Proverbs 23:18 There is surely a future hope for you,
and your hope will not be cut off.
At Knox Glenarm’s annual meeting on February 13th, 2022 the decision was made to request an amalgamation with St. Andrew’s in Fenelon Falls. A congregational meeting was held in Fenelon Falls April 10, 2022 at which time their congregation unanimously endorsed the request to amalgamate.
An Amalgamation Team was created consisting of Bill Hoyle, Barbara Silver, Dan Schley and Mark Mitchell.
Our request to amalgamate was presented to Presbytery in April at which time approval was given to prepare an Amalgamation Plan to bring to Presbytery for the June meeting. They also suggested that persons from Presbytery be asked to assist and provide comments in relation to the plan being prepared. Rev. Ann Blane, Harold Abernethy and Sheryl Smith graciously agreed and their input has been invaluable.
An amalgamation plan was developed. Some of the highlights are:
• The amalgamation would become effective September 1, 2022 with a final service of celebration on August 28, 2022.
• Funds held in the Knox Glenarm accounts will be transferred to Fenelon Falls on the amalgamation date and ongoing expenses will be paid by the new amalgamated congregation..
• The Glenarm church will be appraised and sold with most of the proceeds from the sale going to St. Andrew’s, Fenelon Falls, with some being directed to the Glenarm Cemetery, and to another organization within the PCC (to be determined).
• Rev. Kim will continue to lead us in ministry.
• The two Sessions and Board of Managers will combine.
• Members of the congregation will be given the opportunity to indicate those chattels they wish to go to St. Andrew’s. If their family had donated items, they may wish to have them returned.
The plan was presented to Presbytery on June 22, 2022 at which time the following recommendations were approved.
• That Presbytery accept the amalgamation plan of Knox Glenarm and St. Andrew’s Fenelon Falls effective September 1, 2022 with a closing service to celebrate on Sunday August 28, 2022.
• That the newly amalgamated congregation report to Presbytery their new name and create a modified call to Rev. Kim.
• Permission was given to sell the Knox Glenarm property. (All recommendations were voted on and carried unanimously.)
The Amalgamation Team suggests the amalgamated church retain the name St. Andrew’s Fenelon Falls, however, your comments or suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks go out to the members of the Amalgamation Team. Barb for her skill in document creation. Mark for his input. Bill and Dan’s knowledge of the two church histories and Bill’s knowledge of Presbytery were invaluable. Each of the members on the team invested many hours in preparing the plan and it came together very well. Thanks also to Rev. Kim who always provides his wisdom.
We are confident this amalgamation will be successful and will benefit both congregations. We pray that God will bless and create a vibrant group of believers to carry on His work. We humbly ask for your prayers in this new endeavour.
Respectfully, Rev Kim & the Amalgamation Team