The Council of Elders held its regular December meeting at the home office from Monday through Thursday, Dec. 4-7, 2023. All 12 members were present, along with staff from Church administration.

The meetings included reports by President Rick Shabi and Operation Managers Peter Eddington and Steve Myers. Treasurer Barry Korthuis also reported, as did chairmen of the Council’s standing committees.

The December meeting normally includes a report on the annual audit of UCG’s finances by the firm of Clark Schaefer Hackett. The audit was unmodified, with no managerial recommendations—which is very good.

Council members devoted significant time to educational papers being developed by the Education Committee on the subjects of the sanctity of marriage and the purpose of a holy convocation. Other discussions ranged from doctrinal papers to budgeting matters.

The Council of Elders has fiduciary responsibility for the doctrine of the Church, its finances and its policies. Serving in that way requires many hours of work outside the boardroom, and a willingness to collaborate with one’s colleagues. The next regular meeting of the Council is set for Feb. 26-29, 2024.