2022 Book of Reports

IBSA Annual Meeting

Illinois Baptist State Association

116th Annual Session Theme: Thrive ‘22

“Each Church a Missionary”

November 2-3, 2022 Metro Community Church, Edwardsville, IL

Table of Contents

Order of Business 2-3 Who’s Who on the Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Affinity Group Gatherings 5 Announcements and Prayer Prompts 6

Illinois Baptist State Association Officers of the Association 7 Report of the IBSA President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Committee on Committees 8 Committee on Order of Business 11 Constitution Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Credentials Committee 18 Historical Committee 19 Nominating Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Resolutions and Christian Life Committee 24

IBSA Board of Directors

Chairman of the Board’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

Report Regarding Sex Abuse Prevention 28 Executive Director ’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Financial Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 2023 Proposed Budget 34

Baptist Foundation of Illinois Executive Director’s Report 40 2023 Proposed Budget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Baptist Children’s Home and Family Services Interim Executive Director’s Report . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 2023 Proposed Budget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44

Illinois Members Serving on Other SBC Boards, Committees, and Agencies . . . . . . . 48

Illinois Baptist State Association 2022 Annual Meeting

November 2-3, 2022

Metro Community Church, Edwardsville

Theme: THRIVE ‘22 “Each Church a Missionary” The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. Acts 13:49 (CSB)

Wednesday Afternoon, November 2 –

Afternoon Session

1:15 Pre-session worship Metro Worship Team

1:30 Call to Order, Welcome, and Announcements Heath Tibbetts

1:35 Opening Prayer Dustin Haile

1:40 Welcome from Host Church Seth Conerly

1:45 Theme Interpretation – “Each Church a Missionary” Video

1:55 Appointment of Parliamentarian Heath Tibbetts

2:00 Credentials Committee report Tracy Jaggers

- Seating of Messengers

Churches Seeking Affiliation with IBSA Seating of Messengers from Newly Affiliated Churches - Recommendation Concerning Non-Cooperating Churches

2:10 Adoption of Program Vaughn Sanders

2:15 Overview of IBSA Committee Written Reports Heath Tibbetts

2:20 Partnership Message – LifeWay Christian Resources Video

2:25 Church Safety and Sex Abuse Prevention Report Heath Tibbetts

2:35 Partnership Message –SBC Executive Committee Video and Luis Lopez

2:45 *Election of President Heath Tibbetts

2:50 *Election of Recording Secretary Heath Tibbetts

2:55 Miscellaneous Business Heath Tibbetts

3:05 Worship through Music Metro Worship Team

3:20 Baptist Foundation of Illinois (BFI) Report and Budget Newlin Wollaston and Doug Morrow Presentation

3:35 Offering (Ministers Relief Fund) Michael Nave

3:40 Special Music Metro Worship Team

3:45 *President’s Message Heath Tibbetts

4:30 Closing Announcements and Prayer Michael Nave

Wednesday, November 2 – Evening Session

6:45 Pre-session Worship Metro Worship Team

7:00 Call to Order/Announcements Heath Tibbetts

7:05 Opening Prayer Bruce Kirk

7:10 Recognition of New IBSA Churches Nate Adams

7:20 Recognition of IBSA Church Plants in Progress Nate Adams

7:30 Partnership Message - North American Mission Board Video and Sammy Simmons

7:35 Partnership Message – International Mission Board Video and Rick and Jill Thompson

7:45 Worship through Music Metro Worship Team

8:00 Annual Sermon Paul Westbrook

8:30 Closing Song Metro Worship Team

8:35 Benediction Heath Tibbetts

Thursday, November 3 – Morning

Session

8:15 Pre-session worship Metro Worship Team

8:30 Call to Order and Announcements Heath Tibbetts

8:35 Opening Prayer Jacob Goble

8:40 Auditor Selections for IBSA Entities Michael Nave

8:45 Partnership Message – GuideStone Financial Services Video

8:50 Constitution Committee Mike Thomas

9:00 Resolutions & Christian Life Committee Jef Williams

9:10 Action on IBSA Committee Written Reports Heath Tibbetts

9:15 Miscellaneous Business Heath Tibbetts

9:25 Partnership Message – Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission Brent Leatherwood

9:30 Partnership Message – Woman’s Missionary Union Video

9:35 Baptist Children’s Home and Family Services (BCHFS)

Rebbecca Whittington and Report and Budget Presentation BCHFS Executive Director

9:50 *Election of Vice President Heath Tibbetts

9:55 *Election of Assistant Recording Secretary Heath Tibbetts

10:00 Special Recognitions Nate Adams

10:15 Worship Through Music Metro Worship Team

10:30 IBSA “Mission Illinois” Report and Budget Presentation

Jeff Logsdon and Nate Adams

10:45 Each Church a Missionary - Stories From the Field Nate Adams and Guests

11:25 Closing Song Metro Worship Team

11:30 Adjournment and Benediction Heath Tibbetts

*Fixed Order of Business – cannot occur later than time indicated

Who’s Who on the Program

Nate Adams, Executive Director of the Illinois Baptist State Association (IBSA)

Travis Bowman and the Metro Community Church Worship Team

Seth Conerly, Lead Pastor, Metro Community Church, Edwardsville

Josh Crisp, Lead Pastor, First Baptist Church, Bethalto Doug Devore, Interim Executive Director of the Baptist Children’s Home and Family Services (BCHFS) Bob Dyer, Parliamentarian, Member, Bethel Baptist Church, Bourbonnais

Mark Emerson, Associate Executive Director, Illinois Baptist State Association (IBSA)

Shannon Ford, Mission Director, Illinois Baptist State Association (IBSA)

Jacob Goble, Pastor, Rooted Community Church, Lebanon Scott Harris, Mission Team Leader, Illinois Baptist State Association (IBSA)

Dustin Haile, Pastor, Gateway Church, Mt. Vernon

Tracy Jaggers, Chair, Credentials Committee, Associational Mission Strategist, Gateway Baptist Association Bruce Kirk, Pastor, Alpha Missionary Baptist Church, Bolingbrook & Vice-Chair, IBSA Board of Directors

Brent Leatherwood, President, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC) of the Southern Baptist Convention

Luis Lopez, Executive Committee of the Southern Baptist Convention

Jeff Logsdon, Chair, IBSA Board of Directors, & Pastor, Island City Baptist Church, Wilmington Doug Morrow, Executive Director of the Baptist Foundation of Illinois (BFI) & Pastor, Together Church in Springfield

Michael Nave, IBSA Vice-President & Pastor, Cornerstone Church, Marion Vaughn Sanders, Chair, Committee on Order of Business, & Pastor, First Baptist Church, Bolingbrook Sammy Simmons, National Project Director, NAMB Send Relief Sean and Lydia Stevenson, Pastor & wife, Elmwood Park Community Church

Ronnie Tabor, Pastor, Crossroads Church, Centralia Mike Thomas, Chair, Constitution Committee, & Member, First Baptist Church, Pleasant Hill Rick and Jill Thompson, IMB missionaries, Brazil

Heath Tibbetts, IBSA President & Pastor, First Baptist Church, Machesney Park Fran Trascritti, Growth Team Leader, Illinois Baptist State Association (IBSA)

Daryl Vermillion, Pastor, First Southern Baptist Church, Beardstown Paul Westbrook, Mission Director, Illinois Baptist State Association (IBSA)

Rebecca Whittington, Chair, Baptist Children’s Home and Family Services (BCHFS) & Member, Lebanon Missionary Baptist Church, Mt. Vernon Newlin Wollaston, Chair, Baptist Foundation of Illinois (BFI) & Executive Pastor, Mt. Carmel Children of God Baptist Church, Chicago

Jef Williams, Chair, Resolutions and Christian Life Committee; Pastor, New Christian Fellowship, Fairview Heights, & Executive Director of the Children’s Activity Center in East St. Louis

Affinity Group Gatherings

Rooms 1-4 are on the second floor of the church. The elevator is located at the end of the hallway across from the restrooms.

Tuesday

11:30 a.m. Young Leaders’ Lunch (Advanced Registration Required) – Room 4 3:30-4:30 p.m. . . . . . . IBW (Illinois Baptist Women) Sampler – Room 3

4-4:30 Pastors’ Conference Prayer Breakout – Room 2 4-4:30 Pastors’ Conference Prayer Breakout – Room 4

4:45 . . . . . . Church Planter Dinner (Advanced Registration Required) – Room 1

Wednesday

7 a.m. . . . . . .

Logos Presentation – Room 1 9 . . . . . . Credentials Committee Meeting – Room 9, First floor 9 Ministers’ Wives Luncheon (Advanced Registration Required) – Room 4

10:30 . . . . . . Order of Business Committee Meeting – Room 2

11:30 . . . . . . Evangelism Coaching Lunch (Advanced Registration Required) – Room 1

11:30 Hispanic Leaders’ Lunch (Advanced Registration Required) – Room 3 5 Executive Director Dinner (Advanced Registration Required) – Room 1 5 . . . . . . Resolutions and Christian Life Committee Meeting – Room 4

8:30 Small Church Pastors’ Dessert Fellowship – Room 1

8:30 Next Gen Ministry Leaders Dessert – Room 2

8:30 . . . . . . Worship Leader Connection Dessert – Room 3

Thursday

7:30 a.m. . . . . . .

Associational Leader Breakfast (Advanced Registration Required) – Room 4 12 p.m. Order of Business Committee Meeting – Room 4

Childcare is available in Rooms 7 and 8 on the first floor.

Announcements

• Please silence your phone when in the meeting.

• Livestreaming of the meeting is available through the Acts 2 app. App details and other information about the meeting are available at www.IBSAannualmeeting.org.

• Childcare is available on the first floor located on the left near the end of the hallway.

• Restrooms are located at the end of the first-floor hallway on the right.

• Resolutions may be submitted at the registration desk until the end of the Wednesday afternoon session.

• To nominate a person for office, our constitution states, “All nominators, after obtaining prior consent of the nominee, in their nomination speech shall include but not be limited to (1) the name and role of the nominee, (2) nominee’s history of service to IBSA, and, (3) the history and participation in the Cooperative Program of the church and or nominee.”

• Messengers may make motions following reports and during periods of miscellaneous business.

- A messenger may propose: “I move/propose that…”

Motions require a second messenger to agree to consider the motion by stating, “I second...” If no one seconds the motion it fails.

- If the motion has been seconded, Messengers will then have an opportunity to speak in favor or against the motion before a vote is taken.

IBSA Annual Meeting Prayer Prompts

“In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God” (Philippians 4:6)

• As we gather and worship, ask the Holy Spirit to unify our hearts.

• As we make decisions, ask for “Spirit-guided” collective wisdom.

• As you hear reports, give thanks and ask for increase next year.

• When we are challenged to pursue a missionary heart, pray for courageous obedience.

• When you return home, challenge your church to “pray continually”!

Illinois Baptist State Association Officer and Committee Reports

PRESIDENT Heath Tibbetts Rockford, IL pastor@fbcmp.net

VICE PRESIDENT Michael Nave Marion, IL mnave@cornerstone.team

RECORDING SECRETARY Brianna Trowbridge Albion, IL trowbridge0605@gmail.com

ASSISTANT RECORDING SECRETARY Charlene Moe Chatham, IL cedmi1@uis.edu

IBSA President’s Report Heath Tibbetts

Whenever you’ve had an opportunity to take on a new role, you always bring expectations for how you can serve and contribute to the team. Those expectations are a good starting point, but you had better be prepared to meet the unexpected.

I initially began serving as IBSA vice-president in 2019 with the goal of encouraging pastors, though I never imagined the level it would need to reach as we walked through a pandemic together. Each of the annual meetings I’ve led since has felt like an opportunity to use my call to encourage all Illinois Baptists and I hope our 2022 meeting will provide that same atmosphere.

During my years as an IBSA officer, I’ve encouraged every one of our churches to utilize the resources that are available through this partnership. The staff of IBSA stands ready to assist our churches through the important work of responding and guarding against sexual abuse. Church health assessments are available to help your church identify today’s weaknesses that can be come tomorrow’s strengths. The church of 2022 faces many challenges, but you don’t have to face any of them by yourselves.

The church was Jesus’ idea, and the comradery of those early congregations reminds us that Jesus didn’t call churches to stand all alone at their individual outposts. We pray for one another, support new work, and look for opportunities to partner in reaching every corner of Illinois with the hope of Jesus Christ.

Thank you for allowing me the great privilege to serve you as IBSA President these last two years. It has been a refining time for me as a leader and a true honor to represent the churches of our state association.

Committee on Order of Business Report

The 2022 Committee on Order of Business met after the 2021 Annual Meeting in Springfield to evaluate the 2021 Annual Meeting. They met on March 22 and September 20 to make decisions regarding 2022 meeting plans, to propose the 2025 meeting location, and to confirm and update information to report for the 2023 and 2024 meetings, which are being planned for Cornerstone Church in Marion November 8-9, 2023, and Ashburn Baptist Church in Orland Park November 13-14, 2024.

The Committee recommends that:

1. Josh Crisp of First Baptist Church in Bethalto bring the 2023 annual sermon, and that Bruce Kirk of Alpha Missionary Baptist Church in Bolingbrook be the alternate speaker.

2. The 2025 IBSA Annual Meeting be held at the Crowne Plaza in Springfield on November 5-6, 2025.

Respectfully submitted, Doug Bell

Steven Davis

Zach Furlong

Ben Hottel

Mitchell Johnson, Vice-chair

Nate Mason

Matt Philbrick, Secretary

Vaughn Sanders, Chair Ken Schultz

Derrick Taylor LeRoy Tucker

Terry Walters

2023 Officers: Matt Philbrick, Chair

Derrick Taylor, Vice Chair

Ben Hottel, Secretary

Credentials Committee Report

The Credentials Committee first met on April 19 to review responsibilities and to preview the application and interview processes for considering new churches for IBSA affiliation. Throughout the year, members of the Credentials Committee received complete applications for IBSA membership from 13 churches and conducted interviews with a leader from each of the churches. The Credentials Committee met on September 27 and again by teleconference on October 4 to review applications and recommends the following to be accepted into membership with the Illinois Baptist State Association at the 2022 IBSA Annual Meeting:

Charleston Baptist Church, Charleston Cornerstone Bible Church, Lake Villa Gateway Church, Mt. Vernon Gospelife Church, Carol Stream Grace Family Church, Chicago Iglesia Ciudad de Gracia, Chicago Iglesia Nuevo Pacto, Chicago Logos Church, Decatur Monmouth Chin Christian Church, Monmouth Purposed Church, Mascoutah Rooted Community Church, Lebanon Salt Church, Normal The Gathering, Gurnee

The Committee further recommends the Association withdraw fellowship from and disaffiliate the following churches that have not been cooperating for at least five (5) years, in accordance with IBSA Constitution Article 4, Sections 3, 4 and 10:

Agape Missionary Baptist Church, Peoria First Baptist Church, New Athens Grace Hill Chapel, Bartlett

Iglesia Bautista Piedra Angular, Chicago La Mision de Jesus, Countryside New Beginnings Baptist Church, Greenville

The committee discussed the importance of continuing to try and reclaim the non-cooperating churches. This is being done by IBSA staff through multiple letters each year, and through attempts at personal contact and reclamation by the IBSA staff and associational leadership.

Respectfully submitted,

2023 Officers:

Glen Carty Chair – Don Evans

Ron Closson Vice-Chair – Glen Carty Don Evans Secretary – Barry Sink

Will Ferguson, Vice-Chair

John Harrell

Tracy Jaggers, Chair

Chris Merritt

Jon Montgomery Andrew Post

James Shannon

David Siere

Barry Sink, Secretary

Historical Committee Report

The Historical Committee met in person on March 22, 2022, at 10 a.m. The assigned tasks and responsibilities of the committee were reviewed.

Nate Adams and Susan Full reported on the progress made to the renovations of the Historical Library and Archives. Renova tions have included new paint, the installation of flooring tiles, and metal shelves.

Members of the Ad Hoc Work Group led by volunteers Susan Full and Deb Bier spent countless hours diligently organizing the renovated Historical Library and Archives in its new area. A large part of this process consisted of sorting and taking inventory of documents which led to the discovery of numerous duplicate and outdated materials that were eligible for disposal. Donations were approved by the committee to the Southern Baptist Historical Library and Archives or Seminary Libraries.

IBSA Executive Director Nate Adams provided an update on the 100 Events of IBSA Timeline. As of the meeting, there have been over 100 events added to the Timeline and more are expected. Nate also provided the committee with a look at his article for the Illinois Baptist, “Handling Hallowed History,” which brought to light to importance of understanding our heritage and history as Illinois Baptists.

Susan Full displays an artifact while at work in the Historical Library and Archives.

The meeting concluded with a tour through the renovated Historical Library and Archives. The amount of time and attention given to this project is remarkable and IBSA is blessed to have such a wonderful archive. The committee again thanks volunteers Susan Full and Deb Bier for their tireless work on this restoration project.

The next meeting will be held March 21, 2023 at 10 a.m.

Respectfully submitted:

Tanja Cook Sedabres, Chair

Keith Baker, Vice Chair

Mark Barber, Secretary

Marian Blankenship

Mike Brockmeier

Sharon Carty

Tom Eggley

Frank Forthman, Jr.

Susan Full

Brian Fuller

Maryland Gess

2022 Officers

Mike Brockmeier, Chair

Frank Forthman, Jr., Vice Chair

Maryland Gess, Secretary

If elected, the following individuals will be placed on an IBSA Board Committee by the IBSA Board Chairperson per the IBSA Constitution Article VII, Section 14.

CLASS B -TERM EXPIRING 2024

Region 5 *Tanja Sedabres

CLASS C -TERM EXPIRING 2025

Region 1 Mitchell Johnson Region 3 Ben Foxworth

Region 4 *Chris Howton

Region 5 Rob Schneider

Region 6 *Carrel Starkey Region 6 Jesse Barge At Large Tracy Smith At Large *Mike Thomas At Large Jay Loucks

Granite City, Second

Country Club Hills, Hillcrest Vandalia, Bethel Mc Leansboro, Ten Mile Edwardsville, Calvary Steeleville Murphysboro, Elm Street Mt. Zion, First Pleasant Hill, First Wayne City

2022-B 2022-C 2022-C 2022-C 2022-C 2022-C 2022-C 2022-C 2022-C 2022-C

Gateway Chicago Metro Rehoboth Goshen Trail Gateway Nine Mile Nine Mile Central Bay Creek Greater Wabash

CLASS A -TERM EXPIRING 2023

Administrative Committee

*Rebecca Whittington

*Tom Denton

*Eric Bramlet

Program Committee

*Diana Henry-Aten

*Ron Daniels

Missionary, Lebanon Pinckneyville, First Mt. Carmel, First Oblong, First Missionary, Belle Rive

Finance and Development Committee

*Danny Hampton Elgin, Calvary

CLASS B -TERM EXPIRING 2024

Administrative Committee

*Chris Slusser

Program Committee

*Andrea Spicer

*Leon McClerren

Jason Plumer

Bethalto, First

Carlinville, Cross Thompsonville, First Litchfield, First

Finance and Development Committee

Doug Haile Keenes, Ten Post Oak David Smith Grayville, First

*Marilyn Vaughan Fairfield, Pleasant Grove

CLASS C -TERM EXPIRING 2025

Administrative Committee

*Tina Grooms

Program Committee

*Cheryl Dorsey

2018-C 2020-A 2021-B

Salem South Nine Mile Greater Wabash 2020-C Palestine 3/2022-B Salem South

2018-C Fox Valley 2018-A Gateway 2021-C Macoupin 2021-C Franklin 2021-C Macoupin 2019-C Greater Wabash 3/2021-C Greater Wabash 2021-C Greater Wabash

BCHFS Board Members for Vote - The following individuals have agreed to serve a second term if elected.

Marshall Chicago Heights, Beacon Hill

2020-C Westfield 2020-C Chicago Metro

Baptist Children's Home and Family Services Board of Trustees

Resolutions and Christian Life Committee

The Committee met March 15 to discuss potential resolutions to be presented at the 2022 IBSA Annual Meet ing and assigned topics to members. The Committee then reviewed drafted resolutions at its September 15 meeting.

The Committee recommends the following resolutions for vote at the 2022 IBSA Annual Meeting. Any addition al resolutions by messengers are to be submitted by 4:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 2. The Committee will meet to discuss any newly submitted resolutions, and either prepare those resolutions for presentation and vote at the Thursday morning session or recommend that they be referred to the 2023 Resolutions and Chris tian Life Committee for further work and consideration.

Resolution Appreciation for Metro Community Church of Edwardsville

WHEREAS, Metro Community Church has graciously served as the first church to host the IBSA Annual Meet ing since the Covid-19 pandemic; and

WHEREAS, Pastor Seth Conerly along with the staff and members of Metro Community Church have reflected the cooperative spirit of the IBSA family by giving of their time, resources, and facilities; and

WHEREAS, the church has extended exemplary hospitality in working with IBSA officers, staff, and leadership; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the messengers of the 2022 Illinois Baptist State Association Annual Meeting, November 2-3 at Metro Community Church in Edwardsville, Illinois, express our deepest appreciation and commit to pray for God’s continued blessing on His church as they seek to serve their community and the Lord, as he transforms lives through the power of the gospel.

Resolution on Remaining In Illinois as a Mission Field

WHEREAS, Scripture declares Christ’s commands to his church to make disciples of all nations and to be witnesses to the ends of the earth (Matthew 28:18-30; Acts 1:8); and

WHEREAS, the Illinois Baptist State Association has endeavored since 1907 to assist churches in spreading the gospel throughout Illinois; and

WHEREAS, millions of the residents of Illinois are still unsaved; and

WHEREAS, every person in Illinois is made in the image of God, needs to hear the gospel, and is deserving of our love and outreach; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the messengers of the 2022 Illinois Baptist State As sociation Annual Meeting, November 2-3 at Metro Community Church in Edwardsville, Illinois, express our commitment to and recognition of Illinois as a mission field; and be it further

RESOLVED, that we encourage one another to stay in Illinois and spread the gospel here; and be it further

RESOLVED, that we encourage, support, and train ministry leaders in ongoing efforts to spread the gospel, plant new churches, and revitalize established ones; and be it finally

RESOLVED, that we urge all Illinois Baptists to dedicate our time, money, and lives to the furtherance of the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout Illinois, in the cities, the suburbs, the small towns, and the rural communi ties.

Resolution on Gambling in Illinois

WHEREAS, the desire to get rich quickly preys upon people’s weaknesses and increases the likelihood that they will become addicted to gambling, gaming, and other addictive vices (1 Timothy 6:9-10 / Ecclesiastes 5:10 / Luke 16:13); and

WHEREAS, the human costs associated with gam bling are troubling and sobering, as indicated by a recent study done for the State of Illinois indicating that problem gambling in the state “disproportionately impacts marginalized communities and is typically interconnected with mental health conditions and substance use,” and that nearly 12% of Illinoisans either have a gambling problem or are at risk of developing one (Luke 12:15 / James 1:14-15); and

WHEREAS, in spite of state-sponsored gambling, the tax burden of Illinois citizens has increased greatly year after year; and

WHEREAS, over the past two decades, rather than increasing efforts to identify and bring to the state new and more stable and diverse sources of income, government leaders have defaulted to adding and supporting more and more gambling and other solutions; and

WHEREAS, the hope of large financial returns can blind financially strapped communities to the true long-term costs of tax breaks to gambling institutions; and

WHEREAS, the introduction of gaming establishments into our communities brings with it more crime, causing additional financial and operational burdens to law enforcement agencies; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the messengers to the 2022 Illinois Baptist State Association Annual Meeting, November 2-3 at Metro Community Church in Edwardsville, Illinois, urge IBSA churches and their members to stand against efforts to bring more gambling and gaming products into the communities of Illinois. (Romans 12:2)

Resolution on the Hope of Forgiveness and Transformation Amidst the Turmoil of Transgenderism

WHEREAS, Illinois Baptists joyfully and steadfastly rely on the Holy Bible as true and totally trustworthy, without any mixture of error; and

WHEREAS, the Holy Bible, as God’s word, states that He created man in the image of God; He created them male and female (Gen. 1:27); and

WHEREAS, Satan, the father of lies (John 8:44), has deceived many in our state and culture to believe that identity can be better found in a gender other than the one with which a person is born biologically; and

WHEREAS, a Pew Research study found 1.6% of U.S. adults now identify as transgender or nonbinary, including 5.1% of adults younger than 30; and the Williams Institute reports nearly one in five people who identify as transgender are ages 13-17, meaning a growing number of children are taking physical action to “transition” their gender; and

WHEREAS, there are men, women, and even children who are in deep spiritual, mental, and physical pain due to the promotion of transgenderism, and subsequently regret the damage and turmoil to their souls, minds, bodies, families, and others in their lives; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, that the messengers to the 2022 Illinois Baptist State Association Annual Meeting, November 2-3 at Metro Community Church in Edwardsville, Illinois, grieve deeply the spiritual, mental, and physical pain that our fellow humans suffer because of this lie; and be it further

RESOLVED, that we gladly invite all who suffer from the impact of transgenderism to trust in Jesus Christ, who is the Truth (John 14:6) and be set free (John 8:36) from all lies; and be it further

RESOLVED, that we will without hesitation welcome all into our churches where they may hear the good news that Jesus forgives and redeems sinners and offers true, spiritual transformation; and be it finally

RESOLVED, that we will endeavor to help those redeemed from this turmoil to find peace in Christ that is beyond understanding (Phil. 4:7), love amongst the saints that is without hypocrisy (Rom. 12:9) and hope in the future where God makes all things new (Rev. 21:5).

Respectfully submitted:

Jeremy Byrd

Rick Dorsey

Meredith Flynn

Tom Gray

Lawrence Haskin

Jody Pittman

Tom Rains

David Stanton, Secretary

Ben Towell, Vice Chair

Claude White

Jeffrey Williams, Chair

2022 Officers:

Jeffrey Williams, Chair

Ben Towell, Vice-Chair

Meredith Flynn, Secretary

IBSA Board of Directors’ Reports

Chairman of the Board of Directors’ Report Jeff

Logsdon

This past year has seen a return to a more “normal” operation of the IBSA Board as we have returned to in person meetings of our committees and the Board as a whole. Board training has also returned to in person which provides a smoother transition to Board service for new members.

This year the Board has given attention to the final analysis of the three-year revitalization process IBSA has undertaken. Goals and measures have been streamlined to better enable us to determine the effectiveness of IBSA in achieving the desired strategies of promoting health, growth, mission, engagement and partnership within IBSA churches.

IBSA is promoting the understanding that every church is a missionary in their community or context. IBSA will more intentionally focus on equipping our churches to fulfill that pur pose. While IBSA will continue to provide some expertise, there will be a shift toward more effectively using the human and entrepreneurial resources contained in our member churches.

During an expanded meeting in August, the Board had an opportunity to hear more of Nate’s heart and leadership focus than time usually allows. This was also a valuable time to better connect with our fellow Board mem bers which we believe will nurture an environment of greater collaboration within the Board.

In response to the disclosures related to the national SBC and sexual abuse response, Nate Adams commis sioned a Task Force chaired by Associate Executive Director Mark Emerson which in turn recommended actions related to sex abuse prevention and ministry to survivors. The Board reviewed the summary background and recommendations in an ongoing effort to promote best practices in sex abuse prevention and effective ministry to survivors. At its September 13 meeting, the IBSA Board unanimously affirmed the summary report and its rec ommended actions related to sex abuse prevention and ministry to survivors, now printed on pages 28-30 of this Book of Reports.

I want to personally thank the 2022 IBSA Board of Directors for their commitment to providing oversight of the IBSA with wisdom and integrity. I want to especially thank Terry Foster for his service as Board Secretary during the past two years and Bruce Kirk for serving alongside me as Board Vice Chair. The commitment this Board has to Illinois Baptists and to the Kingdom of God as a whole is inspiring. It is an honor to serve alongside these men and women. It is also an honor to serve with the IBSA staff. Nate and the entire team at IBSA provide thoughtful, God honoring leadership for Illinois Baptists throughout the year.

Please continue to pray for Nate Adams, our IBSA Executive Director, the IBSA staff, and the IBSA Board for 2023. Vice Chair Bruce Kirk and I have appreciated the opportunity to serve Illinois Baptists this past year, and we look forward to the opportunity to continue to serve in the year ahead with our new board secretary, Paul Coo per. Illinois Baptists, both individually and collectively are making a huge impact for the Kingdom of God, and it is a joy to serve alongside of you.

Report Regarding Sex Abuse Prevention and Ministry to Survivors September 13, 2022

At its September 13, 2022 meeting, the IBSA Board unanimously affirmed the following summary report and recom mended actions related to sex abuse prevention and ministry to survivors, as presented by the IBSA Board Administrative Committee and IBSA’s Executive Director.

Background:

During its June 14-15, 2022 meeting in Anaheim, the Southern Baptist Convention approved a report from the SBC Sex Abuse Task Force that included several recommendations and requests, including some addressed directly to Baptist State Conventions. Anticipating this report, IBSA Executive Director Nate Adams had in December 2021 appointed an IBSA staff-led task force to help IBSA evaluate its current practices related to the prevention of sexual abuse in church and network settings, and also the proper handling of sex abuse claims by IBSA. This 6-person IBSA Task Force also connected with task forces from other Baptist State Conventions, with the SBC Sex Abuse Task Force, and with the SBC’s Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission staff to share information and best practices. The IBSA Task Force report was completed August 1, 2022. While both the SBC and IBSA Task Force reports are exten sive in length, the two lists following this background section (the first list was in response to the SBC SATF Report in June and the second with additional actions is in response to the IBSA SATF report and recommendations) provide a summary of actions recommended by IBSA’s Executive Director.

It should be noted that since 2018 IBSA has responded to the growing need for sex abuse prevention by:

• Setting high standards for vetting and approving volunteer leaders at IBSA camps and on IBSA-led mission trips.

• Creating a child protection training process for churches, initially designed for in-person training, then later developed as an online training tool.

• Publishing a brochure to help churches establish effective, contextual policies related to sex abuse preven tion.

• Developing an internal strategy to advise pastors and churches through crisis response.

During the past year specifically, IBSA has delivered value to churches dealing with sex abuse in the following ways:

• In-person training was offered to several churches. This training was also recorded and delivered virtually for the first time.

• Two churches were assisted in a sex abuse crisis in caring for victims, assistance in appropriately communi cating the incident with transparency, and offering ongoing support to church leaders.

• Three churches were assisted in offering counsel to the pastor regarding how to appropriately respond to suspected abuse.

• IBSA followed proper protocols in making calls to the Illinois Child Abuse Hotline from situations discovered through IBSA Camp ministry (e.g., abuse revealed to counselors). DCHFS was contacted in five of the eight IBSA camps this year for reportable cases.

In addition to the above actions and those described in the following pages, IBSA remains committed to networking and cooperating with other Baptist entities and experts in discovering and implementing additional best practices in sex abuse prevention and effective ministry to survivors.

IBSA Responses to the SBC Sex Abuse Task Force Recommendations for State Conventions: (These were first published June 8, 2022, when the recommendations from the SBC Task Force were made public prior to the June 14-15 SBC.)

The following (in the bold paragraphs below) are the requests from the SBC SATF’s report that relate specifically to Baptist state conventions, along with responses by Executive Director Nate Adams on behalf of the Illinois Baptist State Association:

#1: We request that state conventions consider having a designated, trained staff person or independent contractor to receive calls regarding allegations of sexual abuse and provide initial guidance. We request this person be trained in trauma to be able to assist both survivors and churches and will be able to assist submitters who may need help in filing an allegation report with the appropriate party.

Illinois Baptist State Association plans to respond to this request in three ways.

1. We will train IBSA Directors and Associational leaders in responding appropriately to victims, perpe trators, and churches when abuse reports are received. In addition to designated people on IBSA’s staff being trained to receive calls from victims or pastors in crisis, we will work to train a broad spectrum of Illinois Baptist leaders in initial response best practices.

2. We will offer resources and training to church leaders in making an appropriate response to victims of sexual abuse. We understand that a supportive initial response is crucial in the healing process of a survivor. A series of in-person and online trainings, accompanied by an easily accessible checklist, will be made available to all Illinois Baptist leaders.

3. IBSA has discovered several trauma-informed counselors in our Illinois Baptist Family. A list of avail able trauma-informed counselors will be maintained by IBSA and kept readily available. We will strive to connect victims, leaders, and churches who are ministering in a sexual abuse crisis with one of these counselors.

#2: We request that state conventions, in consultation with Lifeway and the Executive Committee, add a series of questions on the Annual Church Profile regarding background checks and sexual abuse training.

IBSA is open to working with LifeWay and in consultation with other Baptist state conventions on enhance ments to ACP questions that can consistently and concisely address this need. In 2021, 97% of IBSA church es completed an Annual Church Profile, demonstrating their strong and transparent engagement in providing shared information.

#3: We request that state conventions maintain a list of professionally trained, licensed, trauma-informed Christian counselors in their respective states for those churches who voluntarily seek assis tance as they minister to survivors.

As noted above, IBSA will seek to develop relationships with trauma-informed counselors, many of whom are members of our churches. A list of available trauma-informed counselors will be maintained by IBSA and kept readily available. We will strive to connect victims, leaders, and churches who are ministering in a sexual abuse crisis with one of these counselors.

#4: We request that state conventions establish a self-certification program for churches, including “best practices” in survivor care, hiring, investigatory protocols, and training for prevention.

IBSA is open to considering a self-certification program for churches and local associations and is actively learning about the possibility. For the past three years, we have sought to continually update our resources and training strategies as we have learned more effective ways to help victims and churches. Child protection train ing continues to be offered through IBSA’s Growth Team. Training can be accessed for churches in-person and online. A booklet “Child Protection: Creating Safe Environments” has been developed to help churches estab lish appropriate policies or update current strategies. IBSA is committed to continuing to grow in this key area.

#5: We request all state [convention] entities and committees provide training regarding sexual abuse prevention and survivor care to their denominational workers, as well as background checks, as part of their orientation and selection.

Background checks, social media checks, and reference checks are a requirement for employment at IBSA. Background checks are also required to participate in many ministries through IBSA, such as serving in Disaster Relief, state-led mission trip participation, and becoming a camp volunteer. Every camp volunteer is required to complete their camp-specific online training before they can be approved to serve as a camp leader or volunteer. We are considering making recommendations to messengers to extend this requirement to include additional volunteer leaders, and to enable all IBSA churches to access Sex Abuse Prevention Training for their leaders at a discounted rate.

Further Recommended Actions Based on the IBSA Sex Abuse Task Force Study: (Additional details on these recommendations are available in the IBSA Task Force’s 31-page report.)

1. Offer statewide “self-certification” training for those who “take the call” or “care for the survivor” regarding sex abuse. The training process will use the “Caring Well” resources from the ERLC as well as an Illinois-specific, self-paced, online course developed by IBSA.

2. Update the IBSA website with current sex abuse prevention and response resources. a. Arrange the page with the user in mind. Offer resources in three categories: victims who need immediate assistance, pastors who need immediate help and training, and churches who need self-certification training and resources in the development of policies and procedures. b. Give the page a prominent position where it can be easily identified and accessed.

3. Work with the IBSA Credentials Committee and the IBSA Constitution Committee to see if any word ing needs to be added to IBSA’s governing documents that would offer a process to discipline or disaffiliate an IBSA church that is determined to have willfully or persistently mishandled claims or cases of sex abuse. (Additional suggestions on how to address this issue are included in the larger IBSA Sex Abuse Task Force Report.)

4. Partner with the Ministry Safe organization, subsidizing the $150 membership fee for each IBSA church requesting this assistance (e.g. “Go to ministrysafe.com/IBSA and use the code IBSA2022”). IBSA would pay the entirety of the church's first year membership, asking the church only to pay the $5 fee for each member trained. This might be restricted to the church’s first year of membership.

5. Establish a list of Trauma-Informed Counselors (prioritizing members of IBSA churches) who are willing to be used as a resource to guide pastors and counsel victims and perpetrators during any times of a sex abuse crisis in their church. IBSA would plan to subsidize the cost of these counselors (when the counselor is advising the pastor) when the church is unable to afford their services.

Executive Director’s Report

Dr. Nate Adams

IBSA has been engaged in an ongoing process of consultation and future strategic planning for much of the past three years. Our stated goal for this process has been, “to discover and seek to model what it means to be an effective state network of churches for the future.” As we complete this process in 2022, we gratefully acknowledge our partners at the North American Mission Board, who have helped IBSA and at least eight other Baptist state conventions with the cost of experienced, church network consul tants.

One significant outcome of this process for IBSA has been a new mission statement, to “Deliver network value that inspires each church to thrive, in health, growth, and mission.” Thrive is the key word on which both the 2021 and the 2022 IBSA Annual Meeting Themes have been based. And with this year’s theme, we are emphasizing that in our Illinois mission field (larger in population than 131 of the world’s 210 nations), “Each Church” must be “a Missionary.”

During this strategic planning journey IBSA has also clarified and prioritized four key values that motivate our service as a state network: Excellence for churches, Engagement with Churches, Helpfulness to churches, and Advance through churches.

From those mission and values statements now flow five specific strategies. Three are IBSA’s “church-facing” strategies: Health, Growth, and Mission. And two are “network-facing” strategies: Engagement and Partner ship. Each strategy has statements of measure, and from those more general statements of measure flow specific, annual goals and metrics, approved by the IBSA Board and monitored throughout the year.

While year-end data from the 2022 Annual Church Profile will not be available until January 2023, below are a few highlights of IBSA’s ministry outcomes thus far in 2022:

• Through September, 8 new churches have been planted in Illinois, and we anticipate a total of 10 or more by the end of the year. Over 40 church plants are currently in some stage of development, from planning to gathering, to launching, to constitution and affiliation. We are encouraged to have 21 potential planters in our pipeline, and 68 churches engaged in intentional prayer for Illinois church plants.

• In addition to those new church plants in progress, 13 new churches are being presented for affiliation with IBSA and celebrated at this year’s IBSA Annual Meeting.

• More than 100 churches have been trained in developing intentional evangelism strategies, and over 500 students thus far toward our goal of training 1,000 students in personal evangelism.

• Through the end of September, 1,592 volunteers had participated in 124 IBSA-coordinated mission projects.

• Our 2022 goal of engaging at least 100 IBSA churches in an intentional, Next Step consulting process was surpassed in September, with 102 churches (and counting) now on that journey.

• Through the end of September, 1,937 leaders from 233 churches have engaged in leadership development processes. In addition, 150 leaders have participated in 21 leadership cohorts, 89 have participated in online courses, and 647 have participate in webinars and podcasts.

• In addition to the above leadership development numbers, 1,938 workers from 273 churches have been trained in various church ministry skills.

•

IBSA’s Health Team and its trained pathfinders and coaches have engaged with 25 new churches and 5 new Associations this year, in an in-depth Refocus process of revitalization. 82 pastors have engaged in an initial assessment/coaching process that may lead to a deeper or longer revitalization commitment. Six churches are utilizing the Church Renewal Journey as a strategy.

• Participation at our two IBSA Camp properties continues to resurge in 2022, following the challenging, Covid-influenced years of 2020 and 2021. Through September, most numbers were already at 80-90% of the year-end totals for 2021. And Streator Baptist Camp recorded a new high in camper participation this year, hosting 1,546 campers through September, compared to a 2021 year-end total of 890.

• A building project to complete the renovation of the IBSA Building’s first floor is underway. By early 2023, visitors and IBSA’s many committee and board members will enjoy a new café and meeting area just inside the building’s primary entrance.

• 2022 Cooperative Program giving appears to be suffering from the impact of inflation and post-Covid attendance patterns in churches. Through September, CP giving in Illinois is 14% lower than pre-Covid 2019. This resembles 2020 more than 2021, when CP giving rebounded to only 6% lower than 2019. The 2022 IBSA Budget anticipates CP giving of $6.2 million, and a draw on up to $450,000 in reserves as necessary. However due to conservative spending, through September 2022 only $19,650 in reserves have been needed, and we anticipate ending 2022 well within annual budget parameters, as has been the case for many years.

• While gatherings and face-to-face contact have continued to be a challenge in 2022, IBSA staff have made a concerted effort to connect with and engage pastors and churches through phone, e-mail, webinars, and video conferencing. Through September, our staff has had direct contact with 59% of IBSA churches, with a goal of reaching at least 85% by the end of the year.

• IBSA has responded affirmatively and proactively to the five recommendations of the national SBC’s Sex Abuse Task Force, and has taken additional steps based on the recommendations of its Illinois task force. IBSA Board action on these recommendations can be found on pp. 28-30 of this Book of Reports.

The IBSA missionaries, staff, and I appreciate so much the partnership and cooperation of IBSA churches and consider it a joy to serve the Lord through this ministry. We welcome any questions or input that may assist us in serving IBSA churches more effectively.

INCOME

Cooperative Program Income

6,200,0003,983,8064,672,899(689,094)85%

Church Planter Funding - NAMB 650,000387,000487,500(100,500)79% Other Income 64,000287,06748,000239,067598%

Baptist Foundation Revenue - Restricted 41,00024,04820,5003,548117%

Cost Recovery - Revenue 281,900212,516241,900(29,384)88%

Baptist Building Tenant Lease Revenue 196,600150,024147,4502,574102%

IBSA Investment Income 178,70022,532134,025(111,493)17% Total Income 7,612,2005,066,9935,752,274(685,282)88%

APPROPRIATED NET ASSETS

Mission Illinois Offering Revenue 380,000251,801253,333(1,533)99%

Evangelism Funding - NAMB 239,000179,250179,250 0100%

Net Asset Reserves 450,00000 0100%

Total Appropriated Net Assets 1,069,000431,051432,583(1,533)100%

TOTAL INCOME PLUS APPROPRIATIONS 8,681,2005,498,0436,184,857(686,814)89%

EXPENSES

CP to National SBC 2,427,3001,537,2061,829,440(292,234)84% Illinois Missions: AED Ministries 34,00010,77626,700(15,924)40% Health 114,29082,39698,175(15,779)84% Growth 588,250391,641514,370(122,729)76% Mission 1,081,100668,939703,350(34,411)95% AED Services 29,50019,53822,350(2,812)87% Operations 1,870,0191,195,2451,464,529(269,284)82% Communication 223,656135,860194,570(58,710)70% Executive Team 2,313,0851,476,0931,742,600(266,507)85% Total Expenses 8,681,2005,517,6946,596,084(1,078,390)84%

IBSA Board of Directors Recommendations

The IBSA Board of Directors recommends that the proposed 2023 budget, salary structure, and CP ratio be approved as printed, based on a Cooperative Program Goal of $6,000,000 and a Cooperative Program ratio of 56.5%/43.5% (IBSA/SBC), excluding shared expenses not to exceed 10% of the Cooperative Program Goal, and with Cooperative Program funds received beyond the budget goal to be distributed at a ratio of 50%/50%

2023 BFI Operating Budget (pending board approval @ 25 Oct 2022 mtg)

Revenue Projection

GL Acct

Description

2023 Total Budget Fee Income

6050052 BFI Bonds $ 94,612 6050040-6050043 Custodial Investing (incl. BFO) $ 208,828 6050050 Other Loan Interest (Reverted Assets) $ 26,000 BFI Term (short term management fees) $ 30,000 6050051, 6050053, 6050054 Participation, Reserve, Blended Loan Interest $ 19,042 6050044 IR Taxable Trust Management $ 10,000 6050063 Other Gift Support $ 3,000 6050066 Loan Processing Fees $ 2,500 6050065 Net Asset Interest Production ($ 22,174) 6050067 Transfer from BFI Reserves Transfer from BFI Vision Fund Operational Subtotal ($ 416,156)

Grand Total Operating Revenue

Expense Projection

Description

Employee Expense

7070080 Salaries ($ 259,553) 7070083 Employer FICA/SSI, Medicare ($ 19,466) 7070082 Health Insurance ($ 26,194) 7070081 Retirement Contribution ($ 22,174) 7070084 Disability & Life Insurance ($ 2,690) 7070074 Workers Comp Insurance ($ 800) 7070041 Payroll Fees (reimb IBSA) ($ 1,740)

Administration

7070073 IT - Accounting Software $ 40,000 7070075 D&O Insurance $ 1,000 7070071 Board Governance $ 2,250 7070076 Audit $ 16,000 7070072 Legal $ 7070091 Office Rental & Bldg Svcs $ 15,240 7070050 Travel $ 12,000 7070060 Promotion $ 4,000 7070040 Office Expense $ 6,000 $ 429,107

Grand Total Expenses Income (Loss) ($ (12,951.30)

12.1% Development & Communications 9.8% GraceHaven 7.6% Other 5.8%

15.4%

Baptist Children's Home & Family Services

Baptist Children's Home & Family Services Capital Improvements Budget For Year 2023

Capital Improvements Budget

For Year 2023

Pending Approval by BCHFS Board of Trustees @ October 22, 2022 Meeting

Pending Approval by BCHFS Board of Trustees @ October 22, 2022 Meeting

Description Amount

Description Amount

Cottage Van 60,000 $

Cottage Van 60,000 $

New Car for Agency 40,000

New Car for Agency 40,000

GraceHaven Basement Repairs 25,000

GraceHaven Basement Repairs 25,000

Replace Flooring in Angels' Cove 21,000

Replace Flooring in Angels' Cove 21,000

Replace Windows at Faith Adoption Ministry/AC 20,000

Replace Windows at Faith Adoption Ministry/AC 20,000 New Zero Turn Mower 16,000

New Zero Turn Mower 16,000

Heating/Air Conditioning Equipment for BCH 15,000

Heating/Air Conditioning Equipment for BCH 15,000 Heating/Air Conditioning Equipment for AC 15,000

Heating/Air Conditioning Equipment for AC 15,000

BCH Campus Physical Fitness Equipment Improvements 10,000

BCH Campus Physical Fitness Equipment Improvements 10,000 Copier for BCH Hathaway Office 6,000

Copier for BCH Hathaway Office 6,000

Devore Admin Building ADA Accessible 5,000 Window for Dara's Office 3,000

Devore Admin Building ADA Accessible 5,000 Window for Dara's Office 3,000

Total Capital 236,000 $

Total Capital 236,000 $

BAPTIST CHILDREN'S HOME & FAMILY SERVICES

Salary Schedule

Effective July 1, 2022

--1st Quartile-- --2nd Quartile-- --3rd Quartile-- --4th Quartile--

1Part Time Hourly Wage 13$ To21$ To29$ To37$ To45$

2Administrative Assistant/Clerical (35+ hrs/wk) 24,113 28,650 33,187 37,72442,260

3Maintenance Specialist 25,480 31,110 36,740 42,37048,000

4Recreation Coordinator 28,000 30,000 32,000 34,00036,000

5Houseparent 33,000 36,000 39,000 42,00045,000

6Houseparent Assistant 24,113 28,650 33,187 37,72442,260

7Professional/Degreed Specialist 31,000 36,000 41,000 46,00051,000

8Clinical Level (Non Licensed) 35,000 39,250 43,500 47,75052,000

9Development Officer 40,000 45,000 50,000 55,00060,000

10Clinical Level (Licensed) 41,000 47,000 53,000 59,00065,000

11Manager 45,000 50,000 55,000 60,00065,000

12Director 65,000 70,000 75,000 80,00085,000

Officers for 2023: Rebecca Whittington, Chair; Danny Hampton, Vice Chair; Cheryl Dorsey, Secretary

Illinois Members Serving on Southern Baptist Convention Boards, Committees, and Agencies

COMMITTEE NAME TERM

Executive Committee

*Sharon Carty, Carlinville 2025

Executive Committee Adron Robinson, Country Club Hills 2025

International Mission Board Chris Winkleman, Harrisburg 2025

North American Mission Board David Seaton, Collinsville 2024

LifeWay Christian Resources *Terenda Wyant, Belleville 2023

GuideStone Financial Resources Michael Allen, Chicago 2024

Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary *Sheila Fields, Plainfield 2025

The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary Scott Nichols, West Chicago 2026

Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary *Andrea Powell, Aurora 2025

New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary *Dana L. Keating, Harrisburg 2024

Gateway Seminary Kevin Carrothers, Mt. Vernon 2027

Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission Scott Foshie, Chatham 2026

Committee on Nominations Bruce Kirk, Bolingbrook 2023

Committee on Nominations *Hazel Noble, Matteson 2023

WMU Executive Board Lindsay Wineinger, Princeville WMU Board-at-Large Carmen Halsey, IL WMU leader

*Denotes non-church/denominational-related vocation

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The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. – Acts 13:49