2018 has been an historic year at First Baptist Church. We have had record attendances in Connect Groups, Worship Services, and new members while building facilities to carry us far into the future.

When I reflect over these and several other significant events, I am moved to gratitude to God for His goodness and appreciation for the faithfulness of our people.

We have made significant decisions that have us poised for the future while functioning with amazing unity and harmony.

This Wednesday night we will have our fourth Congregational Meeting for this year. As a church governed by the congregation, we need you to be present as we follow our by-laws for the governance of the congregation.

These are items which will be dealt with this week:

First, we will discuss the budget for the coming year. Our Finance Ministry Team is proposing a budget of $6.7 million dollars for 2019. As you have heard me say, this year (2018) and next year (2019) have been and will be challenging years for us budget wise. Getting into our new facilities has challenged us with four items: debt retirement, utilities, property and casualty insurance, and maintenance.

Each successive week has increased my confidence that we will be able to meet all of our obligations while continuing to carry out ministry. Over the next few weeks I will attempt to give more specifics of what we are trying to do and why I am becoming increasingly confident about these two budget years.

Second, we will receive and vote on the slate of deacons who will serve in 2019-20.

Third, we will vote on those who will serve in various ministry teams.

Finally, I use the Congregational Meetings to share my vision for the church.

We hope to see you Wednesday night at 6:30 PM in the church Fellowship Hall.