The following is a reprint of the church newsletter:

Dear Parishioners of St. Margaret's

After a series of leaks and heating breakdowns this past winter, and as we began the process of preparing for our 2006 Centennial year, it became evident that our building needs major repairs and renovations. To that end, in consultation with the Diocese, we had a professional assessment done of the building. Based on this report, we held a special Vestry meeting on Sunday, June 12th. A draft report of the minutes of our meeting is attached for your information.

As indicated in the minutes, we began by recognizing that as a congregation we have much to be thankful for (for example, our offerings are up by 6% over this time last year). We are confident that all indicators point to the fact that a renewed ministry in the Lakeshore can be realised. However, in order for this to happen, we need repairs and improvement to the fabric of our building. The projected cost for refurbishing much of the church was estimated at over $200,000. This far exceeds our current budget.

The wardens and Rev. Renate decided to break down necessary repairs into two phases and initiate a fundraising campaign called the St. Margaret’s Centennial Fund. During Phase One we hope to raise enough to address our most urgent needs (plumbing, wiring). The estimated cost for this is approximately $50,000, an amount we need to raise by the end of this 2005. We hope to receive assistance from the Diocese for this amount, but will have to raise at least $20,000 ourselves. In order to receive assistance, we have agreed to work with the diocese to develop a longer term strategy for the Lakeshore area.

As a congregation at Vestry, we committed ourselves to raising $20,000 and maintaining our commitment to this year’s operating budget. It is hoped that a good response to this appeal by our congregation will demonstrate our commitment. After considerable discussion, it was decided that the fastest and most effective way to raise this amount would be to contact all parish members to make a significant contribution by (post-dated) cheques, or through a pledge.

Enclosed you will find a stamped envelope to enclose and return your part of our commitment to this initial endeavour. This letter will be followed up within several weeks by one of our volunteers to discuss any concerns you may have.

Yours in Christ,

Debbie Henderson, People’s Warden
Jane Oliver, Rector’s Warden
Anne Crowe, Deputy People’s Warden
Cara Wigle, Deputy Rector’s Warden

or call 416-259-2659.