Vestry News & Review:
Abundance and Reciprocity
Reflections from Stan Forbes and Elise Keddie
members of the Vestry
Here’s a look at some key highlights and reflections from the May and June Vestry meetings, with thanks to Stan Forbes and Elise Keddie for contributing their perspectives to this edition of Vestry News & Review:
June was a busy and meaningful month for the Vestry, with two meetings and much spiritual discernment around our church’s mission, stewardship, and future needs.
On June 15, the Vestry met with the Rev. Dr. Stephen Hassett, who shared insights from his experience with capital campaigns and broader themes of stewardship. His reflections were deeply appreciated and will help guide our next steps as we consider St. Martin’s capital needs.
The Vestry is actively discerning the possibility of a new capital campaign—our first since 2013. The Capital Needs Discernment Committee has met with parish ministry leaders and identified three broad objectives:
- Supporting current ministries, including worship and formation
- Improving climate resiliency and sustainability
- Enhancing welcome and hospitality, both internally and to the larger community
At our June 18 meeting, the Vestry formally adopted new Budget Process Guidelines. These guidelines update the existing budget planning process by identifying a monthly planning cycle for budget development, stewardship campaign, and budget approval, including creating a mission-based budget. The proposed 2026 budget will reflect the mission priorities identified at our February Vestry retreat:
- Providing opportunities for everyone at St. Martin’s to deepen their spiritual journeys
- Renewing our commitment to carbon reduction and climate resilience
- Working to make St. Martin’s a place of real belonging, safety, and connection
Another important step forward was the approval of a new Employee Handbook, developed in consultation with a human resources expert. While it may seem like a small administrative detail, this is a significant accomplishment that supports our staff and aligns our employment practices with best standards.
In terms of formation and stewardship, we’re excited about a new Adult Formation curriculum for the stewardship season. During this series, a ministry leader will speak during worship, followed by a guest speaker offering deeper reflection on a related theme. In addition, a new Education for Ministry (EfM) group is forming—stay tuned for more in our e-news and bulletins.
The Vestry also engaged with the concept of abundance as presented in Robin Wall Kimmerer’s The Serviceberry. In contrast to scarcity-based thinking that often dominates economic systems, this book explores a more spiritual, interconnected vision rooted in generosity and relationship—principles that echo many Indigenous traditions and resonate deeply with Christian stewardship.
As one Vestry member observed, even financial discussions at St. Martin’s are rooted in prayerful reflection and a desire to serve our mission faithfully. We hope to see you at one of the upcoming Serviceberry discussion sessions (August 3 & 10) as we continue exploring how God’s abundant grace calls us to live, give, and grow.
