Council President, Melissa Taphorn, presented the Council-approved officers and leaders for approval by the congregation. The congregation unanimously approved the Council officers and leaders. Council Treasurer, Richard (Dick) Rank, presented a review of the 2021-22 year-end closing figures along with a summary presentation of the new fiscal year budget for 2022-23. After review and discussion, the budget was unanimously passed by the congregation with one abstaining member. Meeting minutes will be posted upon approval at sotv.org/council-updates.

One of our proudest achievements during the past 21 years has been working Bega Kwa Bega with our sisters and brothers in Tanzania to provide scholarships for students. Hundreds of young people in the parishes of Makifu, Tungamalenga, and Usolanga have benefitted from your generous gifts and have advanced their educations far beyond what would otherwise be possible for them.

As we approach the celebration of Reformation Day at the end of October, I’ve been thinking about Play-Doh and what it can teach us about God’s transforming work in our life. Stick with me here…

We had a successful blood drive in August with 64 donors and 62 pints of blood collected, exceeding the goal for the day. Through your generosity, the donations will potentially save up to 186 lives!

Through your generosity, we provided 8 organizations with over 600 backpacks and thousands of school supplies. That translates into 600 kiddos with filled backpacks and additional supplies for families that may need a few items to round out their children’s backpacks. You helped to make the transition back to school a better one!

Thank you to all the volunteers that gave their time and talent to help build a home in Farmington! Your efforts will help to provide shelter for a family in need. The impact of owning your own home and having played a part in the building of the home, is something that can only be measured in love. Thank you for helping a family become homeowners.