United Church of God, an International Association

Council of Elders Quarterly Meeting Report

Milford, Ohio

Monday, August 12, 2024

Chairman Tim Pebworth called the morning session to order at 9 a.m. Eastern, and the meeting was opened with prayer by Deputy Chairman, Rex Sexton. There were ten Council members present. Scott Ashley joined via Zoom. Jorge de Campos was not able to attend due to being in the hospital.

Mr. Pebworth began with a few personal opening comments, thanking those who assist with the Council of Elder’s meetings. He then asked the Deputy Chair, Rex Sexton, to present the Council Code of Ethics. After reading through the document, Mr. Sexton turned the floor back over to the Chairman.

Mr. Pebworth then presented the minutes from the May meetings, as well from a special Council meeting that was held in June, for approval. Both were unanimously approved. He then reviewed the week’s agenda, and it was also unanimously approved. Mr. Pebworth then turned the floor over to Rick Shabi for the President’s report.

President’s Report: Rick Shabi

Mr. Shabi opened by commenting on the latest United States Regional and International Pastoral conferences. He expressed that they have been very educational and inspiring. He made a few personal comments about the international areas they recently visited and then quoted Proverbs:27:23Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds., “Be diligent to know the state of your flocks…” He explained that this two-year process was exactly that, learning about the needs and expectations of the pastors and members in both the United States and internationally. He expressed his appreciation for the opportunity to meet with the majority of the pastors in the United States and around the world.

Mr. Shabi talked about how this most recent international trip, which impressed upon him that we are truly a worldwide family. He acknowledged the value of our differences and, upon personally observing them, gained a richer comprehension of God’s ongoing work He is carrying out to prepare a people for the Millennium.

Mr. Shabi then quoted 1 Corinthians:12:18But now hath God set the members every one of them in the body, as it hath pleased him. and John:14:2In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. to emphasize that God has placed His people where He desires them to be and wherever they are, they each have a place in this work. He pointed out that we have many struggles as we seek to do the work and, as the administration and the home office, it’s our responsibility to help provide with what is needed to do the work.

Mr. Shabi concluded his introductory remarks by mentioning that those whom he has met on this trip have touched his heart. They are a people committed to preaching the gospel, desiring unity, having a shared purpose, and truly caring for the people of God.

He stated that it’s evident that in the last few years God has been working in the greater Asia area. He said that although we have done nothing in Pakistan, there is something moving, and a work is being accomplished. He briefly talked about Bangladesh, Mizoram (a province in India), Sri Lanka, Myanmar - reminding us about the ongoing persecution and challenges they all are facing. He said that Satan is trying to stop this work, but it is evident that God is bringing these people together and that He has been filling in the blanks that we have not touched.

Mr. Shabi then shared a few highlights and statistics about the brethren and the areas he recently visited. As he talked about the various regions, Mr. Shabi used a PowerPoint presentation to display maps of the areas.

Thailand

• Visited with Leon and Gloria Sexton and learned what they are doing with the Legacy Institute. Leon reported that although this effort has not produced as many results in Thailand as desired, it has in Myanmar and other surrounding areas.
• Mr. Shabi mentioned that since Thailand currently has freedom of religion, it serves as a staging ground for the surrounding areas. Mr. Shabi stated that although there is not a lot happening in the region, he feels that there is still an open door to start a work.

South Africa

• Mr. Shabi stated that there is a great zeal among the brethren he meet in Johannesburg, and they desire to engage in doing the work in South Africa. He mentioned that this region has many resources that will be beneficial to accomplish that work. However, Director of Operations, Viv Botha reports that the local postal service is not reliable which may require moving forward with a digital platform magazine so that what they receive stays relevant with the challenges that they face.

Although Mr. Shabi didn’t visit Malawi, Zimbabwe, Zambia, or Angola, he was able to met with a few pastors/representatives who came to the conference in South Africa.

Malawi and Zimbabwe

• This region is very poor with only one pastor serving in Zimbabwe, and three in Malawi. Many of the brethren do not have cell phones and most have limitedaccess to the internet. It was pointed out that due to the many different languages through the region, there are translation delays for the Beyond Today magazine. It was also mentioned that the length of the magazine contributes to the delays as well. Despite the many challenges, Mr. Shabi reported that there is a vigor and a zeal with the people to do their part in spreading the gospel.

Zambia and Angola

• The new senior pastor, Ed Dowd, has done a great job bringing order to the country, stirring a new focus and sense of unity among the brethren. At this time, we have five pastors serving in Zambia. There will be a Feast site in the area this year, which is causing a great deal of excitement among the brethren.

• Mr. Shabi reported that four pastors from Angola came to the conference in South Africa. He mentioned that the Angolan brethren are organized and well known in the community. He said that even the young adults are very active in spreading the word of God. He noted that it’s obvious that there is a commitment within these people.

Mr. Shabi then mentioned that there has also been interest and some contact from Burundi (300+ members that are teaching what we teach), Madagascar, Tanzania (recent inquiry), and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (recently received a letter from a group requesting to begin fellowshipping with UCG). Mr. Shabi also mentioned that in Namibia there seems to be a possible opening in this country. He noted that there is actually a member in South Africa from Namibia which may help in exploring that opportunity. However, it does produce some challenges as there are at least eighteen different languages spoken between Zambia and Namibia.

Australia

• Mr. Shabi was able to visit both the Melbourne and Brisbane congregations as well as be there for the retirement of Bill Bradford Sr. The conference in Brisbane was well attended with a lot of issues discussed and he was able to spend some time with the local leadership to discuss needs.

Mexico, Central and South America

• A conference was held in Mexico City and was attended by most pastors from Mexico, Central America and South America.
• Guatemala has over 200 members; they have many young adults who are very active. They are very talented.
• Chile and Argentina – Very talented with the use of the internet, producing content, and very advanced with AI.

Liverpool, England

• Met with Davidson Lay Beh – Member and leader of one of the three groups in Myanmar.
• Mr. Shabi noted the protests in the area.

As he finished updating the Council on his travel report, Mr. Shabi mentioned that it has been exciting to see the commitment and zeal that the international brethren have. He mentioned that when the excitement is stirred, many will commit.

Mr. Shabi then concluded his President’s report by making a few observations and comments about the moral decline we see around the world. He stated that we have to be a light so that people can find the answers to the questions they are seeking. He mentioned that we still have much to learn about the most effective way to get the message out there.

He mentioned that the world has seemed to change drastically since they left on the six-week trip. It shows how the power of the media can influence the world, but the truth is a much more powerful message that must go out. He then talked about media efforts and the documentary-style program that we are considering. He mentioned that the new website, with its improved search engine, is soon to be available, not just for the members, but for the world. He closed by stressing that we have an opportunity, we have a work to do, and we need help!

Mr. Shabi then opened the floor for questions and comments.

Operation Manager Reports:

Ministerial and Member Services (MMS)—Steve Myers

Mr. Myers began by quoting Isaiah:43:19Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert., “Behold, I will do a new thing, now it shall spring forth; shall you not know it? I will even make a road in the wilderness and rivers in the desert.”

He pointed out that “new” doesn’t always mean brand new, but fresh or from a new perspective. He mentioned that this came to mind as he considered the potential that we can see in the Church. He also quoted Ephesians:2:10For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them., “For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…” to express that God has an incredible purpose. He emphasized that we are responsible for pursuing the work that God has actively prepared us for. Mr. Myers then presented the following statistics.

• The United Church of God currently has 397 elders.
• 110 in international areas and 287 in the United States.
• 77 pastors, nine associate and assistant pastors.
• 186 congregations and Bible study groups.
• Deceased elders
• Roland Clark (Los Angeles, California)
• Richard Duncan (Portland, Oregon)                                                    
• Joe Handley (Dayton, Ohio)
• Robert Jones (Jacksonville, Florida)                                                    
• Tim McMaster (Colorado Springs, Colorado)                                     
• David Payne (Isle of Man, United Kingdom)
• Deceased Elder’s Wives
• Sue Whitlark (wife of Fred Whitlark, Lexington, Kentucky)                   
• Jenny Bradford (wife of Bill Bradford, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia)
• New Ordinations
• Dan Apartian (Central Illinois)
• Marco Lecea (St. Louis, MO)
• Howard Marchbanks (Orange County, CA)
• The was one retirement, Brady Veller (St. Petersburgh, FL)
• 52 new baptisms since the May meeting (99 baptisms in the United States so far in 2024).
• Summer youth camp season completed (Winter camp scheduled).
• Three new camp directors
• Five teen summer camps and seven preteen camps
• 972campers (506 teens/466 preteens)
• 868 staff members
• Winter Camp projected to have 100+ campers and 60 staff members
• Theme: “Stand Strong”
• Challenger Camp 2024
• 10 Campers
• Five Staff members
• Location - The Emigrant Wilderness - (near Yosemite National Park in California).
• Light of Hope completed training videos to assist the UYC staff in understanding what our teens are facing in their lives.

Mr. Myers mentioned that the UYC program has been in operation for close to 30 years. He expressed excitement to witness the generations of members coming through the program as campers, staff, and directors. He noted that the UYC program is still going strong with dedicated individuals who are committed year after year to making our program a success.

• ABC will begin this Sunday, August 18th, with the orientation picnic.
• 32 students (including six international students)
• Regional pastors conducted performance reviews of the pastors
• Feast of Tabernacles preparations continue
• 12 U.S. sites and 50 throughout world
• Labor Day Leadership Weekend scheduled
• 49 attendees

Mr. Myers then addressed the challenges of health and illnesses that we are now facing within the ministry. He also discussed the needs of the local congregations to be effective in their efforts of preaching the gospel in their communities. He then shared a few thoughts about his experience in New Zealand.

Mr. Myer’s ended his presentation expressing his excitement about what has taken place in the Work and the potential of what can take place in the future. He then opened the floor for any question or comments.

Treasurers Report—Barry Korthuis

Mr. Korthuis began his presentation by passing out the July financial report. He then quoted Philippians 4:19, “And my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” He mentioned that this passage again reminded him of how God has supported and continues to provide for the financial needs of the United Church of God.

He then presented the results of the fiscal year before reviewing the July report. As he concluded, Mr. Korthuis noted that we are still running strong, with no concerns to report at this time.

He then opened the floor for any questions and comments.

Media and Communications Services—Peter Eddington

Mr. Eddington began by passing out a Media and Communications Services report. He mentioned that any success is to be credited to God. He then presented the following results:

• Social Media Optimization Report (compiled by Elizabeth Bissessar, Social Media manager):
• Enhanced Content Scheduling: Implemented a consistent posting schedule across various platforms for both the UCG and Beyond Today pages.
• Instagram Engagement Boost: Connecting with a younger audience by creating short scripture videos and sharing sermon and BT episode snippets.
• Driving Traffic to UCG.org Through Advertising: Results - 10,873 link clicks and increased reach: Facebook, 210.1K and Instagram, 30.3K.
• Pinterest Launch and Strategy: A new Pinterest account for UCG was created to promote the content focused on lifestyle and the family. To get started, our current strategy includes highly shared Sabbath greeting graphics, linking back to ucg.org for more information on the Sabbath.

• Beyond Today on Facebook: For the past 90 days reach was 227.4K, which is 997 percent more than for the previous 90 days.
• Beyond Today on Instagram: For the past 90 days reach was 46.2K, which is 3.4K percent higher than for the previous 90 days.
• Beyond Today TV YouTube Views
• Beyond Today YouTube channel has had all-time highs with 22.92 million video views (32.9 percent more than a year ago), has 85,200 subscribers (10.5 percent more than a year ago) and hosts 1,608 videos and 204 shorts.
• Beyond Today YouTube channel had 4.2 million views in the past 12 months and added 7,800 subscribers.

• United Church of God Sermon YouTube Statistics
• Sermon YouTube channel has had all-time viewership highs with 1.7 million video views, has 9,143 subscribers, and hosts 692 sermon videos and 208 sermon shorts.
• Sermon YouTube channel had 568K views in the past 12 months and added 2,200 subscribers.

• Roku App Advertising Results (Last 12 months)
• 9.6 million advertising impressions.
• 50,672 advertising clicks
• 37,142 channel installs.
• 69,438 unique viewers.
• 96,964 channel sessions.
• 37,479 videos watched.
• 63 average minutes on channel last 12 months.
• Our cost per advertising impression is currently 1.5 cents.

• End of July: Church Media Growth and Statistics as of July 31, 2024
• United News circulation for July is now at 19,274. This is up 2.2 percent from last July and 3.9 percent more than two years ago. Approximately 48 percent of United News copies go to coworkers and other non-UCG readers.
• U.S. July-August Beyond Today magazine subscribers total 323,922. This is a 12.4 percent increase compared to the same time last year, and our highest since May of 2009.
• The total July-August Beyond Today magazine print run stands at 372,808. This is a 10.3 percent increase over the same time last year and our highest since May of 2012.
• The number of people on our U.S. database who say they are associated with UCGIA (members, youth and associated) stands at 11,846, which is 0.5 percent more than a year ago.
• The number of telephone and website responses from Beyond Today TV for 2023 was 10,587. For 2024 we are currently at 5,474. NOTE: We are only on The WORD Network now, having eliminated a dozen other broadcast stations from our budget.
• Internet literature responses totaled 222,913 for calendar year 2022. And Internet literature responses totaled 257,910 for calendar year 2023. That is the highest of any year of UCGIA’s existence. As of July 2024, we have received 161,569 Internet literature responses, so we are on track to exceed the previous two years.
• Total impressions to our Bing and Google ads for 2022 was 69.5 million. For 2023 it was 137.1 million, and as of July for 2024 it is 69.7 million—so we are on track for about 119 million ad impressions this year.

Mr. Eddington then opened the floor for any questions and comments.

Committee Chairmen Reports:

Doctrine Committee (DC)—Mario Seiglie

Mr. Seiglie reported that the DC has completed the following three projects that were remanded by the COE during the May meetings:

• Review of a prophecy paper submitted alleging that Christ’s return will be on a future date of Pentecost. Result: The paper was unanimously rejected by both the Prophecy Advisory Committee and the Doctrine Committee.

• Review of an additional prophecy paper also dealing with Christ’s return being on a future date of Pentecost. Result: The paper was unanimously rejected by both the Prophecy Advisory Committee and the Doctrine Committee.

• An update on “The Rapture vs. the Bible” study guide. Result: The suggested edits were unanimous approved by the Doctrine Committee and approved by the Council. The study guide was then edited and updated online, and these same changes will be incorporated into the study guide when it is reprinted.

Mr. Seiglie then reported that the DC has also reviewed the doctrinal study paper, “Reconciliation and Matthew 18,” which had been withdrawn and was prepared to present it to the Council for approval. He then mentioned that in an Executive Session on Wednesday, the DC will present and review the “Voting and Involvement in Politics” doctrinal study paper.

Mr. Seiglie then began the presentation of the “Reconciliation and Matthew 18” study paper with the suggested edits.

At 12:16 p.m. the Council took a break for lunch.

Chairman Pebworth called the Council to order at 1:15 p.m. He then turned the floor over to Mr. Seiglie to continue the DC’s presentation of the study paper, “Reconciliation and Matthew 18.”

After thoroughly addressing the edits, Mr. Seiglie opened the floor for any questions, comments, and suggestions. Mr. Seiglie then moved that the Council accept the study paper, “Reconciliation and Matthew 18” with the additional suggested edits and that it be reinstated on the UCG website. After a further discussion for clarity, the paper was unanimously accepted and will be reinstated after proofreading has been completed.

Members on the DC: Jorge de Campos, John Elliott, Mario Seiglie (chair) and Rex Sexton.

Education Committee (EC)—John Elliott

Mr. Elliott began by stating the responsibility and duties of the EC. He then gave a brief history on the EC’s current project, a study paper titled, “Sanctity of Marriage”. He stated that quite a bit of work had been done on it previously and the current draft contains twenty-two pages of material.

However, Mr. Elliott mentioned that the EC was never given specific direction regarding its intended audience, goals, or specific content and the EC will be seeking clarity during the presentation later this week.

Members on the EC: Aaron Dean, Jorge de Campos, John Elliott (chair), Darris McNeely, and Paul Wasilkoff.

Ethics Committee—Rex Sexton

Mr. Sexton began by stating the responsibilities and duties of the Ethics Committee. He then presented the three items remanded to the EC:

• The suspension of an elder from the Elder’s Forum due to content posted that was inconsistent with Church teachings about the Day of Pentecost. Result: The President and Administration met with the elder in June. The EC feels the issue has been resolved satisfactorily.

• The review of the documents providing direction to the Expelled Elder Appeal Committee which was established by the GCE. Result: The Ethics committee met on August 5th and agreed to some recommendations that will be presented to the Council for consideration later this week.

• The review of the Scopes and Responsibilities of each of the Council Committees with regard to any possible conflict of interest of serving Council members. Result: The committee also discussed this at the August 5th meeting and have a recommendation to present to the Council later this week.

Media Committee (MC) — Paul Wasilkoff

Mr. Wasilkoff began by reporting that since the May Council meetings, the MC has held two meetings. He reported that the MC met with the Administration, President Shabi, and Peter Eddington to review the presentations that were to be presented during this week’s Council meetings as well as review the Operational Plan and Public Proclamations reports. Mr. Wasilkoff stated that they have been reviewing the feedback they’ve received on the five standing responsibilities of the Media Committee as outlined in the committee’s charter. He concluded that a further meeting will take place later this week.

Members on the Media (MC): Scott Ashley, Jorge de Campos, Len Martin, Victor Kubik, and Paul Wasilkoff (chair).

Roles and Rules Committee (RRC)—Dan Dowd

Mr. Dowd reported that because the RRC had standing business from the Council that was not covered in the May meetings, the RRC did not need to have a committee meeting in preparation for the August meetings given there were no new tasks remanded to it. He did mention that they did agree via email concerning the policies that will be discussed during these meetings. Mr. Dowd then presented the following update on the work of the RRC:

• Potential policy revisions that have been remanded by the Council that will be discussed later this week:
• 1.8.5 [appeal for removed website content].
• 4.4.3 [sexual misconduct and related items within the policy].

• There is another item that will be ready for discussion with the Council in the December meetings:
• A review and discussion with the Council regarding Point 12 in the Elder Recommendation Policy [4.5.1.1].

• Assist the Ethics Committee as needed.
• During this week of Council meetings, the RRC will also help assist several discussions on other matters regarding repopulating various sub-committees of the Council.

Members on the RRC: Scott Ashley, Dan Dowd (chair), and Len Martin.

Strategic Planning and Finance Committee (SPFC)—Darris McNeely

Mr. McNeely reports that the SPFC had one item that was remanded to them by the Council, to collaborate with the Administration and Treasurer in the review of the current Building Policy. He reported that SPFC conducted one meeting since the May Council meetings to discuss the local building policy as well as address an item that has been on the docket for some time. The committee approved both items and they will be presented to the Council tomorrow.

At 2 p.m. the Council went into planned Executive Session.

At 5:15 p.m. the Council came out of Executive Session and adjourned for the day.

Tuesday, August 13, 2024

Chairman Tim Pebworth called the morning session to order at 9 a.m. Eastern, and the meeting was opened with prayer by Darris McNeely. There were ten Council members present. Scott Ashley joined via Zoom. Jorge de Campos was not able to attend due to being in the hospital.

Mr. Pebworth then turned the floor over to Darris McNeely to present the first item on the agenda, a Review of Strategic Directives. Mr. McNeely started by highlighting the Vision Statement that’s prominently displayed in the conference room. He proceeded to read it, then make a few personal remarks about its history and purpose. He then provided a brief explanation of how the current Strategic Plan was developed.

Mr. McNeely read Ephesians:4:15But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:, “but, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head, Christ.” He emphasized the significance of this verse as it was foundational to the current Strategic, Operation and Budget Plan. He expressed that all of our work must flow from scripture and the “Ephesians Framework” along with the concept of “Truth in Love” was a great reminder to remain rooted in scripture.

He mentioned that the SPFC sought input from the Council, the Administration, and the GCE when formulating the Strategic and Operations Plan outline. Mr. McNeely pointed out that the input they received was valuable and was implemented, which was later approved by the GCE in 2023.

He then took time to address the feedback they received concerning the illustrations within the document which led to the graphics being edited, updated, and some removed. Mr. McNeely then pointed out that the documents within the plan connect us to our history, who we are as a Council, a Church, our goals, as well as how we conduct ourselves and handle the word of God. He pointed out that within the entire document, “Our past has been respected and we focus on it.”

He then addressed a few criticisms and feedback that have been submitted. He pointed out that UCG has been using the principles found in Ephesians since it began, “To do a work, we must first be a work” a paraphrase from Ephesians 2. Mr. McNeely stated that this framework is not a design of men, but from the Head of the Church, Jesus Christ.

Mr. McNeely emphasized that both truth and love are extremely important. He expressed that they are defining characteristics of those who follow Christ, they are twin paths revealed in scripture by which we are called to walk in humility. He said, “Truth is what brought us together to persevere, love is how we did it and continue in it.”

As he concluded, Mr. McNeely reminded us that the Vison Statement was crafted after a time of division, and it serves as a reminder that we never want to go back to that again. He ended by saying, “It’s sobering, an examination we must take seriously. We have a scripture-centered strategic plan. It reminds us through words in ink on paper that God is writing His laws on our heart by His Spirit.”

Mr. McNeely then turned the floor over to Mr. Pebworth to present and lead a discussion on a review of the current Strategic Plan directives. Mr. Pebworth began by highlighting that this is a critical step in being obedient and caring for those whom God has called. He mentioned that this discussion will be focused on what is found on page 13 of the current “Strategic, Operation  and Budget Plan” - (12 Strategic directives). He began this discussion with the principle, “keeping the end in mind” by giving key points to consider as the discussion proceeded.

The discussion began with a focus on the four strategic directives under “Congregational Care” and as time permitted, other areas of the Strategic, Operation and Budget Plan were discussed. He noted that there are a lot of strengths within this plan, but he presented the question, “Can we do better in clarity?” He further explained that the principles are there, but what is lacking is the clarity of their application. As he began, Mr. Pebworth once again reminded the Council that this is not a rewrite, not a change, but a discussion, seeking to understand these principles and directives in greater depth and with clarity in application.

As each point was presented, Mr. Pebworth opened the floor for any questions, comments, and/or suggestions. After a thorough discussion, it was decided that the Council would take the time over the next few weeks to review the entire document with the feedback received today, then send further input to the SPFC. The SPFC would then take the additional feedback to prepare for the review of the plan next year.

At 11:51 p.m. the Council took a break for lunch.

Deputy Chairman Rex Sexton called the Council to order at 1:15 p.m. and introduced John Elliott to present the next item on the day’s agenda, review of the “Sanctity of Marriage” paper.

Before addressing the “Sanctity of Marriage” paper, Mr. Elliott updated the Council on the status of the “Holy Convocation” paper. He reported that it’s now uploaded on the UCG website. He then gave a background to the “Sanctity of Marriage” paper and presented the context of what the paper was about and the table of contents of the first draft of the paper. He then gave some personal comments of why this paper is an important subject that needs to be addressed, and a paper drafted for our membership.

Mr. Elliott then requested from the Council clearer direction for the paper. He also asked for any suggestions on additional content that needs to be addressed. He then opened the floor for any further questions and comments. The EC took the suggestions given today and the Council will send additional suggestions over the next weeks so that they can be incorporated into a new draft that will be presented at a future meeting.

Chairman Pebworth then introduced Rex Sexton to present the next item on the agenda, a discussion on social media posting guidelines.

Mr. Sexton began by stating the purpose of this discussion is to be a preemptive reminder of what’s acceptable and not acceptable when it comes to minsters and minister’s wives posting on social media. He stated that we should be examples of being peacemakers, not sources of division. He then led a discussion using a PowerPoint presentation about what’s expected of the ministry as it relates to expressing our opinions on various matters including politics and health, as well as how we reference or recommend non-Church related websites.

Mr. Sexton then opened the floor for any comments or questions.

Chairman Pebworth then introduced Darris McNeely and Barry Korthuis to present the next item on the agenda, the Review of the Building Policy.

Mr. McNeely began by giving a brief introduction, then turned the floor over to Barry Korthuis to provide an update on his review of the policy; specifically, an analysis he has been working on to help model the overall cost of building ownership. Mr. Korthuis also read the Local Church Building Policy statement and shared some additional details within the existing policy that may benefit from further review and updates. He then opened the floor for any comments or questions. 

After a thorough discussion, it was decided to remand this to the SPFC to work in conjunction with the Administration to complete a review of the current policy and address these and any other concerns that may arise. The result of the review will then be presented at the December meetings. Aaron Dean moved to the accept the remand to the SPFC. It was unanimously approved.

Whereas, the Council of Elders (Council) and the Administration have identified deficiencies and/or suggested improvements to the existing Policy 3.3.5.1 - Local Church Building Policy as approved by the Council on August 12, 2015.

Now therefore, it is hereby resolved that, the Council remand to the Strategic Planning and Finance Committee, to work with the Administration to complete a review of the current policy, and,

It is further resolved that, said review shall also consider, at a minimum, the following possible improvements to the policy:

1)   Metrics to accompany Step 1 of the current policy.

2)   Explanation of lease opportunities as opposed to building purchases.

3)   Handling of “exceptions” to the policy.

4)   A possible template for pastors to complete.

And it is further resolved that, this review be completed and reported to the Council on or before the December 2024 meeting.

At 3:28 p.m. the Council went into Executive Session.

At 5:13 p.m. the Council adjourned for the day.

Wednesday, August 14, 2024

Chairman Tim Pebworth called the morning session to order at 9 a.m. Eastern, and the meeting was opened with prayer by Barry Korthuis. There were ten Council members present. Scott Ashley joined via Zoom. Jorge de Campos was not able to attend due to being in the hospital.

The Council then went into the planned Executive session.

At 12 p.m. the Council took a break for lunch.

At 3:28 p.m. the Council came out of the Executive Session.

Chairman Pebworth presented a resolution concerning Voting and Involvement in Politics that was discussed during the previous Executive Session.

Whereas, there is great interest in this subject given the current political environment, and

Whereas, the Doctrine Committee met to discuss our current doctrinal study paper on voting and involvement in politics, and unanimously agreed with its conclusions,

Now therefore, it is hereby resolved, that Council of Elders supports the conclusions of the December 2003 “Voting and Involvement in Politics” doctrinal study paper regarding the longstanding teaching of the Church.

Rex Sexton then presented the next item on the agenda, an update to the Expelled Elder Appeal Committee process documentation.

Mr. Sexton gave a brief history of the Expelled Elder Appeal process, then presented the document with the suggested procedural changes. As he presented, Mr. Sexton opened the floor for any comments or questions. After a brief discussion, it was decided to send the updated document to the Roles and Rules Committee for further review.

John Elliott then presented the next item on the agenda, Preaching the Gospel of the Kingdom of God. Mr. Elliott explained that he was requesting that this topic be remanded to the Education Committee to allow for an in-depth study into how the first century Church understood and preached the gospel of the Kingdom of God. The outcome of the study could be useful in supplementing our current study materials. After a further discussion it was decided that a resolution would be crafted and presented in Thursday’s meeting.

Mr. Pebworth then presented the next item on the agenda, “The Use of Committee Advisors.” He began by presenting Bylaw Sections 8.9.1 and 8.9.2 which give context to Section 8.9.3 which then authorizes the Council committees to request assistance from advisors as they conduct their work. He then asked if having committee advisors assist with administrative tasks such as taking minutes, scheduling meetings and generally providing support to improve the effectiveness of Council committees would fall within the scope and intent of Section 8.9.3. He suggested that having such support could improve the efficacy of Council committees and provide exposure and training as to the functioning of the Council and its committees. After a thorough discussion, it was determined that this type of advisory support role was likely not contemplated in Section 8.9.3 and if we wanted to move forward with expanding the scope of committee advisors, an amendment to Bylaw 8.9.3 would be necessary. It was then decided this would be readdressed at the December meetings.

At 5:50 p.m. the Council adjourned for the day.

Thursday, August 15, 2024

Chairman Tim Pebworth called the morning session to order at 9 a.m. Eastern, and the meeting was opened with prayer by Mario Seiglie. There were ten Council members present. Scott Ashley and Jorge de Campos joined via Zoom.

The Council went into scheduled Executive Session.

At 11:15 a.m. the Executive Session ended.

Chairman Pebworth then led a discussion to confirm dates of upcoming Council of Elders (COE) meetings as well as for the 2027 General Conference of Elders (GCE).

The dates agreed upon for future COE meetings are:

• August 11-14, 2025
• December 8-11, 2025

The date agreed upon for the GCE is:

• May 2-3, 2027

John Elliott then presented the next item on the agenda, a resolution concerning the Preaching of the Gospel that the EC presented earlier in the week. He gave a brief reminder of what had been presented, then presented the suggested resolution. John Elliott moved to accept the resolution; 11 accepted, one abstention.

Whereas, the Council of Elders recognizes that having a clear understanding of “preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God” as was done in the first century Church will enhance our efforts in preaching the gospel today,

Now therefore, it is hereby resolved that, the Council remands to the Education Committee a study of “preaching of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God” in the New Testament to see if greater clarity to the Church’s mission might be indicated.

John Elliott then requested that the “Calendar Summary” study paper and the “Calendar Appendix” study paper be merged into one paper. After a short discussion it was decided to leave the papers as is, two separate documents.

At 11:50 a.m. the Council adjourned the COE meetings.

-end-

Council Reporter

Ryan Hall

[These are not the official minutes from the Council meeting. Elders can find those at the Home Office with the Council Secretary. Video recordings are posted for the elders on the UCG Ministerial Resource Site.]

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