A giant step forward was made during the last five years in the processing of the Revolving Fund managed by the corporate arm of Mid-America Union.
The Revolving Fund is available for churches and church-related organizations located within the territory of MAUC to borrow funds needed for capital improvements, and the purchase or construction of church buildings.
This fund is registered as a security in those states within MAUC territory that require registration. A process has been adopted for those churches and church organizations to apply for a qualified loan. It is difficult to obtain funding from commercial lenders for improvements or purchase of church buildings. The Revolving Fund makes these loans available, providing a valuable resource to conferences, churches and church organizations.
SEEKING ACCOMMODATIONS
In addition to Sabbath work schedule issues, the past five years has seen the development of issues regarding mandated vaccinations, primarily in the area of Covid immunization. There is a diversity of belief among church members regarding immunization. There are members who do maintain an objection to vaccinations based on sincerely held religious conviction. This belief, while not an official position of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, deserves to be addressed in support of those members who do hold that belief. It is important to note that we do not support a belief based on science or politics. But we do recognize the need to support those members who base their objection on religious principle.
During the past five years I have had the privilege of helping several members obtain accommodation for their belief.
Unfortunately, not every situation results in accommodation.
Just as in immunization issues, not every Sabbath work scheduling issue results in accommodation. While we use every legal principle available, the law does not give absolute right for accommodation. However, I have seen the work of the Holy Spirit even in those situations.
FOLLOWING GUIDELINES AND PROCEDURES
I have also had the opportunity to serve as parliamentarian for many of the local conference constituency sessions, as well as the MAUC constituency sessions.
The goal is to make sure the meetings are conducted fairly and in a Christ-like manner.
Every delegate should have an opportunity to present legitimate information to the members without fear of retribution. That is accomplished best by following the guidelines of parliamentary procedure.
I have been blessed by serving MAUC in these roles. And I thank the administration of MAUC and the administrations of the conferences located in MAUC territory for the support I have received in fulfilling those responsibilities.
Darrel J. Huenergardt is legal councel and director of public affairs and religious liberty for the Mid-America Union.
