First baptist
elder extra
Below are all of the Elder Extra updates that have appeared in our Weekly Email Blasts, starting from most recent scrolling down to the first.
Elder Extra 5/18/2023 – Congregant Elder selection process
Greetings Church
Last January, we updated and affirmed, as a church, revisions to our Church Constitution and By-Laws. This letter may be familiar if you read the C&B document. As a congregation-led church, guided by scripture, we annually affirm new congregational-elders to serve and replace current elders rotating off the Elder Board. Our church Board is comprised of eight congregant-elders and two co-equal Lead Pastor-Elders. Brad Lauer is our only Lead Pastor-Elder and will be joined by the new Lead Teaching Pastor-Elder, when hired.
What follows, is a description of the congregant-elder affirmation process.
The Scriptures teach that the role of qualified elders in the governance of a local church is of paramount importance. Each year, we begin a process of seeking prospective elders to replace those who completing* their tenure of service at the end of the following August. In the New Testament, elder selection was initiated by church leaders.
So, each year, the elders and pastors of FBC compile a list of qualified men, whom they approach to see if any aspire to serve as elders. The New Testament also indicates that the congregation, then, publicly confirms and commissions those brought forward to serve as overseers/elders. Two important roles are at play when raising up and appointing elders in the local church,
1. The Holy Spirit’s Role in Raising up Elders.
This is primary. The Holy Spirit raises up elders to oversee God’s flock. “Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers” (Acts 20:28). The task is not to create elders or ultimately to elect them. It is to discern those whom the Holy Spirit has raised up within the congregation to lead. God governs his work in the local church by developing godly men and causing their emergence to be noticed in the context of the local assembly (I Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9). The evidence of the Spirit’s role in raising up an elder is seen in three main ways:
i. The Development and Manifestation of Christ-Like Character
ii. The Evidence of Ministry Skills, Wisdom, and Fruit
iii. The Desire and Heart to Lead
2. The Church’s Role in Recognizing Elders
The second phase in recognizing elders involves selection and public confirmation. It is an acknowledgment of the work that the Holy Spirit has already accomplished. (I Timothy 5:22; Acts 6:6; 13:3).
a) The elders recognize the need for new or additional elders.
b) The process is immersed in prayer.
c) The elders invite qualified men to consider serving as overseers.
d) The prospective elders are trained, interviewed, and examined.
e) The congregation is informed of the candidates for eldership.
f) Confirmation is given by congregational consensus.
g) Those confirmed are commissioned publicly to serve the church as elders.
We are presently engaged in this process, as men are now being trained.
In June, a nominating team comprised of members from the congregation, along with the two current elders completing their four-year tenure of service, will interview those who wish to be considered for eldership at this time. The nominating team will provide their recommendations to the current full elder board, and the elder board will present the official nominees to the congregation from the stage, in the lobby for two weeks, and by ballot for affirmation/confirmation in July.
Please pray with us for the Holy Spirit to lead throughout this entire process.
Thanks
The Elders: Glen, Steve (Sec.), Brad (Co-Lead (Exec) Pastor), Marlin, Al, Ron, Sanjeev (V. Chair), *Peter, and *Sheldon (Chair)
Elder Extra for 5/11/2023
Dear Church Family,
On April 23rd the “Dessert, Discussion and Prayer with the Elders” was attended by over 100 people. This was a good time for sharing and listening. If you made it, thanks for engaging!
If you missed the opportunity, we hope you will join our next get together, in a few months.
Today, we provide a short status report regarding the search for our next co-lead teaching pastor (LTP). The LTP, when hired, will join his co-lead, Brad Lauer, to lead the organization. Here are a few tidbits about the search:
- Our Vanderbloemen website post is still up and there are some applicants being vetted even now.
- Our online profile for the LTP position will be completely overhauled.
- We’ve had open conversations with VB about the results we’ve seen and options to improve.
- We have also asked for a contract proposal from another search firm. We will wait and see if we want to pursue this further.
- The elders, pastors and congregant interview team (CIT) have conducted some self-reflection and analysis of where we are at, as a church. The data collected has been shared with VB as a way to better inform our needs in the next season of ministry.
- A live meeting with Vanderbloemen has been scheduled in the near future, for a relaunch of our search process.
Elder Extra Update for 4/27/23
Hello Church Family,
Thank you to those that attended our “Elder Dessert and Discussion” in the gym last Sunday night!
Pallet Shelter Update
Many have asked the status of the pallet shelters that sit on our property. An update was shared at the Dessert, Discussion and Prayer with the Elders last Sunday evening. The county stopped funding on these shelters in June of 2022. In April of 2022 we began the process of looking for a new partner to help oversee, place families, and run a program to help families move from homelessness to finding permanent housing. We met with many organizations throughout our community. Gabe Poiechowicz and Everyone’s Village became the best option. Everyone’s Village has the connections and relationships with the county to vet families, the infrastructure to implement programming and oversite, and a passion to partner with churches and other organizations to make the name of Jesus known. The struggle has been obtaining the correct type of insurance coverage that will give all parties the type of coverage needed. Gabe Poiechowicz and FBC searched through all their resources, no one would cover the type of insurance needed for this partnership to continue as we desired. With the blessing of all the elders, we have decided for the shelters to be moved to Everyone’s Village site so these shelters can be used to help individuals. However, we have both committed to seek other options for insurance as to bring the shelters back to FBC.
Please continue to pray for ways FBC can partner and lead in helping such families in crisis. Pray that insurance companies will develop plans that we can obtain to partner with others in ministry. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Brad Lauer
Lead Executive Pastor/Elder
bradl@fbceugene.com
Elder Extra Update for 4/20/23
Hello Church Family,
Don’t forget that this Sunday, April 23rd, you’re invited to another “Elder Dessert and Discussion” at 6 pm in the gym. We will have childcare available. So, after dinner, come join us for dessert and we will bring you up to speed on the topics the Elders and the Church are working on…Ministry Praise Report, Teaching Pastor Search, Finances and other topics. We will break out into small groups so you can have time to ask questions and pray with an Elder as well. Hope you all can make it!
Elder Extra Update for 4/13/23
Hello Church Family!
What an amazing Easter Celebration for our Risen King Jesus! Thanks to all who had a hand in the weekend of busy events! From our prayerful, acoustic, Good Friday service, to our Easter Egg-stravaganza, with over 700 people filling their easter baskets, having lunch and receiving and an inspirational message from our very own Pastor Dave Mertz! Sunday, we were blessed with over 1500 people attending our joyous Easter services. It’s such a blessing to see everyone’s smiles filling the Church halls again!
On that note, we want to invite you to another “Elder Dessert and Discussion” on Sunday, April 23 at 6 pm. We will have childcare available. So, after dinner, come join us for dessert and we will bring you up to speed on the topics the Elders and the Church are working on…Ministry Updates, Teaching Pastor Search, Finances and other topics. We will break out into small groups so you can have time to ask questions and pray with an Elder as well. Hope you all can make it!
Ron Ewert, Elder
Elder Extra Update for 4/6/23
Church Family,
Thank you for your continued generosity to the gospel mission of First B. Over the years, First B has given and given and given again to support missions, ministry, special projects, etc. Throughout Scripture, giving, tithing, and offerings are said to bring blessings of God and to show God our true heart. We give as an act of worship. So, thank you for giving sacrificially, especially during our time of transition and the anticipation of our future.
Currently as a church we are giving to 95% of our weekly budget needs. In other words, we are behind in our budget needs by almost $100,000. Please consider what God is leading you to give as your act of worship to Him each and every week. We have multiple ways of giving including the boxes around the worship center, mailing a check to the office, giving online by going to our website, and even text to give.
To set up on-line giving either for a one-time gift or a reoccurring gift follow the below directions:
- Go to www.fbceugene.com
- Click the GIVE button and select DONATE
- Select “Give to Gospel Work”
- Fill out the form.
If you need any help in setting this up, please call the Church Office and ask for the Business Office.
“Honor the Lord with your possessions and with the first fruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.” Proverbs 3:9-10
Growing Together,
Brad Lauer
Lead Executive Pastor
Elder Extra Update for 3/16/23
Hello Church!
We wanted to make you aware of a title change the board approved for our dear Lead Pastor, Brad Lauer. As you know, we are currently under a “dual-lead” model. When Brad was hired, his title was Lead Operations Pastor. In the past year, the board has concluded that Brad’s giftings extend far beyond budgets, human resources, and facilities. He has vast experience in ministry development and implementation as well as team leading and Church management.
We are now looking for another Co-Lead Pastor to join Pastor Brad. The elder board, who oversees the Lead Pastors, has changed Brad’s title to Lead Executive Pastor. Brad has done an amazing job leading our church through challenging times, has loved the staff well and has a passion for the Mission and Vision of our church. This won’t affect anything Brad is already actively doing, but it honors his giftings as a Co-Lead Pastor and clarifies to candidates seeking the Lead Teaching Pastor job who they will be working with.
Keep praying for the Search Team and Elders every day for the next Lead Teaching Pastor to join our team of dedicated and gifted pastors here at First B!
Thanks!
Ron Ewert, Elder
Elder Extra Edition for 3/9/23
Topic: Update on Search for the Lead Teaching Pastor
Dear Church,
There is cause for thanks and celebration. For 170 years, First B has enjoyed God’s blessing. We pursue our common vision to see tens of thousands of people from all nations come to know Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Over the last six weeks, the women (5) and men (3) of the Congregant Interview Team and the congregant elders (8) completed the interview process starting with four candidates. Three of these men came from the west coast and one from the south. All four were initially interviewed, 45-90 minutes each, via zoom. After which, the CIT members provided their insights and observations to the EB during a joint four-hour meeting at the church.
Considering all the elder and CIT input, the elders invited three of the four men to a 2.5 hour, in-depth second zoom-interview. After accepting the invite, one man sent a very warm withdrawal letter stating that he and his wife felt that their current ministry work was not complete. The remaining two final candidates were interviewed last week. On Tuesday night there was another joint meeting of the elders and CIT. After this meeting, the Elders considered all that had been learned through research, sermon samples, interviews, ratings, rankings, and the sharp and wise observations of the CIT. The Elders have unanimously concluded to not move either candidate forward.
While we are disappointed that we don’t have our final candidate, we remain confident God will provide in His time. We are so thankful to these wonderful CIT servants who have invested more hours than we may ever know. We can all be very proud of their great work, insight, and prayerful wisdom. We are thankful for the collective prayer spoken in groups and classes on Sundays, in Life Groups weekly, and many individuals daily. Please continue praying and praising.
Looking ahead, we continue to be blessed by our Interim teaching pastor, Keith Potter. On Sunday, Lead Operations Pastor Brad Lauer extended the Right-hand of Fellowship with several more wonderful men and women who now call First B home. Our adult and children attendance continues to grow. More and more members and attenders are finding areas to serve and be served. It’s beautiful.
The Board will meet soon to discuss next steps in our search process. There are options to consider including engaging a new search firm, refreshing the LTP position profile, and others. Stay tuned for more updates on email and Sunday announcements. Feel free to reach out to an elder in the lobby with comments and questions and/or email elders@fbceugene.com.
Blessings,
Glen, Al, Steve, Marlin, Ron, Sanjeev, Peter, and Sheldon
Elder Extra Update – 02/23/2023
Hi Church Family,
Thank you for your prayers for our church, our staff, one another, and for those serving our body and community. Here is a quick update on our search for our next Lead Teaching Pastor (LTP). The Congregant Interview Team (CIT) interviewed four candidates and the elders reviewed each of the recorded Zoom interviews. After discussion with the CIT, the elders have decided to move three of the candidates on to the next round of interviews with the CIT and the Elder Board. These interviews will be completed by March 7. We ask for your prayers as we seek to listen to God’s voice and trust his timing for our next LTP.
Blessings to you
Glen, Steve, Marlin, Al, Brad, Ron, Sanjeev, Sheldon, and Peter
Elder Extra Update – 02/09/2023
Dear Church,
C&B Vote:
Thank you for your participation in the review and affirmation process of the updated FBC Constitution and Bylaws. The revised C&B passed with 95.1% yes votes.
LTP search:
This week four men are being interviewed for Lead Teaching Pastor. Questions are being asked and answered. Notes are being written. Documents are being read. For each candidate, multiple sermons are being listened to by the entire congregant interview team and elders. Prayers for wisdom and clarity are on going. Thank you all for corporately praying for our church, our pastors and staff, our growing numbers of us all serving to fill ministry needs, for our newest members, the newly baptized, and the yet to know Jesus.
Thanks from the FBC elders.
ELDER EXTRA update for 01/19/23
Dear FBC Church Family
We are so thankful for all who make up the 1stB family/community. We are His church.
Brad Lauer, Lead Operations Pastor/Elder, recently reported that we’ve grown weekly/monthly in Sunday attendance over the last 18 months. This is very exciting as we worship our Lord and Savior with more voices. Youth group is steady and growing. Our missionaries are being cared for. Next week, the CIT and Elders will hear a presentation of Lead Teaching Pastor Candidate profiles followed by congregant and elder interviews in February.
AND, we are not waiting for the new LTP to arrive, the ministry continues. Our pastors and many others are giving of their time, talents, and treasure in and out of the church, camp, and campus houses. Our vision has not changed: to see tens of thousands from our church family (locally and globally) of all nations standing ready before Christ! We continue to find ways to Live, Love, and Lead like Jesus in the children’s ministry, youth group, college group, men’s and women’s ministries, Renewal, 1stB Cares, Senior Life, Missions, and in Life Groups throughout the community.
Over the last three weeks, we’ve all had the opportunity to examine and review proposed changes/edits to the church Constitution and Bylaws. During our two Q&A review meetings, on the 8th and 15th, approximately thirty folks attended from our church family where they voiced their appreciation and/or heart-felt concerns. We appreciate the hard questions and we hope the clarification provided, to certain sections, gave satisfactory context and rationale. Thank you for taking the time to read (fourteen pages!), review, prepare and participate in these meetings by asking questions and listening.
-
There are two additional edits added today (1/17/23). See image below and/or click the links to the:
On April 23rd the “Dessert, Discussion and Prayer with the Elders” was attended by over 100 people. This was a good time for sharing and listening. If you made it, thanks for engaging!
If you missed the opportunity, we hope you will join our next get together, in a few months.
Today, we provide a short status report regarding the search for our next co-lead teaching pastor (LTP). The LTP, when hired, will join his co-lead, Brad Lauer, to lead the organization. Here are a few tidbits about the search:
- Our Vanderbloemen website post is still up and there are some applicants being vetted even now.
- Our online profile for the LTP position will be completely overhauled.
- We’ve had open conversations with VB about the results we’ve seen and options to improve.
- We have also asked for a contract proposal from another search firm. We will wait and see if we want to pursue this further.
- The elders, pastors and congregant interview team (CIT) have conducted some self-reflection and analysis of where we are at, as a church. The data collected has been shared with VB as a way to better inform our needs in the next season of ministry.
- A live meeting with Vanderbloemen has been scheduled in the near future, for a relaunch of our search process.
Elder Extra Update for 4/27/23
Hello Church Family,
Thank you to those that attended our “Elder Dessert and Discussion” in the gym last Sunday night!
Pallet Shelter Update
Many have asked the status of the pallet shelters that sit on our property. An update was shared at the Dessert, Discussion and Prayer with the Elders last Sunday evening. The county stopped funding on these shelters in June of 2022. In April of 2022 we began the process of looking for a new partner to help oversee, place families, and run a program to help families move from homelessness to finding permanent housing. We met with many organizations throughout our community. Gabe Poiechowicz and Everyone’s Village became the best option. Everyone’s Village has the connections and relationships with the county to vet families, the infrastructure to implement programming and oversite, and a passion to partner with churches and other organizations to make the name of Jesus known. The struggle has been obtaining the correct type of insurance coverage that will give all parties the type of coverage needed. Gabe Poiechowicz and FBC searched through all their resources, no one would cover the type of insurance needed for this partnership to continue as we desired. With the blessing of all the elders, we have decided for the shelters to be moved to Everyone’s Village site so these shelters can be used to help individuals. However, we have both committed to seek other options for insurance as to bring the shelters back to FBC.
Please continue to pray for ways FBC can partner and lead in helping such families in crisis. Pray that insurance companies will develop plans that we can obtain to partner with others in ministry. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me.
Brad Lauer
Lead Executive Pastor/Elder
bradl@fbceugene.com
Elder Extra Update for 4/20/23
Hello Church Family,
Don’t forget that this Sunday, April 23rd, you’re invited to another “Elder Dessert and Discussion” at 6 pm in the gym. We will have childcare available. So, after dinner, come join us for dessert and we will bring you up to speed on the topics the Elders and the Church are working on…Ministry Praise Report, Teaching Pastor Search, Finances and other topics. We will break out into small groups so you can have time to ask questions and pray with an Elder as well. Hope you all can make it!
Elder Extra Update for 4/13/23
Hello Church Family!
What an amazing Easter Celebration for our Risen King Jesus! Thanks to all who had a hand in the weekend of busy events! From our prayerful, acoustic, Good Friday service, to our Easter Egg-stravaganza, with over 700 people filling their easter baskets, having lunch and receiving and an inspirational message from our very own Pastor Dave Mertz! Sunday, we were blessed with over 1500 people attending our joyous Easter services. It’s such a blessing to see everyone’s smiles filling the Church halls again!
On that note, we want to invite you to another “Elder Dessert and Discussion” on Sunday, April 23 at 6 pm. We will have childcare available. So, after dinner, come join us for dessert and we will bring you up to speed on the topics the Elders and the Church are working on…Ministry Updates, Teaching Pastor Search, Finances and other topics. We will break out into small groups so you can have time to ask questions and pray with an Elder as well. Hope you all can make it!
Ron Ewert, Elder
Elder Extra Update for 4/6/23
Church Family,
Thank you for your continued generosity to the gospel mission of First B. Over the years, First B has given and given and given again to support missions, ministry, special projects, etc. Throughout Scripture, giving, tithing, and offerings are said to bring blessings of God and to show God our true heart. We give as an act of worship. So, thank you for giving sacrificially, especially during our time of transition and the anticipation of our future.
Currently as a church we are giving to 95% of our weekly budget needs. In other words, we are behind in our budget needs by almost $100,000. Please consider what God is leading you to give as your act of worship to Him each and every week. We have multiple ways of giving including the boxes around the worship center, mailing a check to the office, giving online by going to our website, and even text to give.
To set up on-line giving either for a one-time gift or a reoccurring gift follow the below directions:
- Go to www.fbceugene.com
- Click the GIVE button and select DONATE
- Select “Give to Gospel Work”
- Fill out the form.
If you need any help in setting this up, please call the Church Office and ask for the Business Office.
“Honor the Lord with your possessions and with the first fruits of all your increase; so your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will overflow with new wine.” Proverbs 3:9-10
Growing Together,
Brad Lauer
Lead Executive Pastor
Elder Extra Update for 3/16/23
Hello Church!
We wanted to make you aware of a title change the board approved for our dear Lead Pastor, Brad Lauer. As you know, we are currently under a “dual-lead” model. When Brad was hired, his title was Lead Operations Pastor. In the past year, the board has concluded that Brad’s giftings extend far beyond budgets, human resources, and facilities. He has vast experience in ministry development and implementation as well as team leading and Church management.
We are now looking for another Co-Lead Pastor to join Pastor Brad. The elder board, who oversees the Lead Pastors, has changed Brad’s title to Lead Executive Pastor. Brad has done an amazing job leading our church through challenging times, has loved the staff well and has a passion for the Mission and Vision of our church. This won’t affect anything Brad is already actively doing, but it honors his giftings as a Co-Lead Pastor and clarifies to candidates seeking the Lead Teaching Pastor job who they will be working with.
Keep praying for the Search Team and Elders every day for the next Lead Teaching Pastor to join our team of dedicated and gifted pastors here at First B!
Thanks!
Ron Ewert, Elder
Elder Extra Edition for 3/9/23
Topic: Update on Search for the Lead Teaching Pastor
Dear Church,
There is cause for thanks and celebration. For 170 years, First B has enjoyed God’s blessing. We pursue our common vision to see tens of thousands of people from all nations come to know Christ as their Lord and Savior.
Over the last six weeks, the women (5) and men (3) of the Congregant Interview Team and the congregant elders (8) completed the interview process starting with four candidates. Three of these men came from the west coast and one from the south. All four were initially interviewed, 45-90 minutes each, via zoom. After which, the CIT members provided their insights and observations to the EB during a joint four-hour meeting at the church.
Considering all the elder and CIT input, the elders invited three of the four men to a 2.5 hour, in-depth second zoom-interview. After accepting the invite, one man sent a very warm withdrawal letter stating that he and his wife felt that their current ministry work was not complete. The remaining two final candidates were interviewed last week. On Tuesday night there was another joint meeting of the elders and CIT. After this meeting, the Elders considered all that had been learned through research, sermon samples, interviews, ratings, rankings, and the sharp and wise observations of the CIT. The Elders have unanimously concluded to not move either candidate forward.
While we are disappointed that we don’t have our final candidate, we remain confident God will provide in His time. We are so thankful to these wonderful CIT servants who have invested more hours than we may ever know. We can all be very proud of their great work, insight, and prayerful wisdom. We are thankful for the collective prayer spoken in groups and classes on Sundays, in Life Groups weekly, and many individuals daily. Please continue praying and praising.
Looking ahead, we continue to be blessed by our Interim teaching pastor, Keith Potter. On Sunday, Lead Operations Pastor Brad Lauer extended the Right-hand of Fellowship with several more wonderful men and women who now call First B home. Our adult and children attendance continues to grow. More and more members and attenders are finding areas to serve and be served. It’s beautiful.
The Board will meet soon to discuss next steps in our search process. There are options to consider including engaging a new search firm, refreshing the LTP position profile, and others. Stay tuned for more updates on email and Sunday announcements. Feel free to reach out to an elder in the lobby with comments and questions and/or email elders@fbceugene.com.
Blessings,
Glen, Al, Steve, Marlin, Ron, Sanjeev, Peter, and Sheldon
Elder Extra Update – 02/23/2023
Hi Church Family,
Thank you for your prayers for our church, our staff, one another, and for those serving our body and community. Here is a quick update on our search for our next Lead Teaching Pastor (LTP). The Congregant Interview Team (CIT) interviewed four candidates and the elders reviewed each of the recorded Zoom interviews. After discussion with the CIT, the elders have decided to move three of the candidates on to the next round of interviews with the CIT and the Elder Board. These interviews will be completed by March 7. We ask for your prayers as we seek to listen to God’s voice and trust his timing for our next LTP.
Blessings to you
Glen, Steve, Marlin, Al, Brad, Ron, Sanjeev, Sheldon, and Peter
Elder Extra Update – 02/09/2023
Dear Church,
C&B Vote:
Thank you for your participation in the review and affirmation process of the updated FBC Constitution and Bylaws. The revised C&B passed with 95.1% yes votes.
LTP search:
This week four men are being interviewed for Lead Teaching Pastor. Questions are being asked and answered. Notes are being written. Documents are being read. For each candidate, multiple sermons are being listened to by the entire congregant interview team and elders. Prayers for wisdom and clarity are on going. Thank you all for corporately praying for our church, our pastors and staff, our growing numbers of us all serving to fill ministry needs, for our newest members, the newly baptized, and the yet to know Jesus.
Thanks from the FBC elders.
ELDER EXTRA update for 01/19/23
Dear FBC Church Family
We are so thankful for all who make up the 1stB family/community. We are His church.
Brad Lauer, Lead Operations Pastor/Elder, recently reported that we’ve grown weekly/monthly in Sunday attendance over the last 18 months. This is very exciting as we worship our Lord and Savior with more voices. Youth group is steady and growing. Our missionaries are being cared for. Next week, the CIT and Elders will hear a presentation of Lead Teaching Pastor Candidate profiles followed by congregant and elder interviews in February.
AND, we are not waiting for the new LTP to arrive, the ministry continues. Our pastors and many others are giving of their time, talents, and treasure in and out of the church, camp, and campus houses. Our vision has not changed: to see tens of thousands from our church family (locally and globally) of all nations standing ready before Christ! We continue to find ways to Live, Love, and Lead like Jesus in the children’s ministry, youth group, college group, men’s and women’s ministries, Renewal, 1stB Cares, Senior Life, Missions, and in Life Groups throughout the community.
Over the last three weeks, we’ve all had the opportunity to examine and review proposed changes/edits to the church Constitution and Bylaws. During our two Q&A review meetings, on the 8th and 15th, approximately thirty folks attended from our church family where they voiced their appreciation and/or heart-felt concerns. We appreciate the hard questions and we hope the clarification provided, to certain sections, gave satisfactory context and rationale. Thank you for taking the time to read (fourteen pages!), review, prepare and participate in these meetings by asking questions and listening.
-
There are two additional edits added today (1/17/23). See image below and/or click the links to the:
If you have questions, please reach out to any elder individually or by emailing elders@fbceugene.com
Absentee-ballots will be available starting Sunday 1/22/23 by request at the lobby Welcome Desk or the church office.
-
Our church-wide C&B affirmation vote will take place during each service Sunday 1/29/23.
Thanks from the Elders:
Glen Eickmeyer, Steve Toler, Marlin Schultz, Al Houck, Ron Ewert, Sanjeev King, Peter Shum, Sheldon Johnson, & Brad Lauer ( https://fbceugene.com/team/ )
ELDER EXTRA update for 12/29/22
FBC Family,
Happy New Year! We pray these last days of 2022 are filled with thankfulness and hope for the coming year. As a reminder, only one service on New Year’s Day (at 10:30am) and no community lunch, though we will be celebrating communion together as usual on the first Sunday of the month.
LTP: We are excited to announce and receive a presentation from Vanderbloemen search firm: the profiles of the final candidates for Lead Teaching Pastor will be ready late January. During the fourth week of January, the Congregant Interview Team and Elders will receive the presentation of candidates. We don’t know the number of candidates yet. Once completed and discussed the interviews will begin. Please pray for all involved including the candidates and their families.
C&B: As we mentioned the past two weeks, our FBC Eugene Constitution & Bylaws were last updated November 2019. Check out the Memo for highlights and rational for proposed updates.
Today, we have three documents available electronically and at the Welcome Center:
(1) an Executive Memo,
(2) the 2019 C&B with proposed changes shown in RED-letter and
(3) a clean copy of the proposed 2023 C&B document.
Please also add to your calendar two opportunities to discuss these changes with the elders: January 8th and 15th 12:00-1:00pm in the Gym.
New Year’s Blessings to you from the elders!
Ron, Glen, Marlin, Sanjeev, Al, Peter, Steve, Brad, and Sheldon
elders@fbceugene.com
ELDER EXTRA update for 12/22/2022
FBC Church Family,
Merry Christmas! We pray each of us may bless others and be blessed during this season. May we also find opportunities to invite family, friends, neighbors, and others to join you for Saturday candlelight services and Sunday Celebration service.
-
LTP: We are excited to announce and receive a presentation from Vanderbloemen search firm: The profiles of the final candidates for Lead Teaching Pastor will be ready late January. Somewhere around the third week of January, the Congregant Interview Team and Elders will receive the presentation of candidates. We don’t know the number of candidates yet. Once completed and discussed the interviews will begin. Please pray for all involved including the candidates and their families.
-
C&B: As we mentioned last week, our FBC Eugene Constitution & Bylaws were last updated 11/2019 and needed some updates. Today we are sharing an Elder Executive Memo that highlights the key changes and rationale. Click on this LINK to read the memo for yourself. Paper versions will be available at the Welcome Center starting 12/25.
Next Thursday, two versions of the C&B will be available to you: (1) the current C&B with Red-letter changes shown and (2) a clean copy of the proposed-C&B document. Please also add to your calendar two opportunities to discuss these changes with the elders: January 8th and 15th 12:00-1:00pm in the Gym.
Christmas Blessings to you from the elders!
Ron, Glen, Marlin, Sanjeev, Al, Peter, Steve, Brad, and Sheldon
elders@fbceugene.com
Elder Extra Update for 12/15/22
Dear FBC Church Family
Merry Christmas! And praise the King of Kings, always.
What a wonderful Christmas Concert last Sunday. We are so thankful for all those folks who served in worship and joy before, during and after those special services.
Informational teaser:
The Elder Board has completed provisional revisions to the FBC Eugene Constitution and Bylaws (C&B). Over the next four weeks, we will provide information and details weekly on this Thursday email and/or at our Sunday services.
NEXT Thursday, be on the lookout for the Elder Executive Memo of key C&B changes. After the review process, the congregational affirmation-vote will be on Sunday, January 15th.
Blessings to you from the Elders:
Ron, Glen, Marlin, Sanjeev, Al, Peter, Steve, Brad, and Sheldon
elders@fbceugene.com
Elder Extra Update for 12/01/22
Celebrations
There have been 12 Baptisms since September 2022. Amen!
Sunday attendance over the last year (10/2021 vs. 10/2022) is up on average nearly 200 people per Sunday.
We commissioned two global missionaries to the field with at least one other couple to be sent in 2023.
Ministry Update
First Steps Village, our pallet shelters, will be up and running with families very soon. FBC has partnered with Everyone’s Village to help with the placement of families and programming for First Step Village. The benefit for FBC is that since we are no longer partnering with the city or county, we will have more of an opportunity to connect with the families by loving them as Jesus would love them and inviting them into our church family. More information to come over the following weeks.
Financial Challenges
2021-2022 (last year)
Giving was short – $542,120 of budget
2022-2023 (this year)
September 1 through Nov 27 we are -$140,396 as compared to budget requirements. In other words, giving is at 82.75% of budget needs.
Prayerfully consider continuing to support our church and her mission as we take the Gospel of Jesus to a hurting and dying world.
Upcoming Business
The last revision to our FBC of Eugene Constitution and Bylaws (C&B) was November 3, 2019, just a few months before COVID. Much has changed within FBC. The Elder Board is working on final updates to the C&B for your review and vote of affirmation. We hope to present these changes in December or January to be reviewed and discussed before affirmation.
Thursday Email Blast 11/24/22
Church Family,
The Elders are thankful for His provision and His church. We pray for our local community and those who have not yet met Jesus. We are thankful for all who gather at 1stB, in Lifegroup living rooms, and our missionaries around the world. This week, each home or gathering may express thankfulness in different ways. How will you express thankfulness? We share in our thankfulness of God’s goodness and grace, family and friends, and for one another.
This is a short recap from last week. We are all thankful for time together during the “Dessert, Discussion, & Prayer” (11/13/22). One hundred forty members, attenders, elders and staff were in the Gym for presentations, small-group discussion and prayer.
“More communication please,” was a common statement and to that end here are some details around the other point of interest: the search for Lead Teacher Pastor.
Elder board determined that moving forward that the staff leadership structure will be headed by Co-Lead Pastors/Elders: Lead Operations (Executive) Pastor (LOP) and Lead Teaching Pastor (LTP)
-
The LTP position is vacant. Keith Potter is an INTERIM teacher for this time.
-
Brad Lauer, LOP, is directing the staff organization until his Co-lead (LTP) is hired.
-
Three LP Job Descriptions and related materials were re-written to accommodate the planned (two) Co-Lead Pastor structures.
-
The search went live on their site 10/21/22.
-
Please pray for the Congregant Interview Team and the congregant-elders to discern God’s man for our church. Al Houck (Elder), Sarah Luker, Gerrie Riihimaki, Miriam Jordan, Larry Seno, Jill Dickison, Rachel Christianson, and Jacob Jacobson.
-
The CIT provides important feedback and observations to the congregant-elders. The CIT members provide insights from and for different segments of the church family.
-
The congregant-elders will choose who will be interviewed and ultimately who will be presented to the congregation for evaluation and vote of affirmation.
To view the LTP candidate profile online, click this link: https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.vanderbloemen.com/job/first-baptist-church-of-eugene-lead-teaching-pastor-
Thursday Email Blast 11/17/22
The elders deeply appreciate the attendance and participation during the “Dessert, Discussion, and Prayer” last Sunday evening. We had a time of listening, sharing, caring, and praying.
One hundred forty folks were in the Gym for large-group, brief presentations on several topics, including the search process for Lead Teaching Pastor (LTP.) We then divided into seven small groups of 20 congregants per elder for more intimate discussions and prayer.
Thank you for coming! if you missed it, please join us next time.
We are still processing the many comments and suggestions to see opportunities to improve and communicate more effectively. A first step is to provide more regular updates in this Weekly Email Blast. Rather than waiting for bigger announcements over longer periods of time, we will provide some incremental updates that may, by contrast, feel repetitive at times.
To that point here’s a Lead Teaching Pastor search (reminder) update
- The Elder board determined that moving forward, the staff leadership structure will be headed by two Co-Lead Pastors/Elders: Lead Operations (Executive) Pastor (LOP) and Lead Teaching Pastor (LTP)
- The LTP position is vacant. Keith Potter is an INTERIM teacher for this time.
- Brad Lauer, LOP, is heading the entire staff organization until his Co-lead (LTP) is hired.
- Job Descriptions and related materials were rewritten, updated, and approved.
- Vanderbloemen search firm updated our information on their website.
- The search went live on their site 10/21/22. As of a week ago or so, approximately 15 applications had been submitted. They’re being vetted now along with receiving any additional applications as the process remains open until further notice.
- The Congregant Interview Team (CIT) members were presented by name and prayed for in each service last Sunday (11/13.) Please pray for them (see names on image below) and the congregant-elders to discern God’s man for our LTP. Congregant-elders include: Peter Shum, Ron Ewert, Sanjeev King, Al Houck, Marlin Schultz, Glen Eickmeyer, Steve Toler and myself, Sheldon Johnson.
- Al Houck, congregant-elder, is facilitating the CIT. The CIT and elders hope to receive from Vanderbloemen the top final candidate profiles in the near future. At that time we will begin to interview and narrow the field.
- The CIT provides important feedback and observations to the congregant-elders. They have insights from and for different segments for the church family.
- The congregant-elders will choose who will be interviewed and ultimately who will be presented to the congregation for evaluation and vote of affirmation.
- To view the LTP candidate profile online, click this link: www.vanderbloemen.com/job/first-baptist-church-of-eugene-lead-teaching-pastor-
Elder Extra Update for 12/01/22
Celebrations
There have been 12 Baptisms since September 2022. Amen!
Sunday attendance over the last year (10/2021 vs. 10/2022) is up on average nearly 200 people per Sunday.
We commissioned two global missionaries to the field with at least one other couple to be sent in 2023.
Ministry Update
First Steps Village, our pallet shelters, will be up and running with families very soon. FBC has partnered with Everyone’s Village to help with the placement of families and programming for First Step Village. The benefit for FBC is that since we are no longer partnering with the city or county, we will have more of an opportunity to connect with the families by loving them as Jesus would love them and inviting them into our church family. More information to come over the following weeks.
Financial Challenges
2021-2022 (last year)
Giving was short – $542,120 of budget
2022-2023 (this year)
September 1 through Nov 27 we are -$140,396 as compared to budget requirements. In other words, giving is at 82.75% of budget needs.
Prayerfully consider continuing to support our church and her mission as we take the Gospel of Jesus to a hurting and dying world.
Upcoming Business
The last revision to our FBC of Eugene Constitution and Bylaws (C&B) was November 3, 2019, just a few months before COVID. Much has changed within FBC. The Elder Board is working on final updates to the C&B for your review and vote of affirmation. We hope to present these changes in December or January to be reviewed and discussed before affirmation.
Thursday Email Blast 11/24/22
Church Family,
The Elders are thankful for His provision and His church. We pray for our local community and those who have not yet met Jesus. We are thankful for all who gather at 1stB, in Lifegroup living rooms, and our missionaries around the world. This week, each home or gathering may express thankfulness in different ways. How will you express thankfulness? We share in our thankfulness of God’s goodness and grace, family and friends, and for one another.
This is a short recap from last week. We are all thankful for time together during the “Dessert, Discussion, & Prayer” (11/13/22). One hundred forty members, attenders, elders and staff were in the Gym for presentations, small-group discussion and prayer.
“More communication please,” was a common statement and to that end here are some details around the other point of interest: the search for Lead Teacher Pastor.
Elder board determined that moving forward that the staff leadership structure will be headed by Co-Lead Pastors/Elders: Lead Operations (Executive) Pastor (LOP) and Lead Teaching Pastor (LTP)
-
The LTP position is vacant. Keith Potter is an INTERIM teacher for this time.
-
Brad Lauer, LOP, is directing the staff organization until his Co-lead (LTP) is hired.
-
Three LP Job Descriptions and related materials were re-written to accommodate the planned (two) Co-Lead Pastor structures.
-
The search went live on their site 10/21/22.
-
Please pray for the Congregant Interview Team and the congregant-elders to discern God’s man for our church. Al Houck (Elder), Sarah Luker, Gerrie Riihimaki, Miriam Jordan, Larry Seno, Jill Dickison, Rachel Christianson, and Jacob Jacobson.
-
The CIT provides important feedback and observations to the congregant-elders. The CIT members provide insights from and for different segments of the church family.
-
The congregant-elders will choose who will be interviewed and ultimately who will be presented to the congregation for evaluation and vote of affirmation.
To view the LTP candidate profile online, click this link: https://www.vanderbloemen.com/job/first-baptist-church-of-eugene-lead-teaching-pastor-
Thursday Email Blast 11/17/22
The elders deeply appreciate the attendance and participation during the “Dessert, Discussion, and Prayer” last Sunday evening. We had a time of listening, sharing, caring, and praying.
One hundred forty folks were in the Gym for large-group, brief presentations on several topics, including the search process for Lead Teaching Pastor (LTP.) We then divided into seven small groups of 20 congregants per elder for more intimate discussions and prayer.
Thank you for coming! if you missed it, please join us next time.
We are still processing the many comments and suggestions to see opportunities to improve and communicate more effectively. A first step is to provide more regular updates in this Weekly Email Blast. Rather than waiting for bigger announcements over longer periods of time, we will provide some incremental updates that may, by contrast, feel repetitive at times.
To that point here’s a Lead Teaching Pastor search (reminder) update
- The Elder board determined that moving forward, the staff leadership structure will be headed by two Co-Lead Pastors/Elders: Lead Operations (Executive) Pastor (LOP) and Lead Teaching Pastor (LTP)
- The LTP position is vacant. Keith Potter is an INTERIM teacher for this time.
- Brad Lauer, LOP, is heading the entire staff organization until his Co-lead (LTP) is hired.
- Job Descriptions and related materials were rewritten, updated, and approved.
- Vanderbloemen search firm updated our information on their website.
- The search went live on their site 10/21/22. As of a week ago or so, approximately 15 applications had been submitted. They’re being vetted now along with receiving any additional applications as the process remains open until further notice.
- The Congregant Interview Team (CIT) members were presented by name and prayed for in each service last Sunday (11/13.) Please pray for them (see names on image below) and the congregant-elders to discern God’s man for our LTP. Congregant-elders include: Peter Shum, Ron Ewert, Sanjeev King, Al Houck, Marlin Schultz, Glen Eickmeyer, Steve Toler and myself, Sheldon Johnson.
- Al Houck, congregant-elder, is facilitating the CIT. The CIT and elders hope to receive from Vanderbloemen the top final candidate profiles in the near future. At that time we will begin to interview and narrow the field.
- The CIT provides important feedback and observations to the congregant-elders. They have insights from and for different segments for the church family.
- The congregant-elders will choose who will be interviewed and ultimately who will be presented to the congregation for evaluation and vote of affirmation.