Updates From a Special Monday Meeting at the Home Office
A Special Monday Meeting
Usually, this recognition ceremony would have taken place at the annual meeting of the General Conference of Elders.
We also recognized those employees who retired this year which include:
• Tom and Lisa Damour, who retired on July 1, 2019.
• Ken and Susan Graham, who retired on January 1, 2020.
50-year Employment Anniversary
This past year, two men reached the 50-year milestone of employed service—Tony and Linda Wasilkoff and Victor and Beverly Kubik. They received engraved pocket watches, employee service pins, cards and gift cards. Their wives received flowers in special appreciation for their support and contributions.
• Tony & Linda Wasilkoff (Director of Operations, Canada) - Tony was recognized earlier during a Canadian regional conference on May 22nd by Victor Kubik and Rainer Salomaa. At that time, Victor Kubik noted that Tony has been a sound-minded, stable, positive leader who always looked at people and situations in the best light. He has worked as an administrator with essential support from his wife Linda both in administration and pastoral work, as well.
• Victor & Beverly Kubik (UCG President, United States) - Len Martin noted that Vic and Beverly have left an extensive legacy of service and accomplishments these past 50 years. On a personal note, he reflected back to 1994 when he and his wife began to be concerned about what was happening in the Church. He came across an email address owned by Victor Kubik and wrote to him. He was impressed when Vic wrote back, offering encouragement in a difficult time. Years later, Len's daughter, Naomi, who had cerebral palsy, needed expensive hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Vic and Bev Kubik (along with several others and LifeNets) put together a fundraiser to purchase a hyperbaric chamber for their family.
These stories reflect how Vic and Bev have always had a heart of service, a big heart for caring for people, and reaching out in ways of service. Len Martin thanked them on behalf of the Council and the Church for their living example, and deeds that are more than just words.
Peter Eddington said he has appreciated Vic's support, not only for him personally but for the work of the Church, the media department and the home office. He thanked Vic for all his efforts beginning at the very formation of the United Church of God.
Richard Kennebeck reminisced about their common connections and building the Church from the ground up in Arcadia, California, plus Vic's humanitarian spirit and care for others in addition to his willingness to try new things.
Mark Welch concluded by mentioning how much he appreciated both Victor and Beverly for their work with LifeNets and within the community. Vic has served in Church administration for years, and has shown good leadership and mentorship.
The meeting was then handed over to Victor Kubik, who began by expressing his appreciation for all Church employees. He noted that our employees are not just employees; they are friends and family. All have contributed to serving the Church and the preaching of the gospel, which is very much needed in this world.
40-year Employment Anniversary
• Robin & Susan Webber (Church Pastor, California) - Robin is a longtime veteran minister who has mostly been serving in southern California. Robin Webber is a God-fearing, communicative friend and confidant to so many. He has served as a teacher, pastor, administrator, Council member, Chairman of the Council and prolific writer. He writes a regular feature for each issue of the Beyond Today magazine. He now pastors five churches in Southern California.
30-year Employment Anniversary
• Mark & Barbara Welch (Operation Manager, Ministerial and Member Services) - Vic shared that Mark has been a real blessing here at the home office, one who offers a fresh perspective. He appreciates Mark's honesty and mercy towards people and that he looks for the best in them. When UCG first began, Vic remembers calling Mark and Barb up to ask if they would move to Oklahoma from Pittsburgh to serve the congregations there, and the answer was an immediate yes!
Len Martin shared that he has enjoyed the time they have worked together since Mark has been in Ministerial and Member Services. Mark is responsive, and they can have open and honest conversations.
20-year Employment Anniversary
• Jesmina Alloaua (Executive Assistant, Germany) - Vic mentioned how much he has appreciated working with Jesmina over the years. She is the heartbeat of the work in Germany and is responsible for running the office, translations, publishing and logistics.
• David and Ghyslaine Palmer (Church Pastor, Canada) - Vic shared his appreciation for their service over the years. He reflected back on a message that David gave years ago titled "Guard Your Heart" from the book of Proverbs, commenting that it was one of the best explanations of this verse he has heard.
• Jan Schroeder (Executive Secretary, United Kingdom) - Jan is a very valuable employee in the British office and supports David Fenney in many areas, including writing and producing the British News. Vic expressed his appreciation for all she does.
• Paul & Coreen Wasilkoff (Church Pastor, Canada) - Paul began working for the Church at the home office in Cincinnati before moving to Canada. Vic expressed his appreciation for Paul's clear and logical thought process, which comes through strongly in his Bible studies. He and his family are very much appreciated.
10-year Employment Anniversary
• Kathy de Campos (ABC Administrative Assistant, United States) - Vic shared that Kathy is the heart of Ambassador Bible College and greets every student with a hug. She takes on many seemingly impossible tasks, is very conscientious and never quits. Kathy is never short on encouragement.
Frank Dunkle mentioned that Kathy helps keep things organized and is a key member of the ABC department. She is often one of the first people in the building and last to leave. On behalf of dozens of students, Frank thanked Kathy for the love and concern she shows all the students.
• Dan & Val Deininger (Church Pastor, Montana, United States) - Vic remembered hiring Dan to serve the brethren in Montana, which, given the distance, is not an easy task. Dan has a huge heart for people and is always responsive to their needs. Early on, he was responsible for helping webcast services in South America and other areas. He is an open-minded person who always wants to serve.
• Rudy Rangel (Production Supervisor, United States) - Vic shared how much he appreciates Rudy's company, connecting with him on various topics of common interest and working together on projects. Rudy has been the right man in the media department and with the podcast; he shows ingenuity and helps with logistics.
Peter Eddington reflected back on Rudy's job interview around the old video studio table. He has been a wonderful employee for the past 10 years. Rudy has taken on many extra responsibilities working with the team, in production, and new equipment purchases. Rudy is humble, responsive and doing these things has really helped the department over the years.
• Jamie Schreiber (Associate Video Producer, United States) - Vic shared that Jamie is one of the most creative people he knows. When it comes to videography, he knows all the creative angles, methodology and has a way of taking video shots that add a lot of "spice" to all of our programs. He is responsive, respectful and greatly appreciated here at the office.
Peter Eddington also commented on Jamie's creative spirit. Jamie has a special eye for composition and especially creative thought for shooting video. He uses all the tips and tricks of any professional and is not afraid to break out of the box. Peter remembers Jamie pitching the idea to make the first Jelly video, which became a big hit! He is a great part of the team.
Rudy Rangel expressed his appreciation for the 10 years that they have worked together. During this time, they have become great friends. Jamie is one of the most brilliant visual storytellers he has met.
• Brian & ReNae Shaw (Church Pastor, United States) - Vic expressed his appreciation for both Brian and ReNae and how they are caring for the members in their area having gone through some difficult challenges and managing them well. They both are very well loved in their congregations and have done much to care for the brethren in the area in these years.
Introduction of the New Chairman, Len Martin
Mr. Martin then gave an "ice breaker" to the home staff, helping us all get to know him better as he begins his role as chairman. The home office administration and chairman work closely together in the work of the Church.
Following the meeting, Mr. Kubik conducted a podcast with Len. Mr. Martin shared a little bit about himself as well as his thoughts and plans moving forward. You can access the episode at: https://www.ucg.org/inside-united-podcast/inside-united-podcast-165-len-martin-council-of-elders.
