First Free Church 1999-2000 Annual Report

Because of the Lord’s great love, we are not consumed, for His compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. - Lamentations 3:22, 23

Basically, my report doesn’t change much from year to year. I, with the help of a lot of people, plan and lead our congregation in times of worship. We continue to experience God’s faithfulness and we continue to praise Him for who He is, and what He has done.

However, God’s mercies are new every day, fitted to our needs and in turn, our worship should be fresh and our song should be new as we respond to God’s mercies.

I am thankful for the committed work of the people on the Worship Commission. Wayne Danielson has given leadership that reflects his passion for worship. My own worship, and the worship of our congregation, has been enriched by the insights and encouragement of the members of the Worship Commission.

Our Advent Celebration began in October, with Julie Blair organizing and implementing the details for "Project Angel Tree". The main event occurred on December 5, 1999, as we met to wrap presents for over fifty children. Following the gift wrapping, we went into the gym, enjoyed supper together and listened as the children’s choir presented the Christmas musical, Once Upon a Holy Night. Following the Advent celebration, many from our church family had the joy of delivering the gifts to children in the Minneapolis area.

Our focus in the worship services through the Advent season was an examination of the "Heart of Christmas." The four Sundays of Advent, and Christmas Eve highlighted: Jesus, Giving, Friendship, Telling the Story, and Adoration, as being at the "Heart of Christmas."

One of our new ministries this year was the formation of a children’s choir. The choir met for rehearsal at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesdays. They sang at five Sunday services in addition to presenting the Christmas musical. The choir was made up of 11-14 children in grades 2-6. A special thank you to parents and each of you for your encouragement to the children.

The sanctuary choir is one of my greatest sources of enjoyment. It is a pleasure to work with a group of talented and dedicated people. We meet to rehearse weekly and they sing every Sunday at our worship service.

In addition to Sunday services, the choir had presented a Spring Concert on June 6^th, 1999, Let Your Glory Fall and a Christmas concert on December 12, 1999. The choir sings at the Thanksgiving Eve and Good Friday services.

I think that often God shows His mercies to and through people. He certainly has to me. From people in the sound booth, to the musicians; from the ushers to the drama groups; from those who lead us in prayer, to those who participate in the pews; from those who decorate the sanctuary to those who prepare the worship folders – thank you! We have experienced God’s faithfulness through your service.

The Prayer Coordinator position, with a supporting committee (Carol Dale, Grace Elasky, Mark Mellema, Cindy Sawyer, and Lois Chapman), has been functioning again since January 1st of this year. We have met as a committee six times. We felt our role was: first, to pray, second, to set some goals, and third, to have some suggestions for the prayer ministry of the church in time to have them functioning by next fall.

Our over-all vision statement, to this point, has been: We seek to glorify God by fostering a growing dependence upon Him in our church, finding its expression in both individual and united prayer.

The goals are quite simple: 1. Our people will be convinced of the importance and urgency of prayer. (Educate and Motivate) and, 2. We will have emphases and programs that optimally facilitate prayer. (Facilitate)

We had begun work on some specific strategies to reach these goals when an unexpected turn of events (the resignation of both of our full time pastors) seemed to demand a change in our time schedule, so we began implimenting now some of the strategies we had been talking about. An all church meeting for prayer at noon on Sundays was instituted the day the letters of resignation were read, and these have continued every Sunday since that time. These will be continued through the month of April, except for Easter Sunday, followed by an evaluation of this approach, and a decision made as to whether we should continue. After four such Sunday noon meetings our average attendance has been between 35 and 40 people.

Just last week several people came with the suggestion that some are not finding either Wednesday evening or Sunday noon workable for their schedule, but they would like to pray together for the church -- for both individual and corporate needs. Could there be a meeting during the Sunday School hour for such people? Again it seemed good to give this a try, and on Sunday we had 8 people who met in the library to pray.

A video to be shown to all the combined adult Sunday School classes, challenging us to a stronger commitment to prayer, is planned for Sunday morning, May 7th.

We, as a committee, are concerned that, by the way we tend to operate as a church we can erroneously teach our people that programs, methods and talented people are key to building the church. Prayer is nice, probably even essential -- but can be done by a few, maybe those with this "gift". We acknowledge that God uses men and their gifts and talents to accomplish His work. However, we are convinced that our approach, as a church, to prayer should teach our people the very basic truth that it is Christ Who is building His church, that "the work of God IS the work of GOD". First and foremost we must look to Him in united prayer before we will see Him significantly at work in our midst changing lives and building them into a "building of righteousness", His body -- something that a full compliment of talent, programs, and people's efforts can never do.

We wish to thank all those who have supported this new schedule and emphasis. Any feedback you can give to the committee would be most appreciated. As you are reminded, do pray for this committee, and for a renewed vision in our fellowship of the importance, individually and corporately, of seeking God's face.

I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak his praises. I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are discouraged take heart. - Psalm 34:1-2

As we look back over the past year, we may be tempted to be discouraged. To be sure, we are saddened by the recent departure of Gene and Norma Bourland, and Frank and Dayna Nameny. While Frank served for only eighteen months as Minister of Youth, he raised our level of understanding of enthusiasm to new heights. Pastor Gene ministered for six years, modeling a sincere commitment to God and compassion for people. As we begin a new year together, let us not forget to ask God to bless each of these couples as they, too, begin to discover God’s "new" calling for their lives.

It is true, we have much to be thankful for! This past year dozens of people have joined the small group ministry at First Free. We have learned together, prayed together, and fellowshipped together - all to the glory of God. If you are not part of a small group, you have missed a lot of God’s activity at church this year.

We reversed the order of the morning service and Sunday School this year by beginning each Sunday with worship at 9:30 a.m. An opportunity for inter-generational fellowship (with coffee and doughnuts) is provided between the service and Sunday School. This change, along with some electives offered during Sunday School has been well-received. However, we need to be sensitive to needs within the congregation, as well as God’s leading in other ways as we consider new Sunday School classes, or formats for Sunday morning.

The coming year provides a great opportunity for God to display his amazing faithfulness. It is also a year for us to exercise an added measure of our faith. Our youth sponsors have responded in just that way - by stepping into the gap, and giving of themselves to our youth in the absence of a youth pastor.

On April 24,2000, at a special congregational meeting, the Council was authorized to hire an interim senior pastor, and to then, turn its attention to the area of youth ministry and, if necessary, hire an interim Youth Pastor. We will establish a senior pastor call committee at the annual meeting, May 9, 2000. We will consider whether or not to form a youth pastor call committee at the August quarterly meeting.

Our Children’s Choir used to sing a song: "I am the Church, You are the Church, We are the Church together…" We are the Body of Christ; not the pastors, not the building, but Us. Now is the time, and a great opportunity, to be used by God in ministry for others. Please be prayerfully seeking God’s will for how you can serve God, and His Church, the Body of Christ.

Keenagers are a group of seniors that meet once a month for a dinner, fellowship, and good programs. The average attendance is ninety (90), with half the attendees from First Evangelical Free Church. Programs have included music, special speakers, and also a piano solo by our 100-year-old member.

Keenagers started about 18 years ago and have had a variety of volunteer workers through these years. As of our May dinner this year, we are concluding this ministry. We hope that in the near future, someone else will take up where we are leaving off.

This year has been a time of joy and some disappointment, but as always God proved faithful in supplying our needs. Some highlights included:

Summer Sunday School for preschool and grade school kids featured "Veggie Values Tales" curriculum. Parents and friends taught so that our teachers could bet much-needed time off.
Camp Shamineau was part of the summer for many of our kids and youth.
Youth weekend at the Hultstrand and Holman Cabins was a special time for our teens.
DVBS- our Adventure in Odessy had teens join adults of all ages in challenging the kids to put on the "whole armor of God".
Rally Sunday brought us back together in September with a change in schedule so that the church service came before the Sunday School hour.
In September our regular Sunday School classes resumed along with Adventure Club, Boys' Brigade, youth groups for junior and senior high and a new kids' choir.
At Fall Fling our youth and their sponsors had a fun and inspirational time at Camp Shamineau.
Our Christmas Program was a part of the Advent Event featuring the Sunday School kids and the children's choir thanks to Dave Benson. The Youth helped serve the meal and clean up.
The Sunday School took part in the Angel Tree project and raised money for a gift for one of the children.
Herb Bloomquist made his annual visit in March to recruit kids for summer camp at Shamineau.
The junior high had a great time at their winter retreat at Wilderness Fellowship.
The High School Girls' Retreat this winter was so successful it will probably an annual event.
A new junior high Bible study has been meeting Friday nights in various homes.
Mentors have been meeting with the high-school-age youth.
The Thirty Hour Famine recently experienced by our teens made them aware of the problems of hunger in our world.
The Youth Spaghetti Diner fund raiser showed us the talent and character of our wonderful young people and gave us a chance to respond by supporting their plans to attend District and National FCYF conferences.
In April the Stockade had its Pine Wood Derby, potluck and overnight.
A new college-age group is meeting in the room outside the youth Pastor's office.
In May we had a Nurture Appreciation Day to recognize our volunteers and serve a noon meal to them and their families to say "thank you" for the faithful service and time they give so generously.

As you know, in April Frank Nameny, our Youth Pastor, resigned. While we appreciated all Frank contributed to our youth, we knew our focus had to be on the future. After prayer, the Nurture Commission sought to add leaders to ensure that the program would continue without interruption. Doug Brown agreed to serve as a Youth Coordinator to oversee youth concerns until the church hires a youth pastor. We also found additional Sunday School teachers and sponsors for the youth. This all took place in time for us to send a full complement of sponsors with our kids to Districts in April and we have sponsors to accompany our kids to Nationals in July. God truly supplied the need.

Throughout the year the Nursery, Sunday School classes, Children's Church, Wednesday night clubs and the library have continued to provide their vital services thanks to our dedicated leaders and volunteers. Many thanks to all who volunteered! Special thanks to Sarah Clinton who has kept the Nursery running smoothly.

We are already planning Summer Sunday School -- there is another year of Veggie Values curriculum -- and we plan to use parents and volunteers again to relieve regular staff. We also have a DVBS committee meeting to plan our Bible School for the first week in August. Gospel Light's SonZone ought to be an enjoyable way to learn God's truths and discover the wonders of his creation. We're also looking ahead to September 10^th as Rally Sunday.

We have been learning the truth of Phil. 4:6 "Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." We ask the congregation to join us in praying God will continue to supply the staff we need for the nurture ministry of the church.

Nurture Committee Members:
Vice Chair - Margaret Brown
Council Representative - Steve Mondy
At large - Apryl Hultstrand, Curt Swanson

God is good! Again this year, God has blessed us with generous support from each of you, enabling us to meet our financial commitments. Our committee consisted of: Bud and Beda Anderson, Pastor Bourland, Craig Hucek, Vi Fjellman, Ron Olson, and Dan Reeve.

Recently, Mark Poston has joined us and has taken on the responsibilities of all missionary correspondence. This is a task that Bud and Beda have wonderfully managed for a number of years, but are stepping down because of health reasons. They have made serving on the commission a pleasure. Their love of God and caring attitude for missions has been exemplary. They have been a tremendous example of Jesus serving the body and an encouragement to all those they have ministered to - on the mission field, in our church and via the computer. Thank you, Bud and Beda, for all your work, and the leadership you have given to us on Outreach.

I have been blessed with a good supporting cast over the past 2 years while serving as chairman. You can be encouraged by their love of God and commitment to a strong and vital Outreach program. It takes a capable team working together to do a good job, and we've been blessed with some wonderful people.

Our commitment has been to meet not only our budget and financial needs, but also to uphold our missionaries with prayer and communication, while communicating their needs to you, and staying informed of new opportunities to serve.

The following people served on the Finance and Property Board this past year: Rod Holman, Jeff Olson, Randy Lundberg, Chris Vatsaas, John Symington, Jerry Fisher, Harold Engberg, Jerry McDonald and Scott Beckett. I would like to thank them for their work and time spent making decisions that affect all of us.

Charlie Sawyer is still working about 12 hours a week and Mark Poston works about 6 hours as our custodians. Charlie is close to getting his second boiler license and Mark will have his first license.

Considerable time has been spent working with the Metropolitan Air Port Commission concerning the two houses across the street. The larger house (5151 Chicago Avenue) has recently been completed. Contractors installed new windows and storm windows, new doors and storm doors, new insulation, furnace, air conditioning, vent fans, glass block window; all at a cost of $24,550 that is all paid for by MAC. The smaller house (5147 Chicago Avenue) is scheduled for the same work starting in July.

A decorating committee is working on making some changes in the sanctuary. New cushions and window shades have been installed. Carpeting has been ordered. The platform area will be extended with new steps. Some pews will be removed in the front and back area of the sanctuary.

We thank the people in our church for their help and support. We are thankful for the good financial position we are in.

Our Women’s Guild is continuing to touch the world with God’s truth and love. We are doing this through the missionaries that we help to support. We are helping to support missionaries in nine different countries overseas, five of these are EFCM fields. We are also helping to support others from our church who are serving in Campus Crusade, China Outreach Mission, Navigators, M.A.F., and also the Gerhardts who are church planting in New Orleans.

Time has been spent both in prayer and discussion on how to continue with our ministry, and also how to cooperate with our National organization, the FCWM. We are also seeking God’s will as to the best way to pass the mantle on to younger women in the church in a form and manner that will not only be of interest to them, but will also fit their present needs and methods of serving the Lord.

Today we also want to pause to remember three of our members, Bernetta Brueske, Pauline Westlund and Anita Ykovchick, who have been promoted to their eternal rewards. We thank the Lord for the memory of each of these special servants of His and for the contribution that each one has made to our organization and to our own personal lives.

We wish to thank each of you for your faithfulness and for your generosity in giving. You are helping to keep our group working and serving. We also want to say a very special "thank you" to the ladies who have been serving on our board and committees.

Our White Cross ladies have spent long fruitful hours preparing bandages and making things which have been sent to the Tandala Hospital in the Congo. Gifts and sale items were also made and sent to the Lydia Home in Chicago for their fall sale. Visiting missionaries have been given items which were useful to them, and some things were sent to the Marie Sandvik Mission. We are especially thankful for the leadership of Phyllis Brown and Helen Chryst.

During this past year we have had Missionary speakers at four of our meetings. At the December meeting we brought decorated shoe boxes that contained small clothing articles and a toy. These boxes were taken to the Marie Sandvik Mission for Christmas gifts for children. For the February meeting we were privileged to have Joan Jorgensen speak to us about the changes that are taking place in the National FCWM.

March was our project month. the 2000 project is to help Lydia Homes to have a home to help rehabilitate young mothers who have been on drugs, and have had their children taken away from them We received $1,070, which has been sent in for the project.

We want to encourage each of you to keep on "touching" the world with God’s love and truth. There is no greater sense of joy and satisfaction than when we have done the will of Our Lord and Savior. We wish God’s richest blessing on each of you for this coming year. Please keep praying that we will know God’s will for us for the future.

We have audited the financial statements of First Evangelical Free Church for the period April 1, 1999 through March 31, 2000. Bank account balances were verified and invoices were sampled to ensure that expenditures were properly authorized, and payments were made accurately, and in a timely manner.

In our opinion, the financial statements referred to above fairly present the financial position of First Evangelical Free Church.

We would like to express our thanks to members of the Finance & Property Board for the professional manner in which the church’s resources are managed throughout the year.