5-4-08 Church Conference Vote

On behalf of Sunrise Church, I sincerely thank every Sunrise member who participated in the vote today.  We had a very large turnout, and 626 ballots were cast.  The vote was 340 in favor of the proposal, and 286 opposed, so the motion carried!  I also thank the many members who pitched in to help with the process today like member check-in, and helped facilitate the proceedings, and also several non-members who volunteered to be our tellers and counted the ballots.  Also thanks to Gary Ness and the trustees, and Mark Barteld and the UMM who pitched in to make additional handicapped parking available and provided parking assistance during the vote.  The church council met immediately after the vote today and began initial steps for planning the way ahead, to include authorizing formation of a building committee.  I ask for all of our congregation to continue to pray for guidance and wisdom of the Holy Spirit during the next phase - we have much work to do, and yet much to be thankful for in terms of support from our members and visitors.

In Christ, Mike Heer, Council Chair