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A word from
Pastor James
As I begin my 8th year of
ministry at Christ First I’m
continuing to learn how
vital it is to leverage the
time, talents and treasure
of our community to give
glory to God and keep the
mission of Christ our
priority. Your commitment
to the mission and growth
in Christ has been nothing
short of inspirational to our
entire leadership team. As
a community of hundreds
of unique individuals we all
unite around one mission:
TO EQUIP EVERY
GENERATION TO REACH
THEIR RELATIONAL
WORLD FOR CHRIST
We can sing praises better
in heaven. We can follow
God’s precepts better in
heaven. But the Lord has
given us the present to do
something vital now:
Lead people who are far
from God to eternal life in
Christ. Thank you for the
part you play and let’s keep
bringing our first and best to
the mission of Christ in
2017.
I hope you enjoy reflecting
and celebrating what God
has done in 2016 and then
turn your hearts towards
the incredible opportunities
ahead.
The best is yet to come!
…forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:13-14
Pastor James
Table of Contents
MEET THE STAFF 3
BY THE STATS 4
ANNUAL CHRIST FIRST SURVEY 5
COMMUNITY GROUPS 6
PROJECT NEXT GENERATION 7
CHAOS YOUTH MINISTRY 8
CHRISTMAS IN COVINA 9
CHANCEL CHOIR 10
TECHNICAL TEAM 11
KIDS CHOIR 12
PRESCHOOL MINISTRY 14
OUTREACH MINISTRY 14
OPERATION CHRISTMAS
CHILD 16
XYZ MINISTRY 17
CARE TEAM MINISTRY 17
ELDER REPORT 18
FINANCIAL REPORT 20
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THE STAFF OF CHRIST FIRST
James Laing Lead Pastor
Thiago Demendonca Worship & Youth Pastor
Jennifer Fierro Groups & Media Director
Tom Kreinbring Chancel Choir Director
Sara Lee Kids Choir Director
Nancy Hughes Preschool Director
Jyl Ranabauer Business Manager
Nicole Hurte Worship Intern
Teresa McCloy Assistant to Pastor James
Brian Scrivens Outreach Team Lead
George Galindo Property Team Lead
Amber Hansen 9 am Elementary Team Lead
Joy Kedroski 11am Elementary Team Lead
Patsy Prough Preschool Team Lead
Jeri Brown Nursery Team Lead
Beth Monje
Alex Enriquez
Becky Galindo
Custodial Team
Israel Martinez Spanish Service Pastor
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THE STATS OF CHRIST FIRST
2016 BAPTISMS
Ashleigh Martin Beverly M. Hom‐Tsao
Pete Valentine Heath Bentson
Steve Bicksler
CHILD DEDICATIONS
Maddox Abeyta
son of Drew & Sara Abeyta
2016 WEDDINGS – Josh & Nicole Hurte
2016 BIRTHS - None
2016 NEW MEMBERS
Steve Thomas Mary Thomas
Joe Babineau Karen Babineau
Beverly M. Hom‐Tsao James Wright
Jennifer Smith Patricia Swartz
Lou Ann Warburg Lyanne Castillo
Duane Rogers Rose Hongying Xu
George Faulkner Nancy Faulkner
Steven Bicksler Linda Rickett
Bob Crowel Marjorie Crowel
Sandra Pollard
TOTAL OF 19 NEW MEMBERS
IN MEMORIAM ‐ MEMBERS & FRIENDS
Kenneth Patterson Mitch Mitchell
Roy Tonks Art Childers
Neal Hansen Sally Koca
Helen Lambert Bob Benjamin
Stephanie Newlin John Lee
Sheldon Houghton Orval Bock
Ken Lane Vivian Shalito
Leon Potter Jack Lester
Dolly Holland Angela Littlefield
Clara Jane Haynie
BY THE NUMBERS
CHRISTMAS IN COVINA: 622
• Sat: 232 Sun: 317 Choirs/Cast/Crew: 73
• +104 over previous year
REGULAR GIVING: $550,459
• 105.2% of budget
• +$28,640 over previous year
NEW GIVING UNITS:26
• One giving unit is either an individual,
couple or family.
CHRISTMAS OFFERING: $13,265
• +$4,430 over previous year
• Barranca Elementary, Staff bonus,
Projector, Light Board, Lights
CAMP SCHOLARSHIPS: $6,040
MEALS SERVED TO HOMELESS: 3,000+
AT THE MOVIES ‐5‐week series‐
Average Weekly Attendance: 302
• +49 over previous year
• Highest week ‐ Star Wars: 363
EASTER: 384
• ‐37 from previous year
AVERAGE WEEKLY ATTENDANCE: 281 Excluding AT THE MOVIES
• 9am Classic: 135
• 9am Modern: 30
• 11am Modern: 93
• 2pm Spanish: 23
CURRENT MEMBERSHIP: 246
2016 FIRST TIME GUESTS: 41
• $1 was donated to Operation
Christmas Child for each First Time
Guest Card Collected.
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ANNUAL CHRIST FIRST SURVEY
This fall was our first annual Christ First Survey. We sent out emails to all members and
attenders with a link to a survey of four short questions. For those that did not have an email
volunteers called them personally to ask the same questions. This data was gathered and
given to the leadership to be used in strategic planning and evaluation.
SUMMARY OF REPORT
This survey was sent out to the Christ First contact list during the month of October. The
survey was sent first through the eNews, then two direct emails followed by phone calls.
Results:
0‐1 years 15 people
1‐3 years 11 people
3 years or more 129 people
Serving
81% of those responding to the survey are involved in a ministry
Community Group
55% of those responding to the survey are involved in a Community Group
• 282 households on the Contact List
• 106 responded through the Online Survey
• 49 surveys were completed by a volunteer call
• 155 total people responded to the survey
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COMMUNITY GROUPS Jennifer Fierro, Community Groups Director
What is a Community Group?
Community groups are small groups of approximately six to ten individuals that meet weekly in
someone’s home to connect, look at God’s word, and pray together. Groups will also have fun events
and opportunities to serve the community together. They are for adults of all ages, stages of life, and
spiritual maturity. Our children's ministry and youth ministry also have small groups available.
How long do they last?
We have three 10‐week group “seasons” a year and break over summer. At the end of each 10‐week
season, you are welcome to stay in your group for the next season, transition to another group, or
take a break.
What if I get stuck in a group I don't like?
The initial 4 weeks of each season is our “Test Drive” stage. If for any reason you would like to check
out other groups, this is the time our leaders encourage you to do so.
2016 IN REVIEW
2016 Community Group Leaders
1. Barbara Anderson Ruth Coakley (women)
2. Bob & Judi Benjamin Jerry Lewis (mixed)
3. Jennifer Fierro/Chris White (mixed)
4. John Headden (mixed)
5. James Laing Phil Esposito (men)
6. Ken & Shirley Lane (mixed)
7. Emerson Lutes/Hector Ramirez (men)
8. John Miller/James Laing (couples)
9. Wayne & Becky Noll (mixed)
10. Leah Osier/Michelle Phillips (women’s group)
11. Betty Packard (mixed)
12. Jyl Ranabauer (moms)
13. Doug & Naomi Tozier (mixed)
14. Jennifer Enriquez (college)
15. Brianne Ray/Cameron Gillespie (young adults)
16. Mary Wilson (women’s group)
Leader transition
New in 2016
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT COMMUNITY GROUPS,
PLEASE CONTACT JOHN MILLER AT [email protected] OR 626‐482‐0266
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2017
New Community Groups We are praying to add two more community groups in 2017, as well as FPU.
New Members Please be praying for new
members to join our community groups!
New Electives We will be offering new elective classes in 2017! Electives are offered just before the start of our community group seasons.
Elective Classes 2016
“The Case for Christ” (1/6) and
“The Case for Faith” (1/13)
Other Learning Opportunities 2016
The Gospel Exhibit (March 13‐20)
Financial Peace University (June‐July)
Fellowship Events 2016
Potluck and a Movie: Les Misérables (June 5th)
Potluck and a Movie: NOT A FAN (September 18th)
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PROJECT NEXT GENERATION
You shall teach them diligently to your children,
and shall talk of them when you sit in your house,
and when you walk by the way,
and when you lie down, and when you rise. Deuteronomy 6:7
It’s a Biblical mandate to impress God’s love upon the next generation. (Deut. 6:4‐7)
Sometimes it’s hard for generations to connect and this project invites the older generation to
take the lead and proactively go and make a friend with the younger generation. In 2015
thirteen people signed up. In 2016 fifty‐eight signed up!!!
What is it?
For twelve months an adult is invited to take 5‐10 minutes each month to reach out to an
assigned young person. Then be open to how God leads the relationship forward. God may
knit some hearts together in a special way. For others, it’s simply a chance to make a
difference in the next generation by encouraging and offering to pray for them 12 times in
2017.
This is not a formal “program” but simply an invitation for you to introduce yourself to another
and check in once a month. My prayer is that this becomes part of the DNA of our church.
Anyone can begin this at anytime with any young person – we’re just creating a spark once a
year that hopefully will fan into a flame of more inter‐generational connections and blessings
at our church.
Didn’t sign up this year but want to take part?
No problem, just ask God to lead you to a young person in our church and be a friend to them
once a month. Encourage them, pray for them and be open to how God may knit your hearts
together in friendship.
CAUTIONS
• Never spend time with a minor alone. See them on our church campus or with their parents
present.
• Don’t be too forward and expect to spend a lot of time with your assigned young person. They
are busy just like you. Use discretion.
• Stop making contact immediately if requested by your young person, their parents or the
church staff.
• Don’t formally invite your assigned young person to be part of a program. You will create an
awkward and weird moment. Think about your current friends… when you first met you didn’t
say “Hi, do you want to be part of my friend program?” Just reach out, introduce yourself and
ask them how you can pray for them. Then do it again each month for the next 12 months.
You don’t even need to tell them you’re going to be reaching out for twelve months, just do it!
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CHAOS YOUTH MINISTRY Thiago Demendonca, Youth Pastor
The Middle School and High School Youth Ministry here at Christ First (CHAOS) continues to
grow both in quantity and quality! Our attendance has never been higher, and that’s due to
the fact that our students are really starting to understand and take to heart the importance of
their oikos. Students have been inviting friends, not only to our special events, but to our
Wednesday (now Sunday) night youth services as well. The newfound sense of urgency is
coming from two main places: their love for Jesus, and their desire for their friends and loved
ones to know Jesus as well. I committed myself at the beginning of last year to do a better job
of teaching our students, and their small group leaders have done a remarkable job of
supporting and encouraging the students they lead.
Our average attendance on a regular Wednesday night has gone from 18 to 25 (about a 40%
increase). Making the decision to move youth group to Sunday nights was tough but worth it.
In the past, the late winter and early spring season has been lowest in attendance due to the
busyness of our students. Moving to Sunday nights has allowed students to attend who would
otherwise be busy with homework or extra‐curricular activities. It has also allowed my team
and me to be more efficient and better at what we do. Meeting during the week made it
difficult for my staff to arrive at church early enough to meet, plan, and setup for the night. Now that we’ve moved to Sundays we have the opportunity to do all of those things!
We’re three weeks in and already see a major difference in the quality of our work!
Our biggest event of the year is
our Nerf War. Last September we
had over 65 students attend!! It’s
a great opportunity to provide a
safe place for our community kids
to have a great time, and for them
to get to know our leaders and
our church. This year we’re
aiming to make it bigger and
better!! None of what we do is
possible without the incredible
amount of support our ministry
has received from persons of
every generation here at our church. We can’t thank you enough and we hope you’re
just as excited as we are to see what God has in store for us in 2017.
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CHRISTMAS IN COVINA
Something special happens when the church gathers
together to worship Jesus and when we invite our
oikos, gospel seeds get planted. This year over 622
people over two evenings enjoyed our Christmas in
Covina musical. The drama team took the audience
on a journey of challenges and disappointments we
all could relate to and pointed us to the hope found
only in Christ. Coupled with an incredible sound of
50+ voices from our Chancel and Kids Choir, I
personally was blown away at the impact we can
make together upon our community. The reception
and Santa pictures were over the top this year and
allowed hundreds to connect and reflect on what
they just experienced and end the night with some
sweet eats and fun pictures with Santa.
Thank you to all who volunteered, put smiles on
faces and planted hope in hearts. Lord willing, we’ll
plant even more gospel seeds next year and be
inter‐generational on purpose for a purpose.
Decem
ber 1
0 &
11
th 2016
My friend was very excited
after attending the
“Christmas in Covina”
performance and as we were
leaving mentioned that the
choir was amazing and that
the people here at the
church were all so friendly. – Marsha Prochnau,
member at Christ First
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CHANCEL CHOIR Tom Kreinbring, Chancel Choir Director
2016 ‐ IN REVIEW
Chancel Choir had the privilege of leading weekly in the Classic worship services and also
presented three musicales during the year, enhanced by the Kids Choir and the Drama
Team. The choir is comprised of faithful folks desiring to sing God's praises. We enjoyed some
growth during 2016, even though we lost several during this year. I am so thankful for the
talent God has sent our way, making it possible to provide more variety in our services, both
musically and in scripture reading, etc. A portion of each weekly rehearsal is spent in sharing
and praying for others and their needs, and God has blessed beyond our expectations.
PRAISE GOD!
Handbell Choir under Vickie Ellis' direction has blessed us as they RANG in praise and worship
during 2016. Shirley Dunlap has assisted Vickie and has trained several new ringers.
Appreciated and enjoyed is the faithfulness, preparation and presentation of these talented
and dedicated individuals in this unique ministry.
Accompanists ‐ Christ First is blessed with gifted pianists and organists. In weekly services,
these folks provide the musical background inspiration for worship and praise. Their dedication
and love of the Lord is reflected in their music. Thanks to Barbara Anderson, Mary Booth,
Marjorie Crowel, Shirley Dunlap, Melody Jan and Bev Tavella. Melody joined us in February as
an organ student from APU and served with us until November at which time she transferred
her studies to UCLA as a pre‐med student. Marjorie, who had served at Christ First for over 15
years, moved back into the area and is now our regular church organist. GOD BLESS YOU EACH
ONE! WE ARE SO BLESSED ‐ TRULY!! THANK YOU EACH ONE FOR A JOB WELL DONE.
CHANCEL CHOIR LOOKING AHEAD TO 2017
Chancel Choir will continue leading in worship and providing anthems weekly in the Classic
Service. Easter, Patriotic and Christmas musicals enhanced by our Kids Choir and Drama Team,
focus on attracting our OIKOS. We welcome new members with the desire to serve the Lord
through the ministry of music. We continue to strive for excellence and providing quality and
variety of music bringing glory to God.
Handbell Choir will assist as available in leading worship periodically in the Classic service. In
addition, on occasion they will perform at senior homes in our community. The Handbell Choir
is always looking for additional ringers... If interested, please contact Vickie Ellis.
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CURRENT ACTIVE CHANCEL CHOIR MEMBERS
REGULAR CHOIR MEMBERS 2015‐35 2016‐42
N O T E: * indicates friends of CFBC who love to sing (12) I/A indicates inactive (2)
N indicates new to Chancel Choir this season (8) P indicates gone to be with the Lord (2)
We are excited to see what the Lord has in store for us in 2017. He has truly put a song in our
hearts. What a privilege to serve! We encourage participation in the music ministry of CFBC in
a Praise Choir, Chancel Choir, Kid's Choir or how about some new ensemble? A duet, trio,
quartet, youth choir? If it sounds good to you, let's talk.
TECH TEAM Steve Miller, Technical Director
The tech crew is responsible for setting up and operating the sound, lighting, computer
graphics and camera equipment for the worship services on Sunday mornings and at special
events. Did you know that it takes seven people to run the 9am services and five for the 11am
Modern Service? We have a great team of volunteers who work behind the scenes
to make sure that everything runs smoothly. In the Classic Service: Jim Earhart & Ron Holt. In
the Modern Service: Josh Miksell, Rob Kedroski, Audra DeStefano, Joel Diaz, David Licorni,
Alfred Palafox and Matt Jauregui. We also have Angie Selix who has made several videos this
past year and staff member Jenn Fierro who creates the graphics each week and helps on the
tech crew. Thank you for your hard work and dedication to the tech team at Christ First.
Christine Allen Pat Bargaehr Isobel Calderon (N) Shirley Campbell Lauren Carpenter *
Leanne Coon * Rosie Creel (I/A) Lila Crosswhite * Rey Cusodio * Maria Earhart
Maxine Depweg Shirley Dunlap Ernie Feyrer Nancy Feyrer Don Funk
Sean Gabel * George Galindo Mandi Guinn * Deb Herman (N) Jim Herman (N)
Ron Holt Marian Hwang Mark Kapoh Wendy Kikkert * Sunee Kiriboon (N)
Andrea Klink * Ruth Kreinbring Ken Lane (P) Shirley Lane Bonnie Lesley
Ken McAuley * Roseanne McAuley * Bev Lindsay Carol Lovelace Al Mendes
Marilyn Mendes La Reta Miller Joanne Mitchell Tom Morales (I/A) Betty Packard
Barbara Parslow (N) Linda Rickett (N) Dana Rogers Duane Rogers Dave Simmons *
Carol Snyder Don Snyder Sharon Tallakson Ty Tallakson Kim Tan
Mary Thomas (N) Steve Thomas (N) Roy Tonks (P) Sharanne Wick Ray Wiles
Sally Wiles Frank Huber *
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Our greatest need right now is another computer operator and a sound board operator for the
Classic Service. Ron & Jim serve faithfully each week, but we need another crew to help out.
Training is provided.
Last year, we replaced the sound boards in both the Classic Worship Center (CWC) and the
Modern Worship Center (MWC). The old sound board in the CWC was in desperate need of
retiring and the new one improved the sound quality. The old (but still in great shape) sound
board that was in the MWC was moved to the Kids/Youth Ministry Theater to replace its old
and dying board. Now we have the same model of sound board in both worship service
facilities, making it easier for sound techs to operate in either location. This year we are
installing a new projector in the MWC, upgrading the stage lighting console to a software based
system on a PC and purchasing a few new lights to increase lighting quality in both venues,
thanks to the Christmas offering.
I have been serving on the tech crew at Christ First for the past 40 years. My passion is to
create a worship environment that leads to a meaningful encounter with God and where our
oikos feel welcomed and comfortable. I see the tech crew, not as a separate group of people
doing their own thing, but as an integral part of the worship team. What we do can either
enhance the service or be a distraction. When we do our jobs right, the congregation should
forget we’re there.
KIDS CHOIR Sara Lee, Kids Choir Director
KIDS CHOIR 2016
Kids Choir is a music ministry of Christ First Baptist Church. It is designed to train students in
first through eighth grade in music education and the worship arts.
The choir meets for rehearsals on Sunday mornings 9:00‐10:30am in the kid’s music room and
Theater. Rehearsals prepare students to serve and perform in various areas of the worship arts.
This includes training in music, voice, dance/choreography, drama and narration. The choir
ended 2016 with 17 students.
Kids Choir performed in worship services, Easter concert, and Christmas in Covina in 2016. The
choir also lead worship once per month for Christ First Kids Ministry.
In July, we held a Music Camp for students entering first through eighth grade. The students
participated in a daily bible class, rehearsals, and recreation. Snacks and lunch were offered
daily to the students and volunteers.
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The students learned and performed the musical The Kingdom Connection which included
singing, acting and a dance team. Over 150 people enjoyed the closing program and
performance on July 15 at 6:00pm. We had over 20 volunteers during the week serving the
students and parents who visited our campus.
LOOKING AHEAD TO 2017
Kids Choir will continue to meet on Sunday mornings for rehearsals, lead worship for Christ
First Kids Ministry and participate in services and seasonal celebrations.
SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
Kids Choir has a team of dedicated volunteers who serve regularly. Many are there each
Sunday and some serve on rotation or as needed. Choir volunteers serve in many different
capacities from choreography team, technical team, and administration team. I would like to
thank everyone who served with Kids Choir and Music Camp in 2016 for your dedication and
service.
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FIRST BAPTIST PRESCHOOL Nancy Hughes, Preschool Director
2016 has been a very good year for our school. We are currently ministering to 80 children and
their families. Our staff of twelve Christian women work diligently to provide an education that
is age‐appropriate and that prepares their students for their future. Their main goal, however,
is to share God’s love with each of their students and their families.
2016 has been a busy year for us. We had our annual open house in May and had a fantastic
turn out. As the school year came to an end, we graduated our kindergarten class and in August
we welcomed a new group of children and families. We also have been preparing for our
accreditation visit that will take place in April 2017. We have been raising funds to renovate our
play yard and working hard on the report that is part of the accreditation process. We also will
be sprucing up our building so that everything will be ready when the accreditation team
arrives.
This year we have been blessed to be able to work with several children with special needs.
God has brought us these little ones and it has been exciting to watch the progress these
special children have made in our care.
Please continue to keep our school in your prayers. It is our desire to continue to provide loving
care to the little ones God has blessed us with. We also ask that you will keep us in your prayers
as we go through our accreditation visit.
OUTREACH Brian Scrivens, Outreach Director
Helping Hands‐Dick Allen coordinates the food ministry with this team. They provide breakfast
on Friday morning and dinner on Tuesday afternoon. Dick always provides a good hot meal
each time and the recipients are very grateful. We are now serving 50‐55 meals a week. Many
relationships and friendships have been built. This ministry is faith based with no funds in the
annual budget but God continues to provide the needs.
Food and Clothing‐ Carol Miller and Nancy Scrivens lead this team. They receive items and
coordinate them with the needs. Two of our ladies made beanies and scarves for us to
distribute. Clothing, shoes, jackets, sleeping bag, blankets and hygiene items are available.
15
Barranca School‐Joanne Mitchell coordinates the efforts of this team. We provide 10‐12
volunteers a week that assist students and teachers, in the classroom and assist the librarian.
At Christmas we provided a gift card for the families in need, to the teachers to show our
appreciation of their dedication and a gift card to the school to assist with kids’ needs
throughout the year. At Christmas we provided a Santa Claus who visited all the classrooms.
The Principal and teachers greatly appreciate this ministry and our partnership with them and
sent many thank you cards.
Emergency Assistance Fund‐ The money from this fund is used to express the love of Jesus
Christ to those experiencing hard times or in need of encouragement using the principles
founded in the Old and New Testaments. The focus is the Lord’s example of the Good
Samaritan. An offering is taken the first Sunday of each month to fund this ministry. Marsha
Prochnau, Dave Miller and Brian Scrivens administrate the fund.
Missionaries‐ Corresponded with the missionaries and mission agencies we support and are
aware of any specific needs that occur and plan mission moments in the Sunday services.
Pieter & Nora, IM missionaries shared their ministry, wins and needs in the services. We
provide scholarships for a Christian school in Tijuana where 65 of the 80 kids get some form of
help or could not attend school otherwise.
Community Service Day‐In May Christ First along with two other churches and over 200
volunteers went into the Community to work on projects throughout the community involving
the City of Covina, various mission agencies, individuals and Schools. Materials needed are
provided by community businesses.
CITY OF COVINA: To continue embracing Covina we assisted the city with two programs.
• Halloween Festival‐ Marsha Prochnau led a team of 13 volunteers to work at the city festival.
They hosted two games and passed out treats to the kids. We handed out 125 silver coins
with John 3:16 on the back, 400 tracts and 346 bibles furnished by the Gideons.
• Thunderfest: Set up a table to tell about the shoeboxes and the church. We handed out 100
bibles and 128 Operation Christmas Child shoeboxes.
Cody’s Courtyard: The Helping Hands Ministry is conducted here. The youth also use the
courtyard for various activities and basketball is played there on Monday nights.
Glenkirk Church: With Dick Allen cooking, outreach buying the food, and 15‐20 volunteers
serving we provided dinner for 200 homeless at the winter shelter.
Christmas Tea: Moving to a new location, Vickie Ellis and her team put together another
encouraging program for the ladies.
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OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD
Judi Benjamin, on behalf of the entire OCC Committee
This has been an incredible year for Operation Christmas Child in our church. Last January, Bob set a goal
of preparing and sending 635 boxes this year. We weren’t sure we could do it but wanted to see what God
would do. Bob never even voiced that number to many people ‐ I’m not sure why. By January he had
already collected many items and was passionate about getting more organized and involving more people
in this ministry. Then, in late January, we learned that he had inoperable, terminal cancer with only a few
months to live. The next few months were very difficult but Bob was determined to continue working on
shoeboxes. The entire OCC team joined us in purchasing shoebox items and packing boxes. As we were
planning his memorial service he stated that he preferred that
people bring shoeboxes rather than flowers. Well . . . at his
service there were 1,000 shoeboxes! This was amazing.
In September it was time to focus on the annual shoebox
collection. I was thinking that we wouldn’t have much of a
response since people had been so generous in supporting this
ministry in May. I was so wrong! You, the congregation,
continued to donate items, checks for shipping, and time to
wrap and fold items. We had our first ever shoebox packing
party where we packed over 500 boxes in an hour! Small
groups volunteered and packed boxes. Others volunteered throughout the week at the church organizing
items and packing boxes. Instead of filling 1 room with shoeboxes, we filled 3 rooms at the church with
2,042 shoeboxes to be shipped. There are 2,042 children who will be blessed this year because of you who
participated! This speaks to the generosity of this church.
But, just as important is the fact that there are at least 90 people who were blessed by working on these
shoeboxes. There is a core team of 8 involved in the planning, purchasing, organizing, etc. of this ministry
but this couldn’t have been accomplished by 8 people. God used many of you at the shoebox packing
party, at the distribution center checking on boxes, at Thunderfest passing out boxes, transporting boxes,
donating items, and funding the purchase of items and shipping. This
was truly a multigenerational ministry.
We’ve learned much this year and hope to work even more efficiently
and involve more of you. We’ve learned that we can fill a box for about
$8 and with the $7 it costs to ship that’s $15 per box. If we do 2,000
boxes this year, that’s
about $30,000. I am
excited to see how God
will provide ‐ because
this is beyond what I can
imagine. But we serve a
BIG GOD ‐ GOD of the UNIVERSE who can accomplish
anything through us, His servants. We will be meeting late
in February to start planning if you want to join us.
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XYZ MINISTRY Dick Allen, Ministry Team Leader
XYZ (eXtra Years of Zest) is a once‐a‐month gathering (currently the second Thursday) of senior
adults for lunch and Christ centered entertainment. This ministry is designed for our seniors to
invite their oikos and share the hope of Christ.
This past year has been an exciting one to say the least. I have been trying to do what
the Lord has directed me to do. We have had a good year with XYZ. Everyone seems to
enjoy the fun and fellowship that it provides. We have had a record number of people
attending this function. I think everyone who has attended has to admit we have some talented
people within our ranks. I hope to continue this ministry as long as we all enjoy it. A special
note to all of our church family: if you are talented and I do not know of you yet, let me know
how God and myself can use you.
There are many of you that work in the background that not many people know about,
but rest assured you are loved and appreciated by all. I could not make this ministry work
without you. You make what we do possible, so thank you all who help in making this ministry
work.
CARE MINISTRY Bev M Hom‐Tsao, Interim Care Ministry Team Leader
On August 24, 2016, I was blessed with the new role as
Interim Care Ministry Team Leader. Prior to accepting
this new role, I was serving as a volunteer in Care Ministry for
one year under the leadership of the late Pastor Ken Lane as
well as serving as the Sunshine Coordinator (Care) for the
Anglers' Sunday Class since January, 2016.
Care Ministry is a very important and valuable service close
to my heart. My vision in Care Ministry is that we
individually receive care first from God, our own family, our
Community Group then the church family at large. We are
His hands ... Christ that lives in us. I am pleased to have a
great team to serve with.
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Effective October 2, 2016, I introduced to the congregation our Care Ministry Team of six
individuals (2 teams/3 groups) ‐‐ Starr Potter, Shirley Campbell, Betty Packard, Beverly Tavella,
Joe and Karen Babineau. After two weeks of praying, the Lord provided volunteers to serve on
the team. God provided a team of Godly, compassionate, caring, loving, sensitive, and
genuinely kind hearted servants to reach out and make a difference in people's lives. The team
functions in pairs on a rotating calendar ‐‐ work a month; off a month ‐‐ Team 1 (operates on
the odd months of the year) and Team 2 (even months). Each team backs up one another and
where both team members are not available, I am their back‐up. The team calls their list of
assigned contacts weekly and sends cards as needed. Besides overseeing the team and getting
feedback weekly from them, I check on individuals who are of a more critical nature and have
come to form a bond with each and every one of them. Early on, in forming the team, several
individuals expressed interest to serve on the team when their health and personal concerns
permit. Recently, I added newcomers ‐‐ George Galindo, Chris Allen, and Lyanne Castillo ‐‐ who
volunteered to serve on the visitation side of this ministry.
Thank you, God! You created me and my team for your purpose and use. We hope that our
actions have made a positive impact on you.
ELDER BOARD ANNUAL REPORT John Miller, Elder Chairman
This past year was an exciting time to be serving as an elder at Christ First. The Lord richly
blessed our church as we stayed focused on our mission of impacting our community for Him.
As a board, we continued to meet at least monthly to pray, study, and make decisions
regarding how to best use the resources God had entrusted to us. It was an honor to serve the
church body in whatever capacity was needed. Throughout the year, we were privileged to lead
communion, pray for others at the end of church services, and visit with the sick at both their
homes and in the hospital. We know that God has charged us with shepherding His flock, and
we continually look to Him for wisdom and discernment in all that we do as elders.
This year saw Ty Tallakson come to the end of his three‐year term as an elder. His wisdom,
caring heart, and sense of humor will be missed as he steps down. He was a highly valued
But now O Lord, You are our Father, we are the clay and You our Potter, and all
we are the work of Your hand. The works of your hands. (Isaiah 64:8)
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member of the board, and we know that God will continue to use him in powerful ways in the
years ahead. Whether he is officially on the board or not, he will always be an elder in our
church and in our hearts.
In last year's report, I spoke of Bob Benjamin's commitment to this board as he ended his
service as one of the last remaining members of the first elder board here at Christ First. At that
time, we had no idea that he would be called home to his heavenly reward within five short
months. However, we rest assured in the knowledge that nothing is a surprise to God and his
plans for us are perfect. God used Bob's passing to touch numerous lives in powerful ways
throughout our community and throughout the world. Even in death, Bob was still ministering
to others. Truly, he epitomized the idea of "once an elder, always an elder."
Please keep Pastor James, the elder board, and Christ First in your prayers. It is our earnest
desire to be fully tuned in to the leading of the Holy Spirit as we strive to impact our
community for Christ. There is no greater purpose than to serve God as He seeks to save that
which is lost.
Staff and Elder Christmas Party
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FINANCE Jyl Hughes‐Ranabauer, Business Manager
The Lord has generously provided in 2016 in so many ways we have not seen in decades
around here. At the end of 2015 some really tough decisions were made, as our giving had not
kept up to our annual budget. Leadership includes making tough decisions and we had to
release a couple staff positions and adjust the budget down. There was a great deal of stress,
but a great deal of prayer and thought put into 2016. Some new and creative ideas were
brought to the table. Could we run with a smaller staff and a smaller budget? Could we build a
reserve with the non‐traditional revenue instead of needing it to supplement the budget?
Please join me in praising God for the amazing way He worked through our finances in 2016.
The finance reports, to most, is a mass of numbers that doesn’t mean a great deal, let me point
out a couple key things that are important to note.
• The General Fund finished the year at 105% giving. I have had the good fortune to serve
at Christ First since 1998, and I have never seen that. Praise the Lord!
• For the most part, 2016 ran on tithes and offerings alone. Praise the Lord!
• We were able to fund a reserve account just over $30,000, another first in a very long
time. Praise the Lord!
• More giving equates to more ministry and I am thankful for the generosity of this
congregation. Praise the Lord!
There are a lot of numbers in between those notes that are amazing to a math nerd like me.
Incredible blessings both big and small that I am happy to talk through with anyone who would
like to do so. Just reach out via email or give me a call at the office.
Christ First Baptist General Fund Budget Recap
January through December 2016Jan - Dec 16 Budget $ Over Budget % of Budget
IncomeINCOME
1001 · General Fund 550,459.34 523,481.00 26,978.34 105.15%1002 · Non Traditional Revenue 34,355.771003 · Interest Income 0.651004 · Transfer from Reserve 0.00
Total INCOME 584,815.76 523,481.00 61,334.76 111.72%Total Income 584,815.76 523,481.00 61,334.76 111.72%Expense
EXPENSES2000 · OUTREACH
2001 · Transformation Ministries 13,373.00 13,373.00 0.00 100.0%2002 · Reed 3,780.00 3,780.00 0.00 100.0%2003 · Long 6,480.00 6,480.00 0.00 100.0%2004 · Kalkman 2,100.00 2,100.00 0.00 100.0%2005 · Brown 5,740.00 5,740.00 0.00 100.0%2006 · Bonilla 3,520.00 3,520.00 0.00 100.0%2007 · Mann 4,990.00 4,990.00 0.00 100.0%2008 · Palumbo 2,500.00 2,500.00 0.00 100.0%2009 · Jeter 2,500.00 2,500.00 0.00 100.0%2010 · Rainbow Acres 500.00 500.00 0.00 100.0%2011 · Serenity House 1,000.00 1,000.00 0.00 100.0%2012 · First Baptist School Schlarship 1,000.00 1,000.00 0.00 100.0%2013 · Thousand Pines 500.00 500.00 0.00 100.0%2014 · TM Conference 215.00 215.00 0.00 100.0%2015 · Jauregui 2,400.00 2,400.00 0.00 100.0%2016 · Operation Christmas Child 250.00 250.00 0.00 100.0%2017 · Community Outreach 1,389.07 1,500.00 -110.93 92.61%
Total 2000 · OUTREACH 52,237.07 52,348.00 -110.93 99.79%3000 · MINISTRY
3100 · Worship3110 · Classic Worship
3111 · Resources 719.78 1,500.00 -780.22 47.99%3112 · Special Guests 2,537.26 1,000.00 1,537.26 253.73%3113 · Chancel Choir 2,489.02 2,500.00 -10.98 99.56%
Total 3110 · Classic Worship 5,746.06 5,000.00 746.06 114.92%3150 · Modern Worship
3151 · Resources 2,714.73 3,000.00 -285.27 90.49%Total 3150 · Modern Worship 2,714.73 3,000.00 -285.27 90.49%
Total 3100 · Worship 8,460.79 8,000.00 460.79 105.76%3200 · Kids Choir
3211 · Resources 482.44 700.00 -217.56 68.92%3212 · Music Camp 1,000.00 1,300.00 -300.00 76.92%
Total 3200 · Kids Choir 1,482.44 2,000.00 -517.56 74.12%3300 · Age Group Ministries
3310 · Ministry to Children3311 · Resources 415.53 500.00 -84.47 83.11%3312 · Nursery 603.07 500.00 103.07 120.61%3313 · Preschool 214.81 500.00 -285.19 42.96%3314 · Elementary 764.04 500.00 264.04 152.81%3315 · Children's Camp 957.50 1,000.00 -42.50 95.75%
Total 3310 · Ministry to Children 2,954.95 3,000.00 -45.05 98.5%3320 · Youth Ministry
Christ First Baptist General Fund Budget Recap
January through December 2016Jan - Dec 16 Budget $ Over Budget % of Budget
3321 · Resources 1,224.65 500.00 724.65 244.93%3322 · Wednesday Nights 2,391.56 1,400.00 991.56 170.83%3323 · Communication 120.00 120.00 0.00 100.0%3324 · Student Impact Lunches 167.60 750.00 -582.40 22.35%3325 · Game Equipment 195.52 500.00 -304.48 39.1%3326 · Camp Costs 2,693.70 2,360.00 333.70 114.14%3327 · Special Events 1,302.89 1,200.00 102.89 108.57%3328 · Transportation 336.67 170.00 166.67 198.04%
Total 3320 · Youth Ministry 8,432.59 7,000.00 1,432.59 120.47%3330 · College Ministry 81.55 500.00 -418.45 16.31%3340 · Adult Ministries 3,280.65 2,500.00 780.65 131.23%3350 · Ministry to Seniors 653.33 1,500.00 -846.67 43.56%
Total 3300 · Age Group Ministries 15,403.07 14,500.00 903.07 106.23%3400 · Community Groups
3411 · Resources 333.12 500.00 -166.88 66.62%3412 · Curriculum 879.64 1,000.00 -120.36 87.96%3413 · Leadership Training 838.94 1,000.00 -161.06 83.89%3414 · Electives 209.50 2,000.00 -1,790.50 10.48%
Total 3400 · Community Groups 2,261.20 4,500.00 -2,238.80 50.25%3500 · Hospitality
3512 · Sunday Mornings 770.44 1,500.00 -729.56 51.36%3513 · All Church Events 1,352.24 1,500.00 -147.76 90.15%
Total 3500 · Hospitality 2,122.68 3,000.00 -877.32 70.76%3600 · Ministry Resources
3612 · Engage 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.0%3613 · Assimilation 1,175.77 1,560.53 -384.76 75.34%3614 · Staff Development 2,265.06 1,500.00 765.06 151.0%3615 · Professional Expenses 3,961.47 4,500.00 -538.53 88.03%3616 · Creative Expenses 4,601.77 6,000.00 -1,398.23 76.7%3617 · Care Ministry 569.26 800.00 -230.74 71.16%
Total 3600 · Ministry Resources 12,573.33 14,360.53 -1,787.20 87.56%3700 · Administrative Expenses
3712 · Subscriptions and Licenses 3,278.95 2,250.00 1,028.95 145.73%3713 · Printing 20,262.81 13,000.00 7,262.81 155.87%3714 · Postage 384.20 2,000.00 -1,615.80 19.21%3715 · Office Supplies 2,930.23 5,000.00 -2,069.77 58.61%3716 · eGive Expenses 2,075.84 2,000.00 75.84 103.79%
Total 3700 · Administrative Expenses 28,932.03 24,250.00 4,682.03 119.31%Total 3000 · MINISTRY 71,235.54 70,610.53 625.01 100.89%4000 · PROPERTY
4001 · Insurance 5,077.47 15,000.00 -9,922.53 33.85%4002 · Utilities and Property Taxes 68,645.08 52,000.00 16,645.08 132.01%4003 · Gardening Expenses 6,570.00 5,000.00 1,570.00 131.4%4004 · Supplies and Repairs 17,949.94 10,000.00 7,949.94 179.5%
Total 4000 · PROPERTY 98,242.49 82,000.00 16,242.49 119.81%5000 · COMPENSATIONTotal 5000 · COMPENSATION 327,491.79 318,522.47 8,969.32 102.82%7000 · RESERVE CONTRIBUTIONS 31,753.508000 · MISCELLANEOUS EXPENSES 3,855.37
Total EXPENSES 584,815.76 523,481.00 61,334.76 111.72%Total Expense 584,815.76 523,481.00 61,334.76 111.72%
Net Income 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.0%
