A Church Report Card by J. Smith It is the end of November, and the holiday season is upon us. The nation survived another election and praying still for the mercies of God on us as we go about a new administration in January. There is a spiritual battle for the soul of our people as much as ever. Also, this month, Olivet received its report regarding its ministry evaluation. On Nov. 6, Dr. Jim Waters of the Santa Rosa Baptist Association came and presented his findings after conducting interviews and reading our bylaws and other pertinent documents. During his report, he presented Olivet's strengths and weaknesses. (A copy of his report can be picked up in the church foyer.) In regard to finances, he admitted there is a tightening of all financial areas, even as ministry costs are rising due to inflation. (The church has tried offsetting some of these rising costs this past year, by moving Wed. and Sun. night services to a smaller facility in efforts of reducing the power bill. Also, this past year spending freezes were implemented to cut extra spending and conserve resources.) Dr. Waters did a tour of our facilities and was pleased with how well it had been maintained considering the age of the buildings. He also was glad for the Benevolence outreach, but he did point out that it was only one day a month and what was Olivet doing those other 30 days to witness to the community? Prayerfully, the next step for Olivet is personal evaluation and seeking God's will for Olivet: ministries and new pastor. This evaluation reminds me of Revelation 2-3. I have heard these passages taught as a Report Card for the Church. For instance, Ephesus - Christ appreciated their efforts and their endurance, but He pointed out that their one major problem was abandoning their Lord and their Love. The solution to fix it, Repent and Return. What was the result if they didn't? Christ would come and remove their lamp- the church would cease. And today, we know this church is no longer in existence. There are four more churches Christ had to correct: Pergamum compromised with the world; Thyatira permitted false teaching; Sardis looked busy but was dead; and Laodicea the people ruled and not Christ. He was outside knocking to come in. There were only two churches with no rebuke who passed with flying colors - Smyrna - the persecuted church and Philadelphia- the dependent faithful church. As we give thanks for all God's blessings this next week, may we walk worthy of Him our first Love who loves us. Business Meeting @ a Glance The November business meeting had... No Old Business New Business - Financial Committee: The treasurer presented the budget for 2025. There was much discussion regarding the new line item - Benevolence. Also, Pastoral salary was set with a portion set aside for offering a new pastor. There would be a Cost of Living Increase added to the staff salary for 2025. As it came from the committee, no second was required. One opposed. Motion passed. Also, Pastor Chip wanted Olivet to set a goal for the Lottie Moon IMB Christmas offering. Shirley P. made the motion of $6,000. 2nd was made by Charles G. Motion passed. Church Clerk presented a letter for Philip W. who requested his letter be moved. Motion was made by Jerrell T. and 2nd was made by Irene T. Being no other business, the meting came to an end. Motion made to adjourn by Lois F. and 2nd was made. Meeting came to a close at 7:15 pm. Announcements: Mens' Breakfast - every Tuesday 8am at McDonald's Ladies Morning Out - Dec. 17 10:30am Deacon Meeting - Dec. 17, 6 pm Business Meeting - Dec. 18, 6 pm Food Pantry - Dec. 21, 9-11 am Prayer Needs: * God would lead Olivet to their next full time pastor
* Israel and IDF - God's protection and victory over their enemies *US Military in the Middle East *God's Mercy on the USA
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