UCC Norwell Church Council Meeting | June 23, 2026
UCC Norwell financial update
Pledge collection is strong and all outstanding pledges are collected. Expenses are as expected, with no surprises.
Investments are performing well and are well managed.
Church investment structure
Chris Griffith from the investment committee reviewed the church's endowment, which is now managed by a new investment company. The portfolio is being rebalanced to better manage risk in a volatile market, with roughly 70% in dividend-paying stocks and 30% in bonds held in reserve.
The committee has eliminated a small number of holdings that did not align with the church's values and principles.
The new structure is saving the church roughly 1% annually in overall expenses on the endowment.
Linden Ponds Community Church (LPCC)
All is on track with Rev. Philomena Hare's start of her ministry.
The New Nursery School (NNS)
Council unanimously approved the NNS 2026–27 budget as recommended by the Finance Committee.
The school is operating at a profit, supported in part by a federal grant. Current downstairs renovations are being funded by NNS.
Building + grounds
Council unanimously approved $60,000 from the maintenance reserve fund to install heat pumps downstairs, along with the related electrical work.
The project will improve energy efficiency and generate long-term savings, and had already been approved by the Finance Committee.
Security grant update
Work is in progress and must be completed by August 31. The major component is the installation of a keypad entry system, part of the larger project.
Church directory task force
Fewer than 100 people remain without photos in Church Center. Another photo session will be scheduled in the fall.
Signage rollout
Interior signage will be installed on July 7.
Rise up for love + justice
Council unanimously approved a proposal from the Racial and Social Justice Ministry Team for a series of once-a-month standouts in front of the church through the remainder of 2026.
Office administrator position
The position has been reshaped to reflect a broader office manager role, and a strong candidate has received an offer. Maryanne DeMatteo's last day is July 2, and office hours may shift temporarily during the transition. The office is closed Mondays, with hours concentrated Tuesday through Friday.
Website + communications
Work is underway to tighten and unify communications, with the goal of the website serving as the primary external-facing platform and Church Center serving as the primary internal one.
Next Council meeting: Tuesday, August 27, 2026
Please note, these are not official meeting minutes. These are highlights intended to inform and emphasize the collaborative spirit driving our church community forward in an inclusive manner. Official meeting minutes are available by request. For further details, check back in to this blog and our weekly newsletter. Keep an eye out for future meeting updates, briefly!