November 9, 2007

connecting the Community of Christ staff community

Thanksgiving Staff Worship

A Thanksgiving staff worship will be held on Monday, November 12 at 4 p.m. in the Temple sanctuary. As we celebrate the bounty of this season, you are invited to bring donations for the Community Services League to the service or to collection sites in the Auditorium west foyer or Temple break room. Community Services League provides a list of pantry and other winter needs located at http://www.communityserv.org/pantryneeds.htm.  

Open Enrollment

Open enrollment for benefits runs through November 30. A presentation about benefits was given during e-group meetings this week and can be found at http://www.CofChrist.org/broadcast/110707staffcast.asp.

It’s important that everyone evaluate their current benefits and even if no changes are necessary, it is still essential to log on to the self-service site and step through the enrollment process. If you have any questions, please e-mail hrm@CofChrist.org.

2008 Salary Increase

Good news!  We are pleased to inform you that there will be a 3% salary increase for 2008.  This increase will begin in January. If you have any questions about your compensation, please contact Human Resource Ministries at hrm@CofChrist.org.

New Facility Service Team Shirts

Check out the new look of our Facilities’ staff! Blue polo shirts have replaced the khaki woven shirts, which were last ordered in 1993. You’re looking great!

Messiah Performance

The Independence Messiah Choir and the Kansas City Symphony present the 91st annual performance of Handel's, Messiah. You are invited to experience this annual “Christmas gift to the city” on Saturday, November 17 at 8 p.m. Tickets are available at www.kcsymphony.org or by calling (816) 471-0400.

IHQ Decorating Party

Each enrichment group has been asked to decorate one of the Christmas trees in the public areas of the Headquarters complex on November 30. Many hands make light work and this is a good time to come together as we prepare for the holiday season. Refreshments will be served.

Christmas Tree Locations:

• WCLC and Support Enrichment Group – Temple Foyer
• Service Support Specialists Enrichment Group – World Plaza Foyer
• Ministry Support Specialists Enrichment Group – Auditorium West Foyer

Holiday Open House

Celebrate the season here at International Headquarters with a Holiday Open House on December 5, from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Food, fun, and fellowship will make this an afternoon to remember. More specific details will be in the next NewsPEACE. There will be no Enrichment group meetings on December 5.

Holiday Closings

International Headquarters will be closed on Thursday and Friday, November 22-23 for the Thanksgiving (USA) holiday. The offices will also be closed during the Christmas break from Monday, December 24 through Tuesday, January 1.

Advent Worship

Please join us for a celebration of the advent season on Sunday, December 9 at 7 p.m. in the Temple sanctuary. This worship will feature the students and staff from the music department of Graceland University.  Voices and instruments will fill the Temple with glorious sounds, tunefully celebrating the season with sacred music and carols. This worship will be available as a live webcast and details can be found at http://www.CofChrist.org/broadcast/upcoming.asp. 

Yellow Pages

If you need a current copy of the Kansas City yellow page phone book, there are approximately 50 books in the Temple mail room that are free for the taking.

Severe Weather Procedures

As winter approaches in the USA, procedures are in place to ensure staff safety during severe weather. A decision to close the offices or delay the start of the work day will be made by 6:30 a.m. or 3:00 p.m. An updated message on the main International Headquarters phone line, 816-833-1000, will be available with the delay or closing information by 6:45 a.m. Please listen to the entire message to verify any delays or closings.