2025 Annual Report by waynepres

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ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT ANNUAL REPORT

AGENDA

ANNUAL MEETING OF THE CONGREGATION

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 2, 2025 | FOLLOWING THE 10:00 AM SERVICE

Call to Order/Confirmation of Quorum and Notice

Opening Prayer

Approval of Minutes

Leadership Report

Election of Officers

Elders Class of 2028

Deacons Class of 2028

Stewards Class of 2028

Nominating Committee At-Large Members

Presentation of 2025 Budget

Approval of Terms of Call

Meeting of the Corporation

Closing Prayer

Rev. Ryan Balsan

Jim Galasso, Clerk

Rev. Ryan Balsan

Scott Born, Elder

Vijay Aggarwal, Treasurer

Sally Hudson, Elder

Doug Bruhns, Elder

Rev. Katy Shevel

Please join us for brunch in the Chapel for food and fellowship immediatelyfollowing the annual meeting.

GUIDING PRINCIPLES

WE GLORIFY GOD.

WE ARE UNITED IN OUR MISSION TO WORSHIP, LEARN, SERVE AND CARE.

WE LOVE OUR NEIGHBORS AND ONE ANOTHER.

WE WELCOME ALL PEOPLE WITH WARM HOSPITALITY.

WE RESPECT ONE ANOTHER IN ALL OUR WORK TOGETHER.

WE ASK FOR HELP WHEN WE NEED IT.

WE ACTIVELY REACH OUT TO THOSE WHO ARE SUFFERING.

WE ACCEPT AND LOVE THOSE WHO ARE BROKEN.

WE APOLOGIZE TO THOSE WE HAVE WRONGED.

WE FORGIVE THOSE WHO HAVE MADE MISTAKES OR HURT US.

WE ARE GOOD STEWARDS OF GOD’S CREATION.

WE ARE GOOD STEWARDS OF THE GIFTS GIVEN TO THE CHURCH.

WE DEDICATE OUR TIME, TALENTS, AND RESOURCES AS WE ARE ABLE.

WE FIX OUR EYES ON THE LOVE AND GRACE OF JESUS CHRIST.

A LETTER FROM THE REVEREND RYAN BALSAN

“I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.”

-Philippians 1:6

In the few months that I have been at Wayne Presbyterian Church, I have already learned a lot about this congregation and its ministry. I have learned that this is a faithful congregation with a long history of service to the Wayne community, the Philadelphia area, and the world. We are energized by mission!

I have also learned that this congregation is passionate about music and worship. The breadth and quality of our musical offerings is inspiring. Each week I look forward to worship to see how everything will come together in worship to create something that both inspires and challenges us.

I have also discovered that this congregation fosters deep relationships. Through the ministry of our Deacons, personal outreach from one member to another, numerous Bible studies and other groups, this congregation grows in faith and cares for one another. I am sure that I could go on for a lot longer about all the things that I have discovered about the Wayne Church in only a few months. There is a lot of rich history!

When one reads through an annual report like the one you hold in your hands (or see on your screen), one might think that it is merely a record of what happened in the past yearand the budget for the coming year. It does have those things. They are important. However, I hope you will find more than a budget and a record of the past year. In these pages you will also find a record of faithful generosity toward God’s work in this place, you will hear echoes of our congregation’s faithful past that echo even today in our ministries and outreach. You will see a snapshot of the present moment: the ways that we worship, learn, grow, and serve together. You will also catch a glimpse of the future that God has for this congregation. As we record what God has done here in 2024, we look forward with hope and trust that God is still working here. I trust that you will see that we long to continue growing together in ministry, expanding the reach of our congregation – not for our own sake, but for the sake of our neighbors and the world that long to hear and know the Good News of God’s love in Jesus Christ.

May we work and pray in 2025 and beyond so that the good work that God has begun in us will continue, so that on the day that Christ returns it will be brought to completion.

Faithfully yours,

Rev. Ryan Balsan Senior Pastor and Head of Staff

A LETTER FROM THE REVEREND KATY SHEVEL

“I wait for the Lord; my soul waits, and in his word I hope; my soul waits for the Lord, more than those who watch for the morning…”

Psalm 130: 5-6

Waiting. Watching. Hoping. There are so many scripture passages that speak to this theme of active and hopeful expectation: waiting for the Lord, keeping watch in the night, and yearning to see a glimpse of God’s Word made manifest and prayers answered.

As I reflect upon my time with you over the past year, my experience of 2024 has been imbued with this biblical theme of waiting. Alongside my pastoral colleagues, my ministry here has been one of helping us to wait on the Lord and to prepare for next steps. In early 2024, Rev. Liz Wagner and I were your pastors: preaching, teaching, praying with you, leading our Session, and helping us to make ready for our new Senior Pastor. I led our Women’s Retreat in April. At our retreat, the women of this church worshiped, enjoyed fellowship, and discerned together the meaning of friendship in Christ.

Over the past year, we sadly said goodbye to many faithful members of our church family, including some who served on our staff. We pondered what God was doing in this place. Because even through tearful farewells, still we were welcoming new friends in worship. Rev. Tim Pretz joined our staff. The community was abuzz with excitement as a candidate was nominated to be our Senior Pastor. We waited, we watched, and we hoped.

In July, our congregation voted for Rev. Ryan Balsan to be our next Senior Pastor. We said goodbye to Rev. Liz. Thus, we entered a new season of waiting and preparation. As your acting Head of Staff, together with all of you, we made ready for a busy and vibrant fall season here at Wayne Pres. With more volunteers than ever, our Andrew Ministry team enjoyed its first “welcome back” potluck and eagerly made plans to connect with the many visitors we expected to receive this fall. In early September, we celebrated with everyone during our fun-filled Annual Church Picnic. So much joy and laughter filled our halls. As the summer drew to a close, palpable excitement permeated our space in anticipation of our Senior Pastor’s arrival.

In mid-September, Rev. Ryan officially became our Head of Staff. It has been my honor to come alongside him in leadership as our transitional season continues to unfold. We are still waiting and watching. We are waiting to see who joins us in worship on Sunday mornings. We are watching to see what leaders and volunteers will step up to serve. We are hoping that the Holy Spirit is stirring in us anew. We are eager for God to reveal to our newly revitalized congregation our call: to be and to make disciples in 2025.

We wait; we watch; we hope. As followers of Christ, we never cease to wait on the Lord. Yet our season of waiting continues to change and transform before our very eyes. As the prophet Isaiah says, God is about to do a new thing. Our task is always to pray without ceasing: with open eyes, open minds, open hearts, and open hands.

Yours in Christ,

Rev. Katy Shevel Associate Pastor for Congregational Life

GOVERNANCE CHART

DEACONS: MINISTRY OF COMPASSION & SERVICE

The ministry of deacon as set forth in scripture is one of compassion, witness, and service, sharing in the redeeming love of Jesus Christ for the poor, the hungry, the sick, the lost, the friendless, the oppressed, those burdened by unjust policies or structures, or anyone in distress. The ministry is under the supervision of the Session. Book of Order G-2.02

Deacon Co-Moderators

Lee Pretz & Margie McPherson

Community Services Committee

Bill Nirmaier

Congregational Services Committee

Mary Bollinger

SESSION COMMITTEES AND CHAIRS

Committees Serving Church Operations

Nominating

Scott Born

Stewardship

Greg Hagin & Laurie Gerner

Administration

Doug Bruhns

Township Relations Property

Endowment

Finance

Communication & Technology

Sue Metzger

Personnel

Sally Hudson & Lee Billmyer

Elder-at large not associated with a Committee

Pastoral and Leadership Care

Linda Teets & Mike Packer

SESSION:

The Session is the council for the congregation. It is composed of those persons elected by the congregation to active service as ruling elders, together with the pastors. The Session shall have the responsibility for governing the congregation and guiding its witness to the sovereign activity of God in the world, so that the congregation is and becomes a community of faith, hope, love, and witness. Book of Order G-3.02

CLERK OF SESSION | JIM GALASSO

Elected by Session, the clerk shall record the transactions, keep rolls of membership and attendance, maintain any required registers, preserve records, and furnish extracts when required. The clerk is a ruling elder. Book of Order G-3.0104

Committees Serving the Congregation and Other Communities

Music & Worship

Chad Slate & Jen Galasso

Faith in Action

Susan Aggarwal

Local Mission

The Common Place

CityLights

Social Justice Advocacy

Global Mission

Hammers With Heart

Earth Care

Membership Pamela Jensen

Community Fellowship

Marian Hollingsworth

Separate Committees Serving Specific Members of the Congregation

Adult Education

Whit Beverly WinGS

Angela Tait

Courtney Bodnar

Youth & College

Will Gillespie

Sharon Levitch

Children

Debbie Rothkopf

CLERK OF SESSION REPORT

JAMES H. GALASSO, JR.

I write this report as a reflection back on 2024 for Wayne Presbyterian Church with a focus on the hard work of the various committees over the past year. Session has been hard at work this year leading the church through our transition in leadership from our Bridge Pastor Liz Wagner to our new Sr. Pastor & Head of Staff Ryan Balsan. I would like to take a moment to thank Rev. Wagner for her time and leadership to the church during this transition period. She spent time working with the various committees, leading the staff, and being the moderator of Session. She was great to work with and I wish her the best in her next endeavor.

The goal of this report is to provide a summary of the great work done throughout 2024 by our pastoral staff, Session, our church staff, and our various committees. Please read this report and other reports to learn more of what is happening and to get involved in helping WPC bring the light of Jesus Christ to the world. As always, if you have a question or concern, please reach out to me or any other member of Session with any questions or concerns. Transparency and engagement are important qualities of a thriving congregation.

Our church has 1,422 members as of 31 December 2024.

L LIFE EVENTS

WE CELEBRATED

WEDDINGS 2 Natalie Clarke & Sam Nascimento | Sarah Racine & Maxime Daigneault

BAPTISMS

David Shin Kaden Lee Jackson Ryder Eva Noelle Smith McKinley Van Ostenbridge

Ethan Shin Rachel Sule

Claire Shively

Brooks Reap James Kent

Matthew Shin Penelope Ryder Cashel Toebe Emma Kheradi Landon Weisbecker

WE WELCOMED

CONFIRMANDS

Perri Bruhns Liam Coetzee Genevieve Ferroni Larisa Kane Gill O’Nell Nate Monte

Robbie Clark Maya D’Ascanio Mary Hagin

NEW MEMBERS

Dick Parker Gaye Sheffler

Chloe Konz Ethan Shin Matthew Shin

Elizabeth Coetzee Gladys Atherton Carole E. Cook Shannon Weisbecker

Susan Parker David Lanahan David Shin

Elizabeth Reap Sally Millar Carl Weisbecker

Becky Zaro Linda Whitehead Jennifer Shin Kyle Reap Richard Bagge Jaquelyn Davis

Matt Zaro Rachel Sule

Sandra Lynne Klein Eric Merten Barbara Bagge

WE MOURNED We lost others, while not members, who were family of members, close friends and dear to us.

MEMBERS MOURNED 33

Barbara Prescott Kenneth Hanson

William Hoffmann Gisela Lamley Florence Pratt

Terry Jarman Jeffrey Hanhasuen, Sr. John T. Galloway, Jr. Joyce Garber

Carol Titzel Ron Race

Charles Nielsey

Joel Jensen Robert Lamley Lynne Eckman

Miriam Appleton Juliann Hoffmann

Harriet Byrne

Gladys Nigro Robert Pfaltzgraff, Jr. June Vollmer

For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain. Philippians 1:21

Barbara Clisby

Nancy Wenzel Lois (Til) Albrecht

William Marshall, Jr. Dorene Moll

Ann Marshall Julie Kincade

Edna Broom

Anita Weeks

Wanda Duckworth Colin Hobyak

S STRATEGIC PLANNING

In 2024, the work initiated in 2023 for the six “Strategic Objectives” was concluded by their respective Task Forces with significant accomplishments across all areas.

TASK FORCE 1

Focused on calling a Permanent Senior Pastor/ Head of Staff. Key steps included completing a Mission Study Refresh, obtaining COM approval for forming a Pastoral Nominating Committee (PNC), and supporting the PNC chair in budget discussions.

TASK FORCES 2 & 4

Combined efforts to grow and revitalize membership while engaging younger demographics. Achievements included updating the membership process, organizing volunteers, refreshing fellowship pads and visitor cards, and establishing Membership and Fellowship Committee Chairs within the Session.

TASK FORCE 3

AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2024 OUR CHURCH HAS 1,422 MEMBERS

Completed most of its work in 2023 to align and optimize staff operations, including refining the Senior Pastor’s role, onboarding a Director of Operations & Finance, transitioning Rev. Liz Wagner to full-time Bridge Pastor, supporting the Director of Music Ministry search, and finalizing a staff organizational structure.

TASK FORCE 5

Aligned the budget with stewardship campaign results, ensuring a 2024 budget surplus and a strong financial foundation for 2025.

TASK FORCE 6

Focused on improving Session governance and effectiveness. Deliverables included defining committee roles, collaborating with the Wayne Oratorio Society, refining Children and Youth Ministry staff roles, and reorganizing caregiving ministries. The Congregational Care Committee was retired, with pastoral care provided through Deacons and Pastoral Care ministries. A Governance Chart summarizing the committee structure was finalized.

With the completion of these objectives, Session dissolved the Task Forces in early 2024, leaving a few future actions:

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Revisiting pastoral staffing needs after hiring the new Senior Pastor.

Developing a long-term facility plan and capital project list.

Considering Task Forces for short-term or complex issues, such as by-laws review.

S STAFFING

SENIOR PASTOR SEARCH

In 2024, the PNC proceeded with the next steps from what it had accomplished the prior year. This started with receiving and reviewing Personal Discernment Profiles (PDPs) through the Church Leadership Connection (CLC). These included referrals and self-nominations through consultants through the Center for Healthy Churches (CHC). The PNC reviewed the PDPs and conducted further research of candidates. After narrowing the list, they conducted interviews and then proceeded to hear candidates preach. In June, the PNC reported to Session that they had unanimously decided upon a candidate for Senior Pastor/Head of Staff and that the candidate had accepted the proposed terms of call. With the approval of Session, the PNC proceeded with final steps required and the Congregational Meeting was called for on 14 July 2024. With the unanimous vote at the Congregational Meeting, Rev. Balsan was called to be the new Sr. Pastor and Head of Staff, and with their work being completed, the PNC was dissolved. Thanks to the PNC for their efforts with completing this major milestone for WPC in 2024.

JULY 2024

On July 19, Rev. Ryan Balsan was unanimously elected as Senior Pastor/Head of Staff at the Congregational Meeting.

2024 HIGHLIGHTS

JANUARY 2024

John Grecia formally joins Wayne Presbyterian Church as Director of Music Ministry while continuing his role as the Director of the Wayne Oratorio Society.

MAY 2024

Rev. Tim Pretz was appointed Interim Pastoral Care Associate to ensure adequate care for the congregation during the leadership transition. He will continue in this role into 2025.

JUNE 2024

The Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC) unanimously selects a candidate for Senior Pastor/ Head of Staff. Rev. Ryan Balsan accepted the proposed terms of call and with Session's approval, a Congregational Meeting was scheduled to finalize the process.

AUGUST 2024

SEPTEMBER 2024

Rev. Ryan Balsan began his role as Senior Pastor & Head of Staff. With his arrival, Rev. Balsan also assumed the role of Session Moderator.

Ryan Fleming joined the staff as Associate Director of Music Ministry.

Session regretfully accepted John Lindsay’s resignation as Elder for Congregational Life as he stepped in as Youth Ministry Assistant to assist Kelli Masters in her expanded role as Director of Children & Youth Ministries for the 2024-2025 program year.

Liz Wagner, WPC Bridge Pastor, departed, making Associate Pastor Katy Shevel the Interim Head of Staff and Session Moderator during the transition.

DECEMBER 2024

Rev. Balsan and Session began a Leadership Assimilation process focusing on Adaptive Change and Leadership to position WPC for future ministry.

After 11 years of service, WPC bid farewell to Evelyn Widham, who served Youth Ministry as a volunteer and staff member.

P PROPERTY

One of our challenges this year has been trying to update the lease with Radnor Township that has been in place since 1955. I am happy to report that WPC and the Radnor Township Board of Commissioners have come to agreement on terms for a new lease. This comes after the Property Committee negotiated terms approved by Session with the township. We expect the terms for the lease to be approved through a required ordinance at a board meeting in February 2025.

F FINANCIAL SUMMARY

We are ending 2024 with a surplus, placing the church on a solid foundation for next year. The Stewardship Campaign for 2025 exceeded its goal of $1.5M in pledged offerings. This has enabled an increase in our budget for 2025 to about $2.1M.

To review the budget and financial notes, please see pages 14 and 15.

M MISSION HIGHLIGHTS

At its 4 February 2024 Congregational Meeting, the congregation approved the transfer of the property Title at 5736 Chester Avenue, Philadelphia, PA to The Common Place. This transfer was completed on 7 May 2024 with the City of Philadelphia consistent with the direction from Presbytery and the WPC congregation.

Our Faith In Action Team will focus on Hunger with the theme of Food Insecurity. This is a great next step from 2023 when WPC was certified as Hunger Action Congregation by the PC(USA). I would invite everyone to read more about this topic in the Annual Report and look for events to get involved in as we continue this ministry.

2025 BUDGET 2022-2024 ACTUAL

Regular Offerings

Pledged Offerings Unpledged Offerings

Yr. Pledge Pymts

Other Income

Non -Budgeted

$ 1,202,696 175,632 258,790 113,345 118,075 25,289 12,285 5,370 21,064 52,133 9,036 4,567 5,982 4,176

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

2024 Actual Income We ended the year with pledged income very slightly above budgeted levels. Unpledged offerings were 27% above budget, slightly exceeding the level seen in 2023. Parking lot revenue rebounded slightly from its pandemic levels and the nursery school contributed $25K as budgeted. Interest, capital appreciation and dividend income from our non-endowment funds exceeded budget by $14K due to strong market performance. Endowment income was at budgeted levels since it is based on affixed 5% of the average of the five prior year-end balances. Giving towards the per capita continues at a very low level and was significantly below budget. Alternative gifts totaled almost $14K, significantly above prior years. Due to these significant favorable variances, total income not including non-budgeted offerings, was $95K (5%) above budget, primarily due to improvements in unpledged offerings.

Expenses Total expenses, not including special offerings, ended the year $63K below budget. Personnel expenses were significantly below budget due to reduced medical insurance and workers comp expenses. Property expenses including maintenance, utilities and repairs were at budget and represented 15% of total expenses compared to 18% during the pandemic. The improvement is primarily due to renegotiation of our contract cleaning service and reduced utilization of those services. Office expenses were at budget and represented 4.5% of total expenses, down from 5.6% in 2022 before renegotiation of the copier contract.

All the other program areas were approximately at budgeted levels with the exception of an overspend in communications and an underspend in Membership. Faith in Action was under budget due to delays in receiving some partner grant requests but ended the year with a slight overspend due to an additional donation to the mission activities of the Philadelphia Presbytery.

Overall, as a result of increased income and reduced expenses, we ended the year with a surplus of $142K, far exceeding the surplus from prior years. The cumulative surplus at the end of 2024 is $392K, allowing us to make investments in programs and personnel to fuel our future.

In addition to budgeted operating funds, Session committees made the following expenditures from various dedicated funds in the endowment:

During the year, WPC was the beneficiary of bequests totaling $448,769. It is an important reminder of the impact of planned giving and estate planning that the Good Shepherd Society is working to improve in the coming years.

The endowment balance at the end of 2024 is $6,802,610. The investment returns in the endowment were 14% for the year, slightly below the 18% return of a blended benchmark that reflects our allocation between equities and fixed income.

2025 Budget

Income The continued faithful and strong support of WPC from our members combined with the addition of several new giving families during the year results in a pledged income that is 4% higher than prior year actuals. Although we expect increased visitor flow and potentially increased unpledged offerings, this is conservatively budgeted at the same levels as prior year. Other income incorporates the projected minimum rental fee from our parking lot as well as a $30K contribution from the nursery school as in the prior year. Endowment income is based on a 5% draw calculated against the five-year running average of year-end balances. The endowment income is up 6% due to improved market performance in the last several years. Total income not including non-budgeted giving is projected to be 3% above prior year.

Expenses 2025 will represent a year of investing prior year surpluses to fund new positions that will be directed at increasing our membership and further enhancing our worshiping community and improving our other program areas. The personnel budget is increasing by 27% compared to prior year. This almost $290K increase in our personnel budget will allow us to hire a Congregational Life coordinator and Sexton. The budget also includes salary increases for our staff in addition to funding full year employment of our new pastoral staff and associate music director. Restructuring of the youth director position will also contribute to the increased salary expenses.

Faith In Action spending represents the first 10% of our total income as a tithe. Property expenses are higher than prior year due to increased costs for building insurance, natural gas, legal expenses and service contracts. Some of these increases are partially offset by hiring the Sexton which will reduce expenses for grounds maintenance and contract cleaning services. Office expenses are increased in order to fund a full financial audit rather than a financial review. Communications and Technology are budgeted at a 20% increase due to increased mailing costs and other software and printing expenses. All other program areas are budgeted at the same level as 2024. Per-capita expenses reflect an increase from the PC(USA). Session expenses include the annual meeting with the Deacons as well as selected consultants for the Session.

The 2025 budget represents a prudent investment of our accumulated prior year surpluses to ensure a strong community in the coming years.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE

The Nominating Committee plays a crucial role in identifying and recommending individuals for leadership positions within the congregation. This committee is responsible for discerning and selecting candidates for offices such as Elders and Deacons. We also elect members for the next year’s Nominating Committee. The process typically involves:

In most Presbyterian denominations, including the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), the process is democratic, and the congregation has the final vote on whether to approve the proposed candidates for leadership positions. Our congregation is called on to annually elect members who are compassionate in spirit and demonstrate leadership to three-year terms as Elders (7), Deacons (14 adult + 3 youth), and Stewards (responsible for the counting of our weekly offering).

IN SHAPING THE ADMINISTRATIVE “ NOMINATING

IS THE WORK OF THE SPIRITUAL COMMITTEE & ESSENTIAL

LEADERSHIP OF THE CHURCH

The Nominating Committee is pleased to present the following:

2025-2026 NOMINATING COMMITTEE

Hilary Bajus Lori Dziedziak

CLASS OF 2026

ELDERS

Susan Aggarwal

Whit Beverly

Scott Born

Doug Bruhns

Pamela Jensen

Sue Metzger

Debbie Rothkopf

DEACONS

CLASS OF 2026

Diana Bacci

Bennett Colesberry, Jr.

Jack Crosby

Kim Girard

Robin Herbert

Linda Kurtz

Connie Layman

Bill Montgomery

Bobbie Montgomery

Bill Nirmaier

Linda Nirmaier

Ian Robertson *

Mike Sieger

Lisa Van Ostenbridge

* New addition, 1 year term

Chuck Rueger

CLASS OF 2027

Steve Smith

Katie Sullivan

CLASS OF 2028

Lee Billmyer

Courtney Bodnar

Jen Galasso

Laurie Gerner Funk

Marian Hollingsworth

Sharon Levitch

Mike Packer

CLASS OF 2027

Bernie Clark

Jennifer Conklyn

Amanda D’Ascanio

Brian Dudt

Leslie Dudt

Jan Eberlein

Addison Frazier

Bill Gillespie

Debbie Gillespie **

Beth Greenwood

Susan Hirshman

Wendy Mercaldo

Susan O’Rourke

Lee Pretz

**New addtion, 2 year term

STEWARDS

Pam Clark

Rick Davis

Bebe Forster

Jean Parkinson Kozicki

Craig Stock

Liz Walton

Tim Zaro

CLASS OF 2028

Cam Billmyer

Hans Coetzee

Nancy Esser

Thomas Esser

Lani Fabere

Jacey Fancher

Jennie Hagin

Laura Koster

Margie McPherson

Jenna O’Nell

Suzanne Segermark

Doug Smith

Rachel Sule

YOUTH DEACONS CLASS OF 2026 Ella Deitz | Mason Deitz | Faith Thuku

CLASS OF 2026

Ken Bajus

Vicki Boettcher

Warren Eberlein

Tracy Jarman

Kristen Laws

Paige McGuire

Bill North

Susan North

Sally Richter

Dee Rush

Elizabeth Ziegler

Eric Ziegler

CLASS OF 2027

Julie & Josh Cady

Chris Charlton

Bernie Clark

Jennifer Conklyn

Alice & Albert Doering

Pat Donnelly

Weezie Duff

Lani & Mark Fabere

Wendy Bostwick Norman

Candace Pratt

Angela & Frank Tait

Deborah & Paul Wissel

CLASS OF 2028

Barb & Dick Bagge

Carolyn & Larry Berglund

Hans Coetzee

Diane Merry & Steve Fakharzadeh

Rita Fisk

Steve Hearon

Chris Henderson

Marian & David Hollingsworth

Melissa & Scott Naiva

Gayle Orczyk

Lee Pretz

Ann Sieger

DEACON BOARD

The Deacons serve as the hands and feet of Jesus, providing care and support to both the congregation of Wayne Presbyterian Church (WPC) and the greater community. Through hands-on service and compassion, the Deacons strive to embody Christ’s teaching to love and care for one another.

The Deacons oversee vital ministries, including the Congregational Services Committee (focusing on internal care for WPC members) and the Community Services Committee (addressing needs in the broader community).

At the heart of their ministry is the Compassion Fund, which provides confidential financial assistance to individuals experiencing hardship. This fund serves as a gift of unconditional love during times of great need, offering tangible help in alignment with the church’s mission to care for others.

DEACON’S COMPASSION FUND

Provides confidential financial assistance to individuals and families facing challenges, helping with emergency expenses and offering hope during difficult times.

Lee Pretz, Chair of Compassion Fund

COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE:

Engages with the greater community to meet critical needs such as food insecurity, education, and healthcare while fostering partnerships with local organizations.

Blood Drive: Wendy Norman, Mike Sieger, Connie Layman

Bible in a Book Bag: Hans Coetzee, Ian Robertson

Career Networking: James Barnes, Bernie Clark

Angel Tree/Easter Eggs: Bill Pentz, Linda Nirmaier, Bill Nirmaier

CONGREGATIONAL SERVICES COMMITTEE:

Supports WPC members directly through senior care, emergency support, prayer ministry, and memorial reception hosting.

Care and Compassion Chair: Mary Bollinger

Funeral Receptions Chair: Jan Eberlein

Birthday Cards Chair: Linda Kurtz

Senior Events Chair: Margie McPherson

Transportation Chair: Jack Crosby

Flower Delivery Chair: Carol Klauss

Prayer & Praise Team Chair: Lisa Van Ostenbridge

Members: Diana Bacci, Bebe Forster, Lani Fabere, Susan O’Rourke, Wendy Mercaldo

For a full list of Deacons and to view the nominations for the class of 2028, visit page 17

CURRENT LEADERSHIP

Lee Pretz Margie McPherson Moderator Co-Moderator

Diana Bacci

Craig Stock Deacon Scribe Deacon Treasurer

Mary Bollinger

Congregational Services Chair

Bill Nirmaier Community Services Chair

Charlotte Bajus

YOUTH DEACONS

Sarah Bernholdt Grace Clark Ben O’Nell

LOOKING2025AHEAD

COMPASSION FUND

Expand awareness of the Deacon Compassion Fund within the congregation to ensure members feel comfortable seeking assistance.

CONGREGATIONAL SERVICES COMMITTEE

Increase senior activities and foster intergenerational connections.

Strengthen relationships with seniors through regular visits, calls, and notes.

Provide continued support for grieving families through memorial receptions.

COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMITTEE

Enhance support for the Bible in a Book Bag initiative with new library materials for Cornerstone.

Address participation gaps in Angel/ Easter Eggs Trees by exploring alternative engagement strategies.

Expand virtual offerings for the Career Network to sustain and grow participation.

2024 HIGHLIGHTS

SERVICES CONGREGATIONAL

CARE AND COMPASSION

Supported over 50 seniors through regular calls, visits, notes, and seasonal flower deliveries. Expressed God’s love by fostering connections and ensuring no member feels forgotten.

MEMORIAL RECEPTIONS

Hosted nine receptions for grieving families, providing comfort and a welcoming space to celebrate loved ones’ lives.

SENIOR ACTIVITIES

Held a garden party in July and the Seasons Luncheon in October, fostering intergenerational connections and sharing stories of faith.

SERVICES COMMUNITY

BLOOD DRIVE

Hosted six drives, collecting over 300 units of blood, earning recognition from the American Red Cross as a Premier Partner.

BIBLE IN A BOOK BAG

Provided 6,000+ school supplies and 158 book bags to Cornerstone Christian Academy students. Expanded efforts to support the Cornerstone library with leveled reading materials.

CAREER NETWORKING

Hosted regular networking meetings in partnership with Joseph’s People. Organized a Career Networking Retreat, attended by 30+ participants.

ANGEL TREE/EASTER EGGS

Supported 90 families at Christmas and Easter with meal and gift baskets, partnering with the Salvation Army, Salt & Light, and AME Rosemont.

ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE

The Administration Committee is responsible for all Church Administration functions, including but not limited to Finance, Endowment Investments, Property Operations, and Township Relations. All of these work in tandem and with the same mission and vision to grow WPC as a Congregation, improve infrastructure and yield positive financial results that support the ministries and missions of WPC all while growing the endowment.

OPERATIONS

The Communications team, led by Nicole Veith and Christina Sacco, has elevated our messaging through a new website and enhanced publications. Kate Ligouri’s personalized, service-focused support for our Pastors and Session, has ensured smooth administrative operations. The addition of Joy Collas as full-time Church Accountant has helped us produce accurate and more timely financials, which has given the Administration team more time to think through our financial decisions, leading to better outcomes.

PROPERTY & FACILITIES

By maintaining a clean, safe, and appealing facility, we create an environment where members and visitors feel secure and comfortable as they learn and live the ministries of Jesus Christ. The Property Committee operates “behind the scenes,” focusing on repairing, improving, and maintaining the physical facilities of Wayne Presbyterian Church. While many may not notice these efforts, everyone benefits from a safer and more functional space, with safety as our top priority. The congregation’s continued use of the facility stands as a testament to the effectiveness of these combined efforts.

2024 HIGHLIGHTS

Repaired and repainted failing Chapel ceiling, preserving historic details

Reviewed fire monitoring systems, hiring a more effective servicing firm. Cleaned out basement and oversaw extensive reorganization efforts

Addressed emergency exit lighting issues and conducted necessary repairs

Alberto Urbina, the part-time Facilities Manager, has expertly addressed the unique challenges of the 150-year-old building, emphasizing problem-solving and cost containment. Alongside him, Cathy Chandler, our dedicated Church Housekeeper, ensures the church remains beautifully maintained, creating a welcoming and inspiring space for all.

Finalize the Parking Lot Lease for thepparking spaces with Radnor Township

Complete the Bell Tower Restoration Project

Hire and train a new Sexton to support enhanced upkeep of WPC

Decommission the underground oil tank

Managed repairs to bollards and railings outside the kitchen door

Ensured the exterior appearance and maintenance of the campus. Conducted research on historical blueprints and facility documentation.

Provide additional fire detection in the sanctuary using grants

Upgrade overall Fire Annunciator System.

Complete a comprehensive facility condition assessment

FINANCE

Working under the umbrella of the Administration Committee, the Finance subcommittee is responsible for all finance and accounting functions related to Church Operations, the Nursery School, the General Fund, and the Endowment Fund. This includes providing financial oversight, budgetary support, and administrative assistance to ensure smooth operations and the fulfillment of the church’s mission. Through careful management of resources, the Finance Committee ensures proper funding is allocated to support the effective operation of the church, its physical plant, and the ministries.

In spite of turnover in staffing and implementation of new systems, the financial records of WPC have been maintained without disruption as evidenced by a clean review of our bookkeeping by an outside auditor. We also formalized policies on revenue recognition from bequests and competitive bidding for major purchases and capital projects.

MEMBERS

A YEAR IN REVIEW

Provided financial and accounting support for the various ministries to help them achieve their goals while maintaining the church’s financial stability.

Offered budgetary information to WPC committees to ensure responsible financial stewardship.

Acted as a resource for the congregation, addressing questions about giving and processing expense reports for both volunteers and staff.

Delivered routine financial reports and budgets to the Session, enabling informed allocation of resources to WPC’s ministries.

Successfully integrated the new full-time Church Accountant, Joy Collas, into the team to improve financial support across the board.

2 4

Initiated a campaign to raise a fund in honor of our deceased Pastor Emeritus, John T. Galloway, Jr.

The addition of Joy Collas this year has enhanced our ability to serve the congregation, ministries, and committees. Her invaluable skills have helped us produce accurate and more timely financials, which has given the Administration team more time to think through our financial decisions, leading to better outcomes.

PERSONNEL

COMMITTEE

The Personnel Committee is appointed by and operates at the behest of the Session. The mission of the Personnel Committee is to provide an orderly, focused, and considerate way for the Session to build a healthy work environment; to recommend to the Session policies, procedures and practices that anticipate outcomes before they happen; to provide counsel and support for clergy and staff; to develop shared expectations and to provide a place where issues can be addressed. The Committee carries out its mission by working closely with the Senior Pastor/Head of Staff and by establishing personnel policies to assure prudent and equitable human resource administration. This includes acting in advisory capacity with the Senior Pastor/Head of Staff, and working closely with the Director of Business Operations and Treasurer to administer the Church’s personnel budget to assure appropriate compensation and benefits to all staff.

ROLE & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist with hiring pastors and staff.

• Oversee the personnel budget.

• Manage updates to the Employee Handbook.

• Assist with processes for annual reviews and staff development.

• Develop ways to express gratitude to WPC employees for their dedication and hard work.

NEW HIRES

Rev. Ryan Balsan Senior Pastor/Head of Staff

Associate Director of Music Ministry Joy Collas

Church Accountant

Ryan Fleming

John Grecia

Director of Music Ministry

John Lindsay

Youth Ministry Assistant

Rev. Tim Pretz

Pastoral Care Associate

Wayne Presbyterian Church is blessed to have an amazing team of talented professionals. What they do each and every day—both seen and unseen— plays a vital role in shaping the future success of our Church. From maintaining the day-to-day operations to supporting our ministries and events, their commitment reflects God’s love in action. We sincerely thank our Pastors and Staff for all that they do. As we enter 2025 with a full staff, the Personnel Committee will continue to update policies, procedures, and practices that will build a healthy work environment conducive to the vision of the Church to share the ministry of Jesus Christ through worship, growing, serving, and caring.

-Sally Hudson & Lee Billmyer Committee Co-Chairs

STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE

The primary goal of the Stewardship Committee this year was to inspire generosity by encouraging donors to give from God’s abundance. This year’s campaign theme, inspired by Psalm 24, emphasized the belief that “The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it.” By using Psalm 24 as the campaign theme, the committee underscored stewardship as the umbrella under which all ministries thrive and grow.

A central focus of the 2025 Stewardship Campaign was to secure $1.5 million in pledges. To support this effort, the committee developed a narrative budget highlighting how donor contributions sustain WPC’s four strategic pillars: worship, growing, caring, and serving. Under the guidance of the new senior pastor, Rev. Ryan Balsan, this effort was greatly supported by church staff and pastors, whose communication reinforced the connection between giving and the church’s mission locally and globally.

As of January 15, 2025 the Stewardship Campaign has met its goal of $1.5 pledged.

COMMUNICATIONS & TECHNOLOGY COMMITTEE

The Communications & Technology Committee at Wayne Presbyterian Church plays a vital role in fostering effective communication, branding, and technology support. By crafting welcoming and inspiring messaging, it provides the infrastructure needed for ministries and committees to thrive. Collaborating closely with church staff and groups, the committee ensures alignment with WPC's mission and vision.

In 2024, the committee prioritized key objectives: managing communication during a leadership transition, promoting church programming, empowering committees to plan and execute events effectively, and streamlining processes to support the church's diverse activities. These initiatives enhanced WPC's ability to engage both its members and the broader community.

CONGREGATIONAL & COMMUNITY IMPACT

WEBSITE & SYSTEM LAUNCHES LEADERSHIP TRANSITION

Facilitated communications for Rev. Ryan Balsan’s introduction, strengthening our community.

RECORD MANAGEMENT

Website re-designed to attract visitors and meet congregational needs with an integrated calendaring system (eSpace), improving digital presence with user-friendly interface.

DIGITAL ASSET COLLECTION

Captured interior and exterior drone footage and still photographs for use in communication campaigns. Ensured the accuracy of member data in the ShelbyNext system and streamlined processes.

GOALS

OF 2024

ENHANCED COLLABORATION

Assisted committees in better aligning plans with resources and organizational needs.

DIGITAL DISPLAY ENHANCEMENT

Fostered better organizational awareness through updated calendars and digital displays.

• Effectively communicate church news, especially during leadership transitions.

• Align support with the church’s appetite for programming and events.

• Provide infrastructure for committees to plan, advertise, and execute programs.

• Streamline processes for managing church activities.

• Utilize appropriate technologies to strengthen internal and external connections.

• Leverage data for stewardship campaigns and membership engagement.

ALIGNED WITH THE MISSION AND VISION OF THE CHURCH

From promoting personal learning and growing opportunities to supporting online giving opportunities and promotional materials, the mission and vision of WPC can be seen in everything the Communications & Technology Committee does.

WORSHIP

Support worship services, music ministries and other special events by offering online streaming, audio-visual support and print materials.

Build a welcoming and caring church by using the connector monitors for announcements, publicity and increase community engagement

GROW

SERVE

Enhance outreach by monitoring visitor attendance, managing an engaging website, producing meaningful content and delivering a presence on social media.

Produce timely publications that deliver informative newsletters highlighting ministries, impact, opportunities to serve and encourage involvement and outreach

CARE

DID YOU KNOW? The monitors in the Connector are more than just “digital bulletin boards.” They serve as a heartfelt way to celebrate and support our congregants and the community during significant life events. Personalized slideshows displayed on these screens bring a deeply meaningful touch, offering a space to honor milestones such as baptisms, weddings, anniversaries, and memorials. These thoughtfully curated slideshows reflect the unique stories and journeys of individuals, creating moments of connection and shared joy or remembrance. They transform the monitors into a medium for celebrating life’s milestones in a way that truly resonates with our community.

TESTIMONIALS

“I want to recognize you all, including those behind the scenes, for a wonderful experience in a difficult time for my family. My folks chose the Wayne Presbyterian Church as their church. It was for its heart, and we sure saw just how big a heart you all have. God puts parts together, but it is the people that must execute God’s vision. You are all doing that and it was a pleasure to be the recipient of that care.”

“The Wayne Press keeps me connected and in the know. It is very meaningful. I love reading about members, hearing from the ministers, and seeing traditions continue.”

“At least 5 people have said it was the best funeral they ever attended & countless more complimented the personalized & beautiful quality.”

• Guide strategic alignment with the church’s mission through communication.

LOOKING2025 AHEAD

• Strengthen WPC’s presence as a welcoming, Christ-centered community.

• Offer communication and technology training for leadership and staff.

• Improve membership efforts through enhanced strategic efforts.

• Launch Lookbook Wayne Press with committee and staff collaboration.

• Build a robust social media program for broader community engagement.

• Expand accessibility with streaming services in alternate church spaces.

ADULT EDUCATION COMMITTEE

Wayne Presbyterian Church is a place to connect with one another, worship together, learn about God and the world around us, and serve those in need in our church, our community, and beyond. The Adult Education program at WPC stands at the intersection of all these blessings in the life of the church.

The Adult Education Committee seeks to enrich the faith journey of the congregation through a variety of discipleship-focused programs. Central to this mission are eight weekly Bible studies and ministries that meet throughout the week, including Dr. Joe Modica’s Sunday Morning Bible Study Class. These offerings provide opportunities for spiritual growth through diverse formats, times, and settings.

VISION & MISSION

Our goal is to provide educational opportunities in a variety of formats, and at different times to support the congregation’s faith development and journey. Many of these offerings are designed for small groups, fostering both education and personal fellowship within our large congregation.

MEMBERS

The longevity and continued high attendance at the Bible studies speak to their success. Many of the groups have been around for more than a decade and average 10-15 people per week.

-Whit Beverly, Elder

Whit Beverly, Ruling Elder

Sal Ambrosio

2024 HIGHLIGHTS

BIBLE STUDIES

The long-standing success of WPC’s Bible studies is evident in their longevity and steady attendance, with many groups averaging 10-15 participants weekly. These gatherings remain a cornerstone of our educational ministry.

THEATER

OUTING

In March, Adult Ed coordinated a group outing to the People’s Light Theatre to see “the ripple, the wave that carried me home” as a meaningful way to close out our 2024 commemoration of Black History Month. The play delved into the movement to desegregate community swimming pools and connected historical civil rights struggles with modern experiences.

ONE BOOK, ONE CHURCH

OBOC fosters communal learning and discussion around a shared book. For 2024, the chosen book was Horse by Geraldine Brooks, a Pulitzer Prizewinning novel that explores themes of race, love, art, and history. Discussions and classes aligned with February’s Black History Month observances.

LOOKING2025AHEAD

LUNCH & LEARN WITH REV. RYAN

In September, Pastor Ryan led two well-attended Lunch and Learn sessions, drawing more than 50 participants each. These sessions explored Organizational Dynamic Change and enabled attendees to engage deeply with Pastor Ryan’s insights.

BOOK CLUB

In 2024, the Book Club offered discussions on several titles including: How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen by David Brooks, Grandma Gatewood’s Walk by Ben Montgomery and Stay Awhile: Advent Lessons in Divine Hospitality by Kara Eidson.

FELLOWSHIP OF THE BEAN

Now in its second year, FotB continues to draw a consistent group for Sunday morning discussions on thought-provoking topics through a Christian lens, fostering meaningful connections beyond worship. A highlight was the collaboration with Confirmation and High School Sunday School classes to debut a student documentary on school segregation and the 1930s Berwyn School Fight, sparking intergenerational dialogue on civil rights history.

FILM SCREENING

In March, the Adult Education Committee, in collaboration with Tim Zaro, sponsored a screening of Scott Galloway’s documentary “Children in Crisis: The Story of CHIP.” This inspiring film featured Scott’s father, the Rev. Dr. John Galloway, Jr., who was one of the leaders of a grassroots initiative in Pittsburgh that ultimately expanded into the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), a federal program that continues to insure millions of children.

The Adult Education Committee plans to continue its existing programs and expand with the following highlights:

A 3-week series on Christian Nationalism facilitated by Professor Manfred Brauch.

A 10-week series on The Sermon on the Mount led by Dr. Joe Modica.

A March 9th outing to People’s Light to see A Raisin in the Sun with post-show fellowship.

An April 4th visit by Dr. Katharine Hayhoe to discuss her book Saving Us: A Climate Scientist’s Case for Hope and Healing in a Divided World

COMMUNITY FELLOWSHIP

The Community Fellowship Committee creates opportunities for fellowship and celebrations throughout the year to help WPC members and visitors foster meaningful connections and build a strong, supportive Christian community. In 2024, the committee focused on hosting events that supported members during a year of transition, while continuing to create activities that reflect the mission and vision of Wayne Presbyterian Church.

LOOKING2024BACK

HIGHLIGHTS

Coffee Hour Fellowship: Held every Sunday in the Connector, managed by a dedicated team of Hosts.

Special Coffee Hours: Celebrations honored departing staff and clergy, fostering gratitude and connection.

Annual Meeting Brunch: A well-attended February event that included food, conversation, and excitement for welcoming a new Senior Pastor.

Church Picnic: A community favorite that kicked off Fall programming with food and activities for all ages.

Radnor Fall Festival: The only church participant, where WPC engaged the wider community, distributed materials, and provided activities for children.

Photos with Santa: Hosted in collabration with the Wayne Business Association, this annual event highlighted WPC’s presence in the Wayne community.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

Strengthened connections within the congregation and fostered relationships rooted in Christian love.

Shared WPC’s faith and mission with the wider Wayne community through outreach and engagement initiatives.

COLLABORATION

Partnered with Deacons, Session, Adult and Youth Education, Worship and Music, the Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC), staff, and clergy to plan and execute events.

Each collaboration fostered vibrant fellowship and ensured the success of community gatherings.

LOOKING AHEAD

Expand the number and variety of events to engage more members.

Develop creative approaches to better support WPC’s mission.

Encourage new members to join the committee.

Grow the number of Coffee Hour Hosts, with participation from additional church committees.

Host a successful church picnic in June 2025.

Create small group gatherings for socializing and introduce community outings.

The purpose of the Membership Committee is to welcome visitors, seek new members, and encourage current members to fully engage in the life of the church of Jesus Christ. The Membership Committee is deeply focused on care and outreach, key components of the church’s mission.

2024 marked the first year of the committee’s existence. Working with the Andrew Ministers, the Fellowship Committee, and Pastor Katy Shevel, the Membership Committee has proven to be an invaluable asset to our growing congregation.

2024 HIGHLIGHTS

Collaborated with the Andrew Minister Team to greet, welcome, and assist visitors to WPC.

Helped every new member become integrated into the life and fellowship of WPC.

Assisted Pastor Katy Shevel in organizing and conducting new member classes.

Staffed the desk in the Connector on week days to answer phone calls, greet visitors and workers.

Prepared individual bouquets from the Sunday chancel flower arrangements, distributing them throughout the church to enhance our warm and welcoming environment.

THE FACES OF

WAYNE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

SPOTLIGHT ON THE WELCOME DESK

For everyone who calls or enters WPC, our volunteer receptionists are the first point of contact, providing a compassionate and friendly face or conversation - all while exemplifying the church’s mission of love and hospitality.

While weekdays at the church may seem quiet, our volunteer receptionists have made a significant difference through their attentive service.

EXAMPLES OF IMPACT

Emergency Assistance: Helping a church member return home safely during an unexpected emergency.

Comfort for Bereaved Families: Spending time with the adult children of a recently deceased member, introducing them to people who had known their loved one and guiding them toward the peace and quiet of our sanctuary.

Community Support: Connecting members organizing a silent auction for The Common Place with a merchant eager to donate a large box of stuffed animals.

Unique Challenges: Assisting in rescuing kittens abandoned on church property and freeing a sparrow trapped in the Chapel.

Practical Help: Answering countless questions about events, activities, and services while reuniting individuals with lost items.

MEMBERS Pam ela Jensen, Elder & Chair | Mary Ellen Smith, Elder | Janet Hauffler | Liz Walton, Elder | Katy Shevel, Pastor

CHILDREN’S MINISTRY

The Children’s Ministry guides education, worship, mission, and fellowship opportunities for children from birth through fifth grade and their families. The committee partners with parents to nurture faith formation and spiritual development through Christ-centered, developmentally relevant programs that align with WPC’s mission to share the ministry of Jesus Christ through mission, growth, service, and care.

COLLABORATIONS

Supported the Fellowship Committee with the Fall Picnic.

Partnered with the Faith in Action Committee for Martin Luther King Day service projects and other mission initiatives.

Rejoiced in the return of the Children’s Choir through collaboration with the Music and Worship Committee.

Strengthened ties with the Youth Ministry, benefiting from shared staff and resources.

NEW INITIATIVES

Introduced a well-thought-out yearly calendar to optimize event scheduling and reduce strain on families, volunteers, and staff.

LOOKING AHEAD

• Continue providing excellent programs for children and families.

• Focus on depth rather than breadth in ministry offerings.

2024 HIGHLIGHTS

SUNDAY SCHOOL 1

CHILDREN’S: Approximately 45 children attended weekly, supported by a dedicated teaching team of 20 adults. This program provided Biblically based lessons tailored to various age groups, nurturing children’s understanding of faith and community. Significant growth confirmed congregation-wide excitement for programs and events.

YOUTH: Approximately 30 children attended weekly from both middle and high school, under the leadership of 8 dedicated teachers. Increased participation was a testament to the quality of the program as a whole.

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT 2

40 children participated in leading worship, sharing the gospel, and retelling the story of Christ’s birth to over 500 attendees on Christmas Eve.

3 RETREATS

Several successful retreats offered transformative experiences for participants, while providing valuable opportunities for spiritual growth and community building. Record-breaking attendance was a shining example of Youth Group returning to full strength.

YOUTH MINISTRY

The Youth and College Ministry supports WPC’s mission by fostering faith formation, community, and service during the pivotal middle and high school years. By investing in our youth, we nurture their spiritual growth and secure the future of our multi-generational congregation. Through Sunday school, youth group, confirmation, and service events, we create spaces for young people to grow in faith, build relationships, and actively contribute to the church’s mission.

COLLABORATIONS

Welcomed over 100 children, supported by 50 adult and teen leaders. This program shared the gospel and expanded the church’s reach by engaging many non-member families.

5 SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES

Nearly every Youth Group event incorporates a service component, reflecting the youth of WPC’s commitment to sharing the ministry of Jesus Christ. In 2024, their efforts included gathering aid supplies for Hurricane Helene relief, assisting with Vacation Bible School, and actively supporting the church and wider community through meaningful acts of service. We also saw the return of the annual Target run to shop for Christmas gifts for other students in need.

6 VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL 4

FAMILY ADVENT CELEBRATION

Strengthened family bonds and celebrated faith through creative activities. 125 participants (30 families) gathered for art, singing, and fellowship, celebrating the Christmas season.

“Our ministry has a unique opportunity to speak to that period of life through discussing faith, building community, and serving the community around us”

A collaborative relationship with the MOM’s Night Out Group has garnered praise and further strengthening the sense of community.

In partnership with the Property Committee, the youth participated in a large-scale church-wide cleaning effort, delivering noticeable improvements that greatly benefited the entire congregation.

NEW INITIATIVES

Prioritizing consistency and a predictable schedule led to a remarkable increase in energy and participation in 2024. On Sunday evenings, we now regularly welcome 15-25 ethusiastic teens. This approach has not only revitalized energy within the group but has also had a positive impact on the participation of young families at the church.

LOOKING AHEAD 2025

• Maintain attendance and consistency

• Increase participation

• Hire a full-time youth director.

• Improve operational efficiency

FAITH IN ACTION MINISTRY

Faith in Action (FIA) focuses on serving individuals and communities beyond the walls of Wayne Presbyterian Church (WPC). FIA’s mission spans five subcommittees: Local, Urban/City Lights, Global, Justice Advocacy, and Earth Care. Each subcommittee pursues ministries to address food insecurity, education, healthcare, advocacy, housing, and environmental sustainability, encouraging volunteers to participate where they feel called.

LOCAL

PURPOSE: To support individuals and families in the Wayne area and nearby communities with food, housing, hunger initiatives and social services.

2024

HIGHLIGHTS

Emergency Shelter:

Supported Family Promise of the Main Line’s Emergency Shelter Program (Interfaith Hospitality Network) for the 29th year.

Helped 24 families (83 individuals) receive housing and self-sufficiency services, and assisted numerous others with rental, utility, and childcare support.

Food Donations:

Delivered weekly food and casseroles to Great Valley Food Cupboard and Radnor Methodist Church and recently Eastern University.

Engaged 15 WPC members as delivery volunteers and 10+ casserole makers.

Refugee Support:

Assisted an Afghan refugee in obtaining legal asylum, housing, and employment. Supported relocation to Virginia for long-term stability.

Supported a Chinese family with housing and school access.

Local Partnerships:

Supported Gemma Services’ behavioral health programs for at-risk youth and Baker Industries’ workforce development programs, Wayne and Surrey senior centers; and the RTCA community center.

Partnered with Main Line Mentoring to provide educational programs and activities for African American children in Tredyffrin.

MEMBERS Susan Aggarwal, Elder & Chair

The success of our ministry is made possible by the countless volunteers who provide essential support for each of our subcommittees.

URBAN

PURPOSE: To engage with communities in Southwest Philadelphia through support for education, housing, hunger and community well-being.

HIGHLIGHTS 2024

The Common Place (TCP):

Supported Salt & Light Church at TCP, which offers weekly meals, clothing distribution, and community building for Southwest Philadelphia residents.

Participated in TCP’s 10th Anniversary Celebration and continued providing board members, workday volunteers, and financial support.

Following a mass shooting, TCP helped establish the Kingsessing Heals Community Resilience Center, providing trauma support.

Ongoing Efforts:

Delivered clothing, fans, toiletries, and meals to Southwest Philadelphia residents via our CityLights program and encouraged students at Cornerstone and Mitchell schools through our volunteer tutoring and partnership programs..

Maintained relationships with SW Community Development Corporation (housing advocacy) and West Kensington Ministries (refugee support).

GLOBAL EARTH CARE

PURPOSE: To spread the Gospel globally while addressing critical needs such as hunger, education, and clean water.

HIGHLIGHTS 2024

Evangelism: Supported evangelism efforts in North Africa and Middle East, including training pastors through the Evangelical Theological Seminary in Cairo.

Education & Hunger Relief: Provided educational opportunities in West Africa and clean water in East Africa.

Continued hunger-relief efforts in alignment with FIA’s focus on food insecurity.

Missionary Collaboration: Encouraged global partners to visit WPC and share their ministry experiences.

SOCIAL JUSTICE

PURPOSE: To promote justice and equity through advocacy and legislative action based on scriptural teachings.

2024

HIGHLIGHTS

Legislative Advocacy: Advocated for improved public school funding and permanent enhancements to the Child Tax Credit.

Supported a fair Farm Bill reauthorization to combat hunger and opposed punitive provisions in the House version.

Education & Awareness:

Reviewed and shared insights from Walter Brueggemann’s book Ancient Echoes to challenge political extremism from a Christian perspective.

Delivered a "Minute for Mission" on social justice, inspiring congregational engagement.

2025 Planning: Collaborating with mission partners to prepare for potential federal funding cuts impacting local communities.

PURPOSE: To promote environmental stewardship and sustainability within WPC and the broader community.

HIGHLIGHTS 2024

Composting Initiative: Diverted 1.5 tons of organic waste from landfills, reducing environmental impact. Created educational graphics to improve member participation.

Climate Change Awareness: Hosted an environmental poster show in collaboration with Temple University design students.

Recycling & Gardening: Participated in an interfaith recycling event and maintained the pollinator and children’s gardens.

Collaboration: Worked with other WPC committees to promote sustainable practices, including eco-friendly supplies for church events.

Looking Ahead: A lecture by Dr. Katharine Hayhoe, climate scientist and evangelical Christian, to educate and inspire action will be held on April 4, 2025.

Interfaith collaboration on biodiversity initiatives with local organizations throughout the new year.

DID YOU KNOW?

WAYNE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH IS A CERTIFIED HUNGER ACTION CONGREGTION

As a Certified Hunger Action Congregation, Faith In Action aims to focus on food insecurity in 2025 and beyond.

INCREASED COLLABORATION Foster deeper partnerships with other WPC committees to amplify the need of food security.

STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIPS Engage the congregation in hunger relief projects. Stay tuned for updates on how you can get involved!

MUSIC MINISTRY

LOOKING2024BACK

NEW INITIATIVES & COLLABORATION

Adjusted Chancel Choir commitments to focus on the 9:30 a.m. service, reducing time demands while maintaining excellence.

Leveraged our professional Quartet and Choral Scholars to enrich 11:00 a.m. services.

Partnered with “Walking the Mourner’s Path” to create meaningful services like the Blue Christmas Service (12/15), providing healing and comfort through music and reflection.

The music ministries at Wayne Presbyterian Church provide a unique and invaluable service by enriching the musical, spiritual, communal, and cultural lives of our many ensemble members, congregation, and greater community. Music has the ability to heighten joy, comfort in times of sorrow, and offer a through-line in the worship experience as we move through the seasons of the church year. Our music ministries are available to participants of all ages, offering a vibrant and inclusive program where everyone can experience the joy and power of music. From the youngest children to the most seasoned adults, there are opportunities for everyone to engage and contribute.

SUCCESS COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Collaborated with the Bell Choir to participate in the WPC Courtyard Santa Celebrations, introducing music ministry to the broader community.

GOALS 2025

Expand participation in all music ministries, with a particular focus on youth and children’s choirs.

Enhance community engagement through new outreach initiatives and performances.

Continue fostering a joyful, collaborative environment where tradition and creativity thrive.

Our recent community engagement efforts have been a success. Highlights include a bell choir performance during the WPC courtyard Santa celebrations, which welcomed visitors and showcased our church’s vibrant activities. Similarly, the Oratorio Society’s Messiah, part of the the church’s traditional holiday offerings, inspired many from the region to experience the beauty of WPC.

CENTRAL TO MUSIC MINISTRIES THE WORSHIP EXPERIENCE

AT WAYNE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH

HIGHLIGHTS 2024

Through our various choir and instrumental rehearsals, we are providing opportunities for individuals of all ages to grow in their musical abilities and deepen their understanding of sacred music. This focus on music education supports the church's commitment to lifelong Christian learning. The Wayne Presbyterian Chamber Orchestra also serves as a community orchestra, welcoming in many from both our church and our region.

All Saints' Sunday (11/3 | Traditional New Orleans Jazz Service) We welcomed a 5-piece jazz band to heighten our worship experience on All Saints' Sundayhonoring the saints in heaven and on earth in a deeply spiritual and exhilarating manner.

WAYNE ORATORIO SOCIETY

As we seek to welcome all people and always support diversity, equity, and inclusion - we celebrate how the Wayne Oratorio Society is home to members from many denominations and different faiths; a true community choir that serves our desire for community outreach and engagement.

A Sea Symphony (11/2 & 11/3) A WOS premiere that deeply inspired and moved both the musicians involved and our audience. With texts by Walt Whitman and music by Ralph Vaughan Williams, we presented a musical and textual feast that was a truly unique offering from this choir - presenting a largely secular text that possesses sacred parallels. Presenting a largely lesser-known work and drawing full attendance both evenings served as a testament to the trust and willingness of our audiences to be fully engaged and present as we explore exciting new choral repertoire and masterworks.

TESTIMONIALS

“Wayne Oratorio Society can always be counted on for superb concerts. The fact that this outstanding choir is right here in Wayne and accessible to all, is just plain wonderful!”

“I’ve been to many, many Messiah concerts in my lifetime and this one was the most dynamic, and inspiring I have ever heard. It felt new again.”

CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

WESTMINSTER CHOIR

SELAH BELL CHOIR

TE DEUM BELL CHOIR

CHANCEL CHOIR

CHILDREN’S CHOIR

MUSIC TRANSFORMS

Our Music Transforms Concerts directly support our desire and mission to help those in need locally and regionally. All of our ministries are open to whomever may come and seek to enrich their relationship with God via music.

Choral/Song (Nov. 17) A Music Transforms event (benefiting the Cornerstone Christian Academy Orchestra) that welcomed in over 50 choir members from across the region to sing secular choral arrangements (written by John Grecia) performing alongside a rock band in the WPC Sanctuary. This performance drew a full house of audience members, brought in a substantial donation for CCAO, received more than 1k views on our church's YouTube channel, and broadened the view of what can be impactful and possible within our church's walls.

"The music during the All Saints service was so moving—it filled me with the joy and excitement one must feel entering heaven. I walked away thinking, if this is what dying feels like, I am at peace. I've never seen our congregation clap so enthusiastically for both a prelude and a postlude!"

WORSHIP & MUSIC COMMITTEE

The worship and music committee works to support the planning of our worship services. Worship is the central activity of our church where we praise God, nurture our faith, and strengthen our church community. Music is a vital part of our worship experience which allows us to actively join together in song while also enjoying the rich sounds of the organ, piano, singers of all ages, instrumentalists, and handbells.

IN WORSHIP

We listened to scripture, pondered sermons, celebrated baptisms, received communion, welcomed confirmands and new members, ordained officers, recognized scouts and scholars, and remembered those church family members we have lost. Worship is always open to all ages, and WPC has continued to collaborate among multiple committees. For example, we continued the traditions of moving and engaging services at Youth Sunday and the Children’s Christmas Eve Pageant.

IN MUSIC

Soloists, choral scholars, Chancel Choir, WPC Chamber Orchestra, Selah Bell Choir, Te Deum Bell Choir, Children’s Choir, and Westminster Youth Choir all worked together to bring engaging music to our congregation. The Music Transforms concert series, led by Joe Kauffman, had four performances benefitting the Cornerstone Christian Academy Orchestra. The Wayne Oratorio society, conducted by John Grecia, continued their popular series of sacred choral works, engaging many members of the community,

2024 HIGHLIGHTS

JANUARY

John Grecia formally joins Wayne Presbyterian Church as Director of Music Ministry, while continuing his role as the Director of the Wayne Oratorio Society.

JULY

After an extensive search by the (now disbanded) Pastor Nominating Committee, the congregation overwhelmingly votes in favor to call The Reverend Ryan Balsan as the new Senior Pastor and Head of Staff of Wayne Presbyterian, joining Associate Pastor Rev. Katy Shevel and Interim Pastoral Care Associate Rev. Tim Pretz rounding out our Worship Team. Together, they continue to nurture and guide our congregation. Various guest preachers have helped us during our pastoral transition, and numerous liturgists have faithfully served our church each week, for which we are very grateful.

SEPTEMBER

Ryan Fleming joins the staff as Associate Director of Music, working closely with John Grecia to continue the strong music tradition at Wayne Pres. while bringing new enthusiasm and fresh perspectives to our vibrant community.

OUR TEAM

WORSHIP

Rev. Ryan Balsan Senior Pastor

Rev. Katy Shevel

Associate Pastor

2025 LOOKING AHEAD

Extending clearer invitations to new individuals, to join us intermittently or routinely in worship at church.

Finding new ways to worship, such as in smaller groups in the Chapel.

Building our children and youth choirs.

Maintaining our worship and music traditions while also updating our approach to our ever-changing community and world.

When we are part of our worshiping congregation at WPC, we all have the opportunity to be together in spirit, lifting up our voices, allowing God to work through us, for we remember where two or three are gathered together in Jesus’ name, there the Holy Spirit will be in the midst of us.

-Jen Galasso, Elder & Co-Chair

Rev. Tim Pretz

Interim Pastoral Care Associate

MUSIC

John Grecia Director of Music Ministries

Ryan Fleming Assoc. Director of Music Ministries

Joe Kauffman Chamber Orchestra Conductor

Nellie Kauffman Orchestra Administrative Coordinator

BettieAnn Brigham

Assistant, Music Ministries

WinGS

WOMEN IN GOD’S SERVICE MINISTRY

WinGS fosters fellowship, spiritual growth, care, and service among women at Wayne Presbyterian Church (WPC). All women at WPC are considered members of WinGS, with volunteers playing a vital role in year-round programs and special events.

IMPACT & KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Multigenerational Event: “Growing Together” welcomed 80 participants across generations, combining fellowship with creative activities. GROWING TOGETHER

WOMEN’S RETREAT

Led by Rev. Katy Shevel, focused on “Friendship and Bonding in Spiritual Community,” attended by 51 women.

TASTE & SEE

Taste & See Series: Guided meditation and contemplative activities, led by Jeanne Kauffman.

GOALS

Offer thoughtful Bible studies and book discussions.

Deliver an impactful and affordable retreat experience.

Support the growth of the MOMs group and the Prayer Shawl Ministry.

Streamline the events calendar.

Introduce guided meditation and contemplative activities.

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTIONS 1 2 3 4 PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY

A Time for Me: A new Sunday evening program featuring yoga, prayer, and discussion, initiated by Courtney Bodnar.

A TIME FOR ME MOMS GROUP

The MOMs Ministry supports women with children through fellowship, prayer, Bible study, and parenting resources. Collaborating with other ministries, it includes mission projects and hosts social events like MOMs Night In to foster connection and sisterhood.

Two donations of $1500 each were donated to Sherwood Soup Kitchen and Napthali serving the Lakota in South Dakota.

Food donations collected at the Fall Breakfast supported the Casserole Ministry.

Fundraising at the Sunset Social subsidized Bunny’s Garden at the Common Place.

The Prayer Shawl Ministry provides handmade shawls, lap robes, and blankets to comfort those who are suffering or grieving. These gifts support WPC members, their families, and the community, including Dunwoody residents, HUP patients, Cornerstone Christian Academy, and new parents. Prayer shawls are available through the Deacons, Walking the Mourner’s Path, or the Church Office. 5 6

"See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?"

Isaiah 43:19a

WinGS's programs and events keep the women of this church connected and involved. While our committee is small, our volunteer base is extensive. We could not run our Bible Studies without the dedicated team of leaders and teachers. Our kitchen crew masterfully and seamlessly orchestrates our sit-down meals. It is impossible to quantify a prayer shawl's impact on a grieving or chronically ill person or the communal prayers said around the table for a sister in crisis.

WORSHIP Worship expression through the annual Women’s Retreat.

G ROWTH Supporting spiritual growth through weekly Bible Studies.

SSponsorship of mission partners and community events. ERVICE

C ARE MOM’s Group and the Prayer Shawl Ministry.

TESTIMONIALS

“The WinGS gathering yesterday was so lovely. What a special way to spend Sunday with moms and children for lunch and a gardening project. Thank you so much for this meaningful event.

I made copies of the devotional page for my daughters and grandaughters to give them at a family birthday we are celebrating next Sunday.”

“Thank you for the opportunity to speak at the fall breakfast last week. It was a privilege to share how God has been at work in my life...”

“ I am writing to thank you for the beautiful orchid I received last week. What a (literally) lovely surprise to come home to after work! I am very much looking forward to meeting more of the women, and to becoming truly a part of WPC. Thank you for the welcome!”

“Thank you so much for your recent and generous contribution to Naphtali. It was received with the greatest gratitude.

Living in a perpetual state of poverty, with no relief in sight, leads to a sense of hopelessness.

Your gift will make it possible for Naphtali to respond to an everincreasing number of requests for food, supplies, gas for the car as well as numerous other basic neceessities of life that most of us in this country take for granted.

The assistance provided by Naphtali brings hope as well as help to our native people.

Your continued interest in and support of the work of Naphtali are indeed a blessing for which I am truly grateful.”

ANNUAL MEETING

OF THE CONGREGATION

The Annual Meeting of the Congregation of Wayne Presbyterian Church was held on Sunday, February 4, 2024, in the sanctuary. The Moderator, the Rev. Liz Wagner, Bridge Pastor, convened the meeting following the completion of the 9:30AM worship service.

A quorum of members in attendance was declared. Rev. Wagner announced the purposes of the meeting:

• Distribution of the 2023 Annual Report

• Approve the Minutes of the Congregational Meeting of January 29, 2023, and Special Meetings on March 12, 2023, and July 9, 2023

• Receive a Leadership Report

• Elect a new class (2027) of Elders, Deacons, and Stewards

• Elect the at-large members of the Nominating Committee

• Presentation of the 2024 Budget

• Approve the Terms of Call for Rev. Katy Shevel

• Meeting of the Corporation

The Call of the Meeting had been stated in the church bulletin and announced from the pulpit on the five preceding Sundays.

Bridge Pastor Rev. Wagner, opened the meeting with prayer. On motion duly made and seconded, the reading of the Minutes of the Annual Meeting 2023, the congregation, held January 29, 2023, and the Special Meetings of the Congregation held on March 12, 2023 and July 9, 2023 were waived, and the minutes of all the meetings were approved as printed in the 2023 Annual Report.

Likewise, the Minutes of the Annual Meeting of the Corporation, as printed in the 2023 Annual Report, were approved. Rev. Wagner provided a summary of the progress made by the leadership of the church through Session, staff, volunteers, and the Wayne Presbyterian Church community. She highlighted the work done in creating the church’s vision, mission statement, and the set of guiding principles. She also reported on the adoption of the Collaborative Leadership Model that has enabled the church to transition from a Senior Pastor-centered model to a Session-led model.

Rev. Wagner then called on Ruling Elder Salvatore Ambrosio

FEBRUARY 4, 2024 | RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY JAMES H. GALASSO, JR., Clerk of Session

to provide an update on the progress of the Pastor Nominating Committee formed at the Special Meeting of the Congregation on July 9, 2023. Elder Ambrosio reported the PNC reviewed over 100 candidates and had started to engage with Center for Healthy Churches to expand the list further. He further reported that the PNC had a strong foundation to build upon through the Collaborative Leadership Model in place, the results of the current Stewardship Campaign and the efforts of the various committees. The next steps will be for the PNC to continue to gather candidate Personal Discernment Profiles and start to review candidates through further research and interviews.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS

Rev. Wagner then called upon Ruling Elder Chad Slate, Chair of the Nominating Committee, to make a report of the Nominating Committee and to present the slate of officers as presented by the Nominating Committee for consideration by the Congregation.

ELECTION OF ELDERS

Elder Slate recognized the outgoing class of Elders Sal Ambrosio, Elizabeth Castleman, Jim Clarke, Scott Laird, Megan Mabe, Chad Slate, and Mary Ellen Smith for the hard work, change, and accomplishments that they had contributed to during their service on Session.

Elder Slate placed the names of the following persons in nomination for the office of Ruling Elder:

Lee Billmyer Laurie Gerner Funk Sharon Levitch

Jen Galasso Marian Hollingsworth Mike Packer

Also, filling one year unexpired term vacancies for the class of 2025 are John Lindsay and Chad Slate.

It was noted during discussion that one Elder position for Women’s Ministry remained open and would be nominated at a future Special Meeting of the Congregation.

There were no further nominations and on motion duly made and seconded, the nominations were closed and the nominees as listed were duly elected.

ELECTION OF DEACONS

Elder Slate recognized the outgoing class of 2024 Deacons: Carolyn Berglund, Parker Blatchford, Roger Bollinger, Bernie Clark, Weezie Duff, Janet Eberlein, Bebe Forster, Jill Keefer-Hugill, Deacon Moderator Carolyn Lolli, Anne McCrary, Susan O’Rourke, Lee Pretz, Ian Robertson, and Lynne Samson.

Elder Slate placed the names of the following persons in nomination for the office of Deacon and Youth Deacon:

Bernie Clark Bebe Forster Susan O’Rourke

Jennifer Conklyn Addison Frazier Lee Pretz

Amanda D’Ascanio Bill Gillespie Lani Fabere* Brian Dudt Beth Greenwood Sarah Bernholdt**

Leslie Dudt Susan Hirshman Grace Clark**

Jan Eberlein Wendy Mercaldo Ben O’Nell**

*filling a 1-year unexpired term vacancy for the class of 2025 ** Youth Deacon | One year term

There were no further nominations and on motion duly made and seconded, the nominations were closed and the nominees as listed were duly elected as Deacons.

ELECTION OF STEWARDS

Elder Slate recognized the outgoing class of 2024 Stewards for their service: Nancy Barnes, Beth Brake, Chris Carlton, Bernie Clark, Hans Coetzee, Patricia Donnelly, Weezie Duff, Mark Fabere, Carolyn Lolli, James Lolli, Renee Mackey, Scott Montgomery, Wendy Norman, Candace Pratt, Ron Race, Jim Rush, Dick Spillman, Joan Spillman, Bill Staples, Frank Tait, Angela Tait, Doug Wheeler, Maura Wheeler, Deb Wissel, Paul Wissel, and Jason Woytowich

Elder Slate placed the names of the following persons in nomination for the office of Steward:

Josh Cady Pat Donnelly Wendy Norman

Julie Cady Weezie Duff Frank Tait

Chris Carlton Mark Fabere Angela Tait

Bernie Clark Lani Fabere Paul Wissel

Deb Wissel

There were no further nominations and on motion duly made and seconded, the nominations were closed and the nominees as listed were duly elected as Stewards.

NOMINATING COMMITTEE

Elder Slate recognized the outgoing members of the Nominating Committee: Scott Born, Leslie Dudt, Weezie Duff, Bebe Forster, Jenny Hagin, Mary Hodge, Mike Sieger, Liz Walton and in absentia and in our hearts Terry Jarman,

Elder Slate placed the names of the following persons in nomination to serve as at-large members of the Nominating Committee:

Tom Evans Alice Hood Marty Laird Kim Ferroni Jeanne Kauffman Elisabeth Slate

There were no further nominations, and upon motion duly made and seconded, the nominations were closed and the nominees for at-large members of the Nominating Committee were duly elected. In addition to the at-large members and Ruling Elder Slate, ex officio members of the Nominating Committee were noted as Deacon Representatives Hans Coetzee and Liz Walton.

Elder Slate then concluded that the election of officers was complete and that he would be handing off leadership of the committee to Ruling Elder Scott Born.

Rev. Wagner as Moderator thanked Elder Slate for his service and the Nominating Committee for their work. The Congregation responded with applause.

The Moderator also thanked all of the Elders, Deacons and Stewards retiring in 2024 for their service to the Church and welcomed the new classes of 2027.

Rev. Wager as Moderator then introduced Treasurer Vijay Aggarwal for presentation of the 2024 budget, noting, however, that the budget is to be approved by Session, rather than by the Congregation as a whole. Copies of the 2024 Budget were distributed as within the 2023 Annual Report.

PRESENTATION OF BUDGET

Treasurer Aggarwal provided a summary of the budget based on the notes to the financial statements provided on pages 14 of the annual report with total income of $1,859K with $1,370K from pledge offerings representing a 16% increase over income for 2023. Expenses for 2024 are budgeted based on 10% of Total Income first to Faith In Action and other changes described on page 15 of the annual report. It was noted that the draft budget as presented is in balance. Combined with a strong financial performance in 2023 and a growing endowment, the fiscal health of Wayne Presbyterian Church is the best it has been in several years.

APPROVAL OF TERMS FOR REV. KATY SHEVEL

Rev. Wagner as Moderator then turned the meeting over to Ruling Elder Sally Hudson to present and request approval of the 2024 Terms of Call for Rev. Katy Shevel.

Sally presented the following compensation and miscellaneous Terms of Call for Associate Pastor Rev. Katy Shevel for 2024:

Continued on page

Upon motion duly made and seconded, the congregation approved the 2024 Terms of Call for Associate Pastor of Congregational Life Rev. Katy Shevel.

Rev. Katy Shevel closed the meeting with prayer and thereafter Rev. Wagner adjourned the Annual Meeting of the Congregation of Wayne Presbyterian Church.

ANNUAL MEETING OF THE CORPORATION

FEBRUARY 4, 2024 | RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY

JAMES H. GALASSO, JR., Clerk of Session

Upon completion of the Annual Meeting of the Congregation, Moderator Rev. Liz Wagner called the Annual Meeting of the Corporation to order, calling upon Ruling Elder Jim Clarke, Chair of the Administration Committee, to chair the meeting. Elder Clarke noted that the church is within the scope of a 501.C.3 non-profit corporation. He noted that a quorum of the membership (coinciding with the membership of the church itself) was present.

Ruling Elder Jim Clarke presented the following history of Wayne Presbyterian Church’s work with The Common Place.

In 2013 Wayne Presbyterian Church was searching for its “Next Big Thing” and God answered the quest. Wayne Presbyterian Church entered a Covenant of Understanding with New Spirit Community Church to purchase their property at 5740 Chester Avenue in the Kingsessing neighborhood of Philadelphia for $1. The Presbytery of Philadelphia had contacted Wayne Pres and indicated that, without some intervention, New Spirit Church would be forced to shut its doors the next year, thereby ending many years of Presbyterian witness in Southwest Philadelphia.

The purposes of this covenant were to begin the ministry, known as The Common Place, an innovative urbansuburban partnership whereby WPC assumed the dayto-day responsibility for the building operation, repairs and maintenance so that New Spirit’s congregation could continue its Presbyterian ministry. It was a bold and spiritled initiative involving a major capital campaign and significant investments of time and energy from the staff and congregation. The board of TCP has been staffed by many WPC members and will continue to do so going forward.

TCP also provides rental space for neighboring Cornerstone Christian Academy. New Spirit Church later merged with Grace Christian Fellowship to become a congregation approaching 1000 worshippers, now called Salt & Light Church. Wayne Presbyterian committed to support The Common Place financially for 5 years as it developed its afterschool program and community services to become a sustainable non-profit organization.

Their 10th anniversary last October is testimony to their sustained growth and importance in the Kingsessing community. They celebrating their birthday this April 19 as they are in the process of raising the capital needed to start a pre-school program. Our Faith In Action committee will be a sponsor at this celebration and proposed to Session that The Title and Deed to the property be transferred to The Common Place in honor of their achievements after 10 years. TCP’s Board has approved WPC’s offer proposal if the way be clear. The Session approved the proposal conditioned upon acceptance by the Wayne Presbyterian Congregation. If the congregation votes approval of Session’s proposal, the pertinent legal documents will be prepared in consultation with Presbytery’s attorney and submitted to the trustees of the Presbytery for approval.

Ruling Elder Jim Clarke on behalf of Session presented the following motion:

Therefore, it is moved that the Congregation approve legally transferring the Title of 5740 Chester Avenue, Philadelphia, PA to The Common Place subject to the approval of the trustees of the Presbytery of Philadelphia with the stipulation that a worshiping community will always have a place to worship. The final deed transfer will also contain a provision that if The Common Place ceases operations, reorganizes or dissolves, the property title will revert to Wayne Presbyterian Church.

After a brief discussion clarifying the provisions of the transfer, the motion having been duly made and seconded was passed unanimously.

Pursuant to a motion to adjourn, which was duly seconded, the membership voted to adjourn the Annual Meeting of the Corporation, a benediction from Bridge Pastor Rev. Liz Wagner having been made.

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CONGREGATION

MARCH 17, 2024 | RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY JAMES H. GALASSO, JR., Clerk of Session

On Sunday, March 17, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. (immediately following the 9:30 a.m. worship service) Associate Pastor Rev. Katy Shevel called to order a special meeting of the congregation of Wayne Presbyterian Church. Due notice from the pulpit and in publications had been provided

prior to the meeting, with a quorum of members being present. Rev. Katy Shevel, Associate Pastor for Congregational Life, offered the opening prayer for the meeting.

Whereupon, Rev. Katy Shevel turned the meeting over to Ruling Elder Scott Born, as Chair of the Nominating Committee. Scott presented additional church officers as nominated by the Nominating Committee as follows:

For the Class of 2027 Elders, the committee nominates: Courtney Bodnar.

For the Class of 2027 Stewards, the committee nominates: Albert Doering, Alice Doering, Kristin Laws, and Candace Pratt.

There being no further discussion and no further nominations, upon motion duly made and seconded, the congregation elected Courtney Bodnar as Ruling Elder for the Class of 2027 and the individuals listed above for the 2027 Class of Stewards.

There being no further business for the congregational meeting, Rev. Katy Shevel provided a closing prayer, Thereafter, the meeting was adjourned.

SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CONGREGATION

JULY 14, 2024 | RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED BY PAM JENSEN, Acting Clerk of Session

This meeting of the Congregation of Wayne Presbyterian Church was called for the purpose of voting on three motions: to call the Rev. Ryan Balsan as Senior Pastor and Head of Staff; to approve the terms of call for Rev. Balsan; and to dissolve the Pastor Nominating Committee (PNC).

Following the 10:00 a.m. service at 11:14 a.m. Rev. Liz Wagner called the meeting to order. Acting Clerk of Session Pamela Jensen confirmed that a quorum was present, and that appropriate notice had been provided to the congregation about the meeting. Rev. Wagner then led the congregation in prayer.

Elder Sal Ambrosio, PNC Chair, introduced Rev. Balsan, who expressed his gratitude to the PNC and the congregation and then left the sanctuary.

Elder Ambrosio presented the first motion: to call the Rev. Ryan Balsan as Senior Pastor and Head of Staff of Wayne Presbyterian Church. Members of the congregation voted by confidential ballot. During this process, Music Director John Grecia led the congregation in the singing of two hymns. Rev. Wagner announced that the motion had passed: “The votes are in. The call is unanimous.”

Elder Ambrosio presented the second motion: to approve

the terms of call for the Rev. Ryan Balsan. The terms of call were printed in the agenda and are as follows:

VACATION 28 DAYS

Notes: A low interest loan will be included in the terms of call at the appropriate time based on the principal value of the loan and current interest rates. Actual moving expenses may exceed the estimated amount and will be approved at the appropriate time. Board of Pensions is changing benefit plan options in 2025 so benefit terms may vary.

There being no discussion and no request for a ballot vote from the floor, the congregation approved the motion via voice vote.

Elder Ambrosio presented the third motion: to dissolve the Pastor Nominating Committee. The PNC members present came forward to receive the thanks of the congregation. The motion was passed via voice vote.

A motion to adjourn the meeting was passed at 11:32 a.m.

Rev. Balsan returned to the sanctuary, expressed his gratitude to the congregation, and closed the meeting in prayer.