On Sunday, February 12, FBC’s Church Council—which includes all ministry and administrative team leaders, church moderator, treasurer, clerk, and pastoral staff—gathered for a special meeting requested by Pastor Julie and Pastor Eric.
After a responsive prayer, the pastors presented a proposal that the church engage a congregational consultant to help First Baptist assess current realities; take a fresh look at FBC’s vision, mission and values; and create an action plan with accountability.
Pastor Eric described the genesis of the proposal, including congregational participation that hasn’t rebounded following the pandemic; the need for engagement with newcomers, especially young adults and families; and the diminished size of the pastoral staff amidst a construction project and capital campaign.
Council members discussed the need for a consultant, including experience with prior consultants. They also considered options for funding such a consultant and the importance of congregational agreement and engagement in the process.
The council reached a consensus that engagement of a consultant would be a beneficial investment for First Baptist Church. Moderator Rod Coates will assemble a small team to assess the specific proposal from Pastors Julie and Eric along with other options and report to the full council on March 19. The team will be led by council members Dave Ryder, a trustee of the First Baptist Foundation and Christi Harlan, church trustee and clerk.
Afterward, Pastor Julie said, “This is holy work. This journey has the potential to be a spiritually transformative experience for us all as we remain open to the leadership of the Holy Spirit.”