We had our last Congregational Meeting for 2022 Wednesday night. It was well attended and characterized by our normal positive and encouraging attitudes.

Here are some highlights:

First, we reviewed the proposed 2023 budget. The proposed budget is an increase of 3.46% – or $257,450. Though the increase is a substantial amount, the budget continues to be based on our conservative model.

The increases are in four basic areas: staff salary and benefits, property casualty insurance increase of $70,000, missions, and security costs.

The budget will be voted on in all weekend worship services on December 3rd & 4th.  It will be a voice vote without discussion as required by our bylaws.

Second, we affirmed 15 men to serve as deacons for the two year period of 2023–2024. They are:

Brian Baughman
Tom Chambless
Jason Coffey
Jim Cook
Ed Covington
Syd Gibbs
Daniel Lombardo – newly serving
Scot Martin – newly serving
Jim Moreau
Chuck Rich
Scott Ritter – to be ordained
Daniel Roberts
Don Saucier
Kevin Seal
Robert Vinson

These men join the 14 other Deacons who are serving out their 2 year term ending 2023.

We also elected ministry team members who will begin serving in the new year.

Third, we discussed our debt retirement, which is moving along nicely, the Anchored Campaign, which is ahead of schedule, plans to renovate Central Hall and 500 hallway upstairs, as well as other plans for using the Anchored funds.

I tell my pastor friends that FBC Covington is an “easy place“ to be a pastor. It really is. You make it that way, and I thank you for it.

God has great plans for our future, and I look forward to seeing what He will do in us and through us.

– Waylon Bailey