CBOQ 2015 ANNUAL REPORT

Transcription

1 CBOQ 2015 ANNUAL REPORT

2 Presented at CBOQ Assembly 2016 Etobicoke, ON, June 9-11, 2016 Published by Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec 5 International Blvd, Etobicoke, ON M9W 6H3 Editor: Phoebe McPeak

3 2015 Annual Report Cover page Do not print See separate document 1

4 2015 Annual Report Inside Cover page Do not print See separate document Print pages

5 2015 Annual Report Table of Contents Who Are We, What Do We Do Strategic Priorities...5 Mandate and Core Values...5 Executive Minister s Report...8 Board Report A. The Board B. Business Arising from Assembly C Board Decisions and Actions D. Our Changing Family Treasurer s Report A Financial Results and Audited Financial Statements B Revised Budget and 2017 Draft Budget C. Group Benefits Insurance and Pension Plan Report Ministry Partners Report CBOQ Foundation Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec Housing Corporation Canadian Baptist Women of Ontario and Quebec Evangelical Fellowship of Canada McMaster Divinity College Canadian Baptist Ministries Canadian Council of Churches Union of French Baptist Churches in Canada Recognitions Report Ministry Leaders Service Volunteer Service Donor Proceedings of the 127 th Assembly Meeting

6 2015 Annual Report Who Are We CBOQ is a family of churches, transformed by Christ, revealing God s kingdom. What Do We Do CBOQ equips churches and leaders as they engage in their mission from God in their community. CBOQ is a diverse group of congregations. We worship each week in 28 different languages, and reflect many styles in our Christian service. In our region, the front lines of Christian service are our churches and their people. Beyond our region, we partner with other Baptist Christians in Canada through our international agency, Canadian Baptist Ministries. On the pages that follow, you will find the strategic priorities that have been identified for our staff and volunteers to accomplish. The Executive Minister and CBOQ Staff are responsible for moving these priorities forward with the guidance and assistance of the CBOQ Board and committee volunteers. Performance indicators and results achieved will be shared with Assembly. These strategic priorities guide our work/ministry. You, our members, have endorsed these priorities and we are committed to seeing forward movement each of these significant areas of ministry and mission. Serving together with you here in Ontario and Quebec is our top priority as we seek to make disciples of Jesus Christ. We are grateful for your partnership on this journey. Our mission of equipping church leaders as you engage in the mission God has called you into your community propels us from year to year. Walking through open doors of opportunity with you and churches around you give us great joy and the motivation to continue. As you know, our vision is to, with you, Reveal God s Kingdom here in Ontario and Quebec through the transforming power of God s Holy Spirit. Thank you for being shining examples of Christ alive in our world today. Know of our great care and concern for you as you press on toward reaching our world for Christ. Let us be motivated to press on by the words of the great Davis/Fillmore hymn: All the World for Jesus: All the world for Jesus! Be this our earnest aim; To spread the blessèd tidings of Him who once was slain. All the world for Jesus, Let ev ry creature sing; All the world for Jesus. God s blessing to you as we watch for open doors to reach our word for Jesus, Tim McCoy Executive Minister Donna Chapman President 4

7 2015 Annual Report Strategic Priorities Strategic Priorities 1. CBOQ Identity What it means to be a part of the CBOQ family Develop a greater understanding of and stronger ties to CBOQ with leaders and congregants of all ages Re-affirm the commitment and expectations of CBOQ to its member churches Re-affirm the commitment and expectations of member churches to CBOQ 2. Church Planting Growing our CBOQ family through fresh expressions of the gospel Create an environment where churches are inspired and empowered to plant new churches and/or new mission initiatives Provide resources for church planters and for churches looking to plant Develop a team of regional personnel to support our church planters Develop strategies and resources for congregational renewal, including re-planting 3. Clergy Care Providing care and support to our ministry professionals Provide resources and support to congregations in the areas of governance structures and human resources best practices Develop a team of transition coaches to support churches through pastoral transitions Create resources for retirement planning/preparation/transition for pastoral and ministry leaders Foster ongoing support and encouragement to our pastoral leaders (senior, associate, youth, family) through regular contact, nurturing greater levels of relationship within our constituency and with CBOQ 4. Next Generation Fostering future generations of Canadian Baptists Champion/Advocate ministry responses to the changing reality of church in engaging children, youth, young adults and families outside of the church Develop and implement a Volunteer Leadership Equipping Stream for Youth and Family Ministries Empower and equip local churches and camping ministries to build strong and lasting relationships for the purpose of healthy spiritual development of the next generation Mandate and Core Values Mandate: CBOQ focuses in four broad areas: resource churches, develop leaders, foster partnerships and strengthen relationships and identity. These are the particular areas, from the broad range of charitable purposes included in our Charter documents, on which our member churches wish the Board, staff and volunteers to focus. 1. Resource churches Stimulate a climate for mission growth by supporting and guiding churches, encouraging innovation and making available the best training, resource material and consulting so that they can engage the Kingdom Mission in their communities. 2. Develop leaders Enhance training, development and support for pastors and leaders, and help people discover and exercise their gifts in appropriate Christian service. 3. Foster partnerships Identify and build partnerships with and among churches, in associations and with other Kingdom builders. 4. Strengthen relationships and identity Encourage our sense of shared relationship and identity as Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec. We intentionally celebrate our diversity. 5

8 Strategic Priorities 2015 Annual Report Core Values: Beliefs which CBOQ-and the people who inhabit it - hold in common and endeavour to put into action. These values guide our staff and volunteers in performing their work. Faith We are committed to the adoration and worship of God. We cherish a personal and growing experience of Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord as the heart of our faith. We depend on the leading of the Holy Spirit in our corporate decision-making and seek the Spirit s empowering of our ministries through prayer. We value our distinctive combination of beliefs, which helps to identify us as Baptists: The Lordship of Christ. The Authority of Scripture in matters of faith and practice. The Priesthood of all believers. A believer s church - the church which consists of those who profess faith in Jesus Christ, visibly expressing their faith in local church membership upon profession of faith and baptism. Two ordinances: believer s baptism by immersion and the Lord s Supper, which are symbols of spiritual realities. Soul liberty and freedom of conscience. Autonomous and interdependent local churches who together constitute the body of Christ as part of the church universal. The local church as a community of persons who covenant together how they will walk in obedience to Christ. The independence of church and state. Community We value our sense of community in Christ, in our Association and other groups, in local churches and with other Christians as God s people, recognizing our accountability to each other. We value a community shaped by: Our Baptist distinctive; Our shared experiences and relationships, and Our common mission. Our faith community is characterized by a deep concern for: The sanctity of life; Care for the vulnerable; Family integrity, and Careful stewardship of God s creation. Our community honours the diversity that exists amongst us. Mission Our unifying purpose is to glorify God through reaching individuals for Christ through our witness to Christ s presence, love and saving power. We recognize the imperatives of the Great Commission to go and make disciples and the Great Commandment to love God and neighbour, serving others through social care and striving for justice and peace for all people. We acknowledge that the local church undertakes mission at home and around the globe. It is the Association and mission organizations such as Baptist Women and Canadian Baptist Ministries that provide assistance and support to local churches to make choices and establish direction for mission. Churches We place importance on the local congregation as the body of believers established for worship, spiritual growth, fellowship and mission. Churches minister to those within the body and lead in mission to those outside the body, promoting trust and love amongst both, and striving for spiritual wholeness and health in a safe environment. We recognize the autonomy of the local congregation to act according to its understanding of God s will. 6

9 2015 Annual Report Strategic Priorities Cooperation We promote voluntary partnerships with others to do things that individual churches can accomplish more effectively together. We value our associations with others in mission, spiritual growth and fellowship. We strive to build trust through establishing relationships and undertaking joint equal endeavours; committed to carrying out our responsibilities and obligations. Leadership We recognize, as a priority focus, the development, training and support of pastoral leaders. We place equal importance on the training of the laity for effective Christian service and witness. We place emphasis on identifying, developing, training and supporting individuals (often working in teams) to provide effective pastoral and lay leadership to churches and the Association in Canada and the world. Learning We place special importance on each individual learning to be a disciple, a lifelong process that involves studying Scripture, reflecting on and practicing faith, engaging in personal and corporate mission and discerning and using spiritual gifts. We place emphasis on the local congregation as a place for both personal and corporate learning. Prayer We are convinced that effectiveness in ministry is dependent upon prayer. Therefore, the dreaming, planning and execution of ministry will be saturated in prayer. 7

10 Executive Minister s Report 2015 Annual Report Executive Minister s Report Tim McCoy The report that follows satisfies the responsibility of the Executive Minister to report at each annual Meeting of Members concerning the operations of CBOQ marks the end of my sixth year of serving as your Executive Minister. It continues to be a deep privilege and honour to serve God by serving you here in Ontario and Quebec. It is a pleasure to report to you regarding the mission and ministry of our family of churches. God continues to bless our CBOQ Board and staff with opportunities of sharing, caring, equipping and shepherding was a year of transition with staff, planning our office relocation for 2016, and embracing numerous opportunities to journey with pastors, leaders and churches through challenging days. God sustained our work with consistent support from our churches and considerate contributions from individuals who believe in the work we do together. I am grateful for the sacrificial gifts both churches and individuals make in order to allow us to continue to serve. We are celebrating together all that God is accomplishing among us. Enjoy the following reports and stories of how you are participating in the mission of God here in Ontario and Quebec. I am grateful for the confidence placed in me by the CBOQ board as I serve our family. Please breathe a prayer of gratitude for your elected board members. They are faithful servants on your behalf and are to be commended for their direction and protection of CBOQ. We have continued to adjust our CBOQ staff team and are excited about new staff that were added in We welcomed three new directors to CBOQ in Melody Currier, known to many of you, assumed the responsibility of Director of Operations and Membership. This is a new department that focuses on the relationship between our churches and CBOQ. Melody oversees communications and stewardship/fundraising in this portfolio while also working to provide leadership to our human resources area for CBOQ staff. Dallas Friesen joined our team as the Director of Congregational Development after many years in pastoral ministry in the Hamilton area. Dallas has recently also assumed responsibility for our Mission and Church Planting portfolio and is providing great leadership. Lastly, Peris Kamotho joined our team as the Director of Finance and Administration. Peris comes to us after many years of service at Rexdale Community Health Centre. We welcome these new team members and are grateful for God s calling on these individuals. Current CBOQ Staff Team Tim McCoy - Executive Minister Brian Craig - Director of Leadership Development Dallas Friesen - Director of Congregational Development Melody Currier - Director of Operations and Membership Matt Wilkinson - Director of Next Generation Ministries Peris Kamotho - Director of Finance and Administration Alvin Lau - Youth Ministries Associate Carol Gouveia - Admin Asst, Congregational Development Christine Choy - Accounting Clerk Dana Barber - Receptionist Jacqueline Solomon - Communications Associate Kristi Pollard - Admin Asst, Operations/Membership and Finance/Admin Michelle Searles - Admin Asst, Next Generation Ministries Phoebe McPeak - Executive Assistant Rod Vis - Camp Kwasind Managing Director Sheila Dyck - Admin Asst, Leadership Development Susan Murphy - Camp Kwasind Administrator Tanya Yuen - Children and Family Ministries Coordinator Walter McIntyre - Missional Initiatives Associate Leadership Development Your approval of our CBOQ Strategic Plan in 2015 through the actions of our board called for a focus on Clergy Care within our constituency. This comprehensive initiative has allowed us, through the work of Brian Craig and our Clergy Care Associate, Bill Norman to work their plan of consistent contact with our clergy and ministry leaders. This contact has resulted in significant opportunities to serve pastors and leaders through listening, and then pointing them in the direction of spiritual, emotional and physical health. Brian Craig has developed the curriculum for Leadership Development s initiative that will be delivered by transition coaches who will serve churches regionally as they navigate the waters of pastoral changes. Brian will be training these transition coaches in late spring Please pray with us that this initiative will take hold and allow us to see positive results as so many of our churches are on transition journeys. 8

11 2015 Annual Report Executive Minister s Report In 2015, Leadership Development s continued focus on Clergy Care has resulted in the development of relationship with Wycliffe Wellness Project that will allow selected leaders to participate in a guided program of overall wellness as a ministry leader. We are excited about how this relationship might evolve in the coming years. All of our leadership team members have had the opportunity to collaborate cross-regionally in Canada with our partner conventions in the west and east. The leadership development team has been fostering a relationship with the leadership development teams from the Convention of Atlantic Baptists and Canadian Baptists of Western Canada beginning with April meeting and subsequent gatherings. Conversations are ongoing around shared efforts in accreditation, resources, and clergy care. Our AIM Groups initiative has continued. Recruitment and first meetings of AIM in has prepared the group for the trip to Cuba in May Other highlights of our Leadership Development Team included: Staff support and encouragement to 38 Pastoral Search Committees throughout CBOQ. In October a newly designed youth pastors retreat was attended by 21 pastors. Began to offer the workshop, The Why of being a Deacon, Elder, Board Member which enjoyed a significant positive response, demonstrating a hunger for coaching at that level. Multiple offerings of this last year and now into Brian Craig had the opportunity to work with Bolivian Baptist Union on vision and mission, particularly looking at how our Baptist convictions should be shaping ministry for our times. Linkage to the Why workshop in this as well. Our leadership team also walked with multiple congregations as pastors have dealt with burnout situations. The focus of the help was around building strategies for leaves and return to work. The continued growth of Lay Pastors Training Program is now called Leadership and Pastoral Training Program. Campuses were initiated in Kitchener-Waterloo, Peterborough, Ottawa and Montreal. Sunder Krishnan s call to being pastors of prayer was extremely effective for many pastors at our Reignite Conference. Continued to see large numbers of pastoral leaders in accreditation and ordination process. Our New Pastor s Orientation continues to be a focus of introduction to CBOQ. Our team has participated in many ordinations including an increased involvement in the ordination processes among our Chinese congregations. Church and Mission Planting In 2015, we saw continued emphasis in this area on Church Planting and our need to focus on discernment experiences for people who are feeling the call to plant and for churches who are considering next steps in church planting. Clint Mix, serving as Director of Mission and Church Planting (until January of 2016) led the initiatives that introduced potential planters and churches into the exploration phase. Dallas Friesen has assumed the responsibilities of the Church and Mission Planting portfolio and will be providing continued leadership in these discernment experiences and subsequent training opportunities for churches and planters. Dallas is providing overall leadership to our strategic priority of church planting and will be developing a robust and effective church planting process. He has continued to identify key leaders within CBOQ who will be trained in 2016 as Church Planting Coaches focusing regionally on potential plants and planters. Dallas has continued our relationship with a few church planting national networks and is working alongside them to provide A Church Planting Design Workshop that all CBOQ church plants/planters will journey through. Thank you for your prayers and continued interest in our calling to multiply. Operations and Membership The creation of the Operations and Membership department in 2015 has begun to show evidence of it being a great connecting venture with our churches and leaders. Melody Currier has provided focus especially around what it means to be a member of CBOQ, both as a member church, as an association and as a leader in our constituency. Much has been accomplished already to show the value of this team. For churches joining CBOQ we have strengthened our focus on the church s fit with CBOQ, broadening dialogue beyond just the pastor to include the church leadership team, and developed a Why Baptist? resource that facilitates dialogue around Baptist heritage and identity. For existing churches the Why Baptist? resource also provides newer leaders in existing congregations the opportunity to orient themselves with the Baptist family to which their church belongs. 9

12 Executive Minister s Report 2015 Annual Report As Melody provides leadership to our communications initiatives with our Communications Associate, Jacqueline Solomon, they have embarked on Project Refocus designed to explore the best practises of communicating with our churches and leaders. Many initiatives in the works include revisions to our website, focused key messaging and maintaining consistent graphic standards in all of our communications. This team also keeps our commitment to pray for one another as a top priority in their work by providing communications around prayer needs and how CBOQ staff and board are praying for our churches. Melody will also begin to provide content at our New Pastor s Orientations by leading a session on what it means to be a member congregation with CBOQ. Operations and Membership is also developing a new e- newsletter for church leaders called Out of Operations. The goal of this e-news is to inform church leaders about legislative and government requirements, to inform church leaders about CBOQ expectations and to support the objectives around what it means to be a member of CBOQ. Melody will also be providing leadership to our fundraising initiatives as we seek to find additional ways to garner support for the work we do together. Beyond local church contributions we are building ways for individuals to partner with CBOQ around focused projects and initiatives. Keep looking for ways you might be involved in raising awareness about how individuals could be involved in supporting the strategic priorities of CBOQ. Congregational Development I am grateful to serve alongside our new Director of Congregational Development, Dallas Friesen. Dallas joined our team mid-year 2015 and has enhanced our ministry to churches and leadership teams already. Dallas experience as a pastor and his involvement in an effective regional network has proven extremely helpful already in his connection and service to our churches. Dallas has begun a focused effort on assisting churches as they plan and vision for the future. Early work has begun on a few resources that include a Congregational Transforming Strategy and resources for church boards around introspective studies for church leadership teams. Dallas has been sharing the story of Scotland Baptist Church. Scotland Baptist was considering closing when the congregation discerned that surely God still had plans for them as a church. The Lord brought Nelson and Andrea Chang to help replant the church as missionary pastors. They have moved to Scotland and are seeking to help the church rediscover a new mission for the local families and new immigrants. Clearly a transformational experience for this established congregation. Other resources in development are: a Churches Helping Churches strategy for resource development What it means to be Baptist resources Conflict Resolution resources that are designed to be internally led by church leadership teams In the coming year, Dallas will be hiring a Congregational Development Associate who can identify, gather, and empower coaches from within our constituency to support and serve other pastors and churches. Next Generation Ministries Matt Wilkinson and the Next Generation team has enjoyed a productive and busy year of ministry. Our team continues to focus on walking with churches as they explore best practises in ministry to Children, Youth and Young Adults. We are blessed by the ministries of Matt Wilkinson, Tanya Yuen, Alvin Lau and Michelle Searles. There were other staff in 2015 that carried the mantle of next generation ministries in many ways and we are grateful especially for the work of Joanna James and Angie Dempster. Our retreat season in 2015 was a continued sign of God s blessing of these events. Over a thousand teenagers and leaders were led in worship and into deeper commitments to Christ. Avalanche and Blizzard have experienced some scheduling changes in 2016 and will continue to reach hundreds of youth and young adults in the years to come. Over 50 volunteers assist the next generation team to provide leadership to these great winter events. Thank you for continued participation in these life-changing experiences. Our Children s Ministry focus has amped up since the return of Tanya Yuen from maternity leave. Tanya s direction and care of our Children s Ministry mandate was informed by 2015 s research led by Joanna James. Tanya continues to walk with an advisory team representing CBOQ in this area of ministry. Their efforts have resulted in dozens of consultations with churches who desire to enhance or who are exploring Children and Family Ministry. 10

13 2015 Annual Report Executive Minister s Report Alvin Lau continues to journey with Matt in assisting churches to build best practises for youth ministry. Alvin has served as our first point of contact for over 15 years and continues to focus on assisting churches with a youth ministry audit as they explore enhancing their ministry to youth and young adults. Alvin s specific focus in coaching youth pastors and leaders has blessed many of our congregations. Camp Kwasind continues to grow and develop toward its great potential. Matt Wilkinson, Rod Vis and Susan Murphy are providing staff leadership to Camp Kwasind was another record setting year in camper registrations and financial support. We are grateful for this amazing Kingdom asset that God has provided CBOQ. The opportunities are numerous including; raising up young leaders in the leadership training programs, introducing children and youth to a faith in Jesus Christ, and the connecting opportunities we enjoy with families from camp and our local congregations. The volunteer leadership on the Camp Kwasind Management Team continues to provide ongoing support and encouragement to Matt and the Kwasind staff. Thank you for your support of this camp and its efforts to show the way to Christ for all who come and participate there. Lastly, Matt Wilkinson has been serving faithfully our national body of Canadian Baptists as the leader of our Canadian Baptist Youth Team. Matt works with our partner s youth contacts to cross-regionally provide opportunities for collaborative efforts toward enhancing youth ministry in Canada. A rich experience planned for April 2016 is a Canadian National Youth Leader s Invitational Forum in Niagara Falls that will bring together the recognised top 50 Baptist Youth Leaders together to pray, dream, receive inspiration and be motivated to impact this next generation with the hope and love of Christ. Concluding Remarks I continue to be fully engaged in our relationships with the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada and serve as a governing board member of the Canadian Council of Churches. God is blessing these networks of churches to whom we belong and we are grateful for the partnership we feel with both. One of the significant highlights for me was an invitation I received from Rev. Steven Jones of the Fellowship of Evangelical Baptist Churches in Canada. Steve, a friend and colleague in ministry, invited me to attend the annual meeting of the Fellowship churches in Gatineau in November. The invitation was to have me open their annual meeting in prayer and to participate in a mutual expression of confession and forgiveness between the old Convention Baptists and the Fellowship Baptists in Canada. It was a wonderful time of healing and restoration and was received by all as an expression of God s desire to see us walk together in evangelical ministry in Canada. Praise God for His call to us for reconciliation and mission together. Lastly, our collective work across Canada with the other conventions and unions is growing. The executive ministers and I are working now on a second, crossregional staff gathering that will take place in October of 2016 in Montreal. The first gathering happened in April of 2015 and has fueled cross-regional collaborative conversations and initiatives in the areas of communications, leadership development, church planting and next generation ministries. I am excited about the reemergence of a Canadian Baptist voice for Canada that is being informed by these gatherings of regional specialists. This report is fueled and informed with stories of people responding to the call of God to reach their community with the Good News of Christ. We have been privileged to journey with so many of you throughout 2015 and believe that God will continue to bless the collaborative ministry of our CBOQ churches. Thank you for your faithful participation and the contributions your church provides to see our vision of revealing God s Kingdom come to fruition. Blessing and strength to you today. Tim McCoy 11

14 Board Report 2015 Annual Report A. The Board Board Report Donna Chapman - President In 2015, the board held four full-agenda meetings with an overall 90% attendance record. In addition, specific issues were addressed via three conference calls. The April meeting was held in Orillia and included a meeting with the Georgian Bay Association hosted by First Baptist Church, Orillia. Unless otherwise noted, the information contained in this report represents actions taken by the board from January 2015 to December Board Members ( ) Donna Chapman, President, Tillsonburg Murray Kohler, 1 st Vice President, Waterloo Heather Rumball, 2 nd Vice President, Toronto Michel Belzile, Past President, Etobicoke Birgid MacCallum, Breadalbane Bob McCarty, New Liskeard Christopher Lu, Montreal Craig Rumble, Markham Erika Abele, Mississauga Evelin Wharram, Kingsville Frank Fedyk, Ottawa Janet McKenzie, Stoney Creek Janice Charko, Toronto Rob Denhoed, Oshawa Stephen Sparks, Ottawa Steven Barker, Cumberland Beach B. Business Arising from Assembly 2015 There was no business arising from Assembly C Board Decisions and Actions (i) Policies and Decisions In February 2015 CBOQ Board authorized CBOQ staff and/or their representative to complete negotiations with IVCF for sublease of the office space at 5 International Blvd, Etobicoke; with a budget of no more than $300,000 for renovation and retrofitting of the office space, and CBOQ staff and/or their representative to continue negotiations for possible purchase of the building. The Board accepted, with regret, the resignation of Carl Chang from the Board and the Investment Committee, effective December 16, Consequently, Janice Charko was appointed to the CBOQ Board, effective February 3, 2015 for the remainder of the term left vacant by Carl Chang s resignation. The Board has given authority to the Executive Committee to appoint a board rep to the Investment Committee. The Board also accepted the four recommendations listed below: 1. To accept best practice to review the governance policies no longer than once every two to three years. 2. To make minor edits to each policy (i.e. name change from BCOQ to CBOQ) at the time of the next scheduled review of the policy in question. 3. To, on an annual basis, set a schedule for the regular and on-going review of the board s governance policies at the November board meeting. 4. To conduct a content review of the following nine policies in 2015; Investment Policy Property Fund, Investment Policy Restricted Fund, Lifestyle Policy, Execution of Documents Policy, Policy Regarding Succession Planning, Policy Regarding the Use of the Fellowship Fund, Board Policy on Correspondence, Basic Group Benefits Subsidy Policy, and Group Benefit Plan Administration Policy in Handling Unpaid Premiums. In April 2015 CBOQ Board allocated a minimum of 5% of the net proceeds from each church property sale for transfer to the CBOQ Foundation for the Archive Endowment Fund until 1M is reached in the fund. The allocation percentage is to be reviewed by the board in 3 years. The Board also approved payment to SunLife Financial for the CB Pension Plan contribution delinquencies as of May 8, 2015 on behalf of the member churches for an amount not more than $10,000. In May 2015 the Board approved the appointments of the Director of Finance and Administration, and the Director of Congregational Development by ballot vote. 12

15 2015 Annual Report Board Report In July 2015 the Board of Directors of CBOQ approved a short-term loan of $725,000 to the CBOQ Foundation at a simple interest rate of four (4) percent compounded annually with the following contractual terms and conditions: a. That the loan of $725,000 plus accrued interest is repayable upon demand by the CBOQ and b. That the repayment of the loan of $725,000 plus accrued interest as well as all previous loans and accrued interest made to the CBOQ Foundation by the CBOQ under the Undertaking to Complete arrangement are repaid in full when the CBOQ Foundation secures permanent financing for the Lynde Creek Manor residence. A motion was made then eventually tabled that would call for a CBOQ to undertake an audit of the Operations and Management of the Lynde Creek Manor which would include the Housing Corporation s Board. In September 2015 the Board revised the Execution of Policies Document. The Board also approved revision of the original budget amount of $300K for Office Space renovation at 5 International Blvd. to an overall budget up to $456,000 for renovation and retrofitting of the office space with no impact on the operating budget. In November 2015 the Board accepted the compliance report from the Policy Compliance Officer. Frank Fedyk was reappointed as the Policy Review Officer. The following five policies were accepted with their revisions: Policy on Correspondence, Policy on Succession Planning, Policy on the Use of Fellowship Fund, Policy on Basic Group Benefits Subsidy, and Policy on Group Benefits Plan Administration on Handling Unpaid Premiums. (ii) Resolutions of the Board Regarding Property In February 2015, the Board approved to list the Vittoria Baptist Church property located at 13 Lamport Street, Vittoria, Ontario for sale and instruct the Executive Committee to accept any offer with limited conditions of $150,000 or above. In April 2015, on recommendation from the FOC, the Board obtained an estimate on the appraisal fee to bring to the CBOQ board for approval to determine whether to proceed with the appraisal of Pickering Community Baptist Church; and connected with the church leaders to obtain a plan of what is expected if the zoning is approved. In May 2015, the Board moved to list First Baptist Church, Bracebridge property for sale and instructed the Executive Committee to accept any offer with limited conditions of $350,000 or above. In September 2015, the Board approved the distribution of sales proceeds of $160,000 from Chatham Baptist Church, located at 124 William Street Chatham, Ontario as follows: $2,000 be transferred to the operating fund as admin fee cost recovery (per board policy); $8,000 (5% of net proceeds) be transferred to CBOQ Foundation for the Canadian Baptist Archive Endowment Fund; $30,000 be transferred to Church Planting Fund; and Balance of net proceeds be transferred to the Property Reserve Fund. In November 2015, upon recommendation from the CBOQ Financial Oversight Committee, accepted to amend the minimum offer on the Sale of the Vittoria Baptist Church property and instructed the Director of Finance and Administration to accept any offer with limited conditions greater than $140, The Board also approved to list Calvary Baptist Church, Sudbury property for sale and instructed the Executive Committee to accept any offer with limited conditions greater of $150,000. D. Our Changing Family (since Assembly 2015) (i) New Member Churches Wismer Baptist Church, Markham (Toronto Association of Baptist Churches) Cornerstone Asian Church, Mississauga (Toronto Association of Baptist Churches) Joshua Ministries, Chatham (Western Association) We Share Vision Community Church, Toronto (Toronto Association of Baptist Churches) 13

16 Board Report 2015 Annual Report (ii) Membership Resignations Calvary Baptist Church, Sudbury (Northern Association) Port Elgin Community Baptist Church (Owen Sound Association) Brooke-Enniskillen Baptist Church (Middlesex-Lambton-Huron Association) Cedarside Baptist Church, Flesherton (Owen Sound Association) First Baptist Church, Aurora ((Toronto Association of Baptist Churches) First Baptist Church, Picton (Trent Valley Association) Glen Meyer Baptist Church, Langton (Norfolk Association) The Church at Woodview (Trent Valley Association) (iii) Recognition of Significant Anniversaries The following churches are celebrating significant anniversaries in We acknowledge and express our appreciation for the faithful ministry, impact and dedication of these churches. Houghton First Baptist Church, Port Rowan (Norfolk Association) years Historic Sandwich First Baptist Church, Windsor (Amhertsburg Association) years Beachville Baptist Church (Oxford-Brant Association) years Selkirk Baptist Church (Norfolk Association) years Immanuel Baptist Church, Toronto (Toronto Association of Baptist Churches) years First Baptist Church, Wallaceburg (Western Association) years First Baptist Church, Niagara Falls (Niagara-Hamilton Association) years Olivet Baptist Church, Toronto (Toronto Association of Baptist Churches) years Talbot Creek Community Church, Brechin (Georgian Bay Association) - 10 years Hope Community Christian Church, Cumberland Beach (Georgian Bay Association) - 10 years 14

17 2015 Annual Report Treasurer s Report Treasurer s Report Peris Kamotho A Financial Results and Audited Financial Statements The 2015 audited financial statements can be found on pages 17 to 34 of this report. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Canadian accounting standards for not-for-profit organizations (ASNPO). CBOQ has continued to maintain its accounts in accordance with the principles of fund accounting. The Operating Fund records operating transactions of CBOQ. The Property Fund captures long term unrestricted capital assets. The Restricted fund includes both the Externally Restricted and Internally Restricted Funds. These funds are held in accordance with the objectives specified by donors or in accordance with directives from the Board. Under Restricted Fund, investments are recorded as fair market value. Loans and mortgages receivable and certificate loans payable are recorded at amortized cost using the effective interest rate. 1. Statement of Operating Fund Activities Highlights of Gross Revenue Revenue of the events and programs were reported as gross revenue. In 2015, contributions from churches and individuals was approximately 4.55% lower than The overall operating gross revenue in 2015 was about 3.56% lower than The lower gross revenue was mainly due to less financial support received for Local Missions; foundation funding; and no government funding as chaplaincy contract were outsourced to a third party in Total gross revenue in 2015 reached 88.91% of the budgeted amount. In 2015, 56 churches made no contribution to the CBOQ operating budget. Fourteen churches that had not contributed in 2014 resumed contributing in The Northwestern Association achieved 100% of their churches making contributions. The following Associations increased their contribution in 2015: ARMBA, Quebec Association, Norfolk Association, Northern Association and Owen Sound Association. Contributions received to support Local Mission ministries continued to decline and was much lower than budget. Designated income for Youth ministry maintained the same level but the revenue was under budgeted amount. Other designated income included the administrative cost recovery from managing sale of church property and CBOQ Sunday donations. During the year we received $25,500 from CBOQ foundation to support the youth ministry. A few small bequests were received with no specific designation. There was no government funding as the program to support chaplaincy ministry was discontinued in Assembly revenue was much higher due to increase in the number of delegates from the member churches and the workshop registration fees from interested individuals. Legacy for Ministry revenue included the costing sharing of this ministry from CBM and CBWOQ. Highlights of Expenditures - Operating Fund Total gross expenditure in 2015 was about 1% higher than 2014 and about 87.6% of the budgeted amount. Missional Initiatives: Overall expenditure was higher than in 2014 but below budget. Increase was mainly due to salary and benefit for the director position which was vacant during Partner grant to CBM and French Union was lower as it was adjusted based on a percentage formula approved by the Board, and the level of church contribution received from churches. Local Mission grants were approved to support church planting, church renewal ministry, and Barnabas Initiatives. Based on funds transfer policy, the Board approved funds transfer from the designated trust funds to offset the local ministry. Administration and Organizational Support: In 2015, Administration cost was higher than in 2014 but well below budget. The increase was mainly due to rent paid for the old office and new office rent during the renovation period. 15

18 Treasurer s Report 2015 Annual Report Youth Ministry: Overall spending for Youth Ministry was less than budgeted amount and similar to 2014 actual. The operating expense of the Children and Family ministry was reported in the Youth Ministry. Leadership Development: Overall expenses were lower as there were no expenses for chaplaincy contract since it was discontinued in Partner support to McMaster Divinity College was adjusted based on approved percentage formula, and the level of church contribution received. Actual support was lower than planned as church contributions were lower. Each year, group benefit subsidies provided to churches that has budget of less than $100,000 was at the same level of the previous year. CBOQ continued to provide support to the Retirees Group Benefits program. Adjustment was made to the group benefit program subsidy expenses due to the change of the discount rate and the medical rate trend based on the calculation of the post retirement benefit plan value as per actuarial report. CBOQ also supports the group benefits program of the pastors who are seeking for placement for one year. Congregational Health: Program and Resources expenses in 2015 were lower than the previous year and budgeted amount as a result of vacant director position for partial year Communications and Mission Education: Program resources expenses were higher than previous year but lower than budgeted. The increase was as a result of CBOQ Sunday expense which was not incurred during the previous year. Legacy for Ministry is a ministry supported by CBM, CBOQ and CBWOQ. The expense was at the same level as previous year as the position was vacant for partial Stewardship and Fundraising: Overall expense was lower than budgeted and the previous year as the part-time staff position was vacant during the year Operating Fund Balance: The total funds transfer to support operations was 828,471 which was lower than budgeted amount and higher than 2014 funds transfer. There was a total fund transfer of $324,540 from Legacy Reserve Fund and Property Reserve Fund to new office premises renovation which was approved by the Board through the budgeting process. The Operating Fund at the year-end has a balance of $51,142, which is the same balance as the previous year. 2. Certificate Loan and Mortgage Loan Program CBOQ continued to maintain a Certificate Loan program which provides opportunity for member churches and individuals to invest and earn income for their church ministries. The investment is for a term of one to five years at a rate comparable to market rate. Fund raised by this program is used to support the CBOQ mortgages loan program which provides loans to churches for their building renovation and improvement projects. At the end of 2015, the Certificate Loan program had a total of $5,079,001 investment from churches and individuals. The mortgage and loan program had a total of $6,579,754 with about 32 churches participating. 16

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38 Treasurer s Report 2015 Annual Report 1. Notes to 2016 Revised Budget CBOQ s 2016 revised budget is prepared based on the 2016 draft budget and 2015 with adjustments to include new expenditure items to reflect some changes in circumstances. Highlights of changes in this revised budget are as follows: Revenue: Income from churches and individuals is expected to increase as a result of additional effort through the new Operations and Membership program to engage our member churches to more fully participate in our mutual mission and to partner financially with the mission of CBOQ. Income from Local Missions - the budgeted amount was adjusted in the draft budget to $30,000, and remains the same. Income from Youth and Children Ministries - has not increased as expected, the budget was adjusted to $20,000 in the draft budget and remains the same. Others and CBOQ Sunday has been left at the same level as the draft budget. Designated income for Ministry Partners - based on the trend this year, the budget remains at the same as the draft budget level. CBOQ Foundation grant - we expect to receive grant revenue from the rental income earned by CBOQ Foundation from the Lynde Creek Manor, to support Youth Ministries. Total income is $2,125,000, increased by $57,000 from the draft budget. Expenditures: All programs - office, meeting and travel budget lines have increased as a result of additional rent for the months of January and February since we paid rent for two office locations. Salaries and benefits have decreased since the draft budgeted salary increase calculated based on a 2.5% cost of living increase was revised to 1% to align with the 2016 cost of living index. Group benefits premium costs were adjusted to an 8% projected increase in group benefit premiums, higher than draft budget and based on the market rate increase. Additional Expenditure highlights include: Mission and Church Planting - Local Mission Grant budget have maintained the same level as draft budget in order to allow the grant fund principal to grow and therefore be able to provide grants in the future years. Leadership Development - Group Benefits Subsidy program budget that continues to support small churches; to support benefits premium for Seeking for Placement pastors; and to support benefits premium for Retirees. Budget has maintained same level as draft budget as the expense trend is expected to remain the same. Congregational Development - revised budget for program and resources have remained the same level as draft budget. Youth and Family Ministries - revised budget for events slightly increased to match expected expense in Stewardship and Fundraising - revised budget maintains a similar level to draft budget. Communications and Mission Education - program and resources increased to support rebranding. Operations and Membership - this is a new program that was not included in the draft budget. Administration and Organizational Support - based on the 2015 results, Assembly net expenses were budgeted at a lower amount. We also expect more sponsorship support. The staff salary budget for cost of living adjustment is 1% based on the index provided by the government statistical report. Other employment cost is adjusted based on the EI and CPP premium adjustments. Office rent is estimated to increase by 7.2% in August 2016 based on the office lease agreement. Total expenditures are $3,106,933 which is increased by $119,743 from the draft budget. Designated Funds Transfer: Transfers from trust funds designated for specific programs to support the Operations (i.e. Local Mission Grants, Missional and Church Congregations etc.) remain at the same level. Transfers from the Legacy and Property Reserve Funds to support Operations is higher for the following reasons: To support new Operations and Membership program Additional rental costs due to rental overlap for the months of January and February To fund the leasehold improvements - the balance of unused funds for the new office renovation as a result of delay in municipal council permits. Capital Budget was increased by $28,000 as budget of $25,000 to replace existing membership database software was transferred from 2015 to 2016, and to fund the replacement of staff computers for $3,

39 2015 Annual Report Treasurer s Report 2016 Capital Budget Capital Purchase Amount 4 Computer upgrades $6,100 2 Laptops (replacement) 5,400 1 Projector 1,500 1 Computer Server (replacement) 5,000 Accounting Software Upgrade 8,500 Other office equipment 1,500 Membership data base system 25,000 Total Capital Budget $53, Grants to Missional Initiatives Church or Ministry Location Purpose Amount Bilberry Creek Baptist Church, Orleans Ministry to First Nations Community $ 4, Bloor West Village Baptist Church, Toronto Ministry to children and nannies $ 3, East Toronto Chinese Baptist Church Community outreach $ 5, Eastview Baptist Church, Vanier Outreach ministry $ 3, Eucharist Church of Hamilton Church plant $ 10, First Baptist Church Dunnville Youth ministry $ 5, First Baptist Church, Fort Erie Outreach ministry $ 5, First Baptist Church, Oneida Outreach ministry $ 4, First Baptist Sudbury Outreach ministry $ 7, First Baptist Church, Thorold Child and youth outreach ministry $ 8, First Baptist Church, Welland Youth ministry outreach $ 5, Flow Ministries, Markham House church ministry $ 10, Greenhills Christian Fellowship, Toronto Church plant $ 13, Highland Baptist Church, Kitchener First Nations conference $ 10, King Street Baptist Church Cambridge Church plant $ 20, Kingsway Baptist Church, Toronto Youth ministry expansion $ 7, Kipling Baptist Church, Warren Summer ministry $ 3, Lanark Baptist Church Youth ministry $ 8, Little Bethel Baptist Church, Hamilton Outreach ministry $ 9, Martingrove Baptist Church, Toronto Ministry to newcomers $ 8, Mount Hamilton Baptist Church Outreach ministry $ 8, Ohsweken Baptist Church Moms and tots program $ 3, Parkdale Neighbourhood Baptist, Toronto Outreach ministry $ 12, Port Colborne Baptist Church Outreach ministry $ 12, Queen Street Baptist Church, St. Catherines Outreach ministry $ 2, Salem Baptist Church, Ottawa Church plant $ 10, Scotland Baptist Church Church replant $ 15, Spring Garden Baptist Church, Toronto Outreach ministry $ 3, Talbot Creek Community Church, Brechin Community outreach $ 4, Thornhill Baptist Church,Toronto Church plant $ 15, Weston Park Baptist Church, Toronto Children's ministry $ 5, Total Grants to Missional Initiatives $ 237, Special Church Planting Grant Maitland Street Church, London Church plant $ 36,

40 Treasurer s Report 2015 Annual Report 2. Notes to 2017 Draft Budget The 2017 draft budget is a preliminary budget which contains a few changes from the 2016 revised budget. Highlights of the changes included in this preliminary budget are as follows: Revenue: Income from churches and individuals, local Missions, Youth and Children Ministry, Mission and Ministry partners is expected to maintain at the same level as the 2016 revised budget. Income from Others and Misc. revenue maintains the same level as the 2016 revised budget. Income from Bequest and Foundations is expected to maintain the same level. CBOQ Foundation grant is deleted as going by the trend from previous years we have not received budgeted funds except $25,500 received in If we receive income in 2016, a revision will be included in 2017 revised budget. Expenditures: For all programs office, rent, occupancy expenses reported under office, meetings and travel budget line is reduced as we continue paying reduced rent for the new office premises. There is no budget for Mission and Church Planting program as the program is merged with Congregational Development as a result of CBOQ internal restructuring. Leadership Development - Group benefits program subsidy - this budget amount remains at the same level as it continues to support benefits premiums subsidy for small churches; to support benefits premiums for Seeking for Placement pastors; and to support benefits premiums for retirees. Congregational Development - partner support grant is budgeted at the same level. Other budget lines are reduced due to cost sharing as a result of the merger with the Mission and Church Planting program. Youth Ministries - Children/Family budget includes additional amount to support the hiring of full time Children Ministry staff and increased program resources. This budget is partly supported by the CBWOQ contributions included in the Legacy Reserve Fund transfer. Stewardship, Communications, and Assembly are merged with Operations and Membership to form the Operations and Membership program budget. Operations and Membership - expenses allocated to the director position is increased from 20% to 80%, therefore the budget for office, meeting and travel, salary and benefits is also increased. Legacy for Ministry budget has maintained the same level. Projection for 2.5% cost of living staff cost and employment cost adjustments. The overall expenditure for 2017 draft budget is reduced from the 2016 revised budget. Capital Budget: Capital purchases will include the purchase of some new computers, a server and a teleconference unit to accommodate technology changes, in accordance with the capital purchase plan. Budgeted Fund Transfers: Transfers from some trust funds designated to support specific Operating programs (i.e. Local Mission Grants, Benefits Subsidies, etc.) remain at the same level. Transfers from the Legacy Reserve Fund and Property Reserve Fund to support Operations are also decreased with the intention to use up the operating fund balance carried forwarded from the previous year. 38

41 2015 Annual Report Treasurer s Report C. Group Benefits Insurance and Pension Plan Report The Canadian Baptists Group Benefits Plan is a national plan providing group benefits coverage for pastors and employees of member churches of all Canadian Baptist Regions, Conventions and Unions. The Central Region partners, including CBOQ, adopted a new Choices flexible benefits program in July The three options are Green Leaf plan, Orange Leaf plan and Blue Leaf plan. Both Green Leaf plan and Orange Leaf plan include a Healthcare Spending Account (HCSA) which allows the plan member to use funds deposited in the account for medical related spending not covered under their plan. The Choices flexible benefits program has a term of two years. Plan members of the Choices flexible benefits program are eligible to reenroll to another Choice leaf plan at the end of each term. The prior term of the Choices program completed at the end of The current term of Choices flexible benefits coverage is from January 1, 2016 to December 31, Plan enrolment for a new two-year term will begin in November The current CBOQ Choices Flexible Benefits Plan program includes the following group benefits: Group Basic Life and Dependent Life Insurance and Optional Life Insurance: In the Choices benefits program, basic life insurance coverage varies, as follows: $25,000 (Green), $40,000 (Orange) and two times salary (Blue) for the employee. On the earlier of retirement or age 65, it reduces to $5,000, until age 70, when it reduces to $2,500 until death. Coverage for the spouse varies, as follows: $5,000 (Green), $10,000 (Orange) and $20,000 (Blue). Coverage for the spouse reduces to $5,000 when the member retires or reaches age 65, and terminates when the member attains age 70. Coverage for each dependent child up to age 21 (or age 25 if a full-time student) varies, as follows: $2,000 (Green), $4,000 (Orange) and $6,000 (Blue). At December 31, 2015, there were 501 active members and 184 retirees including surviving spouses covered by the plan. Of the total retirees on the plan, 124 retirees were funded by CBOQ. This plan allows all members to apply for and purchase additional insurance for themselves and/or their spouse in multiples of $10,000 to a maximum of $500,000 each, and for their dependent children in multiples of $2,000 to a maximum of $20,000 each. This coverage terminates upon the earlier of the member attaining age 65 or retirement. Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD & D) and Optional (AD & D) Insurance: The AD & D insurance is $25,000 and covers insurance in the event of accidental death or includes benefits for dismemberment or paralysis resulting from an accident. This coverage reduces to $5,000 upon retirement or age 65 and terminates when the member attains age 70. Under the Choices benefits program, members have the option to purchase additional AD & D coverage for themselves and/or their dependents. Members can purchase optional AD & D in multiples of $10,000 to a maximum of $250,000 each. Optional AD & D coverage is paid by the employee. Optional Critical Illness Insurance: Under the Choices benefits program, optional critical illness insurance coverage is available to cover plan members and/or their dependents in the event of a diagnosed critical illness. Members can purchase insurance for themselves and/or their spouse in multiples of $5,000 to a maximum of $150,000 each, and for their dependent children in the amount of $10,000 each. This coverage reduces by 50% when the member reaches age 65. Premium of this optional coverage is paid by the employee. Long Term Disability Insurance: Long Term Disability Insurance is included in the benefits package. This benefit makes it possible for all members to be covered for 67% of their monthly salary (basic salary + clergy residence). Upon approval, payments commence after 17 weeks of total disability and continue until recovery, attainment of age 65 or death. There were no changes made to the Long Term Disability coverage in Seven members received benefit from this coverage in Employee Assistance Program: This program is also included in the benefits package; it is a confidential counseling program, which aids pastors, employees and their immediate families when faced with a personal, family or work-related problem. All members of the group plan are automatically eligible to seek out assistance through Shepell-fgi, our service provider. In 2015, approximately 27 individuals/families accessed this program for assistance. Medical (Healthcare and Drug): Those enrolled for medical benefits are provided a pay direct drug benefit card so prescription drug transactions are completed with the pharmacy. The Choices benefits program includes a National Drug Formulary Plan. Reimbursement of drug costs varies by plan selected, as follows: 70% (Green), 80% (Orange) and 90% (Blue) for formulary prescription drug cost; 50% (Green), 60% (Orange) and 70% (Blue) for non-formulary prescription drug cost. There is a dispensing reimbursement fee cap of $5, on all three plans. Once the out-of-pocket prescription drug costs for a covered individual reaches $2,000 (Green), $1,000 (Orange) and $500 (Blue) all remaining drug costs for balance of the year will be 39

42 Treasurer s Report 2015 Annual Report reimbursed at 100%. Nursing care, ambulance, paramedical services, emergency treatment outside your province of residence (may not be in force for retirees due to interprovincial agreements); emergency treatment outside Canada (excluding retired pastors), hearing aids and dental expenses resulting from an accident are also included, subject to certain maximum amounts. The Plan excludes out-of-country coverage for retirees. Dental: Dental coverage varies according to the each Choice benefits plan. Dental Basic services are as follows: no coverage (Green); 80% reimbursement (Orange); and, 90% reimbursement (Blue). Major restorative services and other dental coverages vary according to each specific Choice benefits plan. Plan members can use HCSA to claim for dental services not covered. Healthcare Spending Account (HCSA): Two of the Choices plans (Green and Orange) include a Healthcare Spending Account. The annual deposit of the HCSAs varies by plan and the number of dependents covered. Plan members could use the HCSA to pay for health, medical and dental services that are not covered under the Choices benefits program. The Canadian Baptist Pension Plan: The Canadian Baptist Pension Plan is a national defined contribution pension plan offered to assist Canadian Baptist pastors and other staff to save for retirement. The Pension Plan currently has a total of 1,301 active members in the plan. The Pension fund held assets of $217 million for the period ending December 31, Investment of the pension funds is managed by GLC Asset Management Group based on an investment policy established and monitored by the National Pension and Insurance Committee. The CB Pension Plan has its own annual audited financial statements and these are reviewed by the National P and I Committee and the Audit Committee of CBM each year. The Committee provided an Annual Stakeholder Report in 2015 to all plan members; the report is created to ensure all members of the Plan are aware of the Pension Plan governance process utilized by the organization. The Committee also provides an annual CB Pension Plan update to church employers to ensure churches have sufficient information to administer the plan as employers. The Committee has engaged Proteus Advisory Service to provide a special Ready to Retire Service to plan members who are within six months of retirement. The service is to provide those plan members two hours of consultation in helping them make informed and sound retirement decisions. The CB Pension Plan introduced a new Retirement Fund in This fund is available to all plan members and addresses the requirements of retired plan members for regular income while helping to preserve their capital over a longer retirement time horizon. In order to achieve the desired goal, this fund is well diversified across all asset classes and mitigates the inherent risk of equities by investing primarily in dividend-paying stocks and fixed income. The contribution rate for 2015 was 6% by the member, matched by 6% from the church/employer. Plan members have a choice of five investment funds. The five (5) years Rates of return ending December 31, 2015 were: Conservative Fund 7.1% Moderate Fund 8.0% Balanced Fund 8.3% Aggressive Fund 9.4% Retirement Fund N/A (does not have 5 years of performance results yet; 3 year rate of return is 9.1%) Individual rates of return may vary slightly depending upon contribution dates, withdrawals and other factors. 40

43 2015 Annual Report Ministry Partners Report Ministry Partners Report CBOQ Foundation Don Hallman - President The Foundation s Mission The Foundation is committed to acquiring and managing resources to provide long-term support for the ministries of Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec. The Foundation holds and manages assets and funds including: Lynde Creek Manor retirement home (land and building) ownership for the Lynde Creek Village property in Whitby (formerly occupied by the Baptist Leadership and Education Centre). These assets are leased to the Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec Housing Corporation which has responsibilities for development and management. Endowment Fund in support of CBOQ ministries. Education Fund supporting CBOQ youth ministry and leadership development. Canadian Baptist Archives Fund supporting the Canadian Baptist Archives at McMaster Divinity College. CBOQ Foundation Directors Elected by the Members: Mrs. Nancy Bell Lorne Park Baptist Church, Mississauga ( ) Dr. Don Hallman Lorne Park Baptist Church, Mississauga ( ) Mr. Ralph Jones First Baptist Church, Barrie ( ) Ms. Alana Walker Carpenter Yorkminster Park Baptist Church, Toronto ( ) Currently two vacant Director s positions to be filled (Ms. Rosemary Borja resigned in November 2015) Additional Directors appointed in consultation with CBOQ: Rev. Tim McCoy, Executive Minister, CBOQ Rev. Dr. Michel Belzile, Past President, CBOQ Annual Meeting June 26, 2015 The Members: 1. Appointed Ms. Rosemary Borja for 3-year term ( ); 2. Approved the audited Financial Statements for 2014; 3. Appointed the firm of Grant Thornton LLP, Chartered Accountants, as auditors for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2015; 4. Expressed appreciation to John Fessenden for his nine years of service on the Board Board Appointments Following the Annual Meeting on June 26, 2015, the Board appointed the following to the positions indicated: President - Dr. Don Hallman Secretary - Mrs. Nancy Bell (interim) Treasurer - Mrs. Nancy Bell Chair, Investment Committee - Mr. Fred Beattie Highlights of matters considered by the Board of Directors this past year Lynde Creek Manor Expansion Project On September 22, 2015 we celebrated the completion of the expansion of Lynde Creek Manor with a grand opening ceremony. A good-sized audience was in attendance with representation from our CBOQ Board and constituency, the local municipality and our construction partners. It has been exciting for our Board to see the addition completed and new residents moving into the expanded facility. At the time of writing, occupancy is approaching 70%, and further sign-ups are continuing. The addition to the retirement Manor comprises five floors and expands capacity from 37 units to 94 units. Accommodations include two-bedroom units with balconies, convertible two-bedroom units (can be converted into one-bedroom units and studios), onebedroom with den units and one-bedroom units. The new dining room is two storeys with a games room and lounge overlooking from the second floor. Two new elevators service the residents and there is a common balcony for residents on each floor. This expanded facility now offers accommodation units that are much in demand and has flexibility for conversions to respond to market changes. It improves substantially the efficiency and profitability of operations, as well as enhancing facilities and services available to our residents. For more information and inquiries please visit the Lynde Creek Village website or call

44 Ministry Partners Report 2015 Annual Report Our Board has had another busy year overseeing completion of the expansion project and, more recently, focusing on transitioning the financing for this project. As we noted in last year s report, a number of factors, including unanticipated increases in construction and soft costs and the extreme cold weather in early 2014 which delayed construction, led to a cost overrun for the project. The Foundation was required to draw on the Undertaking to Complete agreement with CBOQ in order to provide for this cost overrun. We regret the necessity of this step and are deeply appreciative of this support from CBOQ which has been critical to the successful completion of the expansion. A repayment plan for this loan will be finalized with CBOQ once permanent financing for the Manor building has been obtained which will occur after substantial occupancy is achieved and sustained for a year s time. We express our thanks to many who have contributed to the planning and development of our expanded retirement Manor and to those in our constituency who have supported the Lynde Creek Village initiative through the debentures program operated through our CBOQ Housing Corporation. Other matters The Board continues to invest and monitor the funds in the Canadian Baptist Archives Endowment Fund. Income from the trust funds is paid out annually in support of the archives of the Convention, its member churches and McMaster Divinity College. The archives are housed at the Divinity College. A payment from the income of this fund was made in A payment was also made this year to CBOQ from the Foundation s Endowment Fund. Our Board continues to support the Legacy for Ministry initiative of CBOQ and other Canadian Baptist partners, and encourages donations to the Foundation s Endowment Fund which supports the ministry needs of the Convention. As our Board is able to shift from its major involvement with our Manor property development, we will be moving forward during the coming year to assess ways of enhancing the role of the Foundation in acquiring and managing resources to support CBOQ ministries, in partnership with CBOQ. I express my deep thanks for the contributions and dedicated service of our Directors and Officers during this year of overseeing the major Manor expansion. We praise God for bringing us through significant challenges encountered during this project and we ask for His continued guidance in our work for our CBOQ constituency! Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec Housing Corporation Bob Jamieson - Chair Lynde Creek Village is located in Whitby, ON on a 23 acre parcel of land donated to CBOQ by the late Len Cullen. Originally, the Baptist Leadership Education Centre (BLEC) was the only building on site. In later years, several phases of housing for seniors were added, and upon the closing of BLEC, that building was renovated to operate as Lynde Creek Manor. The Housing Corporation oversees the operation of both entities. The Village consists of 113 bungalow townhomes occupied on a life lease basis. Approximately 160 seniors live independently in these bungalows. The residents organize many of their social activities and also have a garden club to keep the Village looking great. They elect a residents council to channel their requests to site management and our Board. Management, financial control and maintenance of the homes and public areas are performed by Manor staff. The Manor is available for meetings, social events, and health-related activities. When a unit becomes available the lease is resold quickly at market values. The Manor is owned by the CBOQ Foundation and is managed by the Housing Corporation. As noted in the Foundation report, an addition was finished in 2015 and the Manor now has 94 suites. Considerable effort continues to be directed to renting these suites. The Manor is a very attractive choice for any seniors looking for assisted living accommodation. Near the end of 2015, the Corporation severed its agreements for management of the Village and Manor with Palladian Health Solutions. The manager of Lynde Creek Manor has assumed the role previously held by Palladian. The accounting function previously performed by an outside agent was brought in house as of January 1, These moves have streamlined the organization, and the 42

45 2015 Annual Report Ministry Partners Report Corporation Board is now involved directly with the management of the site. Bible study groups meet at the Manor and in the Village. Manor and Village residents attend a weekly church service at the Manor. CBOQ Housing Corporation Board members as of April 2016 are as follows: Bob Jamieson - Lorne Park Baptist Church, Mississauga Rev. Roger Smith - Immanuel Baptist Church, Toronto Tom Phair - Whitby Baptist Church Rev. Ross Carkner - Whitby Baptist Church Susan Coleman - Whitby Baptist Church Ralph Jones - First Baptist Church, Barrie The Corporation Bylaws allow for nine directors with no designated expiry. We would appreciate hearing from individuals with financial, management, or maintenance experience to serve on the Board and augment the existing team of directors. Canadian Baptist Women of Ontario and Quebec Diane McBeth - Executive Director Highlights from 2015 New Programs Prayer Bibles: Inexpensive and with a label in the front for a no-stress way to let a woman know that she is being prayed for. These flew off the shelves at Assembly Pick up more for your group this year. Midday Pause: A new way to connect online for scripture and quiet reflection. Advocacy Stand-ins against sex trafficking were held at six venues of the Pan Am Games. We hosted the musical expendable (about sex trafficking during the Super Bowl) in three cities. Mission We continued to support CBM with $135,000 paying for a new well benefitting 15,050 people; literacy classes for 726 women, farm training for 236 children (head of households), school fees and care for 265 children; plus much, much more in multiple countries. We gave a second grant to a Toronto respite program for families of children with disabilities. By the end of 2015, forty-five children were registered in recess, the volunteer team had also grown to forty-five, and the leadership team had grown to ten. recess directors Shelley Neal and Debbie Sutherland say: We are so grateful for your seed funding of recess and cannot wait to see God s next steps for us. We also gave a follow up grant to Farm Girls Rule. This is an afterschool program for tween girls referred by social services. Girls lives are changed through Farmtown as they work with animals in an atmosphere of Christian love and attention. Conferences In April 2015 we had a great women s conference with the President of the BWA Women s Department speaking. By the time you read this, we will have hosted our 2016 conference My Soul at Rest. Don t miss our 2017 conference! On the Menu for 2016 We have a new Staff member! Laura Matthews is our new part-time Program Coordinator. In addition to some administration, Laura is going to work on connecting women through new events and programs. She also continues to work part-time as a youth pastor at Weston Park Baptist Church, Toronto. Rejuvenated Baptist Women Sunday Some of you have been hosting this for many, many years. We re hoping to offer new resources to help you. Please come by our booth to sign up and receive materials like bulletin inserts. You can also sign up on line and download or request materials by mail at baptistwomen.com. Advocacy We have free posters with a toll-free helpline number for trafficked women. We hope many of you will take them to truck stops and motels. We have free anti-trafficking kits for youth pastors. Please consider signing a petition asking Starbucks to install anti-pornography web filters in Canada (as they have in their UK outlets). 43

46 Ministry Partners Report 2015 Annual Report Other Items of Note 2016 Resource booklets: These pamphlets outline Baptist Women materials and events that we invite you to make use of. Sign up for Love Day and pick up your free t-shirts. We have moved. Our new address is 5 International Blvd., Etobicoke, ON M9W 6H3. You can still contact us at bwoq@baptist.ca and All this is possible through your financial support. Thank you! Evangelical Fellowship of Canada The Evangelical Fellowship of Canada (EFC) is a national association of evangelical Christians in Canada. Our mission is to unite Evangelicals to bless Canada in the name of Jesus. Since 1964, the EFC has provided a national forum for Evangelicals and a constructive voice for biblical principles in life and society. EFC affiliates include approximately 40 denominations, 70 ministry organizations, 30 higher education institutions, and nearly 650 congregations across the country, who uphold a common statement of faith. The EFC also has thousands of supporting individuals. Centre for Faith and Public Life The EFC promotes an evangelical Christian understanding on matters of law and public policy. Through its Centre in Ottawa, it continues to be a strong advocate in the courts and on Parliament Hill for care for the vulnerable, religious freedom, sanctity of human life, marriage/family, and freedom of conscience. We work on collaborative initiatives to mobilize Evangelicals to get involved strategically to address critical issues facing our country - issues that require engagement in law and public policy as well as the participation of local congregations in caring for our neighbours in Jesus name. The EFC also produces webinars, study guides, background and position papers, fact sheets, court interventions and government submissions to help evangelical Christians think through various issues. Love Is Moving (LIM) In November 2015, the EFC announced a new partnership with Love Is Moving (LIM), a Canadian-made resource for youth and youth groups across the country to equip and mobilize them to explore and then live out the biblical understanding of love in their communities in innovative ways. LIM is a media-rich movement that uses television, print, social media, and smartphone technology as the most effective vehicles to teach and connect young adults. The LIM curriculum guides youth groups as they delve into Bible studies, devotionals, and discussions about how they can love others in Jesus name. Youth are encouraged to share their inspired acts of service through photos, testimonies, videos, posts, tweets and snapchats what they learned and how they have impacted their communities. EFC s Ministry Partnerships The EFC provides a platform for gathering ministry leaders and fostering partnership development. We work to ensure that congregations, denominations, ministry organizations and educational institutions are represented in various networks, peer-learning communities and action-oriented partnerships. 44

47 2015 Annual Report Ministry Partners Report McMaster Divinity College Stanley E. Porter - President and Dean We are very happy to have the opportunity to communicate with our founding denomination once again. We would like to take this opportunity to thank our alumni for referring students to us on a regular basis. This is encouraging to us as we continue to train men and women for ministry in CBOQ churches and other denominations. We continue to praise God for His blessings. We were able to announce this fall that we had record enrolment. This is especially exceptional when we look at other schools. We also recognize the sacrifice and commitment of CBOQ churches and individuals who, in the past and present, recognized the need for advanced theological education and provided for this through financial sacrifice. We remain committed to give our students the freedom to choose the type of programs that meet their needs, and to do this at a cost point that enables them to leave McMaster Divinity College with no, or very little, debt. Our professional degrees remain very cost-effective, and we recognize, once again, that this is because of the investment of past commitments of the CBOQ family. We look forward to 41 students graduating at our Convocation and Service of Celebration in May - we wish them God s blessing as they seek to serve Him. In the past, the CBWOQ has been able to provide our women MDiv grads with a quilt as a recognition of their support of women in ministry. We jointly decided that this practice would be retired as of this year; however, we want to acknowledge the past work and commitment of the CBWOQ toward our women grads, and we acknowledge their continued prayers for the women who obey God s calling on their lives. We would like to recognize the efforts of our Divinity Student s Association this year. We have had a student body that has bonded in an exceptional way, and we know that this is in part because of the efforts of the DSA. Our faculty continue to make a name for us internationally with their commitment to scholarly publications. A very small sample follows: Mark J. Boda, The Book of Zechariah, Eerdmans, Gordon L. Heath and Michael A.G. Haykin Edited Baptists and War: Essays on Baptists and Military Conflict 1640 s 1990 s, McMaster Divinity College Press/Pickwick Publications, We continue with our building expansion campaign and are truly thankful to God for continuing to encourage us in this area. We wait upon His provision to go forward in this area but are encouraged by the gifts that we have received thus far. Last, but not least, we wish to announce the launch of our Doctor of Practical Theology Degree this fall (2016). We have listened to our alumni and others in CBOQ, as well as other denominations, to ascertain the needs of the Church today. After careful deliberation, we have decided to launch this advanced professional degree, the only one of its kind accredited by ATS in North America, to meet the needs of the Church, para-church and other organizations to prepare men and women for advanced Christian leadership. The faculty and leadership of MDC are convinced that this is a degree that will prepare our students for advanced professional competency in their chosen field of work. We already have many potential students and denominational leaders who see this as the future of theological education, and we ask for your prayers as we go forward with this initiative. We are encouraged by the response that we have received. We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our past and present CBOQ supporters for their understanding and acknowledgement of the need for advanced theological education. We cannot thank you enough for your commitment to furthering the Kingdom of God in this way. We appreciate your prayers as we seek to serve God in all that we do. McMaster Divinity College Knowing Being Doing Stanley E. Porter, John, His Gospel, and Jesus: In Pursuit of the Johannine Voice, Eerdmans,

48 Ministry Partners Report 2015 Annual Report Canadian Baptist Ministries Terry Smith - Executive Director OUR VISION: a broken world made new. OUR MISSION: Partnering with local churches around the world to bring hope, healing and reconciliation through word and deed. CBM is a partnership of 150,000 Canadian Baptists who worship in 1,000 churches which are grouped into four regional denominations: Canadian Baptists of Western Canada, Canadian Baptists of Ontario and Quebec, Union d'églises Baptistes Francophones du Canada, Convention of Atlantic Baptist Churches. We also belong to Canadian Baptist Women s groups. Our international work clusters into eight sectors: Children and Youth-at-Risk Evangelism and Church Planting Food and Community Development Training Leaders Peace, Justice and Reconciliation AIDS and Health Care Strengthening Partners Crisis Response CBM assists in cooperative efforts to represent Canadian Baptists coast-to-coast. Specific national responsibilities include: Providing Pension and Insurance services to ministry staff for all Canadian Baptist organizations; Encouraging the welcome of refugees and others new to Canada; Facilitating, through chaplains, the spiritual care of persons in the Armed Forces and the Correctional Services; Sharing resources, ideas, and best practices; and when appropriate, Serving as a national voice of Canadian Baptists; Coordinating the Canadian Baptist Youth network. CBM s Field Staff from Central Canada Emad and Almess Botros (Stanley Park Baptist Church, Kitchener) serving with the Lebanese Society for Education and Social Development in mentoring students in ministry and leadership skills at the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary John and Ruth Chan (Logos Baptist Church, Mississauga) serving as team leader for CBM s global Chinese ministries and working with the Friends of Mission to Chinese in Germany, mentoring and discipling students from Mainland China who will be returning there after completing their studies Rupen and Mamta Das (Yorkminster Park Baptist Church, Toronto) serving with the European Baptist Union as a consultant for mission and development, assisting various countries in their integral mission initiatives with marginalized peoples. He also advises and assists in capacity building initiatives with CBM s other global partners Elie and Mireille Haddad (Middle East Baptist Church, Mississauga) serving with the Lebanese Society for Education and Social Development as president of the Arab Baptist Theological Seminary and supporting refugee efforts in Lebanon Conrad and Fiona Kwok (Brampton Chinese Baptist Church) serving in Thailand at Bethel Bible Institute doing leadership training and mentoring with Chinese students and pastors Lewis and Felain Lam (Wismer Baptist Church, Markham) serving with the Friends of Mission to Chinese in Germany mentoring students from Mainland China who will be returning there after completing their studies Jonathan and Jan Mills (Kanata Baptist Church) serving with the Association des Eglises Baptistes au Rwanda, in the area of capacity building Emo and Kathy Yango (Heron Park Baptist Church, Scarborough) serving in the Philippines mentoring leaders in integral mission initiatives focusing on discipleship and community development CBM s Canadian Staff CBM s office staff have the privilege of worshipping and serving in the following churches within CBOQ: Milton, Mississauga City; Central Oakville; Scarborough Chinese; Lorne Park Mississauga; Brampton Chinese; Kingsway Baptist, Toronto; Weston Park Toronto; Glen Acres Baptist, Kitchener; Bloorwest Village, Toronto; North Burlington Baptist, and First Baptist, Toronto. 46

49 2015 Annual Report Ministry Partners Report CBM has undergone several staff changes in 2015: Sam Chaise stepped down from the position of Executive Director in May 2015 Terry Smith was named the new Executive Director in October 2015 Blair Clark retired in June 2015 Dennis Shierman resigned from the position of Manager, Global Discipleship Programmes in December 2015, as his wife was called to Altadore Baptist Church in Calgary, AB Randy Stanton became the Eastern Canadian Rep for CBM in June 2015 Jennifer Fernandes became the Latin America Programme Officer Parkson Wai retired as Senior Accountant Carole Phillips retired as Global Discipleship Coordinator Adrian Gardner became the new Manager, Global Discipleship Yvonne Chang started as HR Specialist Ivan Gutierrez resigned as STM Coordinator in Bolivia and Patty Nacho assumed the role Finances Our 2015 budget totals $9.5 million. Our audited financial statements are available on our website (usually by mid- May). Approximately 80% of our budget is raised from the Canadian Baptist constituency: individuals, churches, and businesses. The remaining comes from the Canadian Baptist denominations and Women s Groups (12-15%) and investment and legacy income. In addition to short-term ministry and STEP church partnership opportunities, CBM offers CBOQ and its member churches a number of mission education resources. Additional Resources: Mission Education curriculum Discover Local Church mission audit material Unbend the Trend Good Soil campaign Guest speakers (global field staff and leadership team) Senior staff have spoken in 90+ churches in 2015 Field Staff spoke in 60+ churches in 2015 More information is available on our website ( and on Facebook Under Sam s leadership, CBM clarified its vision, mission and key sectors. As I assume this new role, we will continue to build upon this solid footing and deepen our engagement in Integral Mission, without losing focus on five key cross-cutting themes: Empowering and Equipping girls and women in the global South Stewarding the Planet and Creation Care Engaging our partner churches in meaningful marketplace ministry Pursuing excellence in our operations and processes Strengthening our governance model for transformational mission engagement In conclusion, allow me to express my gratitude to the staff and Board of CBOQ for the words of kindness and prayers as I assumed the new role as Executive Director. We are deeply grateful for the generous support and prayer, and especially for the consistency of the CBOQ grant in I look forward to working with CBOQ in the coming years to help heal a broken World through Word and Deed. Canadian Council of Churches Scott Kindred-Barnes CBOQ Representative The Canadian Council of Churches is a community of churches which confess the Lord Jesus Christ as God and Saviour according to the Scriptures and therefore seek to fulfill together their common calling to the glory of one God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and also other churches which affirm the same faith but which do not make doctrinal confessions. It was at Yorkminster Park Baptist Church in 1944 when the Canadian Council of Churches was founded. A member of the Baptist Federation of Canada at the time, the Baptist Convention of Ontario and Quebec became a founding member of the CCC. While the original membership consisted of ten churches or denominations, at present there are twenty-five member denominations. The Canadian Baptists of Western Canada (formerly the Baptist Union of Western Canada) joined the Council in Approximately 85% of the Christians of Canada claim to belong to one of the CCC denominations. The CCC is considered to be one of the broadest ecumenical bodies in the world since its membership includes Anglican, Roman Catholic, Eastern and Oriental Orthodox, and several Protestant and Evangelical 47

50 Ministry Partners Report 2015 Annual Report traditions. CBOQ is one of six members of the CCC who also belong to the Evangelical Fellowship of Canada. This role helps CBOQ to be a bridge between the more liberal and more conservative traditions in Canada. CBOQ continued to have a significant influence on the CCC in CBOQ minister, the Rev. Dr. Das Sydney, completed his term as Vice-President of the CCC. He is greatly missed by the Council but the Rev. Tim McCoy, the Executive Minister of CBOQ, along with myself continued our work on the Governing Board. We are pleased that CBOQ will continue to have significant representation on the CCC in the years to come proved to be a very important and productive year for the CCC as a New Executive Board was elected and the new President, Alyson Barnett-Cowan, began her term. Barnett-Cowan has made it her mandate to visit all denominations represented on the Council in order to get a better sense of what gifts each denomination brings to the CCC. There was a growing concern expressed by many on the Board of Governors that the Consensus model of our foundation had gradually been neglected. Thus, 2015 saw a shift in back to more discussion surrounding respective beliefs and missions. This means that we will not always agree on every issue but the theological discussion is very often helpful. The bulk of the work of The Canadian Council of Churches takes place under the auspices of the Commission on Faith and Witness and the Commission on Justice and Peace along with the Biotechnology Reference Group in which representatives of both Commissions participate. These commissions undertake significant projects. The Commission on Faith and Witness engages the churches in theological study in order to increase an understanding of the faith we hold in common and to provide an ecumenical witness to Christ's mission in the world. The purpose of the Commission is to provide a meeting-place, a lively and fertile ground for reflection and work, among Christians of different families. Together we work to reflect theologically on matters of concern in our own day, and on questions of historical interest to the churches. Each member church provides at least one representative to the Commission. Together, Commission members decide the topics they wish to address, in keeping with the needs and concerns of the churches. They seek to articulate the Christian faith we hold in common, to discover greater mutual understanding and witness, and to probe more deeply the theological areas in which our traditions diverge. They share resources for dialogue and common understanding. And, they reflect theologically on the role and direction of ecumenism in our own day, in the specific Canadian situation in which we live and work. Some of the matters discussed in 2015 included Refugee sponsorship and First Nations Reconciliation. Further dialogue was carried out between the CCC and the Canadian Forum on Global Ministries. It is common at the Ottawa meetings each spring for members of the CCC to meet with elected members of Parliament to discuss issues that concern the Church such as Religious Freedom and Human Rights. Thus, in the spring of 2015 several groups assembled from the CCC to meet with elected officials. At our two gatherings in 2015 several very important discussions took place including thought-provoking panels on the respective topics of Climate Justice, human rights and Reconciliation. Please look up the CCC web page at Union of French Baptist Churches in Canada David Rowley - Executive Director The Union has a new logo! A small white stylish cross is placed in the center and surrounded by a dynamic array of blue and red, a reference to Canada as well as to Frenchspeaking Canada. In March we negotiated the purchase of the United Church s building in Saint Jean-sur-Richelieu. The building was dedicated on November 14th. A food bank reaches over 40 families every week. We decided to change the format for our annual business meeting. The business meeting was moved to Friday night, freeing up Saturday for worship, ministry up-dates, introducing new projects; topping it off with challenges from the Word. This format had been tried in the past, yet failed. But, thanks be to God, we went from a previous 48