Page 28 - Annual Meeting, 2019

ECM, Annual Report, 2018
Helmut Linne von Berg

Our Episcopal Church Men meet every second Friday of the month at 7:30 A.M. in the back
room of Horne’s Restaurant at the intersection of US 301 and US 17. Attendance varies
between 7 and 15 men who begin the meeting with a discussion of Aunt Jemima’s Pancakes to
the latest Chinese landing on the dark side of the moon and anything in between. After many
problems have been identified and solved, the process of ordering a scrumptious breakfast
begins. At this time our waitress has already put two coffee pots on the table and brought in
the hot chocolate to those men who need something sweet early in the AM. Typical breakfast
order consists of two eggs (any style), bacon and/or sausage, home fries with extra sauteed
onions and peppers, toast and a selection of jams. Some of our hard working men occasionally
consume a country fried steak with all the trimmings; often take half of it home to their loving
spouse.

When pouring the third cup of coffee, the time for our devotional has arrived. Suddenly there
exists a more somber mood as Ken Pogue presents his well prepared homily. Usually Christian
current or historic issues are identified and a discussion evolves. There exists an atmosphere of
mutual respect and trust; men do not hesitate to identify and talk about their personal spiritual
journeys with all its ups and downs. We thank Ken for his leadership regarding the group’s
devotional!

The ECM’s main outreach programs are discussed and plans are made at the appropriate time.
The programs are:

1. Need a ride? Call any of the men.
2. Feed the needy for Thanksgiving; 5 households in 2018.
3. Prepare a Christmas for three families with children; this includes food, clothing and
toys.
4. Maintain liaison with Caroline County Social Services to identify truly needy people.
5. Any time during the year provide canned meats to Social Services if and when funds are
available.

All our meetings close with the Lord’s Prayer.

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