Hello FBC, my anchor in this pandemic storm. 

Yes, we just endured another month of not being able to meet in person, and the COVID-related restrictions are tightening even as I type this. BUT, there is some light at the end of the tunnel—advances in vaccine development project the beginning of the end is actually coming, with some advance roll-out hitting as early as the end of the year, and more throughout the Spring.  So I will hang on for a few more months with you, and look forward to the days we are back in the pews.  

At the Board meeting this month, we addressed many of the wide and varying challenges facing FBC during these times: 

We have nearly completed the update of the ancient phone and wireless systems that we have had for so long, necessitated by the need to interface with needed security technology.

We have many teams still meeting via Zoom, and are exploring which teams might be able to meet in person and when. 

We are working on setting a budget, but missing the fact we have not had the broad priority discussions that often impact such budget setting because COVID has kept us from a longer get-together.

And we discussed the continued challenges presented by forecasting income (the generous donations and contributions from you and me that keep this ship afloat) during these uncertain times, upon which our budget must be built. 

Note: if you haven’t turned in your Estimate of Giving card, please think about doing that soon.  It is our primary tool for this critical forecasting.

We also addressed a couple of things to be extra-thankful for (in addition to the health of our members during a pandemic).  Erika, Georgine, and the entire worship team have been crafting wonderful Advent themes and planning. Thanks to Charlie Walker, Paul Kushner, Wayne Beckwith, Ron, and others, we have a beautiful little “library” in the courtyard for book exchange. We have an operating warming shelter with professional leadership coming onboard soon, paid for with a generous grant through YCAP.  

And the cherry on top of the meeting: we agreed to welcome several new members to the Church, even though we will have to wait to have the in-person ceremonies for some.

So Happy Thanksgiving, FBC family. I’ll talk to you again during the Christmas season. Until then, be thankful, be well, wear your masks, wash your hands, socially distance, and dream of the better days ahead—they ARE coming. 

Dave Ferry, FBC Church Board Moderator