Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting #29 June 11, 1999 10:00 am Warren Wilson College, Swannanoa, North Carolina After a period of silence, Clerk Penelope Wright shared the following from A Guide to Our Faith and Our Practice of the Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting and Association of the Religious Society of Friends. The Yearly Meeting SAYMA is composed of the members of its constituent monthly meetings, preparative meetings, worship groups, and isolated Friends in the region who have identified themselves as a part of the Association. The yearly meeting is the responsibility of all constituent members. All Friends are encouraged to participate in yearly meeting sessions. (page 15) and from the Faith and Practice of the Philadelphia Yearly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (1998); Decision-Making The presuppositions of the corporate meeting for worship have, from the very beginning, profoundly affected the method of decision-making in the meeting for business. In both, there is faith in the Guide. There is faith in a continuous revelation that is always open to produce fresh disclosures. And there is respect and affection for each other that cuts, through all diversity and that helps to kindle a faith that, with patience and openness, their group can expect to come to clearness and to resolve the problems that come before it. (page 21) The goal of Friends' decision-making is a Spirit-led sense of the meeting... Our search is for unity not unanimity. We consider ourselves to be in unity when our search for Truth is shared; when our listening for God is faithful; when our wills are caught up in the presence of Christ; and when our love for one another is constant. (Page 22) Announcements Georgi Schmitt, Junior Yearly Meeting coordinator expressed her happiness that twenty two (22) children are registered for this yearly meeting. She asked for assistance from adults present for specific times though out the weekend and received the cooperation she requested. Other announcements were made of meeting times and places, census requests. An explanation was made as to the lateness of registration and other logistical notes by the clerk. Introduction of Visitors and Guests Several Visitors from outside SAYMA were recognized and welcomed.  Arthur Boyd, FCNL Associate Secretary, was introduced  Cilde Glover, FWCC Executive Secretary Section of the Americas was introduced. Cilde spoke to thank SAYMA for their support not only financial but also of several persons involved with FWCC. She also indicated that FWCC recently underwent significant changes and he would be willing to talk to any and all concerning this or other matters.  Marsha Holiday, FGC Religious Education Coordinator was introduced. She indicated that she would be present all weekend and would be willing to talk to any and all.  Nadine Hoover, FGC Yearly Meeting Visitor was introduced. A traveling minute was read from Deborah Fisch of FGC Traveling Ministry program and references were made to Traveling Minutes from Tallahassee Monthly Meeting and South Eastern Yearly Meeting. She spoke asking people to read the traveling minute if possible.  Coutney Siceloff of Atlanta MM introduced three staff persons on site from SERO: Charles Zoller, Ilise Cohen and Peter May. An epistle to Friends from Kara Newell, Executive Director of AFSC was also referenced. A letter of regret from Phil Esmond of Quaker House was read. Review of Agenda A review of the proposed agenda was made by the Clerk and no changes or additions were made. Nurturing Nuggets Assistant Clerk Sharon Annis shared at this time the following excerpts from reports and epistles received from various Quaker groups, Yearly Meetings and SAYMA Monthly Meeting's State of the Meeting Reports. From South Central Yearly Meeting of Friends The variety of spiritual insights to be found by searching many faith traditions, and the depth that comes only from intense searching within one, were likened to sinking six 10 foot wells, and one 60-foot well... at what point in broad searching does one's spirituality begin to spill over into becoming something other than Quakerism? Some of the many paths do lead through Quakerism: service, Mystical experience, prayer, personal crisis, "the holy in the daily," etc. The distinctively Quaker paths require being in a listening mode, and doing it in community. Reading the Bible and Quaker classics can give us a vocabulary for sharing and exploring our spirituality. And from the Jamaica Yearly Meeting epistle: We decided to forego the Saturday night concert in order to take unfinished reports, And it was here that we collectively heard His voice speaking to our condition. As we saw our mistrust of each other, our impatience, our intolerance, our reluctance to share, negotiate, compromise - we were humbled before God. The twenty or so persons present were moved to kneel in prayer. We sought forgiveness. We prayed for ourselves and each other. And the Yearly Meeting. There was no mighty rushing of wind, no tongues of fire, but gradually there was a great calm .... We sat in silence. We waited. Soon a voice suggested that three members who had been in conflict should sit side by side. The others laid hands on their shoulders and prayed for them, for the power of God to prevail. Again waiting. Prayer - Then, as hugs and handshakes, tears and smiles were exchanged, our eyes were opened to a new light. We saw in the light of God's truth our own inadequacy. We are nothing if the power of God is not in us. "Walk in the Light and in the power of His Love." Approval of Minutes from 1998 Yearly Meeting The minutes of the 98 Yearly Meeting were presented. One small error was pointed out and corrected. Minute 29-01 Minutes of the 1998 Yearly Meeting were approved. Formation of Epistle Committee The following persons volunteered to draft an epistle of the Yearly Meeting: Barbara Esther, Nancy Lee-Riffe, Kay Parke, and Free Polazzo. The Clerk requested that the epistle Committee also draft the following two documents. The first request was for a traveling minute for the Clerk to attend the New England Yearly Meeting as both a FGC traveling representative and for SAYMA. After some discussion and clarification, the following Minute was approved. Minute 29-02 SAYMA approves of and supports Wright in traveling as an FGC traveling Friend and as a SAYMA representative to New England Yearly Meeting. As such, the epistle Committee is requested to draft a Traveling Minute for this trip. Clerk Wright has received a suggestion that a minute of invitation from SAYMA regarding the holding the FGC 2001 annual gathering in Columbia South Carolina. After some discussion and clarification that Columbia MM would not be held responsible for a significant portion of this work but that several monthly meetings have been identified and are willing to work on this project, the minute was approved. Minute 29-03 SAYMA would like to encourage FGC to hold its annual gathering in Columbia South Carolina and is requesting that the epistle committee draft a minute of invitation to FGC. Initial Report from Nominating Committee The Nominating Committee Clerk, Lee-Ann Swarm, presented the initial report of the Nominating Committee. Lee-Ann Swarm read the list of nominations, their positions to hold and term of the position. A question was raised by Janet Reddy of Columbia MM regarding the process of obtaining a minute of approval from the monthly meetings for anyone working with SAYF. 'Dolph Goldenburg, Clerk of the SAYF Steering Committee, gave an overview of the process and explained that SAYF Steering Committee is gathering this information but has not fully worked out the details of how to collect the information without it becoming a major bureaucratic problem. Janet Reddy then requested that SAYMA make it a policy that monthly meetings approve persons before they can be nominated for positions regarding the youth. Several persons spoke to this issue and indicated that while they support protecting the youth, recognized that the positions for which we were discussing do not directly involve the youth and any adult nominated that would be working with youth would be required, like any other FAP, to obtain the necessary documentation from their monthly meeting. After further discussion, the following minute was approved. Minute 29-04 The discernment process of the Nominating Committee is confirmed and Yearly Meeting will approve or disapprove suggested committee appointments in the usual manner. That is nominations will be presented at Yearly Meeting for approval or disapproval and unfilled positions will be filled at subsequent representative meetings. Minute 29-05 SAYMA approves of the following persons in the indicated positions for the indicated length of terms. Position Length of Term (years) Start of Term End of Term Nominee MM/WG Recording Clerk 2 June 1997 June 2000 Willard Vaughan Bowling Green Treasurer 2 June 1999 June 2001 Kendall Ivie W. Knoxville Nominating Committee 2 June 1998 June 2001 Connie LaMonte Birmingham Administrative Assist. Oversight Comm. 3 June 1999 June 2002 Janet Minshall Atlanta Finance Committee, Clerk 2 June 1999 June 2001 David Ciscel Memphis Site Selection Committee Clerk 1 June 1998 June 2000 Hibbard Thatcher Nashville Site Selection Committee Member 1 June 1998 June 2000 Larry Ingle Chattanooga 1 June 1998 June 2000 Lee Ann Swarm W. Knoxville SAYF Steering Committee 2 June 1999 June 2001 Jane Goldthwait Celo 2 June 1999 June 2001 Maggie Jones Asheville SAYF Oversight Committee 2 June 1999 June 2001 Pat Boggs Berea 2 June 1999 June 2001 Jeremiah Gold- Hopton Atlanta AFSC Corp 2 June 1999 June 2001 Free Polazzo Atlanta AFSC SERO 2 June 1999 June 2001 Daryl Bergquist Royal FGC 3 June 1999 June 2002 John Geary Boone Treasurer's Report David Ciscel presented the Treasurer's Report (Attachment # 1), current financial status and the proposed 2000 fiscal year budget. A request was made by Bob McGahey of Celo MM that Right Sharing of Wold Resources be included in the budget at $750. Due to recent changes in programing, by FWCC, FWCC has eliminated all funding for RSWR and therefore like other wider Quaker organizations, they are requesting assistance directly from Yearly Meetings. This matter was referred to the Finance Committee for review. Minute 29-06 The Treasurer's Report was received, reviewed and accepted. There was a discussion as to the newsletter subscriptions and the lack of coordination between the Treasurer and the newsletter editor. Further inquires and work will be made to attempt to coordinate but it was suggested that the annual assessment automatically include the newsletter subscription fees. The issue was referred to the Finance Committee for further discussion and recommendation. Request from David Miller A request had been made by David Miller of Asheville MM for $500 from the Released Friends Funds to assist him in financial support from SAYMA for his participation in the Kamenge Reconciliation and Reconstruction Project. The project is sponsored by Friends Peace Teams Project/African Great Lakes Initiative. A concern was shared that as Quakers we should not be building "Steeple Houses" but after some discussion and explanation it was understood that the reconstruction proposed was not the actual church but another building and that David was also planned to work in reconciliation of different parties in the area. Minute 29-07 SAYMA approves the request of David Miller for $500 from the Released Friends Funds to work with the Kamenge Reconciliation and Reconstruction Project. This approval will be final upon the issuance of a Minute of support by Asheville MM. After a moment of silence meeting was closed for lunch. Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting #29 June 11, 1999 3:00 PM Warren Wilson College, Swannanoa, North Carolina After silence, Clerk Penelope Wright asked Assistant Clerk Sharon Annis to read "Nuggets" from reports received by SAYMA. Sharon indicated that there is a theme which runs though several reports regarding "identity". Charleston WV MM, Cookville WG, and Cleveland WG. It was also observed there has been changing behavior in ways that Worship Groups are growing. Several groups reported the increase use of retreats as ways of growing (Asheville). A concern by Larry Ingle Larry Ingle of Chattanooga MM rose to speak to an issue. There has developed a situation or problem regarding Faith and Practice. According to Faith and Practice, a worship group should only worship but not do not conduct business. While this is not a major issue, there does need to be some changes in Faith and Practices if we are recognize these differences. The Clerk referred this concern to Ministry and Nurture Committee or Freinds can take it to their Monthly Meeting to bring to Yearly Meeting. Presentation by FCNL Arthur Boyd, Associate Secretary, of the Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL)gave an overview of the activities of the organization and the work that has been occurring primarily over the past year. One of the more important items discussed was the communication between individuals and Congress members regarding legislative items. Using the example of the universal Code of Conduct on the sales of arms, he showed how on several occasions the response of individuals realized a much different outcome than previously anticipated. AFSC The Clerk reported that Jonah McDonald had fallen sick just before meeting and could not attend but that he sent a written report. read the report (Attached) and several persons commented of the joy of having a young person so involved in this organization. Minute 29-8 SAYMA wish to express its appreciation for Jonah McDonald's work and presence at AFSC on SAYMA's behalf. AFSC/SERO Daryl Bergquist of Royal Worship Group handed out two reports (Attached). The first report is an expansion of a document which was originally published in the proceedings of the Winter Representative Meeting (# 93). The second document, which he reviewed and summarized, was his report as Co-Clerk of SERO to the executive committee and staff of SERO but outlines the work SERO has been involved in over a period of time. Daryl discussed a recent mailing which describes the attempts of SERO to better understand the relationship of SERO with Friends and Monthly Meetings. FGC Sharon Annis, Assistant Clerk and representative to FGC introduced Michael Wajda the development person from FGC. A report from John Geary of Boone MM is attached. Sharon further discussed the status and programs of FGC which includes the nurturing aspects of FGC such as publications, traveling ministries and at times financial support. FLGC Due to travel constraints, Jim Gleaton could not make his presentation. His report is attached. Friends World Committee on Consultation (FWCC) Barbara Esther presented a written report which discussed the program and recent changes which have occurred. While RSWR and other programs have become their own identity, there are still several programs under FWCC and they are very active and well. Peace Team Rachel Weir of the Peace Team presented and explained a written report outlining the current activities and directions of the Peace Team. RSVP Rachel gave the following report. The wheels of Rural Southern Voice for Peace are turning again. A new board has been formed which includes three people from Celo Monthly Meeting and Chris and Ollie Ahrens of Swannanoa Valley Monthly Meeting. Kathy Marth of Atlanta Monthly Meeting has accepted the position of director of RSVP and will be fully taking on that role by September. To begin with the focus will be on the Listening Project. There is the possibility that in the future RSVP will support local projects. Respectfully submitted Rachel Weir on behalf of RSVP RSWR Robert McGahey, of Cello MM gave the following report regarding Right Sharing of World Resources. Right Sharing of World Resources (RSWR) is a small Quaker organization independent of FWCC. It has a duel focus in educating Western Friends about the material conditions of the other 90% of the world in supporting small projects with the focus on micro credit for women, ecological farming and sustainable income generation. "The Right Sharing Board is seeking from each Yearly meeting as many of the following as possible: 1. A person with whom we will maintain contact, and who could serve as a RSWR advocate within the Yearly Meeting. 2. Consideration of RSWR being included on the Yearly Meeting Budget. 3. Beginning discussions almost surely informal of how RSWR could formalize its relationship with the Yearly Meeting. It is the Board's intention to work toward a model for RSWR that is similar to FNCL and FWCC. This is being owned by constituent Yearly Meetings. Does this make sense from SAYMA's perspective and if so how can we move in that direction? 4. What queries contained in SAYMA's Faith and Practice do Friends feel are most relevant to the concerns of RSWR? As RSWR has just become independent, we are in the early stages of establishing formal relations with Yearly Meetings. It will take time. Now is when we start. Judie and Robert McGahey volunteered to be the initial contact persons for information from RSWR to SAYMA. Youth Quake Prisellia Ewen read and then reviewed a handout of the status of the Youth Quake planning. FCUN Susan Caryle of Asheville MM introduced Ken Hochstetler from South East Yearly Meeting and then discussed the program of FCUN. Kim Caryle of Asheville then introduced Stan Becker of Baltimore Yearly Meeting who was to give a discussion later that evening regarding world population. Kim proposed a minute of concern regarding world population and passed it out. It was suggested that the minute be taken back to MMs for discussion and work and brought back to Fall Representative Meeting. After a brief silence, Friends adjourned for dinner. Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting #29 June 12, 1999 10:00 AM Warren Wilson College, Swannanoa, North Carolina We began in silence with Clerk Penelope Wright sharing from The Britain Faith and Practice. [our] work is based on the thought that what you have inherited from your forefathers/mothers you must acquire for yourselves to possess it. That is to say that each generation of young Friends by its experiments must discover for itself the truths on which the society is built if it is to use those truths and to continue and enlarge the work of the society. Hence the occasional separate meetings of younger Friends and our desires to have means of expressing corporately our own experiences . Young Friends Comm. 1926 21.04 After welcoming everyone, we continued with welcoming a visitor from Pendel Hill, Richard Barnes. Nuggets - Assistant Clerk Sharon Annis shared the several "Nuggets" Northern YM in September 1998 in asking "what is God calling us to do?" We moved into worship and a variety of creative, intergenerational activities to help answer inital queries about how God is calling us. As we shared our experience, these themes arose: * We come together to listen and seek God. It is this process we value, more than any outcomes of the process. * We need to not shy away from the opportunities to grow even though growth is painful. * There are things Friends are especially well suited to do. * The world needs our sense of being called. * We are called to live with integrity, simplicity, mindfullness and love, and to deal with conflict constructively. Yearly Meeting of France in August 1998 said in their Epistle: Journeying together towards the Light, we have encountered some clouds and have had to recognise, in ourselves and in our group, tensions and obscurities which have perturbed our deliberations on the sharing of responsibilities at the heart of the Yearly Meeting. YM New Zealand The sense of community which grew during our time together is well expressed by the words of Isaac Penington, quoted in ministry: "Our life is love, and peace, and tenderness; and bearing one with another, and forgiving one another, and not laying accusations one against another; but praying one for another, and helping one another up with a tender hand." YM Japan Four members of the Yearly Meeting spoke on their encounters with the Quaker faith. What they told us was the spiritual experience which all of us could share and appreciate. It was reassuring to learn that the ties and bonds that individuals form extend like to branches of a vine and enabled us to come in to form a community of believers. After some reflection Wright reviewed and updated of the agenda. While no new items were added, several were reordered to allow for better and easier processing. SAYF Steering Committee 'Dolph Greenberg read and then reviewed the attached report. Questions were about the concerns of sleeping arrangements at SAYF retreats. "Dolph explained that: 1) the is always a walking space between all sleepers, 2) a night time Friendly Adult Presence (FAP) is present to shepherd the youth by walking around and monitoring the youth, and 3) a late night room with lights at which a FAP is also present. SAYF Oversight Committee Report Betsy Collins, of Athens MM read the following report. 1999 Report To Yearly Meeting From SAYF Oversight Committee We met twice in the wonderful Chattanooga, Tennessee meeting house. Some of the issues addressed were 1) Encouraging the SAYF teens and steering committee to keep working on making the sleeping arrangements safer. We believe this has been accomplished. 2) Provide a place where parents and anyone can bring concerns or suggestions for the SAYF program. I attended a Steering Committee meeting in Atlanta and the Steering Committee met with us in Chattanooga. I want to strongly encourage our Yearly Meeting to pursue a paid staff coordinator for the SAYF program. The work the Steering Committee has done and the work ahead is monumental.. We were established to deal with parent's and member's concerns about SAYF leadership and we have continued to do so and believe that the concerns are being addressed. We have two members rotating off, Larry Ingle and Frederick Martin. I have enjoyed getting to know both of them and have learned from both of them. My own monthly meeting in Athens, Georgia has had many starts and stops providing religiouus educations to our children. Although the task is large, all of our children deserve a quality, safe and fun religious education program. Please feel free to contact me or any committee member with concerns or suggestions. Sincerely, Betsey Collins A few items were asked to be further explained. Betsy asked that several persons were rotating off the SAYF Steering Committee and as such she would like a minute of appreciation to be read into the proceedings. Minute 29-9 The decision of Ellen Hearne and Robin Wells, of the Asheville Meeting, to turn over their responsibilities in Southern Appalachian Young Friends group leaves a gaping hole to fill. Both expended more time than others could possibly have in volunteering to make SAYF work and work well. More important, thought, is that their work, concern, and oversight helped make SAYF a thriving organization that has touched the lives of young Friends in our region. That their efforts grew out of their sense of responsibility to others serve to challenge all who knew them or came into contact with them to deeper commitment as well. Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting and Association of the Religious Society of Friends therefore wishes to recognize Ellen and Robin's work, both in its essence and in its inspiration for us, knowing that it reflected who they are as Friends and who we are called to be. SAYF Paid Staff Position At this time, the clerk began in the discussion regarding a paid staff person for SAYF. 'Dolph Goldenburg was requested to make a presentation of the proposal of a paid staff position. 'Dolph began by passing out a handout which he read and then reviewed. Discussion after the review of the handout centered on the evaluation of the person to assume this position. It was generally understood that no one person on a part time basis would be able to full fill all the requirements as outlined in the handout, even though a person was hired there would still be a need for volunteers, and therefore once the person was hired, adjustments would be made to fill all the necessary areas of responsibility. It was stated that hiring a staff person will not solve the problem of overworking the volunteers but it would be a good start but what we really need is a religious education coordinator and a religious education committee. A concern was express as to the mission of the Youth Group. 'Dolph responded that the structural foundation is in place and there are several mission statements involved. This information is available to any person or group requesting it. A question was raised to review the number of hours the volunteers spent in working with SAYF. 'Dolph explained that the amount of work varies from person to person depending on the tasks they have accepted. For the leadership, they are spending 50-100 hours per month. He cited as reference that this committee has a very high burn out rate as can be seen by the leaving of several persons who have been putting in these hours. Asheville presented a minute in support of paid staff position from their MM which was followed by much discussion in support of the current youth programs. Minute regarding SAYF's request for a paid staff person Asheville Friends Meeting 5-9-99 At our May, 1999 Monthly Meeting for Business, Asheville Friends Meeting discussed at length the proposal to hire a 1/3 time staff person to head the SAYF program. It was understood that it would add about $9 to each SAYMA assessment. Asheville Friends spoke of how important SAYF has been for our Friends. Many of our teems are quite isolated in their schools and neighborhoods. And having this group of accepting and caring Friends has given them a haven. It has also give them a reason to stay in Friends Meeting at a time when, in the past our teens have quietly disappeared. One Friends spoke of how in this troubled time, Americans are asking, "What did we do wrong?", but SAYF has been doing something right. We owe our young Friends the opportunity to continue participating in this inclusive and supportive program. Asheville Friends are concerned about the "burnout" being experienced by our members who have been most active in the SAYF program. We understand the enormous time commitment they have made to the program and we see that a paid organizer would reduce the load on our volunteers. Asheville Friends Meeting wishes to minute our enthusiastic support for funding the 1/3 time staff person for SAYF, at a cost to SAYMA of about $10,000, possibly raising the individual SAYMA assessment by approximately $9.00. Marcia Master Clerk, Asheville Friends Meeting A request was made by the clerk as to whether the SAYF Steering Committee needed to travel among MMs, groups or other Friends to help explain this proposal. Nobody present requested this assistance. 'Dolph did indicate that the committee would be receptive to traveling if necessary to help explain if a request is made. The clerk then asked if SAYMA was ready to consider this proposal to which she received a hearty yes. A discussion then began on several technical areas: A concern was raised as to the detail of the personnel logistics. Does SAYMA have a personnel policy?, Concern was raised about the lack of details concerning the proposal such as supervision, funding. A concern was raised about MMs may not be ready or have enough information to make a decision. 'Dolph explained that a letter had been sent to all MMs explaining the proposal and asking that a representative be at YM for this discussion. As stated before, visitation is available if necessary. The clerk then summarized that there seemed to be several issues which had come out of this discussion: Minute 29 -10 SAYMA has directed the Clerk to form an ad-hoc committee that will work in conjunction with the SAYF Steering , SAYF Oversight and SAYMA finance Committee to bring back recommendations to SAYMA for the implementation of the paid staff position for SAYF. An initial report will be made to Fall representative Meeting. The committee is charged to: 1) Determine the needs of MMs for more information, 2) determine the budget and financial requirements including benefits, and 3) determine the specific job description and oversight/supervision of the staff position. Site Section Committee Hibbard Thatcher of Nashville MM reported that the committee has been busy reviewing possible sites for the next few years. The question had been raised as to holding the Yearly Meeting at a time other than June since several facilities the committee has approached are acceptable but not available in June due to long standing commitments. These facilities include: Carson-Newman in Jefferson City TN and Maryville College in Maryville, TN. Several facilities were discussed and several were listed as to be contacted: University of the South in Sewawee, TN, Hiawassee College, Madisonville, TN (only if the new conference center is completed and available and dorms are refurbished), Covenant College in Lookout Mt, GA. Several other sights have been suggested and the committee will review them as soon as possible. At this time, SAYMA will meet at Warren Wilson for the years 2000 and 2001. It was also noted that from June 8-11, 2000 the facilites at Warren Wilson will be available. But the week of June 15-18, 2000 while the dorms will be available, the meeting rooms will not. Fall Representative Meeting The Clerk read a minute of invitation from Birmingham MM inviting SAYMA to hold it fall representative meeting in Birmingham. Minute 29- 11 SAYMA will hold its Fall Representative Meeting at Birmingham MM on September 18, 1999. Administrative Assistant's Report Mary Calhoun, Administrative Assistant, read and then reviewed a written report. There was no significant discussion after the report due to the time. After a period of silence, meeting was closed for lunch. Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting #29 June 12, 1999 3:00 PM Warren Wilson College, Swannanoa, North Carolina We began in silence with Clerk Penelope Wright sharing the following from her writings: In the humming silence Beyond my closed eyes I sense the gathering of this Meeting. Beginning at the center of each With a flickering Light. Reaching Outward, Tentatively Connecting Tensile strands stretch and shrink Bringing together the single points of Light Into a web os shimmering, glowing Presence. We have spun a web, Sprinkled with dewy tears Glistening at the intersections. We are nourishing, comforting, Inspiring the Meeting. The tears will dry. The strands disconnect. But the weaving together of the Light Will remain in our hearts and minds Cradling us until next we spin Yet another web of Gathered Light. Assistant Clerk Sharon Annis then read and summarized several "Nuggets" from various MMs state of the Meeting Reports. Celo - The work of the committees and Spiritual Journeys group has brought nurturance and a sense of wholeness to our Meeting. We find our Meeting for Worship more deeply embedded in the Spirit. Brevard - A major highlight ....has been Appreciative Inquiry led by memeber John Fenner assisted by the Cte. On Ministry & Oversight. AI is a process to identify and explore the positive values and factors of BFM as an aid to shape and guide our future. Foxfire - Reaching unity on our Statement of Practice was a valuable experience in Quaker process. Swannanoa - We allow time at the end of worship for Friends to share thoughts and leadings which were not shared in meeting. This practice allows Friends to share important thoughts which might not be appropriate for Meeting for Worship. Friends agree that this is a valuable practice. Chattanooga - For more than three years we discussed what would follow meeting, whether to offer a chance for worshipers to add something "that had not reached the level of a message." We could not find a person willing to be clerk and use this decade and half procedure. Finally, in August, two months after last year's clerk's term expired, the meeting decided that the clerk should invite Friends to name those to be held in the Light just prior to the rise of meeting and give only announcements after its close; this experiment still has two months to run. The long discussion took its toll on meeting morale. W. Knoxville - Our struggle to find a sense of the meeting regarding same gender marriage has challenged our community life. The pain and suffering this has caused us have been very real, and have served to strengthen our faith that our hope is in the workings of the Spirit, which binds us together and heals our wounds. A report from our ministry and oversight committee recommending the question be laid aside for a time to allow individuals to do the inward work of the listening to the Voice within was approved. We trust in the power fo the Spirit of Love to guide us. Members of the SAYF Paid Staff Position Ad-Hoc Committee Minute 29 - 12 The clerk with the support of SAYMA approves the following persons to serve as needed on an Ad-Hoc committee as defined in the proceedings of Yearly Meting #29 (1998) in Minute 29- . The members will be: Janet Reddy of Columbia, Kendal Ivey of West Knoxville, Becky Ingle of Chattanooga and as Clerk, Sharon Annis of W. Knoxville. Administrative Assistant Oversight Committee Report Minute 29- 13 The SAYMA Administrative Oversight Committee will become the SAYMA Personnel Committee. The SAYMA personnel committee will continually develop policies ad procedures that define the oversight, hiring and supervision of the paid SAYMA staff and volunteers. Minute 29- 14 The finance committee is authorized to purchase a computer system to include printer for use in the administrative office. The finance committee will oversee the purchase of the system. Minute 29- 15 The Finance Committee is requested to investigate and recommend the purchase of the appropriate property and liability insurance and employee benefits. Discussion held concerned that SAYMA is beginning to grow and mature and as such needs to come into proper order to help support the appropriate direction for SAYMA growth. Ministry and Nurture Eddie Patrick read the following request: The SAYMA Ministry an Nurture Committee requests that the Yearly Meeting Planning Committee designate at least a two hour block of time early in the Yearly Meeting during which all Yearly Meeting standing committees may meet. Ministry and Nurture also ask that the meeting times be printed in the schedule. After a brief discussion for clarification, the request was referred to Planning Committee. Dick Houghton, clerk of the planning Committee, responded that it has been a very busy two days of workshops and suggested that another day be added but also felt that it might be a hardship to some attenders. Edie Patrick then read a minute regarding Perry Tredwell. Ministry and Nurture asks SAYMA to approve the following Minute: Perry Treadwell has been led to test his leading to travel to other meetings in a listening ministry. After clearness committees with both SAYMA and Atlanta Monthly Meeting with an Oversight Committee in Atlanta and a Traveling Minute from Atlanta, Perry began his travels. SAYMA supports Perry Treadwell's listening ministry to meetings, preparative meetings, and worship groups within SAYMA accompanied by a Friendly traveling companion and under the care of a SAYMA Oversight Committee. We commend Perry to you. There was some discussion regarding this request. The SAYMA Oversight Committee would come from M&N Committee. There was a question concerning process to which Eddie replied that Perry is looking for support and direction from all areas available. A question was raised as to what is the Listening Ministry. Perry stood and responded by explaining the program and expressing his sincere appreciation to SAYMA for this opportunity. Free Polazzo asked to stand aside from this issue. Minute 29-16 SAYMA requests that a traveling minute of support will be written by the clerk in support of Perry Treawell's travels in his Listening Ministry. Friendly Woman The clerk began a discussion regarding the journal Friendly Women. The journal regularly moves to a new location and it is looking for a group to assume the tasks of caring for the journal. Job description and other information is available The clerk asked if there were any who would like to form a seed group to begin the process of determining whether or not to take on the project. It would need to start in September, 1999 which would before the next representative meeting. The following persons indicated that they would form the group; Ellen Johnson of Athens, Wright of Nashville, and Bettina Wolf of Asheville. With this interest the question was raised and then approved as to whether SAYMA is comfortable with Friendly Women being in the area. Minute 29-17 SAYMA is comfortable with Friendly Women being in the SAYMA regional area. Proposal for Clerk's Advisory Committee The clerk indicated that there is enough work and SAYMA is spread out in such a large area that she could use the support of an advisory Committee. This committee while having no particular function or responsibility would only support the clerk and help facilitate communications among SAYMA. Since the committee would be composed of the clerk, assistant clerk, recording clerk and the clerks of all the standing committees, there would not be any new members nor any work for the nominating committee. With no discussion the minute was approved composed of the clerk, assistant clerk, recording clerk and the clerks of all the standing committees. . Minute 29-18 A Clerk's Advisory Committee will be formed composed of the clerk, assistant clerk, recording clerk and the clerks of all the standing committee. The purpose of this committee is to assist and advise the clerk and improve the communication among SAYMA Budget David Ciscel quickly reviewed the budget and the proposed changes. Minute 29- 19 The budget as presented is approved for the 1999/2000 year. Nominating Committee Lee-Ann Swarm read over the nominations which had not been filled and the new persons who had volunteered to fill these positions. Minute 29- 20 The nominations for the positions within SAYMA as indicated below by the nominating committee are gratefully accepted and approved with the understanding that there are several positions still to be filled. Position Length of Term (years) Start of Term End of Term Nominee MM/WG Co-Registrar 2 June 1999 June 2001 Susan Carlyle Asheville SAYF Steering Committee . 2 June 1999 June 2001 Peter May Atlanta 2 June 1999 June 2001 Kathleen Mavournin W. Knoxville 2 June 1999 June 2001 Margaret Farmer Asheville SAYF Steering Treasurer 2 June 1998 June 2000 Karen Morris Atlanta AFSC Corp Alternate 2 June 1999 June 2001 Sallie Prugh Columbia FCNL 3 June 1999 June 2002 Julia Sibley Juras Columbia Friends Peace Team 2 June 1999 June 2001 Kathleen Hardie Nashville FWCC 3 June 1999 June 2002 Rachel Weir Celo A question arose as to which FWCC representatives from SAYMA would be chosen to attend the Triennial next year. It was decided that they would chose among themselves and report their recommendations back to SAYMA. It was requested that a letter of thanks be written by the Clerk to and for SAYMA in appreciation for the time, work and effort that several SAYF Committee members have given over the past years. Minute 29-21 SAYMA requests that the clerk write letters of thanks and appreciation to Robin Wells, Ellen Hearne, Jeremiah Gold-Hopton and Curt Thompson for their work and dedication to the SAYF program over the years. Archival of Information Betina Wolff indicated that the archiving of the past data is complete and that copies of all documents are on file at Guilford College and Swarthmore College. The remaining copies of documents will be available for distribution if desired otherwise will be recycled. Additional WQO positions A question was raised as to filling the additional positions to Wider Quaker Organizations as allowed by the organizations. The clerk asked for direction in this matter and after some discussion, was suggested it be referred to the nominating committee. Barbara Esther indicated that she would like to remove any objections that SAYMA has in filling the third slot to FWCC. Daryl Bergquist indicated that he would rather the monies go toward a 3rd world delegate instead of another SAYMA representative. After further discussion, the following Minute was approved. Minute 29-22 The nominating Committee is requested to gather any and all necessary information the regards to the possibility of filling position to Wider Quaker Organizations and make recommendations for proceeding with this issue. Epistle Committee The epistle committee has drafted for approval the attached Epistle to FGC inviting them to consider Columbia South Carolina for their Yearly Gathering in 2001. Minute 29 - 23 The attached epistle to FGC inviting them to consider Columbia South Carolina for their Yearly Gathering in 2001 is heartily approved The epistle committee offered a traveling minute for the SAYMA Clerk to visit New England Yearly Meeting. After minor alterations, the minute was approved. Minute 29- 24 The attached traveling minute for Clerk Penelope Wright to attend New England Yearly Meeting is approved as we send out our clerk with our blessings and love. After a moment of silence the meeting came to close for dinner. Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting #29 June 13, 1999 10:00 AM Warren Wilson College, Swannanoa, North Carolina Clerk Penelope Wright read the following from the Britain YM Faith and Practice Our testimonies arise from our way of worship. Our way of worship evokes from deep within us at once an affirmation and celebration, an affirmation of the reality of that light which illumines the spiritual longing of humanity, and a celebration of the continual resurrection within us of the springs of hope and love; a sense that each of us is, if we will, a channel for a power that is both within us and beyond us. Lorna M. Marsden 1987 Nominating Committee As a point of clarification, the Assistant Clerk was not formally part of the Administrative Assistant Oversight Committee but is needed and therefore it is proposed that clerk be added as an ex-officio member. There was no discussion and the minute was approved. Minute 29-25 The position of Assistant Clerk is automatically an ex-officio member of the Administrative Assistant Oversight Committee. SAYMA Epistle Kay Parke began reading the epistle and was joined by Barbara Esther. There were no adjustments made and it was approved. To Friends Everywhere Two hundred seventy-one Friends of Southern Appalachian Yearly Meeting and Association (SAYMA), from a seven state area of the southeastern United States gathered on Sixth Month 10-13, 1999, on the campus of Warren Wilson College, in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. We were thrilled to have sixty-six teens and twenty-five Junior Yearly Meeting participants among us. Our gathering there, From a Silent Center, Mind the Light, Go Forth and Make a Quaker Noise explored how we as Friends have received and acted on leadings of the Spirit. The Silent Center. During daily worship and morning worship sharing sessions, we studied the process of individual discernment and that experienced with our monthly meetings. Minding the Light. Our afternoon sessions included a great variety of workshops: Sufi dances and poetry, shaped-note singing, and discussions of major world and Friends issues. Healing the wounds of the Vietnam War, an American Friends Service Committee (AFSC) Delegation's report of their analysis of elementary school conditions in Iraq as a result of sanctions and bombings, discussion of our meetings' responses to the Kosovo situation, and the concerns for air quality in our region were some of the topics considered, as well as one workshop on resolving conflicts within a monthly meeting. On the first evening, reports from the individual meetings and worship groups were shared. Many common threads were noted in spiritual and numerical growth, with several meetings searching for new places of worship or considering meeting house purchases. Our meetings for business reflected the growth and maturation that has taken place in recent years. We recognized the need for a paid Souther Appalachian Young Friends (SAYF) program coordinator to support the diligent work of SAYF's steering committee. We added to our committee structure in order to address matters related to our increasing staff. Tucked in with agenda items were "Nurturing Nuggets" - portions of epistles from Friends of the world over, excerpts from monthly Meeting reports and the like. There were reports by SAYMA representatives to and the visitors from Wider Quaker Organizations (WQO's): AFSC, Friends Committee on Unity with Nature (FCUN), Right Sharing of World Resources (RSWR), and Friends World Committee for Consultation (FWCC). In accordance with SAYMA's custom, one WQO was highlighted - Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL). Arthur Boyd, Associate Director, detailed the process used by FCNL to influence the progress of a bill through Congress, and emphasized that participation by individual Friends, both in the identification of the FCNL's focus issues and in communicating with Congress people, is invaluable. Friends labored around our yearly meeting's relationship with the AFSC, RSWR and Rural Southern Voice for Peace (RSVP) and decided to work on improving communications in the coming year. Go Forth and Make a Quaker Noise. In our remaining two evening programs we heard about their own leadings from Stan Becker of Homewod Meeting (Baltimore Yearly Meeting) and from David Miller of Asheville Monthly Meeting. Stan's call to work in population issues with FCNL resonated with other themes of this Yearly Meeting gathering. He challenged us to labor lovingly and urgently with the serious problems confronting humanity as stewards of the earth, and not to hesitate to address controversial issues such as sex education, emphasizing that adequate knowledge and access to contraception methods should sharply reduce the occasion for abortion. To the extent Friends can unite in these matters, we can set an example and assist others. Our last evening together David Miller spoke of his life of leanings (sharing the earth bound experiences) and leadings (following promoting of the Divine). He reminded us to be open and to find lessons in all our experiences. We laughed together, remembered serious actions such as civil disobedience and protests, and celebrated the example of living in faith. We will hold David and the others in the Light as he joins a Friends Peace Team in Burundi this year. We closed our gathering with morning worship on First Day, Sixth Month 13, 1999, to return to our homes challenged to listen and be faithful Quaker noise makers. Minute 29 - 26 The SAYMA epistle for 1999 was approved with no changes or corrections. 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. Georgie Schmitt reviewed a written epistle generated with the assistance of the children. With joy in our hearts we accepted and approved the epistle. SAYF Epistle John Neville read for us the epistle written by the youth of SAYF. With joy and pride, the epistle was accepted and approved. Friends started the retreat year in August in Asheville on a nurturing committee retreat on boundaries and they explored sleeping arrangements possibilities. In September friends met in Atlanta for a workshop on community building. We enjoyed such activities such as a ropes course at Inner Harbor retreat facility. We also sat down and had a forum on "how Quakers build community" after we had a potluck with Atlanta Meeting adults with an open house. In October we gathered for the annual Penn Center Retreat on St Hellena Island in South Carolina. We had a talent show and potluck with the Gulla community. We worked to get the Island ready for the annual festival, we also had meeting for worship on the beach. In November we gathered in Chapel Hill, North Carolina for a retreat on relaxation among friends. We did workshops on creative movement, we also had worship sharing throughout the weekend. January we met in Asheville, North Carolina with the theme of trust. We had a threshing session on the sleeping arrangements, we also had a meeting for healing. David Miller lead us in activities on trust. In February Friends meet for a nurturing committee retreat in Atlanta, Georgia. During meeting for worship with attention to business, Friends discussed sleeping arrangements and keeping SAYF safe. The march retreat was held in Greenville, SC. The focus was on growing up Quaker. The Business Meeting focusing on sleeping arrangements was stressful, but some unity was reached on the subject. The activities that focused on the theme were enjoyable. The April retreat was held in West Knoxville, Tennessee. The theme was a choice of service projects in which Friends worked on a nature preserve or with disabled individuals. Young Friends shared meeting for worship with West Knoxville Monthly Meeting. During SAYMA at Warren Wilson College, YF attended many workshops. Two examples of which are creative movement and a boundaries workshop. In general Friends grew out of the year's experiences and hope to grow more in the coming year. College Age Friends Epistle Maura McGuigan read the CAF's epistle. With joy and pride, the epistle was accepted and approved. Dear Friends, At the 1999 SAYMA annual gathering, College Aged Friends (CAF) met to discuss the problems we experienced with coordination during the past year and also to decide what involvement we would have at SAYMA. We agreed to participate in the adult program and facilitate one workshop with the Southern Appalachian Young Friends (SAYF). CAF attended various meetings for business, workshops, and workship sharing groups. In addition to the regular SAYMA program, CAFers met each night for CAF business, and did go swimming in the river nearby. CAF struggled with the question of what shape our group is evolving into. We re-emphasized our mission statement that states: "College Aged Friends (CAF), is a group for people between the ages of 18 and 25, and in the early years of college. The group is formed to help provide a transition for its members between their childhood and adulthood as well as other communities of College Age Friends. Through this group, we are seeking fellowship, support, and spiritual growth. We look forward to both learning from our older Friends sharing their experiences with us as well as sharing with each other. By forming connections now among one another and the wider Quaker community we will be better prepared to become full adult members of our meetings." We have heard many requests for information about and much interest in CAF. Unfortunately, we are still unsure as to exactly what shape our group will take or what form the relationship with the broader SAYMA community will be. We are asking Ministry and Nurture to help us better define this relationship and it will be under much discussion at our next retreat in January. We look forward to growing and evolving with the broader SAYMA community and hope we can bring more clarity about ourselves to SAYMA next year. Peace until then. After a moment of silence the meeting closed and the room prepared for worship Penelope Wright Willard Vaughan Clerk Recording Clerk