership vows you
are asked to take:
• Do you promise, by the grace of God, to be Christ’s disciple, to follow in the way of our Savior,
to resist oppression and evil, to show love and justice, and to witness to the work and word of
Jesus Christ as best you are able? I PROMISE WITH THE HELP OF GOD.
• Do you promise, according to the grace given you, to grow in the Christian faith and to be a
faithful member of the church of Jesus Christ? I PROMISE WITH THE HELP OF GOD.
• Do you promise to participate regularly in the worship of God and in the work of this local
church as it serves this community and the world? I PROMISE WITH THE HELP OF
GOD.
We believe that the Holy Spirit is in our midst and that we are part of a diverse and
global community. The Holy Spirit is in our midst and speaks to us to guide us to support
the needs of our church and our community.
Describe several strengths or positive qualities of your congregation.
We remain self-governing and we have a very committed congregation who is passionate
about how we operate. We have a large cadre of volunteers that support the needs of the
church.
We welcome people from all backgrounds and faiths.
Financially, we have no debt, own our building, and have a sizable Memorial &
Endowment fund that is detailed in section 3e.
Our church has a reputation of being an anchor in the community. We open our doors to
many community groups like AA, NA, Boy Scouts, community choirs, Christians in
Action, Koinonia, and many more.
We have an active and well-established preschool program and Vacation Bible School.
Describe what worship is like when your congregation gathers.
Worship generally takes place in the sanctuary, but occasionally outdoors or in our
fellowship hall. Worship is based around scripture, with a theme that connects the entire
service including a children’s sermon. Music is an important part of our worship
service. The congregation appreciates a sermon that is instructive and inclusive in that
everyone is able to connect in some way. We appreciate sermons that are relevant and
non-judgmental. Worship is participatory. We appreciate humor. We love baptisms and
the newly baptized (if an infant) is carried around the sanctuary. We honor people’s past
and future journeys of faith.
Describe the educational program/faith formation vision of your church.
We offer faith formation programing for people of all ages, including Sunday morning
faith formation classes for children, and Bible study for adults during the week and
before church on Sunday morning. Ideally, we would like to see more engagement in
faith formation for people of all ages.
Describe how your congregation is organized for ministry and mission.
The Executive Council meets monthly and most planning groups meet close to monthly.
There are clear roles and responsibilities in our by-laws and constitution. Copies of both
can be provided to interested candidates.
We have a Mission Planning Group who coordinates and manages our Mission outreach.
The Worship Planning Group works with lay staff, the minister, the choir director, and
pianist to plan and execute worship services.
3b. 11-YEAR REPORT
(add here the 11-Year Report developed with the help of your conference staff, UCC Data Hub,
and MissionInsite)
3c. CONGREGATIONAL DEMOGRAPHICS ____
Describe those who participate in your church.
Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)
Number of active members: 408 2018 UCC Yearbook reporting
Number of active non-members: 33
Total of church participants (sum of
the numbers above): 441
Percentage of total participants who have been in the church:
Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)
More than 10 years: 47% Based on recorded membership dates
Less than 10, more than 5 years: 27%
Less than 5 years: 25%
Number of total participants by age:
0-11 12-17 18-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75+ Are these numbers an
estimate? (check if yes)
27 6 47 42 67 79 71 45 57 estimate
Percentage of adults in various household types:
Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)
Single adults under 35: 10% estimate
Households with minors: 25%
Single adults age 35-65: 15% estimate
Joint households with no minors: 40%
Single adults over 65: 10% estimate
Education level of adult participants by percentage: These are not tracked in our database
Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)
High school: 40% Est
College: 40% Est
Graduate School: 10% Est
Specialty Training: 10% Est
Other (please specify):
Percentage of adults in various employment types: These are not tracked in our database
Is this number an estimate? (check if yes)
Adults who are employed: 55%
Adults who are retired: 40%
Adults who are not fully employed: 10%
3d. PARTICIPATION AND STAFFING
Complete the following chart. Please leave blank any fields that are not applicable to your
congregation.
Ways of Gathering Estimated
number of
people involved
in attendance
Who plans each of the listed
gatherings? (list any and all worship
planners, such as various lay leaders,
pastors, musicians, other staff)
Adult Groups or Classes 6 / 45 Sunday Study / Lent Bible Study
Pastor, Faith Formation
Baptisms (number last year) 6 Pastor
Children’s Groups or Classes 10+ All Sunday school
Faith Formation Dir plus volunteers. VBS also
includes 60+ kids and 40 volunteers.
Christmas Eve and Easter Worship 500/304 2 services Christmas Eve / Easter Sunday
Pastor, Worship PG, Music Committee. Church
Administrator, Caretaker
Church-wide Meals 50-100 Coffee Hour. Various sponsors
Choirs and Music Groups 35+ Chancel Choir, Bell Choir, Messiah’s Messengers,
Sandy Ferington (Choir Dir.), Kim Pederson (Bell
Choir Dir.)
Church-based Bible Study 10 Tuesday Bible Study
Pastor, Faith Formation Dir.
Communion (served how often?) 100+ Served once a month on first Sunday.
Pastor, Worship PG
Community Meals 1600
Free Thanksgiving Dinner (Weldon Family),
Pancake Breakfast (Trustees PG), Chili Cookoff
(Faith Formation PG), CIA Thanksgiving and
Christmas dinners, Jazz Dinner (Worship PG,
Music Committee)
Confirmation (number confirmed
last year) 15 Pastor, Faith Formation Dir.
Drama or Dance Program N/A
Funerals (number last year) 8 Pastor, Organist, Pianist, Church Administrator,
Caretaker
Intergenerational Groups N/A
Outdoor Worship
Picnic & Pie Auction (one summer event).
Pastor, Faith Formation PG, Worship PG,
Congregational Life PG, Trustees PG, Messiah’s
Messengers, Caretaker
Prayer or Meditation Groups N/A
Public Advocacy Work N/A
Retreats
Westside Koinonia uses our facilities 4 times per
year. 20 candidates sponsored by 20+ Koinonians.
Church Administrator works directly with
Westside Koinonia.
Theology or Bible Programs in the
Community N/A
Weddings (number last year) 13 Pastor, Church Administrator, Organist, Wedding
Coordinator, Caretaker
Worship (time slot: 10 am Sundays) 93 (avg) Pastor, Organist, Choir Director, Faith Formation
PG, Worship PG, Church Administrator,
Caretaker
Worship (time slot: _______) N/A
Young Adult Groups or Classes N/A
Youth Groups or Classes N/A
Other
Additional comments:
List all members or regular participants in your congregation who are ordained, licensed, or
commissioned ministers. Indicate those with current United Church of Christ Three-Way
Covenants (i.e. serving in a congregation) or Four-Way Covenants (i.e. serving in a ministry
beyond a congregation).
Name Three- or Four-
Way Covenant?
(3 or 4 or No)
Ministry Setting Type of Ministry
Role
Retired?
(Y or N)
Rev Beth McKee No
Rainbow Babies & Children’s / McDonald Women’s at University Hospitals
Director of Spiritual Care
No
Rev. Gary Halstead No
Prior Conference Staff and Local Church Pastor
Yes
Rev. James (Vijay) Vijayakumar
No Prior Area Executive Global Ministries
Yes
Dr. Peter Makari* *not ordained
No UCC National Offices Area Executive Global Ministries
No
If one or more previous pastors or retired ministers currently hold membership in the church,
describe their role(s) in the life of the congregation:
Rev. Gary Halstead served as the associate minister in the early 1980’s. After a long career in
local church and conference ministry he returned to OCC in 2017. Gary assisted the
congregation during the initial phases of their transition period when Rev. Ron Dauphin
announced his retirement. Gary sings in the choir and is available for occasional pulpit supply
depending on his active camping schedule during retirement.
In recent years nine members of Olmsted Community Church have gone on for theological
studies and have been ordained into Christian ministry, now serving in various ministry settings
across the country.
Ministerial History (include all previous ministerial staff for the past 30 years)
Staff member’s name Years of service UCC Standing (Y/N)
Rev. Holly MillerShank (Interim) 2019-2020 Yes
Rev. Ron Dauphin (Senior Minister) 2007-2019 Yes
Rev. Leah Matthews (Interim Minister) 2006-2007 Yes
Rev. Don Wilson (Senior Minister) 1994-2006 Yes
Rev. John T Bertsch (Interim Minister) 1993-1994 Yes
Rev. Charles Hossett (Senior Minister)
Interim(s)
Rev. Michael Straw (Senior Minister)
Rev. Lloyd Voll (Interim) 1985
Rev. Kenneth Halstead (Senior Minister) 1973-1985 Yes
Rev. Gary Halstead (Associate Minister) 1980-1985 Yes
Rev. Don Wilson (Associate Minister) 1982-1994 Yes
List all current staff, including ministers. Exclude the position you are seeking to fill. Indicate
which staff person serves as head of staff.
Staff Position Head of Staff?
Compensation
(full time, part
time, volunteer)
Supervised by
Length of Tenure for
current person in this
position
Church Administrator
Staff Part time Pastor 2 years
Director of Faith Formation
Staff Part time Pastor 13 (retired 8/11/19)
Choir Director Staff Part time Pastor 13
Caretaker Staff
Part time including reduced rent for apartment in church building
Pastor 6 months
Organist Staff Annual contract Pastor In process of filling
REFLECTION
Reflection: After reviewing the congregational demographics and activities above, what does
this information reflect about your congregation’s overall ministry?
We try hard to be active and appealing to others. We host coffee hours on a weekly basis, open
our doors to outside groups, offer youth and adult bible study, choir, bell choir, and have a
robust preschool program. We recognize that we have rich opportunities for growth within a
vibrant community.
Olmsted Falls is a family centered community. Families move to Olmsted Falls for our
excellent schools. Our community will continue to grow as permits have been issued for over
600 new homes over the next 2 years. However, we have been challenged in recent years in
attracting and retaining families with children. We see many families with children who
complete confirmation and then fall away from active participation. We estimate only 10% of
youth who are confirmed remain active in the life of the church. Currently over 60% of our
members are over the age of 45. Our records indicate 400 registered members of our church
but we have an average of only 93 regularly in attendance for Sunday service. We look to our
new minister to help us realize our full potential to spread Christ’s word.
3e. CHURCH FINANCES
Current annual income (dollars used during most recent fiscal year)
Source Amount
Annual Offerings and Pledged Giving $225,780
Endowment Proceeds (as permitted within spending policy, such as a
cap of typically 4.5%-5% on total return) $12,000
Endowment Draw (beyond what is permitted by spending policy,
“drawing down the principal”) $0
Fundraising Events $5,012
Gifts Designated for a Specific Purpose $0
Grants $0
Rentals of Church Building $14,178
Rentals of Church Parsonage N/A
Support from Related Organizations
(e.g. Women’s Group) $0
Transfers from Special Accounts $0
Other (specify): Wedding income $6,100
Other (specify): $
TOTAL $263,070
Current annual expenses (dollars budgeted for most recent fiscal year): $263,549
Attach most recent church budget, spending plan, operating statement, or annual treasurer’s
report as shared publicly with the congregation, or – if your church does not pass an annual
budget – list current budgeted expenses here. Current church budget attached
Considering total budgeted expenses for the year, compare total ministerial support. What is the
percentage? 32.4%
Has the church ever failed to pay its financial obligations to a minister of the church? No
Is your church 5-for-5, i.e. does it include each of the following contributions during the church
year? Yes (indicate those included during the most recent fiscal year)
X_ Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM – Basic Support)
X_ One Great Hour of Sharing
X_ Strengthen the Church
X_ Neighbors in Need
X_ Christmas Fund
In what way is OCWM (Basic Support) gathered? Part of regular church budgeted operating
expense. If calculated as a percentage of operating budget, what is that percentage?
(recommended 10%)
What is the church’s current indebtedness? None
Total amount of loan debt: N/A
Reason for debt: N/A
Are capital and other payments current? N/A
If a building program is projected or underway, describe it, including the projected start/end date
of the building project and the total project budget.
N/A
If the church has had capital campaigns in the last ten years, describe:
Year(s) Purpose Goal Result Impact
2014-2017
Missions
(building); church
upgrades
$500,000 $537,839
All projected projects
completed; some additional
completed; small $ amount
moved to Reserves
$ $
If a capital campaign is underway or anticipated, describe:
Year(s) Purpose Goal Result Impact
$ $
$ $
Describe the prominent mission component(s) involved in the most recent (or current) capital
campaign.
Capital building support for: Global Ministries Community Center, Kerak, Jordon; Lotts
Creek, KY school
Purchase/maintain/upgrade/repair/replace various church building components (handbells,
candelabra, clean & re-leather organ pipes, steeple, exterior painting, exterior door
replacement, bathrooms, windows, lighting, carpeting, furnaces, exterior church sign, phone
system, wi-fi)
Does your church have an endowment? Yes
What is the market value of the assets? $370,158
Are funds drawn as needed, regularly, or under certain circumstances? Funds are not
drawn from the endowment, only the earnings from the endowment.
What is the percentage rate of draw (last year, compared to 5 years ago)? Funds are not
drawn from the endowment, only the earnings from the endowment.
Describe draw on endowment, if any, to meet operating budget expenses for the most
recent year and the past five years: None
At the current rate of draw, how long might the endowment last? As no funds are drawn
from the endowment, only from earnings (at least currently), the endowment is not
expected to decline in the foreseeable future.
Please comment on the above calculations or estimates:
Other Assets
Reserves (savings): $392,635 (of which $360,953 is wholly unencumbered)
Most of our Reserves are held in our Memorials and Endowments Fund, a Fund that could be
called the “Reserves” and Endowments Fund. The Memorials and Endowments (M&E) Fund,
one of four Funds of Olmsted Community Church, was created in 1937 to facilitate the receipt,
preservation, and use of bequests and monetary donations honoring or memorializing an
individual or group. From the beginning balance of $5, the Fund currently (June 2019) has a
balance of about $730,000.
Over the course of 82 years, the Memorials and Endowments Committee has responsibly
received numerous endowment gifts and memorial gifts, invested the principal and reinvested
earnings to generate income, and approved disbursement of unrestricted funds from the M&E
Fund to benefit the corporation known as The Olmsted Community Church. To better safeguard
M&E Fund assets and strive to achieve continued growth, about 8 years ago the M&E
Committee engaged a professional fund management company, Cornerstone Asset Management
Services (CAMS) located in Broadview Heights.
Our total Fund is divided into three sub-funds for purposes of a consistently conservative
investment strategy:
● Endowments (generally not spendable due to restrictions placed by the donor - and is
titled “Endowment” in this Profile). This sub-fund has a current balance of about
$376,000 and the investment strategy is our most conservative, heavily in bond mutual
funds and some cash as a hedge.
● Memorials - Preservation (contains Endowments income and honorary and memorial
gifts and can generally be spent for purposes benefitting the church - and is titled
“Reserves” in this Profile). This sub-fund has a current balance of about $254,000 and
the investment strategy, while still conservative, aims for somewhat more growth with a
mix of bond and equity mutual funds and some cash as a hedge.
● Memorials - Income (contains Endowments income and honorary and memorial gifts and
can generally be spent for purposes benefitting the church - and is titled “Reserves” in
this Profile). This sub-fund has a current balance of about $100,000 and the investment
strategy is somewhat more aggressive to generate more income. The mix favors equity
with some bond mutual funds and some cash as a hedge.
The M&E Fund’s net rate of return for the first six months of 2019 was 3.8%. While perhaps
not an eye-catching return, it reflects the Committee’s conservative approach. Since
undertaking professional fund management, the M&E Fund has not had a negative rate of
return in any month, quarter, or year.
Here is a summarization by broad category of what missions and programs have benefitted from
M&E Fund grants over the period of the past five and ½ years (1/1/2014 through 6/30/2019),
with all grants coming from the “Reserves” and none from the “Endowment”:
● Staff Development (e.g. coaching, conferences) - period total - $975
● College scholarships for member high school seniors - period total $7,250
● Building equipment (e.g., defibrillators, organ cleaning and repair, IT equipment refresh
for Olmsted Community Preschool, etc.) - period total $30,188
● Community Engagement and Support (e.g. church centennial celebration, free community
Thanksgiving Dinner) - period total - $3,000
● Music Program Support (e.g., harpsichord, choir scholarships for area college students,
special worship music) - period total - $14,256
● Volunteer Support (e.g. study materials for Pastoral Transition Team) - period total -
$313
● M&E Committee administrative expenses (e.g. postage, promotional materials
encouraging donations) - $656
● General Operating Fund Support (e.g., filling the income gap to fulfill annual approved
operating budget; 2014 was initial year this occurred) - period total - $75,000
Total grants disbursed 1/1/2014 through 6/30/2019: $131,638
Investments (other than endowment): N/A
Does your church have a parsonage? No
Describe all buildings owned by the church:
Sanctuary, office space, Caretaker apartment, Preschool, Sunday school classrooms,
Fellowship Hall, Kitchen, Chapel, and accoutrements (24,000 square feet) located at
7853 Main Street, Olmsted Falls, OH 44138. Sanctuary built 1959; rest of building built
1956.
Describe non-owned buildings or space used or rented by the church:
Which spaces are accessible to wheelchairs? (worship space, pulpit, fellowship space,
facilities, etc.)
All spaces except sanctuary balcony, Caretaker apartment, and pulpit are wheelchair
accessible.
Reflection: After reviewing the church’s finances and assets described above, what does this
information reflect about your congregation’s mission and ministry?
Church operating finances have been declining slowly but steadily for many years with
no active & reflective re-thinking. Budgeting is done based on previous year’s income
and expenses and not as a program planning function.
3f. HISTORICAL INFORMATION
Name one to three significant happenings in the history of your church that have shaped the
identity of your congregation. Add the most important event in the life of your church in the past
10 years.
In 1917 two small congregations, one Methodist and one Congregational, merged to form
Olmsted Community Church. The two churches continued to be used, the former Methodist
Church used for worship and the former Congregational Church was used for Sunday School
and community meetings.
In 1959 a growing population of the congregation led to the construction of the current
sanctuary. On Christmas Eve 1959, the congregation worshiped in the new sanctuary for the
first time.
The year 2015 began with a 3-year Capital Campaign with the theme “It’s Our Time”. Our
goal was to raise funds for capital improvements and special mission projects. Our
congregation joined together and we exceeded our $500,000 goal. We were able to complete
many needed improvements as well as provide additional mission support.
In 2017 we celebrated our 100-year anniversary. This was a year of celebration for our
congregation. Many activities were planned for all ages. Pastors who grew up in the church and
became ministers preached at OCC services in 2017. There was a church history open house,
an OCC anniversary video, monthly birthday celebrations for members and friends during
coffee hour, ice cream social, anniversary cookbook, participation in the Heritage Days parade,
an all congregation photo taken, and the planting and dedication of commemorative Kwanzan
Cherry tree on the front lawn.
Olmsted Community Church has inspired many members to pursue pastoral ministry
opportunities. In addition, our last two ministers have served each for 17 and 11 years. Our
Global mission partnerships include child sponsorship through Family Village Farm in India
and Rawdat El-Zuhur in Israel. We are proud to celebrate our history, embrace our present,
and look forward to our future. We seek to be Christ to the World in all we do.
Describe a specific change your church has managed in the recent past.
Every church has conflict, some minor, some larger. “Where two or three are gathered, there
will be disagreement….” Describe your congregation’s values and practices when it comes to
conflict.
We have a ~50-year-old Casavant organ that has required significant repairs and
upgrades over the past 5 years. This past year, an opportunity presented itself to
purchase a more modern console for the organ. The music committee put a proposal
together to make this purchase with M&E funds. There is a process defined within our
Constitution on how these funds can be appropriated. This process was not followed and
there was a good deal of consternation between executive leadership, congregational
representatives, and the worship committee. The process was mediated by the church
president, who relied on the language in the church constitution to reach a resolution.
Though not everyone was happy, they accepted the solution since it was defined within
the constitution.
Ministerial History (include all previous ministerial staff for the past 30 years)
Staff member’s name Years of service UCC Standing (Y/N)
Don 17 Y
Ron 11 Y
Comment on what your church has learned about itself and its relationship with persons who
provided ministerial leadership:
We tend to have long term relationship with our ministerial leadership. They span generations
and become part of the church’s history. We have been fortunate to not have much controversy
in the past 30+ years and have managed transitions successfully between ministers.
Has any past leader left under pressure or by involuntary termination?
Not in the past 30 years
Has your church been involved in a Situational Support Consultation?
No
Has a past pastor been the subject of a Fitness Review while at your church?
No
4. WHO IS OUR NEIGHBOR?
“You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:39 NRSV)
a. COMMUNITY VISION
b. MISSION InSite
4a. COMMUNITY VISION
Olmsted Community Church is proud to be an anchor in the local community, while extending
its outreach around the world. In 2016, 17% of our annual budget supported mission and
outreach ministries.
On a national/international level, OCC annually acknowledges and contributes to:
• Our Church’s Wider Mission
• One Great Hour of Sharing
• Veterans of the Cross
• HUGS – financial support for two international children (currently India and Jerusalem).
Funding comes from fun activities like the annual Chili Cook-Off and Pie Fest (we love
to cook and eat!)
• Orthodox Initiative in Jordan - Youth and Community Center
(https://www.globalministries.org/youth_center_and_school)
• Lott’s Creek (Kentucky) Cordia School
• Annual mission trip to work at Appalachian school and community
• Caring/Sharing sacks with school supplies and hygiene essentials for Lott’s Creek
students
• Missions funding for Lott’s Creek school needs
Local outreach and impact
Locally, OCC is the backbone of the local Christians in Action (CIA) food pantry, which for
years was housed in our facility. We are one of several congregations whose volunteers staff the
pantry, which serves community members in need. OCC is the site of the annual CIA luncheon
for food pantry participants. OCC members support the holiday giving through
• Church Street Ministries (http://www.churchstreetministries.org/)
• Providence House crisis nursery Christmas in July supplies drive (www.provhouse.org)
• Disaster kits
• Laura’s Home women’s crisis shelter (www.thecitymission.org/lauras-home)
• Lift Up Vikes – local college pantry for students in needs
(https://www.csuohio.edu/liftupvikes)
• St. Pat’s Church – meal support and funding (local Catholic church in lower-income
neighborhood)
Transforming lives
While OCC has not formally adopted some of the UCC social advocacy positions (i.e., Just
Peace, Open and Affirming), the congregation is open to these discussions were the opportunity
and leadership put forth to pursue them. As such, we continue to search for our identity and
define what God is calling us to be.
Within our congregation, we strive to transform lives through a deep understanding of God’s
role in our lives. We support each other financially, emotionally and spiritually as a family of
faith. Our Stephen Ministers extend the pastor’s outreach to members seeking solace or a
prayer partner in times of need. The pastor also maintains a discretionary fund to provide minor
financial support in crisis situations.
Recently, OCC invited the community (which was gathering nearby for the town’s annual
Heritage Days) to join OCC members at an outdoor communion during regularly scheduled
worship. In this way, we extended not only hospitality but our faith practices to reinforce that all
are welcome at the Lord’s table.
Ecumenical and Interfaith Opportunities
OCC’s pastor has been a member of the Olmsted Ecumenical Alliance, a group of clergies
representing congregations of many faith backgrounds in Olmsted Falls and Olmsted Township.
Through group partnerships, these clergy have led their congregants to multiple activities and
local community projects, including:
• Inaugural Pet Fair
• National Day of Prayer Service
• Concelebrated Thanksgiving Eve Service
• Local high school baccalaureate
Through a stronger affiliation with this group, OCC could have many opportunities for
impactful, hands-on outreach, including joint missions programs.
Association with this group also helps bridge understanding among diverse faith communities.
In that vein, through our Confirmation and Faith Formation programs, OCC members and
guests have opportunity to interact with our Jewish and Muslim brothers and sisters via Seder
meals and mosque visits. These opportunities help expand our view of the world around us, and
the many shared aspects of our faith experiences.
Pastor’s community ministry
As the face of the church, the pastor has a role in representing the congregation in the
community. The pastor is invited, along with other local clergy, to participate in the annual
Baccalaureate at Olmsted Falls High School. The pastor also has hosted coffee klatches in local
settings, inviting community members to discuss anything on their minds. Opportunities exist for
greater involvement in community relations, perhaps through the Chamber of Commerce.
Anchoring the community
At 100+ years old, Olmsted Community Church is well known as an anchor in the community,
by both its majestic physical presence but also by its involvement in the community. The church
has been a fixture at the community’s annual Heritage Days parade and celebration and other
community-based events. The church building hosts many community groups throughout the
week, including:
• Multiple AA/NA groups
• Koinonia weekend retreats
• Boy Scouts
• Free Thanksgiving Meal
• Neighborhood Knitters
Miscellaneous rentals for wedding/baby showers, etc.
4b. MISSION InSite
Comment on your congregation’s MissionInsite report with data for your neighborhood(s) or
area. What trends and opportunities are shown?
In general, the Olmsted communities are homogenous, prosperous, and stable. The 10-year
trends do not forecast any meaningful change in race, medium age, population, or income. The
area is predominantly a white, upper middle-class, middle-aged community that is heavily
influenced by nuclear families.
How do your congregation’s internal demographics compare or contrast to a) the neighborhoods
adjacent to your church, and b) other neighborhoods with which your church connects?
Our congregation’s demographics largely mirror the adjacent neighborhoods. The only
significant difference is a slightly higher medium age and fewer nuclear families.
How are the demographics of the community currently shaping ministry, or not?
Olmsted Falls, and some surrounding communities, have experienced rapid growth over the last
decade, however our membership and attendance rates do not reflect this growth. The growing
communities include an influx of young families but we currently do not have any active youth
groups, or have many families with children active in the church. Our most recent Christian
Education Director has been a part-time position. Despite this, our pre-school program has
been highly popular and respected within the community for over 60 years, often having a
waiting list for potential students. We believe creating more connectedness between our pre-
school families and our minister/congregation is an opportunity.
What do you hear when you talk to community leaders and ask them what your church is known
for?
Community leaders respect the openness of our church. We open our building to anyone who
asks with no cost or obligation. We support Christians In Action, Koinonia, AA, Boy Scouts and
Kiwanis on a regular basis and many other organizations on an ad hoc basis. We provide
weddings and funerals to non-members. We have traditionally been a visible presence at local
parades, celebrations, and festivals.
What do new people in the church say when asked what got them involved?
That they are looking for a traditional church in the local community. Many new members are
looking for a new, less strict or less judgmental church. Some join because their children have
been enrolled in the preschool program. New members appreciate that we are a non-
denominational, community church yet have an affiliation with UCC.
5. REFERENCES
Name up to three people who have agreed to serve as phone and written references. Advise the
three references: “The contact information you provide may be shared publicly. Please use
contact information that you feel comfortable giving to candidates so they can reach you with
their questions.”
Make sure they are not members of your church but are persons who know your church well
enough to be helpful to candidates seeking more information. Request a letter from each
reference in answer to the four prompts below. Attach the letters (up to three) as desired.
Name Telephone Email Relationship to Your Church
Father Wally Hyclak 440-235-2222 [email protected] neighboring priest
Karen Ciolek 440-235-1583 [email protected] preschool teacher
Scott Graham 216-509-1461 [email protected] community member
PROMPTS FOR REFERENCES
Describe some areas of strength in this church’s ministry.
Describe some areas for improvement in this church’s ministry.
Describe a significant experience you have had of this church’s ministry.
Anything else you wish to share.
6. CLOSING THOUGHTS
a. CLOSING PRAYER
b. STATEMENT OF CONSENT
c. CONFERENCE/ASSOCIATION VALIDATION
6a. CLOSING PRAYER ______
Christ, Be Our Light Bernadette Farrell
Longing for light, we wait in darkness Longing for truth, we turn to You. Make us Your own, Your holy people Light for the world to see. Christ, be our light! Shine in our hearts. Shine through the darkness. Christ, be our light! Shine in Your church gathered today. Longing for peace, our world is troubled Longing for hope, many despair. Your word alone has pow'r to save us. Make us your living voice. Christ, be our light! Shine in our hearts. Shine through the darkness. Christ, be our light! Shine in Your church gathered today. Longing for food, many are hungry Longing for water, many still thirst. Make us Your bread, broken for others Shared until all are fed. Christ, be our light! Shine in our hearts. Shine through the darkness. Christ, be our light! Shine in…
6b. STATEMENT OF CONSENT
The covenantal relationship between a church and those called by that church to serve as
pastors and teachers and in other ministerial positions is strengthened when vital information is
openly shared by covenantal partners. To that end, we attest that, to the best of our abilities, we
have provided information in this profile that accurately represents our church. We have not
knowingly withheld any information that would be helpful to candidates.
As the committee charged with the responsibility for identifying and recommending
suitable new minister for our church, we have been authorized to share the information herein
with potential candidates. We understand that a candidate may wish to secure further
knowledge, information, and opinions about our church. We encourage a candidate to do so,
recognizing that an open exchange of relevant information builds the foundation for continuing
and healthy relationships between calling bodies and persons seeking a ministry position.
1. Which individuals and groups in the church contributed to the contents of this Local
Church Profile? Pastoral Search Committee, Transition Committee, Executive Council,
Interim Minister, Finance Board
2. Additional comments for interpreting the profile:
Signed:
Name: Seth Tomasch
Title: Chair, Pastoral Search Committee
Date: 10 September, 2019
6c. VALIDATION BY CONFERENCE/ASSOCIATION _____
The congregation is currently in good standing with the association / conference named.
Staff Comment: Olmstead Community Church is a church in good standing in the Living
Water Association. This multigenerational congregation boasts a living ministry. The
congregation is faithful and committed to the church and willing to be open to the Spirit’s
guidance. I believe Olmsted Community has a bright and promising future.
To the best of my knowledge, ministerial history information is complete.
Staff Comment: Yes
To the best of my knowledge, available church financial information is presented thoroughly.
Staff Comment: Yes
My signature below attests to the above three items.
Signature:
Name / Title: Association General Minister
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 330.940.2220 x 102
Date: September 13, 2019
This document is created through support to Our Church’s Wider Mission (OCWM) and is only
possible through the covenantal relationships of all settings of the United Church of Christ.
“Jesus answered them, ‘Have faith in God!’” – Mark 11:22
