From the beginning, UBC has been made up of people committed to social justice: from ending slavery, gaining women's suffrage, the freedom to teach the theory of evolution, civil rights, human rights, peace and nonviolence, environmental justice, and equal rights for our LGBTQ+ community. Social Justice "...Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven." From the beginning, UBC has been made up of people committed to justice, first ending slavery, then gaining women's suffrage, ensuring intellectual and academic freedom, the freedom to teach the theory of evolution, civil rights, human rights, peace and nonviolence, environmental justice, and equal rights for our gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender brothers and sisters. For many of us, working for the reign of God on earth is a spiritual act, a form of worship and of prayer. anti-racism UBC has a congregational commitment to anti-racism. We participate in racial justice organizations and have an anti-racism group that meets monthly to learn how to become actively anti-racist. We engage in constant reflection and dialogue about what reparations might look like and how we can be an anti-racist congregation. Partnership to confront racism In 2021, UBC became part of Churches that THRIVE for Racial Justice , a five-year project of the Alliance of Baptists in partnership with the Lilly Endowment and sociologists of race and religion. It's a cohort of 26 congregations across 19 states and two Canadian provinces learning to confront structures of racism. We are now in Year 2 (evaluation and reflection) and excited about this work. Anti-racism group We meet the second Tuesday of the month at 7pm to discuss how to become actively anti-racist. For more information about upcoming meetings, contact Pastor Doug Donley: pastor@ubcmn.org . peace UBC leadership and members regularly participate in protests and marches for peace, as well as peace-related advocacy. Our pastor can regularly be found at the State Capitol advocating for peace. Most recently we participated in marches in the aftermath of George Floyd's murder and protests against the occupation of Minneapolis in 2026, among others. Immigration We believe that immigration makes our communities stronger and more vibrant. We have a long history of helping our immigrant neighbors, including helping resettle four Karen families in the early 2000s. We continue to actively work to assist immigrants and asylum seekers. lgbtq+ rights We are proud to be a welcoming and affirming congregation. We host LGBTQ+ weddings, have a presence each year at Twin Cities Pride, and joyfully celebrate the rainbow of our queer siblings. food insecurity For 30 years, we served meals at Loaves and Fishes II in Minneapolis. We also hosted food pantry in Dinkytown. We currently provide meals at Marcy School through Every Meal.

join us to celebrate the 175th anniversary of our congregation established on july 13, 1850 at st. anthony falls 1850-2025: 175 years of ubc! Hello Friends: We would love to see you as we celebrate the 175th anniversary of University Baptist Church! If you can't attend in person, join us by livestream on Sunday mornings from 10-11am. We would also appreciate it if you write a memory of UBC and send it to us at marketing@ubcmn.org or to our mailing address. We look forward to seeing many of you in the coming months to share the joy of UBC's legacy and God's continuing revelation. Blessings and peace, Pastor Doug Donley and the 175th Anniversary Committee Chris Follett, Don Follett, Elwyn Alexander Fraser Jr., Harriet Johnson, Howard Johnson, Gayla Marty (chair), Betty Shaw, Sue Wester, Terri Wottrich ubc175 events SUNDAY, JULY 13, 2025 - FOUNDING DAY Reflections on 1850 with music of the time 10 am - Worship followed by an ice cream social on the lawn SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 7 - PICNIC Welcome back picnic after church 10 am - Worship followed by lunch on the lawn SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 - PICTURING THE PAST Illustrated presentation of our locations in St. Anthony/S.E. Minneapolis by architectural historian Kristin Anderson 11:30 am SUNDAY, OCTOBER 12 - BLOCK PARTY Arts and fun with our Dinkytown neighbors 12-6 pm SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2 - ALL SAINTS Honoring loved ones and leaders who have joined our great cloud of witnesses 10 am - Worship followed by extended fellowship SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16 - BUILDING TOUR Tour our 100-year-old building with historical preservation experts 11:30 am WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 24 - CHRISTMAS EVE Lessons and carols with musical prelude 4:30 pm

GIVING AT UBC We welcome your financial support of University Baptist Church. As usual, you can drop it in the offering with a note on the check or envelope, send a check to the church, designate a gift directly from your bank (it's free), or use our online portal for giving on this page. ONLINE GIVING OPTIONS: · Pledge Giving · General Gifts for Ministry and Missions · Monthly Mission Giving · Fellowship Fund · Disaster and Refugee Relief If you want to earmark a donation, please indicate that with your payment in the online note field or check memo line. If mailing, send to University Baptist Church: 1219 University Avenue SE, Minneapolis, MN 55414. We thank you for your support. March & April Special Offering Each month we lift up selected mission partners. Thank you for your contributions to support these worthy causes. The Outreach mission focus for March and April is for organizations supporting childhood hunger and health. Groups who have received funding in the past include: the Minneapolis Crisis Nursery, Avenues for Youth, Every Meal and the Northside Achievement Zone. Thank you for any donations you can make to support programs that help our children and youth. If you have suggestions for other organizations, please email us at info@ubcmn.org . Thank you for your contributions to support these worthy causes! Donate Now Organizations we support include: American Baptist Churches Retired Ministers and Missionaries Offering American Baptist Churches United Mission American Baptist Churches World Missions American Baptist Churches One Great Hour of Sharing (Disaster Relief) American Baptist Churches America for Christ Offering AMOS (A Ministry of Sharing Health and Hope) in Nicaragua Church World Service Family Equality Council Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches Division of Indian Work Joint Religious Legislative Coalition Loaves and Fishes, Too (Meal Program) Minnesota Council of Churches Refugee Services Minnesota Religious Coalition for Reproductive Choice PFLAG (parents, friends, family and allies of lesbian, gay, transgender and bisexual persons) Project Minnesota/León Second Baptist Church of León,Nicaragua Second Baptist Church School of León, Nicaragua, Godparent Program Simpson Shelter Southeast Miinneapolis Meals on Wheels Southeast Seniors (A Living at Home Block Nurse Program) Tubman Center UBC Fellowship Fund (Emergency Assistance) WAMM (Women Against Military Madness) If you have suggestions for other organizations, please email us at info@ubcmn.org .

Members Everyone is welcome at UBC! There are membership classes for those interested in formalizing their presence within the congregation. They happen a few times a year depending on people's schedules. We have a special category of membership for people who expect to be here for a short period of time and want to maintain their membership in their home church. We call this a community/university member. Since we're a Baptist church, we believe that baptism decisions ought to be made by people who are old enough decide for themselves. We call this Believer's Baptism. We practice baptism by immersion. It's a beautiful thing to behold, especially with all of the water sloshing around afterwards. We recognize and accept previous baptisms and confirmations and we don't require you to be re-baptized, unless you want to. Want to learn more about becoming a member? Contact Paula Moyer, who coordinates our new member orientations! paulamoyer52@gmail.com

Our Staff & Council We are all ministers. Ministry teams do most of the heavy lifting at UBC. To support them, we have the following council and staff: Church Council Pastor Rev. Doug Donley Treasurer Denise Roy Church life coordinators Margie Garmers & Betty Shaw President Jean Lubke Church Clerk John Medeiros Outreach coordinator Karole Graham UBC Staff Rev. Doug Donley UBC Pastor pastor@ubcmn.org Maura Dunst Marketing Manager marketing@ubcmn.org Trista McGovern Administrative Assistant info@ubcmn.org David Lesniaski Music Director music@ubcmn.org Patrick Mavity Property Manager property@ubcmn.org Allan Edwards Janitor

THE ROOTS CELLAR We host periodic concerts highlighting roots-focused musicians in an intimate informal atmosphere. Building on Dinkytown's iconic heritage as a folk music mecca, we showcase an eclectic mix of traditional and roots musicians ranging from blues to bluegrass, folk, and Americana. The Roots Cellar is hosted in the lower auditorium at the University Baptist Church at 1219 University Ave SE, Minneapolis MN 55414. Bus routes are a block away and parking is available in small lots next door, paid lots nearby, and street parking as well. 2025-2026 Roots Cellar Schedule See our Humanitix concerts hub below for all upcoming shows. Look for tickets available closer to the date if not yet posted! September 13th Sadie Gustafson-Zook October 12th (Sunday at 6pm) Jaspar Lepak November 8th Rachael Kilgour February 22nd (Sunday) Katie Dahl/Hope Dunbar/Rj Cowdery March 14th Root River Jam April 11th Crys Matthews TICKETS Sign up for Root Cellar emails Never miss a show again! Roots Cellar Alumni Tret Fure Ann Reed Peter Mayer Joe Jencks Zachary Scott Johnson Claudia Schmidt Pop Wagner Ellis Delaney Barley Jacks Pop Wagner and the Hampden Rounders Bob Bovee The Eclectics Annie Fitzgerald Lehto & Wright David Stoddard the Beau Baker Band the Men of New Hope Charlie Maguire

Music at UBC University Baptist Church has a vibrant music program. Music groups at UBC are open to new members at any time. We welcome you to join the fun! The program year begins in early September and runs through mid-May. The handbell season may be longer depending on projects. programs chorale Directed by David Lesniaski The UBC Chorale is an ensemble of about 20 voices that rehearses on Wednesdays from 6:00-7:15 p.m. The Chorale sings a variety of music ranging from classics like the Paulus Pilgrims' Hymn and movements by Haydn or Bach to Spanish-English bilingual variations of Handel's Messiah and compositions by our own choir members. Augmented by several professional section leaders/soloists, the Chorale is the primary musical leadership of our worship. Beyond Sunday worship the Chorale occasionally sings at the homes of homebound congregation members and in special-event partnerships with neighboring churches. Carillon and majors handbell choirs Directed by Jean Lubke Directed by Jean Lubke, the Carillon and Majors Handbell Choirs rehearse on Wednesday nights from 7:30-9:00 p.m. and perform several pieces one Sunday per month for our worship service. This ensemble rings five octaves of Malmark bells and four octaves of chimes performing sacred music, hymn arrangements, and bell arrangements of classical music. The Carillon Choir and Majors Ensemble gave a concert tour in England and Scotland in 2004 and in the Eastern U.S. (Indiana, Ohio, and New York) in 2007, California in 2010, Nicaragua in 2013, and France/Germany in 2017, and Scandinavia in 2022. They are planning their next trip to Finland, Estonia, and Latvia for 2027. sacred harp singing Sacred Harp Singing is hosted by UBC each Tuesday from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and the second and fourth Sundays of every month from 4-6 p.m. in Room 303. No musical training or special ability are required to join in this early American Shape-Note style music. Contact fasolamatt@yahoo.com . For more information on singing in the Twin Cities, visit mnfasola.org This congregation proudly counts among its instrumentalists people who play hammer dulcimer, violin, cello, flute, clarinet, ukelele, banjo, fiddle, crumhorn, djembe, acoustic bass, and a number each of guitarists, keyboardists, and recorder players. We love to borrow University of Minnesota music students. Anyone who would like to contribute music to a worship service is heartily encouraged to call the church office or email music@ubcmn.org . Instruments Organ UBC's primary instrument during most services is the pipe organ, having acquired in its earliest days a cabinet organ in the 1870's about twenty years after the congregation was founded. The instrument in our building today, built freestanding in the rear balcony in 1981, is Dobson's Opus 15 (II/30) and replaced Reuter's Opus 237 (III/18) built originally in 1927 in front chambers (with 1969 Moller console). The service of dedication was played by music director Martha Pittenger on October 11, 1981, with a recital the same evening. A booklet published for the organ's inauguration can be seen here . It was the feature instrument of The American Organist journal in October 1982. The project was facilitated by pastor Lee Freeman, organist and choir director Martha Pittenger, consultant Keith Linney, James Moeser of the University of Kansas, and a task force consisting of (at various stages) Jim Ross, Tony Garmers, Siri Kommedahl, Chuck Campbell, Janet Otis, Craig Edwall, Andy Collins, Jim Campbell, Bill Schafer, and Bob Wallace. Harpsichord By 1980 the rear Sanctuary balcony was also home to a one-manual two-rank (8' and 4') 52-note Zuckermann kit harpsichord dating from the late 1960s or early 1970's. Church archives indicate it was probably built by William Gudim of Watertown, Minnesota, and was acquired by UBC between 1976 and 1980. It is used frequently during services as a solo instrument and for accompanying strings or voices on Baroque repertoire. Pianos On the main floor of the Sanctuary lives a Petrof grand piano that was manufactured around the year 2000 in the Bohemian town of Hradec Kralove, about 70 miles east of Prague. Purchased from local resident Linda Hanson in 2008 (who, in addition to not seeing it played as much as she wanted, found its sound too big for her residence), the Petrof replaced the regular use of a Bush & Lane baby grand manufactured in the early decades of the 20th century that had developed a cracked pin block. In the church Lounge resides a 1982 Everett Studio upright piano given by Nancy Myers in 2016. This is the main instrument for leading smaller services in this space and supplies a keyboard for use of the Lounge as a teaching space.

we have rental space for offices events weddings and more! Next door to one of the largest research universities in the world - a campus of 50,000 students - UBC's building was designed as a hub of activity. Our sanctuary is a beautiful space for weddings and commitment ceremonies as well as music, theater, and public programs. Our lawn and portico provide a lovely green space on a busy corner. We have room to share for renters, too. Tenants in our beautiful space have included not only other congregations but an alternative school, small businesses, artists, musicians, yoga classes, labor organizers, basketball players (we have a gym under the sanctuary), consultants, and more. Rental Spaces Currently Available Rooms for Lease Room 303 - 540 sq ft N on-profit rate: $1,080/mo Standard rate: $1,350/mo Room 305 - 675 sq ft Non-profit rate: $1,350/mo Standard rate: $1,687.50/mo Room 309 - 342 sq ft Non-profit rate: $684/mo Standard rate: $855/mo Hourly or Special Occasion Gym $20/hr block (2hr minimum) Assembly Room 1,768 sq. ft., $40/hr including kitchen $30/hr without kitchen, 2hr minimum Sanctuary is available for funerals, concerts, and other special occasion rentals at $50/hr Sanctuary is is also available for weddings - see guidelines below Library - $25 for the first hour, $10 for each additional hour Lounge - $25 for the first hour, $10 for each additional hour available july 1 COMMERCIAL SPACE FOR RENT IN DINKYTOWN Bring your vision to this historic space in Dinkytown, across the street from the U of M! Looking for a homebase for your student outreach-focused non-profit? Need a spot to house your community-oriented organization? Want to open a coffee shop with live music? Thinking about opening an arts-based collaborative that has office space, gathering space, rehearsal space, and performance space all under the same roof? We’re open and would love to hear your ideas and dreams! Available for rent in University Baptist Church: Large 1,500 sqft room with a stage at one end, attached to a 377 sqft commercial kitchen. Possible addition of another 650 sqft lounge with fireplace. ADA access and bathrooms nearby. Lots of foot traffic in a densely populated area. Office space available elsewhere in the building. Up to three assigned parking spots for an additional fee. Want to talk about your ideas? Contact property@ubcmn.org ! Assembly Room (Large space with stage) - 1500 square fee Non-profit rate: $3,000/mo Standard rate: $3,750/mo Parlor with fireplace (Attached to Assembly Room, but can be separated) - 650 square feet Non-profit rate: $1,300/mo Standard rate: $1,625/mo Kitchen (Attached to Assembly Room, but can be separated) - 377 square feet Non-profit rate: $754/mo Standard rate: $942.50/mo DETAILS Many rooms have hardwood floors. All rooms are handicap accessible. Utilities are included (small air conditioning or space heater surcharge added). We have many rooms available for meetings, rehearsals, recreations, rituals and performances, including a gym. Room rental spaces are open for month to month leases/contracts. To set up a showing or for more information, please contact us at 612-331-1768 or property@ubcmn.org Inquiring about a funeral or memorial service? Review our FUNERAL/MEMORIAL SERVICE INSTRUCTIONS . Wedding Ceremonies University Baptist Church (UBC) is proud to perform wedding ceremonies for everyone, including the LGBTQA+ community. We are a faith community with a noble tradition of supporting full equality for LGBT people. UBC was the first Baptist Church to appoint an openly lesbian pastor, the Rev. Nadean Bishop, who served from 1992-2000. UBC belongs to the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists and American Baptists Concerned for Sexual Minorities. UBC’s pastor, the Reverend Doug Donley, has been an impassioned advocate of LGBT rights and equality. Doug has held national leadership positions with Soulforce, an organization dedicated to LGBT inclusion and the elimination of spiritual oppression through nonviolent means. Doug is also a founding member of the Coalition for A Respectful U., an inter-faith coalition whose mission is to create a safe and welcoming environment for LGBT students at the University of Minnesota. In 2005, Doug received the University’s Breaking the Silence Award in recognition of his work on behalf of LGBT people. In 2004, under Doug’s leadership, the congregation of UBC passed a statement affirming marriage rights for same-sex couples. UBC Wedding Brochure

We are hiring an progressive interim pastor to help guide us through a search process! interim pastor Do you know of a progressive pastor looking for an interim appointment who can help guide us during a pastoral search process? University Baptist Church (UBC) is looking for an intentional interim pastor starting June 1, 2026 (Monday), and lasting through the appointment of a permanent senior pastor. On Sunday, May 31, our beloved pastor, Rev. Doug Donley, is retiring after 25 years of faithful service to the UBC congregation and the community. Our motto is: “Rooted in justice, working for peace.” We are a small but mighty, welcoming, affirming, social justice-focused congregation that is led by the people and sees community service as part of our worship. We are located in a beautiful, historic building in the heart of Dinkytown in Minneapolis, and we just celebrated our 175th anniversary. If you or someone you know would be a good fit, we would love to hear from them. By April 11, 2026 (Sunday), we ask interested candidates to send their resumes and any other relevant information to: Rev. Diane Ehr 3009 Carlsbad Court Burnsville, MN 55337 dianeehr82@gmail.com We look forward to hearing from you and finding a wonderful interim to help us through this difficult time of transition. help us spread the word Please help us spread the word by sharing this position with your networks. UBC is a member of the American Baptist Churches USA, the Alliance of Baptists, and the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists. We would welcome any like-minded individuals for our interim pastor, regardless of denomination. Blessings and thank you for being part of the extended UBC community!

This Week at UBC Updated every Monday april 13, 2026 "You've got to be a thermostat rather than a thermometer. A thermostat shapes the climate of opinion; a thermometer just reflects it." — Cornel West Hello Friends: Threats of violence continue to be the norm across our political landscape. It’s almost predictable and can be dismissed as too much noise. Except that in the wake of it all, people are dying. Gas and grocery prices continue to rise and too many people live in fear. I give thanks for all those who are creatively and persistently pushing back against this cruelty. People of faith are stepping up and reminding us all that Jesus came so that we would not have to study war anymore. Imagine if we studied peace and worked across the religious and political aisles for a better future. We might even call that a resurrection. Thanks to all who made the Commitment Sunday such a great success. I’m so thankful for this great congregation. If you haven’t filled out your pledge of time talent and treasure for next year, you can do it here . This Sunday, we’ll dedicate another baby. Ignatius Hartman Waller was born on February 1, 2026. His parents are Katie and Jim Hartman Waller. I hear there will be several members of their fine extended families in church on Sunday. My sermon on Sunday is entitled, “A Ringing Endorsement.” Psalm 92 starts out with praising God through music, which seems appropriate. Music is a form of resistance—a way to express ourselves deeper than words alone can muster. The UBC Carillon bell choir will play, Megan Dahlberg will be the worship leader and, of course, we’ll celebrate Ignatius (Iggy) and his family. Sunday is also the date for our Bell Choir performance. At 3pm, the combined handbell choirs of UBC and The Grove UMC will join forces for a great performance. It will not only feature the two bell choirs (both of which Jean Lubke directs), but it will also feature choir and soloists from UBC and FCC. We’ll even perform one of Elwyn Fraser’s pieces, “Heaven’s Sunrise.” And we’ll end with singing and playing the Hallelujah Chorus. Chris Follett would like to get your feedback on the new look of the newsletter. What did you like? What do you miss? Any suggestions for improvements? Email her at chrisf2828@yahoo.com For more of what's going on at UBC this week, see the schedule below. Blessings and Peace, Doug Donley this week's schedule monday 6pm - Hymnal Task Force Zoom Link tuesday 5:30pm - Sacred Harp 7pm - Memoirs Group Zoom Link wednesday 6pm - UBC Chorale rehearsal 7:30pm - UBC Carillon bells rehearsal friday 11:15am - Every Meal at Marcy School saturday 9am - Bible Study Zoom Link Sunday 10am - Worship service 11:15am or so - Refreshments 11:45am - Bible Study, Forum 3pm - Bell Choir Concert Pledge Packet 2026 Discernment Report 2025 Annual Report 2025

Our mission at UBC is to be a loving and inclusive community seeking faith, joy and action nurtured by the biblical traditions, the teachings of Christ, and God's continuing revelation. We are part of progressive Baptist movements like The Alliance of Baptists. About US. Our mission at UBC is to be a loving and inclusive community seeking faith, joy and action nurtured by the biblical traditions, the teachings of Christ, and God's continuing revelation. We were founded in 1850 as the First Baptist Church of St. Anthony. We have changed our name three times, to Olivet Baptist Church in 1879, and finally to University Baptist Church in 1922. At UBC you will find: A progressive, open, theologically diverse and biblically-inspired environment that welcomes people from a variety of religious backgrounds. A commitment to racial and ethnic diversity and gender equality within our membership and leadership. A congregation that has many people from the University community: students, staff, professors, and alumni. A congregation interested in creativity and asking the hard questions of faith. A congregation where you don’t have to check your brain at the door. A congregation that is very interested in peace, justice, inclusion, and authentic and relevant religious expression. Our History 1850-1879 First Name Minnesota was still a territory when University Baptist Church (UBC) was formed in 1850. Originally called the First Baptist Church of St. Anthony, the church building was located at University and Second Avenues, a structure also used by other churches. In 1858 the timber from the first structure was deconstructed and moved to St. Paul, where an African American congregation had built a church. Before a new building was finished in 1870, services were held at Main Street and Fourth Avenue. Early baptisms were performed in the Mississippi River. After St. Anthony was annexed by Minneapolis, the church changed its name in 1879 to Olivet Baptist Church. 1921 - Present University Baptist Church In 1921 the present name, University Baptist Church, was adopted. Construction of the present church building was also begun in 1921. A dozen ministers served the congregation over the next 70 years, the longest terms served by G. C. Fetter, 1929-46, John Bone, 1947-59, and Lee Freeman, 1976-90. Through its 150 years the congregation has been characterized by progressive theology and a strong commitment to peace and justice issues. Early members were involved in the abolitionist movement and women's suffrage. The 1960s were marked by programs of social action and issues involvement. Pastor Kenneth Huyck marched in Selma, Alabama, for civil and voting rights. Like other inner city churches, UBC has been challenged to sustain membership and resources within changing times. For a brief period, UBC considered merging with other southeast churches to maximize resources and talents and developed ongoing relationships with other congregations. Dr. David Bartlett helped expand church outreach at the University of Minnesota and established other new programs. UBC efforts were directed toward ecumenical programs. In recent decades UBC has developed an outstanding music program. A new pipe organ was built, and the church published and still uses an inclusive language hymnal--among the first in the nation. The congregation starts the Lord's prayer, "Our Father, Mother." 1992-2000 First Lesbian Pastor Rev. Dr. Nadean Bishop, the first woman and open lesbian pastor, served the congregation between 1992-2000. During this time, several outreach programs to assist the needy were developed. In its justice ministry, UBC became vocal as a Welcoming and Affirming congregation. The building continues to serve the community as a site for several nonprofit organizations and has been benefited by recent extensive renovations, including handicap accessibility for the sanctuary and main floor. The Rev. Douglas M. Donley has been our Pastor since March of 2001. In its southeast Minneapolis location, UBC enjoys both the advantages of a diverse membership and opportunities to minister to its neighbors. 2001-present Rev. Doug Donley Rev. Dr. Nadean Bishop, the first woman and open lesbian pastor, served the congregation between 1992-2000. During this time, several outreach programs to assist the needy were developed. In its justice ministry, UBC became vocal as a Welcoming and Affirming congregation. The building continues to serve the community as a site for several nonprofit organizations and has been benefited by recent extensive renovations, including handicap accessibility for the sanctuary and main floor. The Rev. Douglas M. Donley has been our Pastor since March of 2001. In its southeast Minneapolis location, UBC enjoys both the advantages of a diverse membership and opportunities to minister to its neighbors. What's a Baptist? The American Baptist Churches in the USA (ABC/USA) is one of more than 30 distinct Baptist denominations in North America. Many of these Baptists trace their history to the Congregational Puritans and Separatists from the Church of England. The ABC/USA , like other Baptist denominations, is a voluntary association of autonomous local churches organized for the mutual encouragement and support of common missions and ministries. Thus, there are interdependent American Baptist churches but no American Baptist Church. We actually like Baptists. We are part of progressive Baptist movements like The Alliance of Baptists , The Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists , The Baptist Peace Fellowship of North America and American Baptist Churches of the Rochester/Genesee Region . University Baptist Church (UBC) is a unique autonomous church with distinctive characteristics and ministries serving God locally and globally in association with other American Baptist churches. OUR PASTORS 2001 - present: Doug Donley was chosen by the search committee to candidate for the pastorate at University Baptist Church. He and his wife, Kim, were flown to the Twin Cities the end of October, 2000. He preached in another Baptist church in the area with all the members of the search committee present. They were impressed and voted unanimously to present Doug to UBC as a person they were recommending to become our new pastor. On the first weekend in January the Donley family came to the Twin Cities for the candidating weekend. The UBC members voted unanimously to call Rev. Douglas Donley to be our 27th pastor. Doug preached his first sermon at UBC on March 18, 2001, and was installed on May 20. We are all pleased with our decision- Doug preaches thoughtful, stimulating sermons, cares and loves us all and is concerned about our spiritual growth. Thank you, Doug, for coming to UBC to be our inspiring, loving pastor. We love Kim, Amanda and Rebecca, too. 2000: Although Pastor Kay Welsch served only 10 months as an interim pastor, from February 2000 to January 2001, her duty was during an important period in UBC's history. Her outgoing personality helped as she worked with the various committees to celebrate UBC's 150th Anniversary, which featured numerous events throughout the year. She was also energetic in welcoming visitors, spearheading the acquisition of an exterior banner, implementing new name tags, suggesting new internal structures, and helping with the call of a new pastor. A United Church of Christ minister, Kay enjoyed working with a congregation of a different denomination and shared its good times and challenges alike. 1992: The search committee, working diligently from June, 1990 to Nov., 1991, jubilantly presented its choice of pastors, The Rev. Dr. Nadean Bishop , to the congregation November 3, 1991: She was enthusiastically received and voted in as our new pastor the following Sunday. She preached her first sermon to the congregation January 19, 1992, and was installed March 8th as our 26th pastor. Nadean left several positions to come to University Baptist. She had been senior pastor of the North Community Church in Ann Arbor, MI, and also a professor of English at Eastern Michigan University. She had over 20 years of experience teaching courses including the bible as Literature and Women’s Spirituality. Here at UBC she showed her preaching skills each Sunday morning when she inspired and challenged us with her timely sermons. One of Nadean’s great strengths was her compassion for all the members of her flock. She spent much time visiting sick and hurting people. We all appreciated her caring and loving spirit. Nadean’s support of people of all sexual orientations was shown by serving on the Executive Committee of the Association of Welcoming and Affirming Churches. UBC is proud to be part of this group. Nadean showed her creative leadership in forming groups to deepen spiritual connections. Examples are Grace in Contemporary Novels by Women, The Carter Group and Film and Theology. Her interest in justice issues was shown in her preaching and participating in The Baptist Peace Fellowship and outreach projects of our Board of Justice and Outreach. Nadean frequently participated in church-related conferences and meetings, speaking or leading workshops. 1991-92: Our talented interim pastor Jim Ketcham’s service to our church for 15 months ended in January 1992. As Don Follett wrote in his column in the Feb., 1992, newsletter: "Jim was a shorthand version of what corporate types would call an ideal combination of directive and ‘participatory’ types of management- in action both at once." His quiet skills prodded and encouraged us to develop leadership skills we didn’t know we had. He initiated the Children’s Time as part of the Sunday morning service. Our congregation rejoiced when Jim and his wife, Jan, decided to stay on with us – and what wonderful contributors they are! 1976-90: Lee Freeman began his 14 year ministry, the second longest in the history of the church, in 1976. His liberal theological views, expressed so thoughtfully in his sermons, were embraced by the congregation. he was the moving force behind the music program, engineering the purchasing of a new tracker organ, the hiring of Martha Pittenger as organist and choir director and the writing of a new hymnal using inclusive language. He was a skilled manager of our aging building and an enthusiastic supporter of the Renewal for the 90’s drive to make the church handicapped accessible and the sanctuary redecorated. He left the church the first of September with a heart-warming party given by the grateful church members who will long remember his many contributions to the church. 1973-75: David Bartlett came to the church from the Berkeley Baptist Seminary where he held a position as New Testament professor. His challenging "three point" sermons showed his creativity with words. he brought an ability to attract and utilize lay leaders and new members. Using funds from the Shepardson estate, the church hired Dennis Stull to be associate pastor to rebuild the student ministry. Mark Parsons was hired to supervise the international group of students in the Davis House (owned by the church), in the neighborhood. Dr. Bartlett left at the end of three years to become the pastor of the Hyde Park Baptist Church in Chicago and to teach in the Divinity Department of the Chicago University. Dennis Stull continued on as interim minister until a new pastor was called. 1971-72: Rev. Robert Phillips served as interim pastor for 12 months while the church explored the possibility of a merger with the community’s Methodist, Presbyterian and Congregational churches. Dr. Huntwork continued as interim leader from Oct. through Dec., 1972. 1963-71: Rev. J. Kenneth Huyck and his wife, Elnora, gave strong leadership to the congregation during a tumultuous time in American society. He was interested in social action, participated in the civil Rights march in Salem, Alabama, and arranged for a black minister from Virginia to exchange pulpits one Sunday. The music Training Program funded by Norman Mears was the concept of Ken Huyck. Free music lessons were given to young people. The Huycks moved to Iowa in 1971. 1960-63: Rev. Homer Shafer and his wife Jannette came from Kansas. They were great at sharing their hearts and home with University students, especially foreign students. Rev. Shafer secured funds for remodeling the student wing. Wes Anderson, the Student Associate, gave excellent leadership to the student group. Homer Shafer became Executive Director of the Oak Park-River Forest Council of Churches, Illinois. 1947-59: Rev. John S. Bone – an enthusiastic young man – helped to move the church into the post WWII period. The church celebrated its Centennial in 1950 as it struggled with its role in SE Minneapolis and the University community. In 1949 the church received help and leadership from Faye Jensen (now Faye Kommedahl) as the first Youth Intern. Rev. Bone preached excellent sermons, directed the choir and even substituted as organist when necessary. Since there was a large group of Baptist students at the University, more staff was needed: Marian Sorenson, in 1948, Betty Willlis in 1950; Esther Kennedy, 1952-54; Harriet Willingham (now Harriet Johnson), 1954-57; and Dean Knudson, 1957-60. Wes Anderson was the last one serving the students in the early sixties. The University Baptist Church Foundation was established in 1959 to receive money willed as memorials or donations to the church. Clayton Sorenson was the person who was the first leader of this endeavor which still continues successfully and is of great help to the church financially. Rev. Bone went to New York City to be the minister of the Madison Ave. Church. 1946: Dr. Warren Behan was the interim minister for one year. Financial help came from various denominational sources so the church could be rehabilitated – it was greatly in need of repairs. Mrs. Hoag, a loyal church member was hired at $40 a month to be the visitor to the University Village, veterans’ housing project. 1929-46: The longest pastorate in UBC history, 17 years, began when Rev. George Fetter came from Illinois. He was faced with almost insurmountable problems, mainly financial. The stock market crash, World Wars I and II and a congregation that wasn’t growing added up to much stress. The total mortgage was $55,000 but with contributions from the Board of Education, the Home Mission Society, The Minnesota Baptist Convention and The Twin City Baptist Union and the members of the church on the occasion of the 90th anniversary (1940), the mortgage was burned. With dedication and sacrifice, the congregation under Mr. Fetters inspired leadership pulled through these trying years. He left in 1946 to go to Lawrence, Kansas. 1924-29: Rev. Frank Jennings came and soon was swamped with the task of raising money to finish the tower (never accomplished!) and the auditorium. The church membership was 397. It must have been great satisfaction that he felt when the auditorium was finally finished and a great week of victory June 5-12, 1927, was celebrate 1919-23: A veritable human dynamo, Rev. Norman Henderson, became the pastor. He proposed that an associate membership be established – people who had not been immersed. He was absorbed in the building of the new church to be called University Baptist. He resigned in 1923 to go to California. 1918-19: Union with the First Congregational Church of SE Minneapolis was proposed but, Dr. Pope said "The State Convention would deprecate such a move" so, the matter was dropped. 1914-18: Dr. John Gow came as an interim pastor but, was asked to be the permanent pastor. The membership had joined together and the tension had eased. Edwin Dahlberg, a man who grew up in Olivet was ordained in September, 1914, and later became President of ABC/USA. 1912-14: Rev. C.E. Tingley came to a congregation grieving over losing their Rev. Wiltbank. so, he had an unhappy time and resigned after two years. 1906-12: Rev. Rutledge Wiltbank. The Minneapolis Journal said that Olivet Church is to be congratulated on its excellent choice of pastor. The church entered into its most prosperous years financially and numerically. an assistant pastor, Rev. Richardson, was hired for student work. the membership rose to 339 in 1909. The church greatly appreciated him and gave him a purse of $100 on his 3rd anniversary. The church tried to persuade him to stay but, he resigned in 1912 to go to Binghamton, N.Y. 1899-1906: Rev. F.H. Cooper and his wife were more than equal to the task of bringing harmony and peace to the church. A Mrs. Wilkins conducted a large class of University students – did so for 15 years. 1897-98: Rev. E.P. Smith – not a congenial year for him or the congregation. 1887-97: Next came Rev. W.P. McKee, but, he displeased some members of his congregation by not preaching "gospel sermons". so, he finally resigned and went to Chicago as principal of Shiner Academy. 1881-86: Rev. Marion Shutter. The church was thriving with a membership of 153 and a church school of 185 scholars and a new church building. But, in spite of successes, Rev. Shutter sent in a letter of resignation dated March 1, 1886. He stated that "I am no longer in sympathy with the Baptist denomination." He became the minister of the First Universalist Church of Minneapolis. 1876-80: Rev. Sewall Brown came and was to receive $1000 – if it could be raised. He stayed four years, so the congregation probably came through. 1873: Rev. Jarrell came and received the huge salary of $500 annually. 1870-73: Supply preachers filled the pulpit. Cabinet organ was bought for $112. The choir was made up of "good voices as to volume, but nothing more!" 1867: Rev. Drury, a former army chaplain, came to Minnesota for his health, but was persuaded to take the pastorate. The record says that, to him more than to anyone else, the Baptist Church of St. Anthony owes its very existence. A trip east to raise money produced $292.15. On January 23 a new church was dedicated, but he died 3 months later. 1861: Rev. Pease was there for only 9 months. He tacked a note on the church door saying he resigned. Who can blame him? There were only 6 members in the church. 1859: Rev. Hyde came and stayed two years. but, he was so distressed by having to have church in what he called "The Lord’s Barn" he left. 1852-58: There were no pastors in this period but, prominent lay people such as Mrs. Sarah Nash and Mrs. W.H. Lawrence kept things pulled together, but, were called "at times unduly officious." 1852: A Rev. Lyman Palmer of New York came to a miserable church building. It was on land owned by Franklin Steele. But, by 1854 things improved and there were 73 members. He resigned anyway. 1850: Rev. Brown was chosen pastor of the newly organized group of Baptists who called themselves The Baptist Church of St. Anthony. The job of being pastor, deacon and building committee proved to be too much for him so, in the fall of 1850 he returned East and became an Episcopalian Minister. ubc1920 building_current_sm building1850_sm ubc1920 1/8 OUR BUILDING Our present building includes a 250-seat sanctuary, a fine Dobson tracker pipe organ, a gym, and numerous offices and classrooms. Almost all rooms in the building are handicap accessible. 2003-2004: A successful Capital Campaign resulted in the addition of a 4-stop elevator which makes the building 90% handicap accessible, replaced windows and storms on most of the education portion of the building, extensive roof repairs, and electrical upgrades. 2001-2002: The heating system again was a problem. The boiler remained in good shape but the burner had to be replaced at a cost that made last years steam leak repair seem trivial. It is a more efficient system now. The fireplace chimneys have been critter-proofed and we can use the fireplaces. Projects in the works include replacing windows, repairing radiator valves and traps and enhancing the electrical system, and painting some interior spaces. A new sign has been put up on the lawn alerting passers-by to our church. 1999-2000: Some serious problems developed: steam leak in the wall in the downstairs bathroom. Fixing it meant removing the toilet and ripping out a long strip of the bathroom wall. Projects in the works include replacing windows, re-paving the driveway and parking lot, doing some interior painting and sealing off the chimneys. A new flagpole for banners has been installed and a new yard sign is up at the main entrance and one near the University Avenue entrance. The sign at the corner has been cleaned and painted. 1998-99: A contractor was invited to check out the needs of the building. He said "Fix it or lose it". A second opinion was needed. Windows need repairing ($36,800) and they were fixed, the heating system was renovated ($1800). Thank goodness for the Foundation money to come to our rescue. 1997: Gutters! Repair work on gutters and downspouts was completed but the west side needs major work, next year? Big expense items were replacing the air conditioner and snow blower and heating expenses went through the roof. Ancient boiler needs patches on its patches. 1996: The kitchen/office remodeling was completed thanks to Clyde Ciccarelli, Nadean Bishop, Dan Spencer and David Anderson - it was ready for all to use and enjoy. The congregation reluctantly put locks on the sanctuary doors. This because homeless people were sleeping under the portico and that was unsettling to us, fearing for the safety of our building and our tenants. 1994-95: The most visible achievements saw the completion of the library/lounge, including painting, new carpet and light fixtures. Ken Amelsberg handled the window painting and repair, painting the exterior doors, other wood trim and painting the ailing sign on the corner. The parlor was made more inviting by a new carpet. Much to the delight of the children, the playground was rejuvenated. 1991-94: Renewal for the 90’s, the renovation project of the physical plant of UBC, has largely been completed. The dedication was held June 10, 1991. The congregation, led by people in wheelchairs, processed up the new outside ramp into the sanctuary for a joyous service. Further improvements that have been made are: more energy-efficient exterior lighting, new hot water heaters in the toilets, removal of asbestos from the boiler, interior handrails, new equipment for the nursery and renovation of the custodian’s apartment. Works in the planning stages include renovating the lounge kitchen and secretary’s office and repairing the window. Other improvements made possible by anonymous gifts totaling $30,000 are: redecorating and re-furnishing the Mary Shepardson lounge, updating the secretary’s office with a new computer and photocopier, and for the sanctuary: new sound amplification and recording systems, a beautiful set of handbells, new pew Bibles and wall banners and table runner. Income generated from renting space helps to keep this 67-year old building in good condition. Renters include Second Foundation School in the fellowship hall, the Institute for Education and Advocacy in various rooms, Northcountry Cooperative Development Fund on the third floor, and for a short period the sanctuary to Counterpoint Productions for producing a musical, "When Children Sing." 1989-90: Renewal for the 90’s is the theme that was adopted in ’89 to include long range planning projects started by the Dream Task Force a few years ago. The architect’s plans were completed for handicap accessibility for the exterior and interior of the church. The sanctuary was remodeled with an improved appearance of the front of the church, new flooring and refinished pews (work optimistically to be done by volunteer labor). The outside concrete ramps and railings are all in place. New sod has been laid on the area near the ramps. The new steps leading up to the front door are a great improvement. 1980: The organ had continual problems mainly because the pipes were too close and a cold outside wall. Repairs were deemed to be too expensive and useless. So, a decision was reached to commission a new organ. Lynn Dobson was chosen as the builder. On October 11, 1981, it was dedicated with a concert by Martha Pittenger, our organist from 1976-1991. A series of dedicatory concerts followed into 1982. This tracker organ has proved a valuable asset to the church’s music program. 1975: The roof, always a problem, had major repair work done: the outside of the building was tuckpointed and the outside of the 251 windows painted, all to the tune of $26,000. 1966: At 1:30 am on the morning of January 13 a passerby saw smoke pouring out of the windows of the student lounge. The fire department quickly responded to his call and prevented the entire building from going up in flames. The damage was estimated at $60,000. Much of the building had to be repainted, including the sanctuary, as well as repair work to the student lounge area. The front of the sanctuary platform was rebuilt, carpeting was installed on it and in the aisles. The organ console was moved from the front choir loft to the main floor. Tuckpointing was done. 1961: Funds were provided by the Christian Higher Education Campaign for remodeling the student wing. The library, lounge and small kitchen were renovated. 1929: The sanctuary was the last section to be built. It was named the Pope Memorial Auditorium in honor of Dr. E.R. Pope, the Executive Secretary of the Baptist State Convention for 18 years. He was the driving force behind the building of the new church. It was dedicated June 5-12, 1927, with a series of celebrations including concerts on the organ built by the Reuter Organ Co., of Lawrence, Kansas. On April 20, 1929, the Board of Education of the Northern Baptist Convention got the deed – and still holds it. 1921: Olivet purchased a lot on the corner of 13th Ave. and University, the present location. November 6, 1920, a processional from Olivet preceded the laying of the cornerstone. They sang "Onward Christian Soldiers" as they marched down 13th Ave. Olivet was purchased by Perine’s Bookstore. The education wing was built first. The church’s name was changed to University Baptist, reflecting its relationship to University students. 1915: Because the church was committed to a ministry to the University students, a committee was appointed to study the possibility of building a new facility. The student ministry demanded larger and better facilities and also the Sunday School program was hampered by lack of adequate space. In 1918 the Home Mission Society conducted a financial campaign among Olivet members. Far more money in pledges was raised than was expected. 1881-85: A lot was purchased on the corner of 5th St. and 9th Ave. and a new church built there. This property was valued at $17,500. The debt was large and the church larger than needed. So, since the Methodists needed a larger church, a swap was made. Olivet moved to the Methodist Church on the corner of 13 Ave. and 4th St. The Methodists took over Olivet and its debt of $12,500 – everyone was satisfied. 1879: A meeting was called to discuss the subject of a new name for the church. St. Anthony Falls had been incorporated with Minneapolis; hence the Baptist church on the west side of the river was really the First Baptist Church of Minneapolis, although it had not been founded until after the church of St. Anthony. After a lengthy discussion centering around the names Alpha, Calvary and Olivet, the latter was selected. So, the first 30 years as the First Baptist Church of St. Anthony came to a close. 1873: The meeting house was moved to 5th St. and 4th Ave., a more central location. A baptistry was put in so that the river or a dammed up ravine didn’t have to be used anymore. Oyster suppers put on by the women helped raise the funds for this moving project. The property was valued at $5,000. 1867-70: Prof. Asa Drury, a chaplain in the Civil War, came as pastor. He threw himself into getting a new church built. He went on a fund raising trip to the East and collected $292.15 from churches in Chicago, Kentucky and Ohio. His expenses were $61.55. People locally worked to raise the amount to $300. So, a new church was built on the same site and dedicated January 23, 1870. But the records state that the great triumph was short-lived because Pastor Drury died in March and his funeral was the first service held in the new church. 1859: Pastors coming to this poor church stayed only for a short time. A Rev. Hyde, coming in May 1859, called it the "Lord’s Barn"! So, in 1860 th church rented a hall over a dry goods store on Main Street near 4th Ave. The old church was sold to a black congregation (probably Pilgrim Church) and moved to St. Paul. 1852: A chapel was built at the corner of 2nd St. and 4th Ave. Besides having no title to the land on which it stood, it had no floor and no plastered walls. Things did improve: a deed was secured for the lot on which the church stood, a floor was laid, a chimney erected, a stove bought and plaster was put on the walls. However, the church was primarily held together by a small group of lay people. Baptisms were held in the Mississippi river. 1850-52: After the church known as The Baptist Church of St. Anthony was organized in 1850, services were held in a schoolhouse on University Ave. between 2nd and 3rd Avenues.