Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting #28 June 12, 1998 10:00 am Hiwassee College Madisonville, Tennessee We began in silence with Clerk Lee Ann Swarm sharing the following from Faith and Practice. of the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends. Extracts from the Writings of Friends - Advices Take heed, dear Friends, to the prompting of love and truth in you hearts, Seek to live in affection as true Friends in your Meetings, in your families, in all your dealings with others, and in your relationship with outward society. The power of God is not used to compel us to Truth; therefore, let us renounce for ourselves the power of any person over any other and, compelling no one , seek to lead others to Truth through love. Let us teach by being ourselves teachable. Keep to the simplicity of Truth. Seek for its manifestations in prayer, in reading mater, in the arts, and in all experiences of daily life. Shun the use of mind-changing drugs and intoxicants, of gambling, and of other detrimental practices that interpose themselves against the Inward Light. It is the experience of Friends that these drugs, intoxicants, and practices lead to a personal wilfulness and inability to listen for the will of God. Avoid in daily work those involvement and entanglements that separate us from each other and from God. Keep your recreations from becoming occasions for self-intoxication and avoid those conventional amusements which debase the emotions by playing upon them. These, too, lead to self-absorption and to forgetfulness that each person's humanity is shared by all persons. Live and work in the plainness and simplicity of a true follower of Christ. (Page 82 Revised 1997) Announcement from Junior YM Coordinator Georgi Schmitt, JYM coordinator expressed concern that only five (5) children are registered for this yearly meeting. Last year there were thirty (30) children attending JYM. Some have moved up to SAYF but there are no clear reasons for such a drop in attendance. A request was made to share this concern with Monthly Meetings. Introduction of Visitors Several Visitors from outside SAYMA were recognized and welcomed.  Deborah Fisch, FGC Coordinator for Traveling Friends, was introduced after a traveling minute was read from Iowa Yearly Meeting of Friends (Conservative).  Thomas Bassett, a traveling Friend of Burlington VT, was introduced after minutes from Burlington Friends Meeting, Northwester Quarterly Meeting, and the New England Yearly Meeting of Friends were read.  Beth Parrish from FGC Religious Education Committee was introduced.  Ann Parks from AFSC and High Point NC was introduced,  Derric Kayongo from AFSC's southern Africa education program was introduced. Each person gave a welcome from their respective organizations and a brief explanation of their purpose at SAYMA. Review of Agenda A review of the proposed agenda was made by Lee Ann Swarm, clerk, and no changes or additions were made. Approval of Minutes from 1997 Yearly Meeting The minutes of the 97 Yearly Meeting were presented. A question was raised regarding the status of the SAYF Oversight committee. There had been discussion at the spring representative meeting as to the status of the SAYF Oversight committee. After reviewing the issue, Minute 97-13 was corrected to read: Minute 97-13 We approved the continuance of the committee as a standing committee and the recommendation put forth by Young Friends. Minute 98-01 Minutes of the 1997 Yearly Meeting were approved with the change to Minute 97-13. Faith and Practice - Call for items for Examination No items were submitted for consideration at this time. Formation of Epistle Committee The following persons volunteered to draft an epistle of the Yearly Meeting: Ellen Johnson, Larry Ingle and Bettina Wolff. Initial Report from Nominating Committee The appointed Nominating Committee co-clerks of Lisa Lewis Raymer and Penny Wright could not be present therefore, the clerk asked that Connie Lamont and Darryl Bergquist be named as a temporary Nominating Committee. Minute 98-02 Approval of Connie Lamont and Darryl Bergquist as temporary Nominating Committee for Yearly Meeting. Darryl Bergquist and Connie Lamont presented a report of the current status of nominations for the positions of SAYMA. Several positions were still open and the status of several positions was still being discussed. There was discussion concerning the formation of a Nominating Committee. Each Monthly Meeting is suppose to name a representative who will represent their Monthly Meeting at the Nominating Committee. A number of years ago, the clerk of the Nominating Committee requested the help of several members of the committee to help facilitate the making of contacts and gathering information prior to Yearly Meeting. There was some concern that the role of the representatives from the Monthly Meetings was being reduced. The Nominating Committee will generate a minute for review regarding the function of the representatives and clerk. Concern was raised of the financial burden of all the representatives to the wider Quaker organizations. It was suggested that possibly the number of positions be reviewed as to the cost and reduce the number of positions. It was suggested that persons who are already serving in different positions with wider Quaker organizations be co-opted to also represent SAYMA if necessary at the meeting of these organizations. A question was raised as to the status of Youth Quake representative. The original position was approved since the Youth Quake meeting was held in our region. Question was raised as to the desire of SAYMA to continue this position even though the next Youth Quake meeting will be out of our region. Discussion was held as to the nature and purpose of Youth Quake. Questions were raised as to the job description and financial requirements for the position. The Nominating Committee will review this and come back to the Yearly Meeting with details and a recommendation. Treasurer's Report David Ciscel presented the Treasurer's Report (Attachment #1-5), current financial status and the proposed 1998 fiscal year budget. After reviewing the information, questions were raised as to the beginning of the fiscal year. The SAYMA fiscal year begins at the end of Yearly Meeting (July 1 to June 30). Half of SAYMA's budget is spent on Yearly Meeting. Minute 98-03 The Treasurer's Report was received, reviewed and accepted. The budget and recommendations will be brought up and received at a later time in Yearly Meeting. After a moment of silence meeting was closed for lunch. Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting #28 June 12, 1998 3:00 PM Hiwassee College Madisonville, Tennessee After silence, Lee Ann Swam, clerk read portions from a letter titled "Letter from Vietnam" by Anne Morrison Welch. College Aged Friends Ariel Hearne of Asheville presented an approved minute from the College Aged Friends (CAF). College Aged Friends (CAF) wants to thank members of SAYMA who have supported us though out our journeys and who have accepted us as an integral part of the SAYMA community. Now a time of transition, we reach out to the adults as we move on to a new part of our lives. Since we know of no previously established college aged group in this region, we are attempting to form a support network. CAF asks that to help solidify our existence, SAYMA adopt us as a group under the care of the Yearly Meeting. Ariel further explained that the group was just forming, CAF members were attempting to pull together an informal time to discuss CAF and that further information would come out in the Southern Appalachian Friend and at Representatives Meetings. In the discussion, delight was expressed that these Friends were wanting to begin the process of adulthood. Since there is no formal procedure for accepting new groups into SAYMA and since the members of CAF were already members of their Monthly Meetings no action was taken but to welcome CAF to SAYMA and encourage them to fully participate in Yearly Meeting. Minute for Abolition 2000 Jerry Rudolph of Columbia Meeting presented a minute and documents (Attachment # 6-8) from Columbia Meeting urging support and approval of the Abolition 2000 program. Jerry further explained the program by reading the Abolition 2000 statement. A request was made for a minute from SAYMA to support Abolition 2000. Discussion was held showing support for the concept but questioning the feasibility of the program and asking for clarification in the separation of peaceful use verses war use of this technology. There was concern that while there is strong support against nuclear arms, there was not strong support against other forms of nuclear technology. In consideration of process, the matter was commended to the Monthly Meetings for seasoning. A small group of concerned persons will work together to disseminate the necessary information to begin discussions and draft a minute. Friends General Conference Report Perry Treadwell, of Atlanta, presented a report of his work over the past six years with Friends General Conference (FGC) (Attachment # 9). His term as the SAYMA representative has come to an end but he has been asked to remain on at FGC as the clerk of the nominating committee. Perry reviewed his activities and experiences with FGC showing how over the years not only has he worked and served FGC, but that he has also been blessed and the recipient of numerous experiences which has lead him to continue working for FGC. Perry conclude his report by encouraging others to volunteer and work with FGC. Friends World Committee on Consultation (FWCC) Kathleen Burke, of Atlanta, gave a presentation of the 19th World Triennial which she and Barbara Esther attended in July 1997. Despite language problems and heavy work loads, the meeting was well worth the effort due to meeting of different persons and hearing of the different Quakers around the world. Barbara Esther then presented a report (Attachment # 10-11) concerning the most recent actions taken by FWCC regarding the changes in program and assistance to attending meetings. Barbara proposed the following minute: As a result of changes in FWCC and the feeling of the few Friends of SAYMA who attended the workshop offered today from 1-3 PM, I would like to suggest two things: 1) The open slot for an FWCC representative not be filled but instead that we create a fund, similar to our fund of matching funds for the triennial to allow a delegate from the Third World to attend our regional and especially, annual meeting of the Section of the Americas held each year in March. 2) that we as a Yearly Meeting consider beginning a relationship with either one particular Yearly Meeting or with a Yearly Meeting different from ours, whether that lead to a long time relationship with that group of Friends or not. I cite the experience of New England Yearly Meeting with Cuba Yearly Meeting in their program of Building Bridges. This would not actually save our Yearly Meeting money, given the high cost of travel, but could lead to a spiritual strengthening of both our Yearly Meeting and another Yearly Meeting by bring Friends together. Discussion was held as to the proper use of funds such as Right Sharing verses flying people around to meetings. Question was raised as to whether there should be a minute from SAYMA to FWCC asking why specific changes had been made in the program. Recommendation was made that the FWCC members take the concerns and develop more specific recommendations and questions to FWCC on the purpose of their recent decisions and report back to Yearly Meeting possibly through the Southern Appalachian Friend, Representative Meetings or possibly this Yearly Meeting. Faith and Practice Revisions Since no members of the Faith and Practice Committee were able to be present, Kristi Estes, of Memphis, volunteered to present the revisions even though she has not worked with the committee over the past year. Copies of the revisions which had been sent to Monthly Meetings were made available. In reviewing the changes, some confusion developed over the process of making changes to the revisions. Nashville Meeting had worked on the revisions and had understood that changes could be offered and made to the Faith and Practice. It was explained that the committee was charged to look at specific items and submit revisions as they felt were needed. If there were other parts or sections of the Faith and Practice in which changes were felt needed to be made, this should come from the monthly meetings and a committee would be formed to address those concerns. Due to time constrains, no further action was taken on this matter and meeting ended. Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting #28 June 13, 1998 10:00 AM Hiwassee College Madisonville, Tennessee We began in silence with clerk Lee Ann Swarm sharing an article from The Quaking Post, a newsletter of the Baltimore Yearly Meeting, titled "There's a Contract Out on Me, Mom" by Emory Luce Baldwin. After welcoming everyone, we continued with a review and update of the agenda. While no new items were added, several were reordered to allow for better and easier processing. Friends were reminded that they were the adults and that they need to be quiet in the dorms after 10:00 PM. SAYF Ellen Hearne presented several documents concerning SAYF. These included; a calendar of events of the past year (Attachment # 12-13), a mission statement which had been revised for the fourth time (Attachment #14), a mission statement of the steering committee which has also been revised (Attachment # 15-16), and a Treasurer's report (Attachment # 17). Ellen indicated that these documents needed to be read by Friends and they would be discussed. Ellen did read aloud the Treasurer's Report and indicated that there were several items that needed consideration. One item of particular was the creation of a paid youth program coordinator. A sheet outlining the requirements and suggested pay of the position was distributed (Attachment # 18-19) and read. Ellen strongly emphasized that this document is a first draft and is in no way considered final and any and all input would be readily accepted. Over the past year SAYF has been busy working on and revising documents related to the retreats. These documents include the medical release forms, updated the Friendly Adult Presence (FAP) packet to include driver information, and generated a first draft of a retreat planning manual. Oversight Committee has developed a retreat evaluation form which is being utilized. All of these forms and other information will be available. Questions concerning the content of the above documents were referred to the discussion later. SAYF Oversight Committee Report Larry Ingle, for Karen Morris, presented a written report, a mission statement, and a copy of the recommendations of the Oversight Committee (Attachment # 20-25). Larry indicated that the mission statement be considered by SAYMA. Larry also discussed the manner in which the committee has dealt with the rotation of members. The committee has worked primarily with the Columbia Meeting in regards to their minutes of concern. Over the year, they did receive a significant amount of positive comments and support for SAYF. They did hold a meeting in January 1998 in Asheville, North Carolina. At this time Larry read and then discussed the first full paragraph of the second page of his report which stated: As we addressed the issues physical safety and observance of the law, clear and safe boundaries with regard to physical intimacy, healthy learning about sexuality, leadership, corporate worship, and Friends's testimonies and practice we sought the leading of the Spirit as we made recommendations, united with sentiments in the Minute, and set inaccuracies to rest. Issues that we did not have time to address were taken up at our 4-98 meeting. The attached page lists the specific program recommendations that our committee made over the past year to the SAYF Steering committee. The Steering committee has already begun implementing some and will put new policies in the Handbook to reflect others. Larry continued by placing emphasis on getting Monthly Meetings involved with SAYF by providing FAPs; by emphasizing several minutes approved by the committee at its April and January meetings. Larry then reviewed several problems which have been raised and with more involvement from the adult section of SAYMA would greatly help in making a better program. There is some concern that the amount of time and effort required of the adults for training and other preparations will deter otherwise capable and otherwise willing adults. Larry raised a concern as to the legal liability of activities taking place under the auspice of Yearly Meeting and further recommended that liability insurance be purchased. Larry then read the Mission statement aloud and indicated that other documents would be available . Columbia Meeting Minute Jerry Rudolf of Columbia Meeting read the minute approved by the Columbia meeting on 24th day of the 5th month, 1998 (Attachment # 26-27). Questions were raised asking for clarification of the purpose of this minute when a significant amount of issues have been addressed. Questions were raised about the phrase "1) Because of the publicity, ..." All questions regarding this document were asked to be held until the document could be further reviewed and discussed that day. Paid Staff Position Since the issue of a paid staff person for SAYF has been raised and discussed at several representative meetings, Sharon Lee Annis, being a member of the FGC religious education committee, was asked to present her perspective concerning a paid staff position and possibilities in this area. Sharon Lee Annis explained that the issue of religious education is a natural outcome of the growth and maturity of SAYMA. Other older and more established meetings have a much larger education program but many of the smaller meetings are always looking for support. It should be noted that FGC started in part due to need for religious education. There is a significant amount of information and materials available to religious education persons and FGC's religious education committee is more than willing to assist any meeting in this area. Faith and Practice Sam Dempsey prefaced his presenting the changes as suggested by the Faith and Practices Revision Committee with the following ideas: The guide is only a guide and not an obligation placed on Monthly Meetings The process of changes was that the changes were made and then sent to monthly meeting for responses. The responses were gathered (but sometimes they did not come in for review). After consideration and revisions, changes are presented to yearly meeting. The following changes were presented, explained and then discussed. . pages 24 and 25 Section on Marriage Paragraph 2: (2) In the joining of Friends, two people commit themselves to........ Introduction opposite to Page 1: (1) Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting and Association, a community of local meetings of the Religious Society of Friends, continues to be inspired by the spirit of the 17th century movement lead by Englishman George Fox which sought to revive primitive Christianity. Our name identifies the geographical center of our widespread monthly (local) meetings and, in traditional Quaker language, indicates that we meet annually to conduct our business. The yearly meeting is a cooperative association and exercises no authority, other than moral and advisory, over any local meeting or individual Friend. Page 6 - The Religious Tradition of Friends: (1) Quakerism began as a part of the puritan revolution that convulsed England in the seventeenth century. Like other others of their day, the first Friends set out to rebuild the church and to recapture the spirit of primitive Christianity. But these Friends of Truth were radical in insisting that true religion should be based, not on forms and ceremony, ritual and creeds, but on a living experience of the Divine. The experience these early Friends affirmed was a shared experience of the living Seed of God who was present and active in their midst and empowered them to lead lives of obedient discipleship. "The gospel," George Fox wrote, "is a living way, which is revealed within." (2) The emphasis on the primacy of the inward experience lead to widening differences between Friends and other Christians, and ultimately even among Friends. Friends believed that Christ's embodiment in Jesus testified to a new beginning in humanity's relationship with God. The old order based on law and ceremonial observance was done away with, replaced by the direct rulership of God's spirit, the Light of Christ within. Friends believed that professing Christians had forsaken this fundamental reality and slipped back into an old order based on the "shadows" of form. Thus, for Friends, baptism and communion were inward, spiritual experiences unmediated by any person of ritual. These early Friends recognized God's coming among us manifested in the person of Jesus. They also enthusiastically claimed the universal nature of Christ and believed that each human being, regardless of when and where she or he lived has been touched by the Christ Within. John Woolman called this a universal principle which is "pure and proceeds from God. It is deep and inward, confined to no forms of religion nor excluded from any..." (Considerations on Keeping Negroes," Works, 1774) (3) No Changes (4 cont.) Likewise, for Friends, religious authority is not in outward uniformity of religious practice but is found, individually and corporately, through relationship to the Spirit, which some name the living Christ. Ministry is not meant to be a divinely instituted mediation between God and the individual, but a help in guiding people from worldly influences to the true spirit of God. (5) No Changes (6) No Changes Page 8 - Nurturing the Life of the Spirit (1) Worship in the tradition of Friends involves silent waiting on the Spirit, listening for the divine voice, and being obedient to the demands of discipleship. Utterly and severely simple, a meeting for worship convenes in silent expectancy at a previously appointed time and place to await the advent of that Spirit that has power to unite a diverse group of seekers. Such services are always marked by a sense of awe and mystery, for worshipers never know beforehand how the seed each share will become manifest. Yet they remain confident that any who feels led to speak from experience of the word of God, the Inward Teacher, may express sentiments in response to the deep even unconscious needs of those gathered together. (2) In whatever form, words from the silence may be profound and concrete evidence of the emerging Spirt of Christ in that moment. (3) Since Friends believe that the Spirit is actively present among them as teacher, they have always trusted in it to reveal the truth to individuals insofar as they are prepared to receive it. And while Friends do uphold certain principles and beliefs as a corporate body, they do not require adoption or adherence to these as a condition of membership; they do expect that each person be true to his or her own spiritual experience. Friends's beliefs, traditions, and teachings are meant to be testimonies to help individuals discern the leadings of the Inward Teacher in the midst of worldly voices that vie for allegiance. Friends' expression of their encounters with God have traditionally been grounded in religious experience rather than in doctrine. These experiences have lead Friends to use traditional Christian language in fresh ways. "Christ," then, may refer to the historical Jesus or to the Inward Teacher who enters their lives to lead them toward oneness with God; "the Holy Spirit" may become the loving activity of God within each person's life and the life of the meeting; "the Word of God" can be heard through the Bible and through the direct expression of the Spirit. Friends strive to listen to "that which is eternal," seeking to come together "at a place deeper than words." (4) The same emphasis is evident in Quaker attitudes toward scripture, religious authority, and ministry. Early Friends confronted Christians of their day, charging that they replaced the direct rule of God's spirit with these human aids and institutions. For Friends, scripture is not the only Word of God but is an essential testimony to the true Word of God which continues to be revealed. Scripture and other inspirational writings can be a help or hindrance, depending on whether or not they are read in the light of truth. Likewise, for Friends, religious authority is not in outward uniformity of religious practice but is found, individually and corporately, through relationship to the Spirit, which some name the living Christ, Ministry is not meant to be a divinely instituted mediation between God and the individual, but a help in guiding people from worldly influences to the true spirit of God. (5) No Change (6) [type change only in sentence 21, change "relgions to religions.] Sam Dempsey concluded his presentation with the information that the entire Faith and Practice is scheduled to be considered in the year 2000. Based on the experiences he and the committee have encountered with these changes, he suggested that the clerk request that the Monthly Meetings review the Faith and Practice and minute concerns to justify forming a review committee. After some discussion and minor changes, the revisions were approved. Minute 98 - 4 The changes to the SAYMA Faith and Practices are accepted and approved as presented in the minutes. A question was raised as to whether the Faith and Practice would be reprinted with revisions prior to the year 2000. Errol Hess and Sam Dempsey indicated that there is a need to create an insert to be placed in the Faith and Practice which will be distributed to the Monthly Meetings. Minute 98 - 5 In an effort to determine if a revision committee will need to be formed in the year 2000 to review the Faith and Practice, each Monthly Meeting is requested to minute their specific concerns and areas to be revised to Yearly Meeting. Nominating Committee Daryl Berquest and Connie LaMonte reviewed the slate of nominations that had been determined at this time. The following minute was presented, discussed and approved: Minute 98 - 6 The Nominating Committee consists of the Nominating Committee clerk (usually the outgoing clerk of SAYMA), three members at large who are appointed and approved for a 3 year staggered term by meeting for business and a representative from each monthly meeting. To ensure smooth transition from one year to the next, it is expected that the work of the Nominating Committee will be spirit-led, on-going, and fully informed by participation from a broad spectrum of SAYMA F/friends. After a period of silence, meeting was closed for lunch. Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting #28 June 13 1998 3:00 PM Hiwassee College Madisonville, Tennessee We began in silence with Clerk Lee Ann Swarm sharing the following from the SAYF Queries as prepared by the Fox Fire Meeting. Number 1, 4, 5, and 10 were read. The agenda was reviewed. Ministry and Nurture Peggy Bonnington gave a verbal report of the activities of SAYMA Ministry and Nurture Committe for the past year. The committee is in transition at this time since there are a significant number of new persons on the committee. A significant amount of time this year has been spent on working with SAYF. Perry Treadwell of Atlanta has been approved by Ministry and Nurture concerning his leading in regards to a traveling minute. FWCC In a follow up to a request generated with an earlier report, Kathy Burke made a recommendation that a letter be drafted by the FWCC SAYMA representative to Kelly Grover, executive secretary of FWCC to state: SAYMA would like more clarification for better understanding as to the decision to change the funding of the attendance at FWCC's Annual Meeting of COAL member from every year to every other year. This change raised concerns from our yearly meeting in the following areas: 1. Implies an unequal valuing of participation of some of the members within the Section of Americas 2. Tears at the fabric of the community 3. Indicates a lack of commitment to FWCC's own goals as stated, "To increase face to face interaction among Friends to 25% over next five years (this would be 40,000 Friends)." Communication will be enhanced across spectrum of Friends. Once a response is received from FWCC, a report will be made to next representative meeting. Administrative Assistance's Report Errol Hess presented and reviewed his report (Attachment # 28). Minute 98- 7 The Administrative Assistance's Report is gratefully accepted and approved. AFSC - SERO Daryl Bergqest reviewed a handout (Attachment # 29-30) concerning AFSC and its activities in the region. AFSC-SERO is looking for another representative from SAYMA to work with SERO on its executive committee. Part of the handout lists the general requirements for the position. Budget David Ciscel quickly reviewed the budget and the proposed changes. SAYF has increased from $3,350.00 to $3,5500 for the next year. Peace Team funds were mis-allocated within the budget due to confusion as to where the funds belonged. Minute 98- 8 The budget as presented is approved for the 1998/99 year. David reviewed the recommendations made at the bottom of his SAYMA Treasurer's Report. After some discussion and considerations, the recommendations were approved. Minute 98- 9 The recommendations as presented with the Treasurer's Report are approved for the 1998/99 year. Question was raised concerning RSVP. The office has moved back to Celo North Carolina. The Celo meeting will monitor and report back to SAYMA. David Ciscel closed with the statement that several items have been proposed which would require funding not currently in the budget. Currently the assessments match the amount of the expenditures for SAYMA. If a proposal is made requiring new funding, it needs to be presented with a mechanism to cover this cost such as an increase in assessments to keep the budget in alignment Friends were reminded that there is a proper procedure to request funds. A copy will be forwarded to each monthly meeting. Nominating Committee Daryl Berquist read over the nominations which had not been filled and the new persons who had volunteered to fill these positions. A complete list of nominations are presented as attachment #31-32. Minute 98- 10 The nominations for the positions within SAYMA as proposed by the nominating committee are gratefully accepted and approved with the understanding that there are several positions still to be filled. Friends Journal Lee Ann Swarm, clerk discussed the recent article in Friends Journal. She had talked with Claudia Wair, associate editor of Friends Journal who indicated that Friends Journal staff routinely reads newsletters and minutes of different meetings and from this information glean story ideas. They had seen the minutes and some of the information and written Columbia for further documents. The July 1998 issue of Friends Journal will have an letter from Michael Green and an apology from Friends Journal staff. SAYF Oversight Committee - Mission Statement Earlier, Larry Ingle had presented the SAYF Oversight committee's report which had included a mission statement for approval. The mission statement was reviewed and discussed. There was a desire to clarify the purpose of both the SAYF Committee and the SAYF Oversight Committee. There was unity that this information needed to be in the statement. Questions then arose concerning the exact nature of the minute which created this committee. A moment was taken to look up the original minute. After a review of the 1996 and 1997 minutes, there was not found a clear direction for the committee which reflected the state of the developing program at that time. Some suggested that the Oversight Committee become the overall committee and that the SAYF Steering Committee become the program committee. In further discussions, the issue was raised concerning legalistic, jurisdictional and accountability issues of the different committees regarding SAYF. Further discussions centered on defining the level of overseeing and enforcement the Oversight Committee would have on SAYF. Concern was also raised with regards to the Peace, Equality and Trust Testimonies. It was suggested that we needed to apply these testimonies to this problem and begin to build trust with all parties. At this time, the proposed mission statement was again reviewed and edited. It was decided that the proposed statement be divided into a mission statement and a committee responsibility section. . Minute 98- 11 The following statement was approved. Mission Statement - The SAYF Oversight Committee is responsible for guiding and nurturing the leaders and the youth of the SAYF by ensuring that the SAYF program provides a safe, fun, and educational environment following the Faith and Practice of SAYMA. Committee Responsibilities - In this respect, the committee is acting for and is responsible to the Yearly Meeting. To achieve this mission, the committee will oversee: a) policies that are developed and implemented; b) the FAP training; c) the volunteer leaders and FAPs d) review the work of SAYF Steering Committee and the retreats and events it conducts; and e) job descriptions of those involved in leadership positions in the program. The committee is composed of 5 individuals approved by Yearly Meeting, and meets two or three times per year, usually with the SAYF Steering Committee. The committee is responsible for receiving concerns and information, critical and supportive about SAYF from the wider Quaker community and for communicating resolutions/recommendations to those concerned. The committee members are encouraged to attend retreats and, particularly, fall and winter Nurturing Committee meetings as participants (i.e. FAPs in a limited capacity). Finally, the committee will set up a process, as needed, for resolving conflicts involving SAYF Steering committee members, parents and YFs or FAPs, in the rare event that the SAYF process for handling conflicts breaks down. A question was raised in regards to item number 3 of the Columbia Minute. It was noted that in the meeting of the SAYF Oversight Committee on April 1998, their last item recommended that "those Friends interested in FAPing at SAYF retreats seek a minute of support from their monthly meeting. The committee would like to honor each monthly meeting's process for reaching this goal." It was thought this answered the concern of Columbia. Michael Shell answered for Columbia in that the minute made a suggestion and to leave the process to the monthly meetings. While there was concern that this would add another layer of burden to the people willing to work with SAYF and may deter persons from working, it was understood that this information would also serve as a source of applicable information on the FAPs and provide further safety for the youth. General approval indicated acceptance the Oversight Committee's recommendations and review them later if the need arises. Abolition 2000 Minute A minute was presented concerning Abolition 2000. The following was read and approved: Minute 98 - 12 The light of truth compels us to call upon the governments of the world to abolish nuclear weapons. We affirm the spirt of the Abolition 2000 statement and call upon Monthly Meetings to consider this statement as they struggle with their witness regarding nuclear disarmament. SAYMA has reservations regarding the second paragraph which links "peaceful" and warlike uses of nuclear weapons, but affirms the Abolition 2000 statement with that paragraph removed. After a moment of silence the meeting came to close for dinner. Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting #28 June 14 1998 10:00 AM Hiwassee College Madisonville, Tennessee . SAYMA Epistle The final session of the Meetings for Business was begun in silence and from the silence the proposed annual epistle was read by Ellen Johnson (Attachment #33). There were no adjustments made and it was approved. Minute 98 - 14 The SAYMA epistle for 1998 was approved with no changes or corrections. College Age Friends Epistle Jonah McDonald read the CAF's epistle (Attachment #34). Rwanda Representative Boniface Senturo from Nashville presented a written request (Attachment #35) regarding helping persons in Rwandan. After making his presentation, Pam Beziat, clerk of Nashville Meeting indicated that Nashville Meeting had set up a fund and would be helping and working with Mr. Senturo in gaining the needed assistance. Nominating Committee Daryl Bergquist presented the final draft of the 1998/99 nominations for SAYMA. The nominations were approved. Minute 98 - 14 The concluding nominations as presented are accepted. (See attachment #31) JYM Presentation The JYM showed their work of the week in the form of a banner as each child reviewed their favorite activity and art work. A review of their Listening Project was also given along with appreciation to several persons who came forth and made this a wonderful weekend. SAYF Epistle The Young Friends shared their annual epistle (Attachment # 36). Ellen Hearne also commented of how much she appreciated the level of support she has received from many persons though out the year. After a moment of silence the meeting closed and the room prepared for worship. Lee Ann Swarm Willard Vaughan Clerk Recording Clerk