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Customary for MAFA Thanksgiving Committee
I. Purpose and Scope
Purpose: To outline the procedures and standards for the process of decorating the altar at Thanksgiving.
Scope: This document applies to all members of MAFA and any other person handling this process.
II. Budget
No current budget restrictions.
III. Work Instructions : Advising staff, proper placement of traditional items, and storage
2 weeks prior: Email Chris Falkenstein, Director of Facilities, to ensure sanctuary will be open the Saturday before Thanksgiving.
One month prior: Email Manny Fimbres, Communications Manager, a final copy this years theme for publication in the Messenger and/or bulletin.
Confirm order with Quita Remick, Director of Operations, if greens are desired for the altar vases. Additional stems may be ordered.
Confirm with Karen Owens, head of Altar Guild, all dates the Thanksgiving Team will be in the Sanctuary.
Traditional items on the altar:
-
- 2 Large Thanksgiving Candles
- 2 Brass Followers
- 2 Large Wood Disks- To protect the wood of the altar table. Mandatory only when decor items (pumpkin, greens, etc) will be placed on the altar table
Supply totes labeled “MAFA” are located in the closet north of the choir. These contain florist wire, scrap 2 x 4, duct tape, scissors, microfiber clothes, needle nose pliers, wheat, and burlap.
Space must be allowed on the altar table for the bible stand and other necessities.
The Thanksgiving candles must be tested to ensure they can be easily lit. Extinguish post test.
A vacuum, broom and dustpan must be bought in.
The altar and surrounding areas must be left in immaculate condition upon completion.
IV. Restrictions
No silk, plastic flowers or balloons allowed.
V. Directions for retuning the altar to original:
Altar Guild requirements for replacement of the candelabra include using the coaster on the altar:
Measure 2 coaster lengths from the short edge of the altar and place each candelabrum directly in the center. There are 3 candleholders on each candelabrum. The shortest branch with a candle is placed facing the congregation.
The “willow” branches (no candles) face the choir.
The altar and surrounding area must be left in immaculate condition after the removal of all items.
VI. Primary Contacts
| Role | Contact | Phone | |
| Primary | Donna Piscopo | (480) 544-7505
|
donnabridging@gmail.com |
| Team Member | Marian Green | (480) 747-7074 | marianmgreen@cox.net |
| Team Member | Marilyn Black | (602) 692-8129 | ‘tnsraqtoo@me.com’ |
VII. Relevant Links
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- Set up date (insert link)
- Thanksgiving Day (insert link)
- Tear Down (insert link)
- Advent (insert link)
VIII. Review and Updates
This customary should be reviewed annually by the group to ensure it remains current and accurate.
Revision 1 12/22/2025