Semi-Annual Member Meeting
The Semi-Annual Members Meeting took place on Sunday September 24, 2023. There were reports given on the many different diverse ministries in Chicago UBF. Through these reports we could see that God is doing a great thing among college campuses in the Chicago area.
In the agenda of this meeting there was a thorough financial report given on the churches finances, offering given, management of church buildings, and how ministries are supported financially. Elder Ivonne L, went over the church by-laws, the importance of by-laws and how they are actively used in church today. Our bylaws are rules that govern our church operation and must meet federal laws for non-profit status. As a church annually we review and renew our bylaws to be more relevant and fuctional. As we grow we need to meet federal laws and adapt to the changing church environment.
In this meeting they also broke out into small group discussions divided into 8 topics: Finance, Bylaws, Member Care, Buildings, Parenting/Young Families, Faithful 1:1 Bible Study and Discipleship & Ministry Direction. Members shared openly about their cares and concerns for bible study, fishing and their personal faith and prayer topics about serving ministries. These small groups created an open environment for people to talk and share their opinions. There were a diverse range of ages attending these group discussions, the youngest being in high school, to the oldest; seniors.
Quote taken from the small group discussion on the topic of Ministry Direction:
“In the bible, Jesus said when you pray, don’t pray like the Pharisees but like the tax collector. The Pharisees prayed based on upward mobility and the tax collector downward mobility. So whatever we do, we should keep in mind that this way is downward mobility. It is the way to live for the glory of God…To reflect the humility and grace of Jesus.” – Member 5
Finally there were ministry reports shared: World Mission by John S, Worship Service & Music Ministry by P. Kevin A, Sunday Music Ministries by Joshua J, Outreach & Bible Study Ministry presented by each fellowship and their leader. Family Ministry by Tim M, HBF Ministry by Steven & Ivonne L, Parenting Ministires by Christian & Grace P, Prayer Ministry by Dr. Elijah P, Hospitality & Visiting Ministry By Monica S, Church wide events, and prayer topics for the church as a whole.
