My dear Friends of All Saints,
As I have not departed from All Saints I have been amongst you all and despite any persons thoughts that I am one of the Families that have departed "Guess Again". I am still here and as such am now more than ever determined to push this thing to it's final out come. As we all know that is the Removal of the Current Rector Of All Saints, The Reverend Momberg! Again you all see the effects of his still being here and those are very clear:
1) Diminished Attendance at all the Services, what a joke this traveling service is.
2) The Constant drain of our Resources and we still have not seen any true improvement and nothing of the things he was to take us to the next level. We are spending more money on substitute Priest because he is never around and takes vacation when the Assisting Rector is on a much deserved sabbatical. Great use of Money, and we all know how well he used the Churches money as Rector of another Church. Right Fr. Momberg and Senior Warden?
3) Still not available when you need him and a person (a Priest) your fellow parishioners do not want visiting them when sick, or in need or even better presiding over a funeral of a loved one.
We need to remove him, the Current Senior Warden, Junior Warden as they do not have the best interest of this Church at heart as they follow blindly as do many others in doing his bidding.
So; I understand that the Rector is nearing retirement age and as such will be attending a workshop on retiring. Please do us all a favor, learn, take good notes and take the hint! Retire NOW and spare us the need to pull the Bishop in and have you removed.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Sunday, June 6, 2010
I have been away and I am back.
Friends,
I am sorry but I have been away on a long journey and as such have been derelict in my duties on this Blog. But know this; I have had conversations with others and have been back long enough to know the following has happened:
1) We have lost more Families and others that will be leave this Month.
2) The Rector and his Circle of Protectors continue to make it impossible for those of us that see them and him for who they truly are.
3) Long time Friends I thought I had known as friends have turned out to be vicious persons hurling epitaphs of hate at me and those of us that are trying to rectify a bad and worsening situation with this Rector.
4) The Faux Front being posted by the Rector and his Circle of Defenders is just that "Faux". This Parish is still loosing membership in many quiet ways. The last one I have known to leave loved this Church and felt that the members that are wanting change needed to step up and be heard. But that did not happen so he took his Family to another Episcopal Church (not because of the National Church) but is direct relation to the Treatment by this Rector of his Family and he personally. Including the Harassment by the Rector in messages left on their V-Mial and the last Straw that the Rector pulled one of the last Sundays they were at Church. Let's just say that all of the things this Rector put this Family through was no where close to how any person should act but especially a Rector in a Church and Priest.
5) As Stated before here, this Rector is interested in only two things. Stroking his ego, and Money. The latter is proved by his unabashed actions one Sunday during Coffee Hour. He pulled a large Benefactor of this Parish (having given in times of need and out of her Heart during times when not asked) to make a single Statement. "When you Die, Remember All Saints!" Who does that? Who tells a member that has given beyond anyone else to this Church financially that? Evidentially this Rector will, given that he so Money Driven that he would insult this LEADER in this fashion.
So I ask you all again, is this the Rector you Want or that All Saints Deserves?
I am sorry but I have been away on a long journey and as such have been derelict in my duties on this Blog. But know this; I have had conversations with others and have been back long enough to know the following has happened:
1) We have lost more Families and others that will be leave this Month.
2) The Rector and his Circle of Protectors continue to make it impossible for those of us that see them and him for who they truly are.
3) Long time Friends I thought I had known as friends have turned out to be vicious persons hurling epitaphs of hate at me and those of us that are trying to rectify a bad and worsening situation with this Rector.
4) The Faux Front being posted by the Rector and his Circle of Defenders is just that "Faux". This Parish is still loosing membership in many quiet ways. The last one I have known to leave loved this Church and felt that the members that are wanting change needed to step up and be heard. But that did not happen so he took his Family to another Episcopal Church (not because of the National Church) but is direct relation to the Treatment by this Rector of his Family and he personally. Including the Harassment by the Rector in messages left on their V-Mial and the last Straw that the Rector pulled one of the last Sundays they were at Church. Let's just say that all of the things this Rector put this Family through was no where close to how any person should act but especially a Rector in a Church and Priest.
5) As Stated before here, this Rector is interested in only two things. Stroking his ego, and Money. The latter is proved by his unabashed actions one Sunday during Coffee Hour. He pulled a large Benefactor of this Parish (having given in times of need and out of her Heart during times when not asked) to make a single Statement. "When you Die, Remember All Saints!" Who does that? Who tells a member that has given beyond anyone else to this Church financially that? Evidentially this Rector will, given that he so Money Driven that he would insult this LEADER in this fashion.
So I ask you all again, is this the Rector you Want or that All Saints Deserves?
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
The Continuation of the Conversation was nothing like that at all!
Yes, I was their Tom, Mark, Sarah, and the Satan calling Guy! Did I sit next to you all? Or was I in the Back of the room? Did I speak out, or keep silent? You will never know. Sucks to not know who you can trust. Besides I went out and talked in the Parking Lot, and E-mailed people, and called people on the phone, and oh my I am Blogging about it now! Who the tarnation are you people to tell me or any other person "these are the rules" No Parking Lot Discussions, No Phone Calls, No Blog's, No E-mails! It is still a Free Country and if you did not notice once again I will spell it out for you "Y O U A R E N O T M Y M O T H E R!" So to set the record right I have broken all your rules and the next conversation I will have with others is with the Bishop. So good luck in stopping me and the others, you all forget what the definition of VESTRY is. But I am happy to give you a lesson as my Professor wife with a Major in English at a Prestigious School tells her students:
Vestry - (n) vestry (in the Protestant Episcopal Church: a committee elected by the congregation to work with the churchwardens in managing the temporal affairs of the church).
So, Vestry, (Senior Warden / Junior Warden you were forced on us), based on the information above you all are elected by the Parish Members and as such "Work for us on our behalf to manage the Churches Business" But in the case of this Vestry (not all members are grouped into this) you all will not Stand up to this Rector and tell him the Parish is fed up with the non Rectoring (need to ask my wife on this one) and complete lack of Leadership, Shepherding, and most important our inability to trust the Rector. That he needs to Resign and allow us to begin fresh and without him. So without further deliberation I am writing this Blog, Calling all I know, Talking in the Parking Lot, and will E-mail this to many people. So arrest me Senior Warden, or Sargent (Junior Warden) Major! But Freedom of Speech is a GOD Given Right, and protected in the 1st Amendment of which you cannot take away.
On the meeting or Non Meeting - You see why this blog is so useful. No one spoke up at all and those that did were staged questions and the decree from the Senior & Junior Wardens were very clear. Speak Up (nothing too controversial) or do not speak up and only praise the Rector. Having Mary Glaspool was not useful. Why not allow us to speak with her or another member alone without the Rector, Senior & Junior Warden? Too Afraid of the outcome that they people that want the rector gone are many and willing to open up if they think the Rector and his Vestry will not rain down fire and punish them? Of course you would do nothing like that, so that is why we will take this directly to the Bishop. So bye-Bye for now I have to pack for Baltimore, as I drive too slow as I am old you know and we are set in our ways. Luckily I can type (not too well) but I can use the PC to communicate even at my age.
PS: So Tom Double-Dog-Daring guy, you can unfriend me all you want as I unfriended you years ago when you pushed to sell a beloved Rectory. So Boo to you too. Also I was never one to back off a dare "AT THE AGE OF 5" Grow Up Tommy Boy.
Vestry - (n) vestry (in the Protestant Episcopal Church: a committee elected by the congregation to work with the churchwardens in managing the temporal affairs of the church).
So, Vestry, (Senior Warden / Junior Warden you were forced on us), based on the information above you all are elected by the Parish Members and as such "Work for us on our behalf to manage the Churches Business" But in the case of this Vestry (not all members are grouped into this) you all will not Stand up to this Rector and tell him the Parish is fed up with the non Rectoring (need to ask my wife on this one) and complete lack of Leadership, Shepherding, and most important our inability to trust the Rector. That he needs to Resign and allow us to begin fresh and without him. So without further deliberation I am writing this Blog, Calling all I know, Talking in the Parking Lot, and will E-mail this to many people. So arrest me Senior Warden, or Sargent (Junior Warden) Major! But Freedom of Speech is a GOD Given Right, and protected in the 1st Amendment of which you cannot take away.
On the meeting or Non Meeting - You see why this blog is so useful. No one spoke up at all and those that did were staged questions and the decree from the Senior & Junior Wardens were very clear. Speak Up (nothing too controversial) or do not speak up and only praise the Rector. Having Mary Glaspool was not useful. Why not allow us to speak with her or another member alone without the Rector, Senior & Junior Warden? Too Afraid of the outcome that they people that want the rector gone are many and willing to open up if they think the Rector and his Vestry will not rain down fire and punish them? Of course you would do nothing like that, so that is why we will take this directly to the Bishop. So bye-Bye for now I have to pack for Baltimore, as I drive too slow as I am old you know and we are set in our ways. Luckily I can type (not too well) but I can use the PC to communicate even at my age.
PS: So Tom Double-Dog-Daring guy, you can unfriend me all you want as I unfriended you years ago when you pushed to sell a beloved Rectory. So Boo to you too. Also I was never one to back off a dare "AT THE AGE OF 5" Grow Up Tommy Boy.
Once again "Good Triumphed over Bad"
This is a comment I have read and as usual I will post them here so you can see that all the naysayers are incorrect. There are more of "us" than they think or will accept. Thank you for being vocal and yet have this forum to voice your opinions with out being chastised for being anonymous.
Anonymous said...
I have not been a member of All Saints’ for as long as some of you. I am not an expert on the church hierarchies, nor do I have“inside information”. Having served on committees throughout my membership here as well as in other Episcopal churches, I would like to write about some things from my perspective.
For all of the meetings/surveys that took place during our Rector search and interim phase and with all of the feedback that had to have been collected, I was not overly impressed with the person who was hired to be our spiritual leader when I first met him and heard him preach. I told myself “He needs to be given a chance so, let’s just see how it goes”. Throughout the two plus years that our Rector has been with us I have yet to see or feel any different from when he first began. In addition to my feelings, I’ve not heard many sincere, positive comments about him and in fact have been hearing lots of negative and even shocking things. Now, after reading through the information on this blog (specifically, WORDS TAKEN DIRECTLY FROM OUR RECTOR’S FORMER CHURCHES) about the improprieties that he was involved in, I am troubled. Watching with frustration as families leave the church and hearing that staff, committee leaders and members have resigned, stepped down or have been asked to step down by him or because of him, gives me even greater pause. Frankly, it makes me sick to my stomach. I have tried to maintain a Christian attitude, it is very hard when I see brothers and sisters from my church family in pain around me as a direct result of our “leader’s” behavior. With the doubt and distrust that has been growing inside me more and more as time goes on and as I see the service attendance numbers dropping, it is very hard to believe that All Saints’ is headed in a good direction.
Thank you to the blogger for creating this forum – it has been an interesting and enlightening read.
In faith - God be with us All,
A Struggling but Surviving member of All Saints’
For all of the meetings/surveys that took place during our Rector search and interim phase and with all of the feedback that had to have been collected, I was not overly impressed with the person who was hired to be our spiritual leader when I first met him and heard him preach. I told myself “He needs to be given a chance so, let’s just see how it goes”. Throughout the two plus years that our Rector has been with us I have yet to see or feel any different from when he first began. In addition to my feelings, I’ve not heard many sincere, positive comments about him and in fact have been hearing lots of negative and even shocking things. Now, after reading through the information on this blog (specifically, WORDS TAKEN DIRECTLY FROM OUR RECTOR’S FORMER CHURCHES) about the improprieties that he was involved in, I am troubled. Watching with frustration as families leave the church and hearing that staff, committee leaders and members have resigned, stepped down or have been asked to step down by him or because of him, gives me even greater pause. Frankly, it makes me sick to my stomach. I have tried to maintain a Christian attitude, it is very hard when I see brothers and sisters from my church family in pain around me as a direct result of our “leader’s” behavior. With the doubt and distrust that has been growing inside me more and more as time goes on and as I see the service attendance numbers dropping, it is very hard to believe that All Saints’ is headed in a good direction.
Thank you to the blogger for creating this forum – it has been an interesting and enlightening read.
In faith - God be with us All,
A Struggling but Surviving member of All Saints’
Saturday, April 17, 2010
All I can Say is "Amen!"
To Whom Ever wrote this, Thank you as it speaks volumes. Below is a Comment I have just read:
Anonymous said...
I have been an INVOLVED member of All Saints' for many years, however I choose to remain anonymous so that I may say some things that I feel the blogger has been too kind to point out.
I must wonder if all you naysayers have actually read all that is on this blog or if you simply spoke your mind without thinking based on the title. The latter sounds most probable.
As far as "unchristian and unepiscopalian" goes, the christian community at large tends to hide behind lies like yours. Many christians twist God's Word to suit their ends and hide behind a shield from that which they are afraid to face-the TRUTH. It has been my understanding from the decades I've spent as an Episcopalian, that Jesus has taught us to always love our neighbors as ourselves, our enemies included. Your words and those of the other naysayers on this blog are indeed a direct contradiction of Christ's teachings. Explain how you can call yourself a Christian when you don't follow the teachings of Christ?
As for the cowardly comments I've seen I have chosen to remain anonymous. So too did one of the naysayers. I can only imagine based on the level of verbal slander that has been shown here, that the blogger of this site chose to remain anonymous to avoid such libelous ridicule! I have yet to read ONE INSTANCE of name calling or bullying on this website from the blogger. The only such comments have come from the so called "Christians".
I commend you blogger for your valiant efforts. May all the naysayers take heed.
In Christ,
Anonymous Involved Concerned All Saints' Parishioner
I must wonder if all you naysayers have actually read all that is on this blog or if you simply spoke your mind without thinking based on the title. The latter sounds most probable.
As far as "unchristian and unepiscopalian" goes, the christian community at large tends to hide behind lies like yours. Many christians twist God's Word to suit their ends and hide behind a shield from that which they are afraid to face-the TRUTH. It has been my understanding from the decades I've spent as an Episcopalian, that Jesus has taught us to always love our neighbors as ourselves, our enemies included. Your words and those of the other naysayers on this blog are indeed a direct contradiction of Christ's teachings. Explain how you can call yourself a Christian when you don't follow the teachings of Christ?
As for the cowardly comments I've seen I have chosen to remain anonymous. So too did one of the naysayers. I can only imagine based on the level of verbal slander that has been shown here, that the blogger of this site chose to remain anonymous to avoid such libelous ridicule! I have yet to read ONE INSTANCE of name calling or bullying on this website from the blogger. The only such comments have come from the so called "Christians".
I commend you blogger for your valiant efforts. May all the naysayers take heed.
In Christ,
Anonymous Involved Concerned All Saints' Parishioner
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
"Let the Games Begin"
Another Reply I will post below!
Mark & Sara Gibson said...
It's about time you all spoke up. Yes, I know Satin is a Fabric but I wanted to get the posting out & I did fail to properly spell check. But with that said you both are two I would not call well informed. There are more that just myself that have the same feelings as I have expressed. Only I have put them in writing. You both are blowhards and I dismiss you all together. As far as lies, what lies have I told? Point them out but again remember you live in a glass house just as I do. To be so angry about just words is so childish. The facts about the transparent process is a joke, in fact the data from Trinity is in open publication and that is nothing to dismiss. That was never told to the Parish Members, what was being hidden that we could not know about that? Why hide the fact he misused funds form the church? Call it what you want but in my many years of life THEFT IS THEFT. Or are you Ok with that kind of thing from a Priest? If so, where did you get your vales? We (not the parish membership mind you but a few snookered persons) brought him here under the auspice we were getting one person who in turn was totally different. If my memory serves me right (I am very old) you two were on the search, and or selection committees (or both)? Boy oh boy I would not want to admit I was taken in by the Rector at all. If you were part of this process you should be held responsible for this Parishes falling membership. Or did you over look those facts I laid out that we have lost members to the tune of about 25% to other Episcopal Churches, and that we have gone from a Resource Church to a Program Church in two short years? Did you also forget the fact that all we got as a Vision was "Jesus"! Two years to come up with that, if he was so "special" we should have had that vision six months into his being here. Not Two Yeas Later! Call me what you want but you two need the counseling. No seriously you two do need it from what I have seen and now read from you both. I have had mine (counseling) many years ago and I know I am a bit crazy, so again Sticks & Stones as my very much grown children used to say. I am happy he has your full support, but that still does not make it correct. As far a vetted, I can tell you things the Diocese has told him not to do but he has done anyway. So he even thumbs his nose at them. Someone I want to support? Not likely! I will support a true leader, a true visionary, a true Shepherd of the Church. Just not this one! Where were you when the current Senior Warden (not at that time) pushed to have the last Rector removed Out of All Saints? Did you support him as well? Did your Support make a hill of beans then? Looks like it did not. Or did you support her and her efforts to remove him? One would have to question your loyalty. So about the Red Door, when you leave do not let it hit YOU on the way out as I have been here a long time and I see your departure long before mine sport. So sit back and continue to drink the Kool-Aid. You two are special thanks for playing.
To whoever you are,
We are Mark and Sara Gibson, parishioners and leaders at All Saints’ for over 16 years.
This appalling collection of rambling anonymous rants is nothing more than a cowardly, gutless, and unchristian effort to besmirch someone with whom you have a gripe. Free speech, as you might like to call it, stops at namelessly throwing insults and lies at people you don’t like. Indeed, this nonsense borders on libel.
We’re truly sad that you feel your special needs are not being met, and that you have personal issues with All Saints’ leadership. But your issues are your issues, not All Saints’. Trying to foment an insurrection will do nothing but drag us all down with you. We suggest you seek counseling instead to find the root of your deep-seated and unhealthy anger.
However, The Reverend Tom Momberg is rector of All Saints’, and he has our full support. He came to us through an open and transparent process, and has been thoroughly vetted by All Saints’ and by our diocese. We invite you to get right with it and cease this silliness. Our red door is for coming and going.
Mark and Sara Gibson
P.S. – you need to check your spelling - “Satin” is a fabric.
We are Mark and Sara Gibson, parishioners and leaders at All Saints’ for over 16 years.
This appalling collection of rambling anonymous rants is nothing more than a cowardly, gutless, and unchristian effort to besmirch someone with whom you have a gripe. Free speech, as you might like to call it, stops at namelessly throwing insults and lies at people you don’t like. Indeed, this nonsense borders on libel.
We’re truly sad that you feel your special needs are not being met, and that you have personal issues with All Saints’ leadership. But your issues are your issues, not All Saints’. Trying to foment an insurrection will do nothing but drag us all down with you. We suggest you seek counseling instead to find the root of your deep-seated and unhealthy anger.
However, The Reverend Tom Momberg is rector of All Saints’, and he has our full support. He came to us through an open and transparent process, and has been thoroughly vetted by All Saints’ and by our diocese. We invite you to get right with it and cease this silliness. Our red door is for coming and going.
Mark and Sara Gibson
P.S. – you need to check your spelling - “Satin” is a fabric.
It's about time you all spoke up. Yes, I know Satin is a Fabric but I wanted to get the posting out & I did fail to properly spell check. But with that said you both are two I would not call well informed. There are more that just myself that have the same feelings as I have expressed. Only I have put them in writing. You both are blowhards and I dismiss you all together. As far as lies, what lies have I told? Point them out but again remember you live in a glass house just as I do. To be so angry about just words is so childish. The facts about the transparent process is a joke, in fact the data from Trinity is in open publication and that is nothing to dismiss. That was never told to the Parish Members, what was being hidden that we could not know about that? Why hide the fact he misused funds form the church? Call it what you want but in my many years of life THEFT IS THEFT. Or are you Ok with that kind of thing from a Priest? If so, where did you get your vales? We (not the parish membership mind you but a few snookered persons) brought him here under the auspice we were getting one person who in turn was totally different. If my memory serves me right (I am very old) you two were on the search, and or selection committees (or both)? Boy oh boy I would not want to admit I was taken in by the Rector at all. If you were part of this process you should be held responsible for this Parishes falling membership. Or did you over look those facts I laid out that we have lost members to the tune of about 25% to other Episcopal Churches, and that we have gone from a Resource Church to a Program Church in two short years? Did you also forget the fact that all we got as a Vision was "Jesus"! Two years to come up with that, if he was so "special" we should have had that vision six months into his being here. Not Two Yeas Later! Call me what you want but you two need the counseling. No seriously you two do need it from what I have seen and now read from you both. I have had mine (counseling) many years ago and I know I am a bit crazy, so again Sticks & Stones as my very much grown children used to say. I am happy he has your full support, but that still does not make it correct. As far a vetted, I can tell you things the Diocese has told him not to do but he has done anyway. So he even thumbs his nose at them. Someone I want to support? Not likely! I will support a true leader, a true visionary, a true Shepherd of the Church. Just not this one! Where were you when the current Senior Warden (not at that time) pushed to have the last Rector removed Out of All Saints? Did you support him as well? Did your Support make a hill of beans then? Looks like it did not. Or did you support her and her efforts to remove him? One would have to question your loyalty. So about the Red Door, when you leave do not let it hit YOU on the way out as I have been here a long time and I see your departure long before mine sport. So sit back and continue to drink the Kool-Aid. You two are special thanks for playing.
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
"Must have hit a Nerve!" or as most would say "The Truth Hurts!"
It looks as though some supporters of the Rector have spoken out. One who would not leave a name, and another that did. Thank you both for your time and trouble, but this is a format to allow any one the time to have her or his voice heard. So in the words of one of my small children "Sticks & Stones" you know the rest. I have been called many things, but Satan! Wow that is a stretch, even by God's standards. So the question is, "Why are you so angry at me?" The Rector is the one that is doing all the wrong things, and how do you know he and those that I have spoken of have not already had the communications and nothing has been resolved? You don't, but I do as someone who has heard this from them and experienced it first hand. So if you are angry then open your eyes, and look around, why are so many families departing our church? If you cannot see it then you are being taken in by him and have had more cool aid then I care to stomach. Get real, do you think things are just peachy? Think again cupcake! So in fairness to all who read this I am including the replies I have just read:
2 comments:
Anonymous said...
- Who are you and why would I e-mail anything to you? If you are so sure of yourself then why don't you sign your name? Who gives you the right? Who are these members of all Saints who have to go to you... Satan often takes on the guise of the rightous...so, Satan, what say you?
First off the persons that I speak of do not have to come to me, we all have come together with the same common goal and that is to remove the Rector just like Nancy (Current Senior Warden) did herself. Also, God gives me the right to speak my mind, and on the subject of God, he said "he that has no sin cast the first stone", careful you live in the glass house too. And trust me you are not so Anonymous, I know who you are........... Besides I have not once slandered any person, or called them names. You on the other hand have done so in one posting. Nice job! These members you ask are typical Episcopal Parish Members that remain in the background not obvious in the work they do, and the process we are undertaking. One thought on this Satan thing. If you call me this, then what name do you have for the Current Senior Warden? She had the biggest hand in getting Rector Seal removed? Did you know that? So, I am Satan? Wow! I can say she is solely responsible for starting this Parishes down turn by her and others in her party going to the Bishop and working to get Fr. Jim to retire. Or in other words Step Down as we are requesting Rector Momberg to do. Grow UP!
Anonymous said...- ok, I am not anonymous - I just don't know how this works. This is Niki Thrash - a member of All Saints, a member of the Leadership and this blog is a waste. What kind of coward are you not to say who you are but to stand off pontificating and judging others --- I wonder.
There is nothing Cowardly about this Blog, it is a simple format to voice opinions, you know Freedom Of Speech and all that. If you are so high and mighty then tell me how you can sit back and allow this person to destroy this Parish. Wait, I know you have been bought and paid for by being placed in the POWER POSITION you have in the Church! Boy almost did not get that one. Good luck in the future as we move onto our conversations with the Bishop in the next step. Big word pontificating, but how do you know I have not spoken up in other formats at the Church, or written letters to the Rector asking to resolve issues, or had meetings with him to discuss the issues or my family has not attempted to resolve issues? You can state this 25 cent word all you want, but truth be told, your Blinded by the Rector's so called "charm and woe is me personality", and the POWER TRIP you currently are on courtesy of him. How do you know I am not a Leader of the Church, just because I am writing this Blog there is no reason to think other wise is there?
In closing, thank you for your comments. But it still remains 10 to 2 in favor of his removal. "What say you All Saints" We hit a Soft Spot!
Monday, April 5, 2010
"Who gives them the Right?"
I say to you all,
Who gives members of the Staff, Vestry, So Called Leaders of the Church to tell others to stay silent? Who died and made them boss? If a Leader of the Church is not responsible enough to stand up and say what is right or what is wrong then they need not be in the Leadership Position. This is a free world not the Senior / Junior Warden, or Rector Momberg's Dictatorship! Leaders of this Church, in the Staff, Vestry, Ministries, other leaders all have the right to stand up and make it heard that they do not agree with what is going on in OUR CHURCH! If any one told me "You better be careful and not make waves in this regime, or you might be fired, or dismissed, or asked to resign a position." I would challenge them to the max as they are not my Parents, they hold no special control over me, and certainly not the Rector, Senior Warden, or for a matter of fact the Vestry. It is our Church and we should feel free to speak our minds. That is what makes the Episcopal Church so glorious, we all have varying opinions, and perspectives but in the long run at the end of the day we all agree that we are here because of those differences and the respect and love we have for one another. If you are one of those persons that have been told to clam up and not rock the boat because you could be Terminated or dismissed. Please E-Mail me your Concerns/Questions/Statements and I will voice them for you and any others who feel threatened.
"What Say You All Saints?" Ready to stand up and speak your own mind without fear?
Who gives members of the Staff, Vestry, So Called Leaders of the Church to tell others to stay silent? Who died and made them boss? If a Leader of the Church is not responsible enough to stand up and say what is right or what is wrong then they need not be in the Leadership Position. This is a free world not the Senior / Junior Warden, or Rector Momberg's Dictatorship! Leaders of this Church, in the Staff, Vestry, Ministries, other leaders all have the right to stand up and make it heard that they do not agree with what is going on in OUR CHURCH! If any one told me "You better be careful and not make waves in this regime, or you might be fired, or dismissed, or asked to resign a position." I would challenge them to the max as they are not my Parents, they hold no special control over me, and certainly not the Rector, Senior Warden, or for a matter of fact the Vestry. It is our Church and we should feel free to speak our minds. That is what makes the Episcopal Church so glorious, we all have varying opinions, and perspectives but in the long run at the end of the day we all agree that we are here because of those differences and the respect and love we have for one another. If you are one of those persons that have been told to clam up and not rock the boat because you could be Terminated or dismissed. Please E-Mail me your Concerns/Questions/Statements and I will voice them for you and any others who feel threatened.
"What Say You All Saints?" Ready to stand up and speak your own mind without fear?
Sunday, April 4, 2010
"Christ Is Risen"
A glorious day in knowing that (although they were C.P.E., Christmas, Palm Sunday, Easter attendees) visitors, we had in the GH 225 attendees. Glorious day as we heard Fr. Tommy preach on the day the lord Jesus Christ rose from the grave and showed us there is a God and that he was that God incarnate into a Human Form (Jesus Christ) to save us all by death on the Cross and rising three days later. It was truly inspirational in the sermon given. Then, during the Eucharist and at Communion a Leader of the Church asked another parishioner how many there were at the Service. There were 225 they said, then the Leader said "Too bad there are not that many every Sunday, but someone is got to leave before that happens!" You know the message is getting out and the word is "Rector it is time you departed All Saints."
Even on this glorious day the word is herd, and yet there are so many of you all still not willing to stand up to the Senior Warden, Junior Warden, and Vestry and say, "TIME TO GO RECTOR MOMBERG". We need to move on and begin the rebuilding process without you or the Puppet Regime you have built.
"WHAT SAY YOU ALL SAINTS?" Will you join us and take back your Church?
P.S. - Heard another member of a Committee/Ministry has resigned, the bleeding continues!
Even on this glorious day the word is herd, and yet there are so many of you all still not willing to stand up to the Senior Warden, Junior Warden, and Vestry and say, "TIME TO GO RECTOR MOMBERG". We need to move on and begin the rebuilding process without you or the Puppet Regime you have built.
"WHAT SAY YOU ALL SAINTS?" Will you join us and take back your Church?
P.S. - Heard another member of a Committee/Ministry has resigned, the bleeding continues!
Saturday, April 3, 2010
"A Conversation about our Vision"
Funny how things work out. From this perspective you all know what my take on the 2-year journey our Rector took to come to the enlightened message "Jesus Is our Vision". Looks like a Senior Leader in this Church approached the Senior Warden and asked "Seriously, after two years this is all we get?" "Jesus is our Vision?" In response to this the current Senior Warden stated "He is a visionary!"
STOP THE PRESSES ~ NEWS FLASH:
Frederick Md., All Saints Episcopal Church - It has just been announced that the Current Rector has set the Vision of this Historic Church in Down Town Frederick MD. We go live to the action as the Current Senior Warden tells a shocked audience that "Yes, Jesus Is Our Vision" and this comes from the visionary Rector Momberg. When asked by this audience "are you kidding us with this? It took him two years to come up with this? She had no other comment, but to say, "He is a Visionary!" More to come from All Saints as we unravel this deep and well thought out Vision, from an enlightened Rector.
Sorry again to say, "I am not" (and there are many of us that think the same way), impressed with a vision that again is the foundation of Every Church! I think he is visionary, and the hallucinations he has are no where correct in order to lead this Church. This is a Rector that uses others published works to quote in Sermons and uses a Professors theory to lead the Church by Pastoring (Shepherding) to the Leaders that will Shepherd the rest of the Parish Members. In short "Trickle Down Pastoral Care" Sounds like those on the Bottom will get less and less like a Pyramid Scheme. "WHAT SAY YOU ALL SAINTS?" Do we continue with this Leaders inability to get us to the next level? Or do we take a Stand on the 18th of April and tell the Rector & Senior Warden & Junior Warden, and Vestry Enough is Enough, remove the Rector and lets start over Fresh with a renewed spirit to find and call a Rector worth of the title "Rector Of All Saints Church, Frederick MD."
STOP THE PRESSES ~ NEWS FLASH:
Frederick Md., All Saints Episcopal Church - It has just been announced that the Current Rector has set the Vision of this Historic Church in Down Town Frederick MD. We go live to the action as the Current Senior Warden tells a shocked audience that "Yes, Jesus Is Our Vision" and this comes from the visionary Rector Momberg. When asked by this audience "are you kidding us with this? It took him two years to come up with this? She had no other comment, but to say, "He is a Visionary!" More to come from All Saints as we unravel this deep and well thought out Vision, from an enlightened Rector.
Sorry again to say, "I am not" (and there are many of us that think the same way), impressed with a vision that again is the foundation of Every Church! I think he is visionary, and the hallucinations he has are no where correct in order to lead this Church. This is a Rector that uses others published works to quote in Sermons and uses a Professors theory to lead the Church by Pastoring (Shepherding) to the Leaders that will Shepherd the rest of the Parish Members. In short "Trickle Down Pastoral Care" Sounds like those on the Bottom will get less and less like a Pyramid Scheme. "WHAT SAY YOU ALL SAINTS?" Do we continue with this Leaders inability to get us to the next level? Or do we take a Stand on the 18th of April and tell the Rector & Senior Warden & Junior Warden, and Vestry Enough is Enough, remove the Rector and lets start over Fresh with a renewed spirit to find and call a Rector worth of the title "Rector Of All Saints Church, Frederick MD."
"Who Will be Next to Step Down? Because of this Rector"
I ask you all this question because there is a very real pattern going on right before your eyes. That pattern is the fact that Senior Leadership Persons in the Ministries of All Saints Church are stepping down. Yes, I said Senior Leaders, in the likes of the Alter Guild Chair, and the Acolytes Chair & Assisting Person. The reasons for this departure is not quite clear but I can tell you reliable sources have told me it is and I will repeat this IT IS DUE TO THE ISSUES WITH THE RECTOR, not to mention the fact the Senior Warden and now the Junior Warden (The Hand Puppets of the Rector) are continuing to support this Rector even though he is truly not a Leader, not Spiritually Leading, Absent, and harassing. The latter is for another Blog on another day. But in this case we are loosing the solid foundation of our Loved Ministries Leaders because of this Rector. His inability to communicate clearly, or even at all on matters as important as FLOWERS FOR A FUNERAL! This is again a sign that when the Leaders of the Miniseries in a church start to resign it is not because they want to. Look at what happened to Lynn. It is because they are tired of dealing with the Rector, Senior Warden, Junior Warden, and their B.S. How would you like to be in a position that you had no direction, no communication, no support, from the so called leader. If this were a paying job, you would seek work in a more conducive environment where you were welcomed, supported, and appreciated. But this is a Church and as such you do it out of commitment to the Church and Christ Jesus. So unless there is another factor I have not seen, this all points back to the Inept Leadership of the Rector. It is sad that the Rectors only words to these individuals were "Ok, I will look at Appointing a Person not currently active in this Ministry to the Chair to take over!" WHAT ARE YOU NUTS Rector? This is the last thing to do, you need a person who knows the in's and out's of these Ministries to step in at a time of Change to keep harmony and a sense of smooth transition. Not a totally clueless person. This is not what a true leader does, a true leader attempts to keep the top talent and tries to fix the issues, but in the case of this Rector he is not a Leader (has not one leadership skill that I have seen other than to bamboozle others), he cares less about the talent that has served this church for so long, he cares more about placing his Hand Puppets in positions of Power, he is in full denial about everything that is wrong (esp. when it is all at his doing), he is protected by the Senior and Junior Wardens and the VESTRY Members (how much farther can we continue to spiral downward?). WHAT SAY YOU ALL SAINTS" Are we going to sit back and allow this Rector to continue to not Lead and to push out those that have given many hours of Service to this Church Out?
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Rector Momberg "Just Say I am Sorry"
Hot News flash from a meeting at the Church this past week:
Looks like someone failed to inform all the necessary persons in the Church about a Funeral at the Church, and there was a breakdown in communications to the person responsible for there being Flowers present. When confronted about this, the Rector Momberg (instead of stating, "I am sorry that you did not get the communication, I will correct this in the future, you are right in bringing this up and wanting it corrected") took a very argumentative position and a defensive posture on the subject. With it almost coming to a shouting match and his turning angry. Come on! Are you kidding me here? The Right thing to say was "Yes, you are right, you should have been informed, I am sorry" but no he has to place blame on others and defend those that made the mistake (if it was not him) and blow it off as a personal attack. This shows a lack of Leadership that is becoming more and more evident daily, and we need this to end. We need a Leader, not a Woe is me, Everybody picks on me, Poor Pitiful Me, I am a victim here, to lead this Parish to the next proper level. We are never going to get to the next level with him in place. Or with the current Senior & Junior Warden's (his had picked puppets). In my many years I have dealt with persons that place the blame on other for their failures, and this is a clear sign of denial. It's Never their Fault it was because of, miscommunication, or you heard me incorrectly, or we did not clearly communicate that out, or a complete denial of ever having that conversation. When is it going to stop? When can we rid ourselves of this Rector and get a Priest in that will take the responsibility of a Rector and not create so many layers of committees, and groups, and other Isolationist Practices, that allows him to hide behind and ultimately make no decisions while he milks us for every dime we have in an overpaid Salary, and little to no work on his part. We are not the Church we were two (2) years ago when he came to All Saints, we are poorer, we have lost parishioners, whole families, standing in the community. I love this Church, and that is why I am writing this Blog. We need to do something before it is really too late and there is no way to repair the damage this Rector is doing to OUR CHURCH. Many of us want him gone, but (sorry to be blunt) many of you are too chicken to stand up for what is right and say what is wrong and work with us to get him removed. This is as much as your church as it is mine and some of you have been hear from birth, so stop hiding you heads and step up and do the right thing. Our Current Senior Warden did it with Fr. Jim! Why can't we do it with this one as he is far worst than anything Jim could have ever done (and I know why The Current Senior Warden pushed him out, and it was not for anything as bad as I have presented here in this Blog on Rector Momberg). "WHAT SAY YOU ALL SAINTS?" Are you willing to FIGHT for YOUR CHURCH? "WE NEED TO STOP ROLLING OVER AND LOOKING THE OTHER WAY" like it is not happening and is not effecting you, because it is. HOW MUCH MORE WILL YOU TAKE?
Looks like someone failed to inform all the necessary persons in the Church about a Funeral at the Church, and there was a breakdown in communications to the person responsible for there being Flowers present. When confronted about this, the Rector Momberg (instead of stating, "I am sorry that you did not get the communication, I will correct this in the future, you are right in bringing this up and wanting it corrected") took a very argumentative position and a defensive posture on the subject. With it almost coming to a shouting match and his turning angry. Come on! Are you kidding me here? The Right thing to say was "Yes, you are right, you should have been informed, I am sorry" but no he has to place blame on others and defend those that made the mistake (if it was not him) and blow it off as a personal attack. This shows a lack of Leadership that is becoming more and more evident daily, and we need this to end. We need a Leader, not a Woe is me, Everybody picks on me, Poor Pitiful Me, I am a victim here, to lead this Parish to the next proper level. We are never going to get to the next level with him in place. Or with the current Senior & Junior Warden's (his had picked puppets). In my many years I have dealt with persons that place the blame on other for their failures, and this is a clear sign of denial. It's Never their Fault it was because of, miscommunication, or you heard me incorrectly, or we did not clearly communicate that out, or a complete denial of ever having that conversation. When is it going to stop? When can we rid ourselves of this Rector and get a Priest in that will take the responsibility of a Rector and not create so many layers of committees, and groups, and other Isolationist Practices, that allows him to hide behind and ultimately make no decisions while he milks us for every dime we have in an overpaid Salary, and little to no work on his part. We are not the Church we were two (2) years ago when he came to All Saints, we are poorer, we have lost parishioners, whole families, standing in the community. I love this Church, and that is why I am writing this Blog. We need to do something before it is really too late and there is no way to repair the damage this Rector is doing to OUR CHURCH. Many of us want him gone, but (sorry to be blunt) many of you are too chicken to stand up for what is right and say what is wrong and work with us to get him removed. This is as much as your church as it is mine and some of you have been hear from birth, so stop hiding you heads and step up and do the right thing. Our Current Senior Warden did it with Fr. Jim! Why can't we do it with this one as he is far worst than anything Jim could have ever done (and I know why The Current Senior Warden pushed him out, and it was not for anything as bad as I have presented here in this Blog on Rector Momberg). "WHAT SAY YOU ALL SAINTS?" Are you willing to FIGHT for YOUR CHURCH? "WE NEED TO STOP ROLLING OVER AND LOOKING THE OTHER WAY" like it is not happening and is not effecting you, because it is. HOW MUCH MORE WILL YOU TAKE?
This just in from Trinity Episcopal In KS!
I have it on a very good source that the Rector Momberg was involved in unethical practices at the Trinity Episcopal Church in Kansas. The issue revolved around the misuses of a Rectors Discretionary Fund. This fund as you all know is one that every Rector has to assist persons of need in troubled times, and is part of the Church Budget. It is funded from the Pledges given by the Parishioners, and as such comes directly from the membership. It is a trust placed in the hands of the Rector that he will be a Steward of these funds and use caution and discretion to assure it is properly dispersed. In the info I have, it has been learned that this Rector Momberg did not use it as designed and was caught red-handed for spending it on other things that were not part of the funds proper directive. This is in a word "Theft". In the outside world this constitutes termination, and possible criminal prosecution. But I guess that was not the case here and he was still called to be our Rector. I can't understand that we would still call him to be the Rector knowing this issue. In my book, "Theft is Theft" and once done there is always the chance it will happen again. This goes to Character and Trust, so with this now known the Character is even more in question, and Trust is out the window. If the current Senior Warden (who pushed out Reverend Jim) being so hell bent to have this questionable person come to All Saints as the next Rector, then I question the Senior Wardens decision making abilities. Clearly it was a decision that she ramrodded through to get him here, and that I do not agree with. We could have & can make a better choice. We should not have proceeded with his calling after learning of this, and I tell you all "The Search Committee, and Vestry knew of this all along". I also know of another ethical issue that has happened currently and that involves fraud. It is known that Fr. Tommy is the Assistant Rector, but did you all know that we have a different Assistant Rector? Incase you did not know that, let me say that Rector Momberg has presented to multiple organizations outside of this Parish the Assistant Rector of All Saints Church "HIS WIFE!" How about that All Saints? Never knew we had a new Assistant Rector did you? Yup, she has been presented at outside conferences and to a National Organization as the Assistant Rector of All Saints Church in Frederick Maryland. So, let's see what we have learned here:
- Accused of and found guilty of misappropriation of Funds as Rector of Trinity Episcopal Church Lawrence Kansas. ~ But we still called him to be our Rector. Way to go Senior Warden & Vestry.
- Has fraudulently misrepresented his Wife as the Assistant Rector of All Saints Church to outside organizations. ~ Fraud is a great thing to have in a Rector don't you think? Also, who paid for her trips with him to these meetings? Did he use his Discretionary Fund to pay for her attending, and her travel as well? One would wonder!
In closing; I think I have made a very good case in showing this Rector is not to be trusted, as we can question his ethical decisions currently and in the past, and we can add possible fraudulent representation to his skill set. Again, I Call For His Resignation/Termination Effective ASAP! "What Say You All Saints?" Had Enough? I know I and Many Others Have.
Friday, March 19, 2010
"Trinity Episcopal Church of Lawrence Kansas" Is there a Pattern to this Rector?
Interesting that I have done research on our Rectors History at one of his last Rector Positions. I have learned:
I quote from the Church its self:
1) "Several members of the parish had expressed concerns with the availability in times of need or crisis of Father Tom. Father Tom had also reviewed a record of transfers in and out of Trinity since January, finding that there had been no transfers in outside of new confirmands. Nine families / individuals had transferred out".
This is an interesting fact that they (Trinity Episcopal) had the same issue we currently have with Parishioners departing All Saints. Not because of the "NATIONAL CHURCH" as Fr. Momberg states. It is also stated that there where concerns that the Rector Fr. Tom was never around (available) in times of need or crisis. So Pattern One and two are established that he has and will continuously drive away Parishioners from any Church and now it is All Saints. That he is never around when needed or to be available in times of crisis as a Rector should be. Not a Coincidence I think. A Pattern of this Rectors History is being repeated hear at All Saints.
2) "By April of 1998, Father Momberg made a statement to the vestry that he recalled and emphasized that when he came to Trinity, he came with the intention of shepherding the parish through the transition from a pastoral model congregation to a program model, using the definitions as outlined by Arlin Rothauge. In so doing he would be a pastor to the parish leaders and an enabler so that the leaders might learn for themselves to be pastors to other parishioners. He had not expected that each parishioner would be able to have a personal relationship with the rector. He also spoke of the feeling of insecurity on the part of the parish staff, affecting every member of the staff, both paid and volunteer. The staff had felt that they were overworked and over criticized."
Ok, Paranoid Much? This is not the way I think this Church (Trinity) expected their called Rector to be. They expected the Rector to be a Shepherd to the WHOLE CHURCH, not a select list of hand picked followers (Like the Senior Warden, JR Warden, Committee Chairs, Vestry Members at Trinity or At All Saints as it is the case now) but to the whole Parish. Again he quotes another writer and Professor of Congregational Development. Why quote another person and not use your own words and do what is right? Why is this pattern very visible to me that this guy is not at all interested in Pastoring to the PEOPLE OF ALL SAINTS? He even showed signs then of conflict with Staff, Volunteers, Unpaid Staff, that clearly have come home to roost (Remember Great Hall Music Director Lynn?) at All Saints. I know for a fact that Staff has had issues in the same things at All Saints as what happened at Trinity "The staff has felt that they are overworked and over criticized." This Rings as a True Pattern of Behavior in my Book.
3) So Rector why not do this now at All Saints? ~ "Father Tom submitted his resignation to the Vestry at the January 10 meeting. He resignation would become effective April 30, 2000. The resignation was accepted by a unanimous voice vote!" So why do you not do us all a favor and "RESIGN LIKE YOU DID FROM TRINITY!" Allow us to move on as you did that Church and remove yourself from All Saints as the Rector. Use that education you got at the St. Luke's Hospital Chaplains Training Program to get the job you truly are called for. "What Say You All Saints, looks like a Repeating Pattern, and we need to nip it in the bud so we do not have to do what Trinity did. And I quote:
I quote from the Church its self:
1) "Several members of the parish had expressed concerns with the availability in times of need or crisis of Father Tom. Father Tom had also reviewed a record of transfers in and out of Trinity since January, finding that there had been no transfers in outside of new confirmands. Nine families / individuals had transferred out".
This is an interesting fact that they (Trinity Episcopal) had the same issue we currently have with Parishioners departing All Saints. Not because of the "NATIONAL CHURCH" as Fr. Momberg states. It is also stated that there where concerns that the Rector Fr. Tom was never around (available) in times of need or crisis. So Pattern One and two are established that he has and will continuously drive away Parishioners from any Church and now it is All Saints. That he is never around when needed or to be available in times of crisis as a Rector should be. Not a Coincidence I think. A Pattern of this Rectors History is being repeated hear at All Saints.
2) "By April of 1998, Father Momberg made a statement to the vestry that he recalled and emphasized that when he came to Trinity, he came with the intention of shepherding the parish through the transition from a pastoral model congregation to a program model, using the definitions as outlined by Arlin Rothauge. In so doing he would be a pastor to the parish leaders and an enabler so that the leaders might learn for themselves to be pastors to other parishioners. He had not expected that each parishioner would be able to have a personal relationship with the rector. He also spoke of the feeling of insecurity on the part of the parish staff, affecting every member of the staff, both paid and volunteer. The staff had felt that they were overworked and over criticized."
Ok, Paranoid Much? This is not the way I think this Church (Trinity) expected their called Rector to be. They expected the Rector to be a Shepherd to the WHOLE CHURCH, not a select list of hand picked followers (Like the Senior Warden, JR Warden, Committee Chairs, Vestry Members at Trinity or At All Saints as it is the case now) but to the whole Parish. Again he quotes another writer and Professor of Congregational Development. Why quote another person and not use your own words and do what is right? Why is this pattern very visible to me that this guy is not at all interested in Pastoring to the PEOPLE OF ALL SAINTS? He even showed signs then of conflict with Staff, Volunteers, Unpaid Staff, that clearly have come home to roost (Remember Great Hall Music Director Lynn?) at All Saints. I know for a fact that Staff has had issues in the same things at All Saints as what happened at Trinity "The staff has felt that they are overworked and over criticized." This Rings as a True Pattern of Behavior in my Book.
3) So Rector why not do this now at All Saints? ~ "Father Tom submitted his resignation to the Vestry at the January 10 meeting. He resignation would become effective April 30, 2000. The resignation was accepted by a unanimous voice vote!" So why do you not do us all a favor and "RESIGN LIKE YOU DID FROM TRINITY!" Allow us to move on as you did that Church and remove yourself from All Saints as the Rector. Use that education you got at the St. Luke's Hospital Chaplains Training Program to get the job you truly are called for. "What Say You All Saints, looks like a Repeating Pattern, and we need to nip it in the bud so we do not have to do what Trinity did. And I quote:
"A Healing and Reconciliation Council was established in February with nine members to examine and review all issues relating to healing and reconciliation of the parish." The Lord Knows we will need this once You the Rector Resigns ASAP!
Sunday, March 14, 2010
"Shepherd Of The Flock is not wanted by the Flock!"
In the bible, there are many references to the fact that "Christ" was the Shepherd of the Flock. He even told the Apostles that they were the Shepherd's of his Church. They were to watch over his followers like a Shepherd is to do with all the sheep. The work of a Rector is to do the same, no matter what. In this case if a sheep is lost or falls ill. The Shepherd is to bring them back, or nurse them back to good health through Honest Paryer. This is done in the traditional way of Visiting the Lost Sheep or meeting with them to see where he can help and offer his guidance. In the Case of Illness or Death, he is to be there to comfort and support as the Church Leader through Paryer or other means.
My friends in "Christ" this is not the case of the current Rector of All Saints. I can give you example after example where this Shepherd did not do any of the above, or where he simply did not care too show, or even speak with the involved individuals or showed up at the 11th hour and did his "Drive By Rector Thing". There re members in the Parish that have gotten so tired of his antics that they have told persons in the Church "Please do not tell the Rector Father Momberg that so and so is ill or having a rough go of it or is having conflict about coming to this Church" because they do not want him any where close and to have a Faux Presence/Visit. Is this a way for Parishioners to feel? If we do not want him at our times of need (Now Tommy, Deacon Tom, or Deacon Kay we do want), is this not a sign that he is not an effective leader or Rector? Why have him as the Rector of All Saints (sucking up a huge Salary etc...) if no one wants him in their time of need, which is a PRIMARY DUTY OF ANY PRIEST? Rector Momberg, Please Step Down so we can get a REAL RECTOR/Shepherd for this Flock of All Saints. "What Say You All Saints?"
My friends in "Christ" this is not the case of the current Rector of All Saints. I can give you example after example where this Shepherd did not do any of the above, or where he simply did not care too show, or even speak with the involved individuals or showed up at the 11th hour and did his "Drive By Rector Thing". There re members in the Parish that have gotten so tired of his antics that they have told persons in the Church "Please do not tell the Rector Father Momberg that so and so is ill or having a rough go of it or is having conflict about coming to this Church" because they do not want him any where close and to have a Faux Presence/Visit. Is this a way for Parishioners to feel? If we do not want him at our times of need (Now Tommy, Deacon Tom, or Deacon Kay we do want), is this not a sign that he is not an effective leader or Rector? Why have him as the Rector of All Saints (sucking up a huge Salary etc...) if no one wants him in their time of need, which is a PRIMARY DUTY OF ANY PRIEST? Rector Momberg, Please Step Down so we can get a REAL RECTOR/Shepherd for this Flock of All Saints. "What Say You All Saints?"
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
"Where is the Rectors Annual Report?"
Let's see I am old and I forget things, but I remember that the Rector started his Lecture (I mean report) with a statement to include this:
"My report will be in the form of a traditional “State of the Parish” address at our Annual Meeting. You will be able to find copies of my report around the buildings, and on the parish website (www.allsaintsmd.org). For now, please know that I feel honored and privileged to begin another year with you!"
So, I am curious as to where this copy of his full "Rectors Report" is located. I have looked on-line as the indication above directs. But I only see the 10-Steps and nothing else. WHY? We need to see the full report on-line or in full documentation form as PROMISED by the Rector. But wait, this Rector never has been able to keep a promise in the past and continues to change his mind. Or as he likes to continuously say "There must have been some Communication error" to everything that forces him to MAN-UP and do what's right. Stop Telling Untruths, give us what you promised in the February 2010 Annual Meeting Rector. It's put up time and you need to distribute this Lecture (I am sorry "Report") as promised in your opening Statement. One last thing, for you to say "For now, please know that I feel honored and privileged to begin another year with you!" We do not reciprocate the feelings, and know that we are looking to number your days with us as you need to Please Step Down As Rector of All Saints. To allow us to truly find a REAL RECTOR and not a POSER. "What Say You All Saints?"
Sunday, March 7, 2010
"Where do we Stand as A Church?"
We were a Corporate / Resource Size Church prior to this Rectors arrival. We are not that size any longer. We have lost 25% of our Parishioners, we are now at the Program Church Level according to the Dioceses info below (if I read the info correctly). How do we go from being one of the Larger Churches in the MD Dioceses, to a Program Church? Easy, allow (and continue to allow) the Rector to do the things he and the Senior Warden are doing. Drive away beloved Families by the rate of 12.5% per year over the last two (2) years. That is how you shrink. Now the bigger issue comes into play. Since we are no longer a Corporate / Resource Church we need to reduce what we pay (Per The Dioceses info below) to reflect the correct pay. So, as I see it this Rector needs to take a Pay Cut of about $45 - $50,000.00 to be in-line with the current size of this Parish and to be in-line with the Dioceses 2010 pay structures. Since he is not Leading us using no visible Leadership Skills, an Ability to Drive Parishioners away, No Real Vision for this Church, I say another $15K should do the trick on top of the $45-$50K to keep in line with his obvious lack of Skills and to fairly pay for what we are getting. Rector - How about a reduction of let's say $55K to be fair, since you have not lived up to your part of the Contract, as this is what most Businesses do with Contracted Professionals. You Produce Less you get paid less. With that reduction we could clear up the carried over $36K budget deficit from last year and have a possible balanced budget! "What Say You All Saints?"
| Church Type | Family | Pastoral | Transitional | Program | Corporate / Resource |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average Sunday Attendance | Less than 70 | 70-140 | 141-225 | 226-350 | Over 350 |
| Total Assessable Compensation Medians and Ranges | |||||
| Median TAC | $61,500 | $66,600 | $84,000 | $99,400 | $124,400 |
| TAC Range | $49,800 - $83,900 | $59,180 - $84,100 | $63,800 - $98,300 | $86,700 - $108,400 | $106,800 - $136,400 |
"Luke 13:1-9"
Ok, I am not a theologian and never played one on TV. But this reading today hit me hard and placed many things in perspective.
1There were present at that season some that told him of the Galilaeans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.
2And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galilaeans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because they suffered such things?
3I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
4Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?
5I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
6He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.
7Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?
8And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:
9And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.
So I ask a simple question:
With all the dung being placed around by this Rector and Senior Warden over the last two (2) years. Why has this Fig Tree (Rector) not produced any Tangible Fruit in this Parish? Clearly NONE that I nor others can see! So, we have given it (his tenure) longer than the gardener gave the Fig Tree to produce Fruit. It is time to "Cut it (The Rector) down (remove him as Rector); why cumbereth it the Parish?" In other words "It is time to remove this poor Performing Tree (the Rector Fr. Tom Momberg at All Saints) from our vineyard (All Saints Parish). "What Say You All Saints?" Are you up for some uprooting and starting anew with a new Priest that will bear the true fruit we all need in this Parish?
1There were present at that season some that told him of the Galilaeans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices.
2And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galilaeans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because they suffered such things?
3I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
4Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem?
5I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.
6He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none.
7Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground?
8And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:
9And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.
So I ask a simple question:
With all the dung being placed around by this Rector and Senior Warden over the last two (2) years. Why has this Fig Tree (Rector) not produced any Tangible Fruit in this Parish? Clearly NONE that I nor others can see! So, we have given it (his tenure) longer than the gardener gave the Fig Tree to produce Fruit. It is time to "Cut it (The Rector) down (remove him as Rector); why cumbereth it the Parish?" In other words "It is time to remove this poor Performing Tree (the Rector Fr. Tom Momberg at All Saints) from our vineyard (All Saints Parish). "What Say You All Saints?" Are you up for some uprooting and starting anew with a new Priest that will bear the true fruit we all need in this Parish?
Saturday, March 6, 2010
"The Chicken Little Sermons"
We all know the Chicken Little Story, and how he ran around proclaiming that the Sky was falling. So when I hear Sunday after Sunday (even out side of Lent) that we all doomed. I liken this to Chicken Little. Too many Sundays I sit in the Church Service only to hear this Rector Preach a Gloom & Doom Sermon. Or a Poor Pitiful is me Sermon, then we get a vaudeville show Sermon between he and his wife, that was painful.
Why is every Sermon he Preaches so Dark and gloomy? We live in a world now that many people have conflict in their lives involving Jobs, Money, Social Injustice, and other daily issues that we need the Church to show us "We are loved, and that Christ is the Path we need to follow" but more importantly to show us through the Gospel Readings Christ states through me all things are possible. Giving Hope to all that trusts in him and his Father. Rector you need to lighten up, a constant diet of Doom & Gloom Sermons is a poor diet as it has no substance in which Christ is shown as the way, yet you portray us all as Sinners. Yes, "WE (I) am (are) Sinners", I get that part but give us the "Light Of Christ" for Peter's sake. The Sky Is Not Falling, despite what it looks like in your unreal world. "What Say You All Saints?"
Why is every Sermon he Preaches so Dark and gloomy? We live in a world now that many people have conflict in their lives involving Jobs, Money, Social Injustice, and other daily issues that we need the Church to show us "We are loved, and that Christ is the Path we need to follow" but more importantly to show us through the Gospel Readings Christ states through me all things are possible. Giving Hope to all that trusts in him and his Father. Rector you need to lighten up, a constant diet of Doom & Gloom Sermons is a poor diet as it has no substance in which Christ is shown as the way, yet you portray us all as Sinners. Yes, "WE (I) am (are) Sinners", I get that part but give us the "Light Of Christ" for Peter's sake. The Sky Is Not Falling, despite what it looks like in your unreal world. "What Say You All Saints?"
Thursday, March 4, 2010
STOP THE PRESSES! Oh My, We Have a Vision!
You have got to be kidding me with this one right Rector? I mean, to say "Our Vision is Jesus!" Can I clue you in on a little secret, come close now I do not want you to misunderstand or say I miss-communicated this to you "BUT OUR VISION HAS ALWAYS BEEN JESUS!" What poem book did you get this from? After two years at our Church, earning a huge unjustified and overpaid Salary, this is the best you can come up with, "Our Vision is Jesus!" I want my money back, as my dead Grandmother could have come up with that in less time and for far less money. It is such a revelation, Not! You see about 2000+ years ago the Son Of God (Jesus Christ, came into this world by way of the Virgin Mary) came down to Earth, and became man to save us and Die on the Cross for our Sins. Since then the ministry he started (with 12 other holy men) "Christianity" has had but one Vision "Be Like, and follow Christ Jesus in every thing we say, think and do. To seek the kingdom of Heaven and our eventual reward of being with the trinity (God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ), God the Holy Spirit) for eternity!" So two years of not having a Vision, and all of a sudden out of the Heavens Above, it hit you like a Lighting Bolt, "Our Vision is Jesus!". What was it a slow bolt from China?
People of All Saints, this is another attempt at Blowing Smoke, Diversions made to have you look away from the actual issues here, Quick Look over there is that Jesus? (I am sorry), can you find the Queen of Spades and win $10. Call it what you like it is just plain old Smoke and Mirrors to look like he (and I am sure the Senior Warden) is actually got our Vision down pat. Interesting fact, he would never tell any one he had a Vision for All Saints, or if he did, he was not ready to share it with us or something like that in the past. We at All saints Expect, no wait, we demand that a clear Vision from our Rector be one that clearly, let me repeat my self in case you did not read it right, C L E A R L Y shows where this Church is going to be in the next 1, 3, 5, 10, 20 years in respect to:
People of All Saints, this is another attempt at Blowing Smoke, Diversions made to have you look away from the actual issues here, Quick Look over there is that Jesus? (I am sorry), can you find the Queen of Spades and win $10. Call it what you like it is just plain old Smoke and Mirrors to look like he (and I am sure the Senior Warden) is actually got our Vision down pat. Interesting fact, he would never tell any one he had a Vision for All Saints, or if he did, he was not ready to share it with us or something like that in the past. We at All saints Expect, no wait, we demand that a clear Vision from our Rector be one that clearly, let me repeat my self in case you did not read it right, C L E A R L Y shows where this Church is going to be in the next 1, 3, 5, 10, 20 years in respect to:
- Christian Formation with some one (not the Rectors Wife) in tune to our true needs.
- Our Spiritual Journey that all must make and the opportunities being offered to all who seek that Journey.
- The Youth of Our Church (our future) and growing that Program
- How we will GROW (not shrink) our Parish Family, as you the Rector have accomplished on your own so far in the past two (2) years?
- What we are truly doing to supply the Current Parish Members and Future Members those things they seek in a Church Home.
- Our commitment to the Community of Frederick, and the Anglican Communion which we are all a part of.
Why are we paying for a Musician?
Not sure who paid for this person to play (what might be confused for appropriate music) in the Great Hall Service today 2/28/2010. But they should stop as they clearly have no clue what they are doing! Is the phrase "Oh Daddy (Rector/Senior Warden) you paid way too much for that performance!" ringing any bells? The music was not enjoyable, and at times the instrument used was so annoying that I and many others would rather have listened to a howling cat than what this person was playing. It was also inappropriate to have this sound played during the reading of the Psalm and during the Prayers. What a joke! We need to ask for our money back, or have the Rector reimburse the Church for this Poor Choice. You all know if Lynn was still here we would not have had this poor music inflict that much pain at one service. "What Say You All Saints?"
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Per Canons of the Diocese of Maryland the Vestry of All Saints needs to process CANNON 4-120 Of the Dissolution of the Pastoral Relation
Ok, I have had a few Cups Of Coffee today and yes this is another Posting. However, I think we need to call on the twelve (12) Elected (by the Parish Membership) Vestry Members to inact:
CANON 4-120 Of the Dissolution of the Pastoral Relation
Per the Canons of the Diocese of Maryland we ("The Members of All Saints Parish who elected you the Vestry") call on the Vestry of All Saints to start the Process to disolve the Pastoral Relationship between Fr. Momberg and the Parish/Vestry of All Saints Episcopal Church in Frederick Maryland in the Diocese of Maryland. Ok now it's out there, let's Get-R-Done!
Tell Us Rector "In Truth what happened in PA & KS!"
To Rector of All Saints Episcopal Church - What Actually happened at:
Saint Mark's Episcopal Church
4701 Old French Road
Erie, PA 16509
814-868-9704
In February 1986, the Rev. J.L Hamblin was installed as Rector and continued in that capacity until August 1989. The Rev. Thomas A. Momberg served as rector until February 1995. In the records there was much more detailed info on past Rectors but yours and your predecessor are so short. Why is that Fr. Tom? What were the reasons you departed or (if asked) to Step Down? We do not think it was to take an Assisting Position in another Parish, since that would be a career step backwards. Please tell us what did happen in PA ? This time no smoke and mirrors.
How about at this Church Rector Momberg? -
Trinity Episcopal Church
1011 Vermont Street
Lawrence, KS 66044
785-843-6166
What happened here, again what were the reasons you departed or (if asked) to step down as Rector? We do not think again it was to take an Assisting Priest Position in another Parish, since that would be a career step backwards. Please tell us what did happen in KS ? This time no song and dance routine to throw us off.
So, let me ask this - Is it just me or is there a pattern here that should have been fully investigated by the search Committee, which might have shown a real reason not to call this person as our Rector. Thus Saving All Saints Parishioners the pain that we have come to bear over the last two (2) years? "What Say You All Saints?" Your Thoughts?
A Review that needs to happen! (Not Behind Closed Doors!)
Late one evening - I (was brushing up on my light reading) reviewing the Diocesan WEB Site and came across many documents that show how things should proceed in the interaction between the Rector and the Parish/Vestry.
SECTION G - MUTUAL MINISTRY REVIEW
The Rector, Wardens and Vestry agree to an annual discussion and mutual review of the total ministry of the parish, in order to:- Provide the Rector, Wardens and Vestry opportunity to assess how well they are fulfilling their responsibilities to each other and to the ministry they share. Let us the People of All Saints Tell you ALL how well you are or not doing, step up and be held accountable!
- Establish goals for the work of the parish for the coming year. Not happened yet and per the Current Rector he is not willing or ready to share his vision except to say "God's Shalom". This is not a Vision!
- Isolate areas of conflict or disappointment which have not received adequate attention and may be adversely affecting mutual ministry. If this had happened then this Blog Site would be history, and all the Parish Family Members that have left would come back with others not departing as they are in droves!
- Clarify expectations of all parties to help put any future conflicts in manageable form. See #3 above! This Rector is not and has no Management/Leadership Skills to attempt this, as it has been clearly shown time and time again.
- A mutually agreed upon third party shall be engaged to facilitate the mutual ministry review process. Ok! But in an open forum having a independant third party involved and not the Rectors Spiritual Advisor (Rev. Smoot (sp?) Sorry) that was in for the White Washed version last time. We need this so they can see and hear the issues first hand and not get a white wash version from the Rector and Senior Warden. We ask "Do you the Rector and Senior Warden have the fortitude to stand up to this kind of scrutiny?"
Funny thing! There is a big process for a Rectors Review to happen annualy. But no where is it shown to state "In Seculsion"! This Rector needs to have a Review by those that count, "US" not a Stacked Vestry, with a Senior Warden that defends him with out (what is obvious) question, but an honest and open revew of this Rectors tenure with this Church Family. What say you All Saints? What are they hiding? Where is your voice? When do we say ~ "Enough is Enough!
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
What is our ROI (Return On Investment) for having this Rector?
This was sent to us by another concerned Parishioner of All Saints: (we will post them All Pro Or Con)
"As we have not seen any ROI over the past two (2) Years or more that he has been with us. Let me expound: As we all know this parish as many in the Episcopal Communion are seeing a slight reduction in membership. This Parish was on a downward slide years ago with the last Rector, and the many changes that occurred during the Interim as well as the National Church have contributed (very little) to that decline. But the Overall impact of the National Church has so much less impact on local Churches, and in fact most local Episcopal Churches are showing a growth, contrary to our decline. But we have not seen any growth sine we got the new Rector. In fact we have seen a larger decline and in (many) circles it is discussed that he is not helping matters at all but in fact causing further issues, with his being at All Saints."
What Say You All Saints? Let's Hear Your Voice!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
We ask that the Vestry appoint a currently formed Committee to:
To look into this Rectors Tenure at All Saints and possibly examine his NOT being the Best Fit for Us as a Parish Family due to his inability to grow this Parish and Lead us in all aspects of the word. We feel that he has Stacked the Vestry (including the Senior Warden) in his favor as well as many Committees to do his bidding and that the only current Committee worthy of doing this job of review should be the Worship Committee, Worship Team or what ever they are called, as they have the fortitude to look at what is working and not in our Spiritual needs and attempts to fix it. After all loosing Parishioners is a big part of our not filling that need and that comes from the Rector and his Leadership or in this case lack of. This Committee who ever they are should be allowed to look into this Rectors Tenure unfettered by any current Vestry Member, Senior Warden or other current Committee Member; and see if this needs to continue to be a Partnership or not. You see some of us believe that you all are so in his back pocket along with the other stacked committees that you do not have the fortitude to do this. So we shall see, because some of us think you will white wash this and not have the guts to allow this Worship Team (whatever they are called) to do this independently.
What a Joke of a Parish Meeting!
So let's recap this poor attempt to do the find the Pea in the cup game. A Sing Along that made the Rector look like a Three Ring Circus Leader. A Poor Attempt to kill time. Then there was the "Rectors Report", a poor use of quality paper and oxygen. This was a lecture and not a report. This clearly was another time killer. No place did we hear any vision for this Church, what he is doing to move this Church forward. In fact all he did was blame everyone else (including the National Church, Gay's, Lesbian's, and Women) for the decline in Our Churches Membership. The National Church has little effect on a local Churches Membership, in fact the local Churches grow despite the National Church as they provide what the Parishioners need in a Church. Unlike this Rector who is in denial about everything, and blames everyone else for all the problems. Thank the Lord above for one All Saint's member who had the fortitude to ask for and get the approval for a continuance meeting to be held to discuss the issues facing this Church and to get the Rector and his Senior Warden to MAN-UP about what is going on. I for one hope to see many persons there asking all the hard questions. In my humble opinion this meeting was intended to have a lot of SMOKE & MIRRORS, to take up the time with the drool called "The Rectors Report", create a bait and switch, and run out the clock. Well, one Person saw through all this and stepped up to the plate and hit it out of the park placing the Rector and Senior Warden on Notice that we are not done with this yet and are not going away.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Absent Rector (Drive By Rector)!
He is never around (in the office or otherwise) and is always on Vacation, or "Out of the Office". He needs to be here and if he is not willing to be here to take the leadership role as the Rector then let him go to a position like Hospital Chaplin. How are we expected to go to the next level as a Church when the Driver of the Bus is not even on the BUS? What good is in that? Our investments in his move up to MD and our paying other expenses we have possibly paid for trips back to Memphis (possibly), his housing allowance with a perfectly good Rectory in place he could have lived in during his transition and saved us some housing allowance cost. And his Salary, which we find to be too high. With all the expense and salary we still see a decline in Membership, unhappy Parishioners, and not giving us any return on this expensive investment. People are walking away and this could be stopped by his removal.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
He stated during a recent Sermon that he was a Rector at another Church.
Did I (we) sleep through this part of his background? He said there he had issues very similar to the ones we bring to your attention. Why did you all call this person to be the Rector of this Church if you knew of these issues? Did you speak to this other Church and see what the issues were there? Did you do due diligence, in order to get the best person for our Parish and allow us to get an ROI with this person? Did you have to beg him a second time to come to All Saints and Sweeten the Pot with Financial incentives to lure him to MD? Once he said no then you should have moved on and searched more, not beg him to come. He makes very questionable statements to and about Parish Members ~ At times those have been questionable and border on unprofessional for a person in his position. He has also made derogatory statements to members of this Parish and when approached about it basically “Blows it off” as if he is oblivious to the statements or the effect they have on Parish Members. In our book this is not what we expect in a Rector or a Priest. The lack of leadership and his destructive nature - In other words, his actions and words are not what we want in a Rector & not in Spiritual Leader.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Confusing messages to many different persons
This Rector has a History of telling one person one thing then going completely in an opposite direction with out any clarification as to why or any reasons to the change. This has lead to many persons to not trust him as well as think he speaks out both sides of his mouth and not one side is truthful in any shape way or matter. He promises but fails to deliver ~ Multiple times there have been conversations with members that have lead them to believe he wanted them to be part of a bigger Committee, Project etc… only to have it all pulled away and these persons left out in the cold, and other persons given the opportunities. Better known as favoritism or Stacking the Deck to avoid any confrontation or objections to any decisions he might make. Puppet Committees. Yes this includes the Vestry, Senior Warden (hugely) & no; I did not stutter.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
A Call For the Removal of Father Tom Momberg Rector Of All Saints Episcopal Church Frederick MD.
Hello! And welcome to our web blog. We Have A RED DOOR on the front of our Church (All Saints Episcopal Church Frederick MD.) representing the "All Are Welcome" philosophy of the Episcopal Church. The way we see it is our current Church stands in the community of Frederick MD (due to the Rector, Father Tom Momberg) a broken and divided Church, loosing Parish Family Members right and left. We’re a group of concerned Parishioners who love our Church and feel our Church is being systematically dismantled from with in. As one of the oldest Churches in Frederick MD, we have a long history of Community involvement. Our Image is one of good standing in the community in the past, but this has changed. The current Rector has effectively caused us to loose face in Frederick, through his actions in the community & in the Parish. We see that many things have been done and continue to be done that do not reflect the true nature of our Church, and that many loved fellow parishioners have departed our parish community because of this Rector and will not return till his departure. The departed families are not going to other denominational churches! They are attending worship at other Episcopal Churches in the area. We Need Your Help! We need your voice to be heard! So we can follow correct Church policy in the removal of this current Rector. Please join this effort and take back our Church! We need to start the healing process and call a Rector that will be a true leader of this lost flock. Come back often so you can check out our progress and to see what other concerned parish members have to say. We also welcome those that have differing opinions, as we "Welcome All" no matter what.
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