The OBC Elders met for their regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, September 19, 2023. Pastor Pat opened in prayer thanking the Lord for another year of gospel ministry and asking for wisdom and guidance for the leaders and helpers of those ministries. May we all be encouraged knowing that in the Lord our labor is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).

After the opening prayer Pat Abendroth led us through Chapter 15 of the London Baptist Confession of Faith of 1689 - Of Repentance Unto Life and Salvation. The confession reminds us that whether young or old, God’s effectual calling gives repentance leading to life.

God’s mercy continues throughout our lives and by the Holy Spirit we are sensible of sin and given a desire to turn from it and walk in a way pleasing to God. Salvation is of the Lord from beginning to end.

Next, Dave Guthrie presented the August financial reports. Giving was $79,028 against a budget of $89,707 with expenses of $78,652 against a budget of $108,663.

Overall, the fiscal year ended with a net income of a negative $3,415. We continue to trust and call on the Lord and look forward to see how he will provide in this coming year.

It was our joy to appoint John Schmoll to another three-year term as a deacon. We thank him for his past faithfulness and trust that the Lord will continue to use him in service to the body at OBC.

The Pactum Conference, All Things New, was also discussed. Thanks to everyone who helped in preparing for it. Continue to pray that the conference will be used to help us live lives worthy of the gospel as we wait for that day when the new creation will come to full fruition.

Finally, we were encouraged to meet with Daniel Wood. Daniel is starting a pastoral internship in counseling. Please pray with us for his growth in grace and knowledge of the Lord and for direction ahead.

The meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m. Our next meeting will be Tuesday, October 17.