Business Manager’s Report - February 2023

Business Manager’s Report, February 2023

As Winter invades the lives of the employees at Bogard Press and Baptist Bookstore, along with it comes times of colds, covid and sometimes bad weather conditions. However, the work goes on and I am thankful for the dedication of a great group of employees.

            The finances for the ministry for the 2022-year reveal that it was somewhat of a difficult time with an overall loss. Much of the reason is the rising inflationary cost of raw materials on most every item needed to operate. For example, a signature sheet of paper rose in cost from .05 cents to .09 cents, which affects the cost of most everything we print. Other costs, such as repairs and parts to maintain machinery, also have risen. Like the price of eggs these days, the prices on just about everything is up. We can complain, but it does not change the cost.

            As the facilities age, there are building and ground needs. The present building was built in the early 1970s and as it ages, the cost of maintenance increases. We presently are waiting on parking lot repairs which was planned a couple months ago, but the rainy weather has hindered this work. We also are working toward the purchase of a storage building in which to store lawn equipment. The Bible Room continues to be a focus of expansion, and presently, we are focusing on building bookshelves for the room.

            I have and plan to enjoy visiting among the brethren. I visited with the Missionary Baptist Seminary in Little Rock in January, and plan to be back there latter in February. In March I plan to enjoy visiting with the Texas Baptist Institute and Central Baptist Bible Institute for a time of Lectures. In April, I look forward to visiting with the brethren at Concord Baptist Seminary in Oklahoma, the California State meeting in Arroyo Grande, and the Louisiana Missionary Baptist Seminary in Minden, Louisiana. The meeting of the Baptist Sunday School Committee, a great time of fellowship and sharing, also will come in April. God has blessed me with many wonderful opportunities to fellowship with brothers and sisters in the Lord. If you are in Texarkana, come visit.

Business Manager                                                                                                                                   

 J. Crain