The Emmitsburg Council of Churches met on September 10 in the St. Anthony's Parish Hall. Fr. James Hannon opened the meeting with a brief service of scripture, song and prayer dedicated to peace on the eve of the first anniversary of 9/11. Bill Derbyshire, Interagency CASS Coordinator for the Catoctin region explained the role of CASS for area families and schools and the community. He also noted the success of the Emmitsburg Summer Day Camp program and informed the Council that there are remaining funds that will be used for next year's program.

Bill Wivell talked to the Council about his experiences with the "Christmas in April" program. He suggested that the Council might want to take on such a project, but the Council countered with a proposal that its efforts be used to create a permanent site for the Community Food Bank which must leave the Community Center in September. The Food Bank will be temporarily housed at Elias Lutheran Church, but plans on renting space from the Pregnancy Center at the east end of Emmitsburg. The space needs much renovation and the Food Bank will be paying rent for that space. Phyllis Kelly and Bill Wivell will inspect the premises to determine what is needed. The Council voted to open a line of credit to the Food Bank in the amount of $1,000.00.

Phyllis Kelly reported that the CROP WALK will be held on Sunday, October 20 at 1:30 p.m. Due to security regulations at the Fire Academy and EMS, several members of the Council will explore the possibility of holding the CROP WALK on a property near Motter Station Road.

The Parish Nurse Task Force is moving forward with its plans. Articles of Incorporation have been written and application made to the state. An informational breakfast of community and organization leaders will be held on Monday, September 23 at St. Catherine's with Betsy Minnick and Jodee Rudy presenting the concept of the Parish Nurse. The Council voted to call the program "Caring Hands of Emmitsburg: An Interfaith Caregiving Ministry."

The Thanksgiving Community Service will be held on Thanksgiving morning at 10:00 a.m. at Incarnation United Church of Christ. Reverend William O'Brien, the new pastor of St. Joseph's Catholic Church, will be asked to bring the message.

A nominating committee was appointed to present a slate of officers for the coming year at November's meeting.

Members of churches interested in being part of the Christmas church tour during the holiday season will meet in the near future to make plans.

The next meeting of Emmitsburg Council of Churches will be held on November 12 at 7:00 p.m. at the United Presbyterian Church.