Events Update

SENTon Fri, May 29, 2020 at 2:06 pm CDT
 
Dear UBC Family,
 
We have had quite an interesting Spring, and the summer of 2020 will be like none other! Many events have been cancelled, and those that have not will look A LOT different. But as a church, we know that one thing never changes, the steadfast love of the Lord.
 
On Sunday, June 14th, we will be honoring graduates. This will be a special service to recognize their achievements. If you know of a graduating senior of High School, College or Trade School that would like to participate, please contact Jim Williams at jwilliams@ubcsa.org.
 
As we look at the coming months, we want to keep you all updated on events. We continue to meet at the church building for Worship Service only, and will continue to livestream on our YouTube channel. Please join us in praying for wisdom about resuming other activities.
 
Thank you for your support and flexibility. Please continue to pray for the church, for the Pastoral search committee, for our government officials, and for us, the staff of UBC, as we make decisions and minister to the body.
 
With God as our Strength,
 
The UBC Staff

 
University Baptist Church |210-699-1065
 
 
 

 
 

Important Information about Sunday Gathering

SENTon Wed, May 6, 2020 at 4:29 pm CDT

 
Dear UBC Family,
 
“Come, let us sing for joy to the Lord; let us shout aloud to the Rock of our salvation.” Psalm 95:1
 
This Sunday, we will gather in the house of the Lord to sing for joy and worship.
 
We will continue to Live-Stream the service on our YouTube channel. We request that if you have experienced any symptoms of COVID-19 or are considered at-risk, please continue to worship from home.
 
There will be NO other ON-CAMPUS church activities or events scheduled until further notice. Sunday School classes and other meetings should continue to meet virtually. 
 
As previously mentioned, our gathering will not look as it did prior to the current health crisis. We will comply with the recommendations put forth by state officials. This Sunday, as we come together, please make note of the following:
 
  • Please use the North entrance to enter the UBC Worship Center. Doors will open at 10:30am. We ask that you stay in your vehicle until that time. 
 
  • Please move quickly to find a seat in the Worship Center. The service will begin promptly at 10:45. When entering, you will find that EVERY OTHER ROW has been roped off. Households may sit together, but there must be two seats between those from other households.
 
  • We will provide seating in the Lobby, only for those who are vulnerable and who desire to watch the Live-Stream.
 
  • Please do not cross barriers around the sound booth and technical areas.
 
  • Please sit in designated areas only. We ask that you do not walk in front of the cameras since we will be Live-Streaming.
 
  • While waiting for the Worship Service to begin, please pay attention to the Guidelines and Health Protocol instructions that will be displayed on the big screens. Please listen for other important information that will be coming from the stage.
 
  • At the end of the service, listen for instructions on how we will be dismissing. Please move quickly to exit the building. Do not linger in the lobby. Wait to “visit” outside as others will still be exiting the Worship Center. UBC will be disinfecting the building after it is empty.
 
  • Practice Social-Distancing. Keep a six-foot distance. 
 
  • Please, no handshaking or hugging. 
 
  • Masks are recommended.
 
  • Hand-sanitizer will be available. 
 
  • There will be NO childcare at this time.
 
UBC is doing everything possible to ensure that you are kept safe during your attendance. Although we are required to follow these guidelines and protocol, our purpose is to keep our focus – and that is to WORSHIP OUR RISEN LORD AND SAVIOR! 
  
With God as our Strength,
 
The UBC Staff
 
 
 
 

Corona Update 8 – Gathering

SENTon Fri, May 1, 2020 at 10:55 am CDT
 
 
 
Corona Update 8- Gathering
 
Dear UBC Family,
 
Are we content? In Philippians 4, Paul writes how he has found contentment, knowing what it is to have plenty and to be in need. He tells us his secret to contentment in any and every situation, whether we gather or remain in quarantine, “I can do all this through Him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:13
 
We will resume physically gathering for Sunday morning worship on May 10th at our regular scheduled service time, 10:45 am; We strongly encourage anyone who is in an at-risk population to join us from home virtually on our YouTube channel as we will continue to livestream. This will be a family inclusive service, honoring our Mother’s in a unique way. Parents are asked to keep their children with them, as childcare will not be provided.
 
We will follow the protocols of the governor to include leaving two seats between households attending together and alternate rows will be restricted from use. Per city guidelines, we are asking all attendees to wear masks and maintain 6 feet spacing. Signage in the building will inform you of any updates. Between meeting times we will be thoroughly disinfecting regularly touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, chairs, and restrooms.
 
Wednesday Bible Study will continue to be offered on the YouTube channel led by Interim Pastor Dr. Rudy Gonzalez. Sunday school classes and small groups are still meeting virtually. If you would like to join a group, please contact the church office. Check with your leader, meeting times may change to accommodate travel time to attend Worship.
 
Our prayer is that you, like Paul, have found contentment in your recent circumstance. Knowing we go through seasons of plenty and want, busy and idle, joy and sorrow. No matter our situation today, or the near future; if gathering or staying home, worshiping virtually, we can do all these things through Him who gives us strength.
 
With God as Our Strength,
 
The UBC Staff
 
 
 
 
 

COVID 19 Update 7 – Events and Pastoral Search Committee

SENTon Thu, Apr 23, 2020 at 12:46 pm CDT
 
Dear UBC Family,
 
We prayerfully await the day that we can resume gathering together. Until that day we will continue to livestream our Sunday service and provide mid-week Bible Study with Interim Pastor, Dr. Rudy Gonzalez on YouTube. We will continue to communicate with the body through email, push notifications, phone calls and cards.
 
Know that we miss our times together. We are taking every precaution and following all mandates given us by government officials. We still don’t know what gathering will be like when we resume. It will probably be gradual and will look differently. As for now, these are the future events that have been cancelled, rescheduled, or are tentatively still planned for the upcoming months.
 
 
All weekly gatherings on campus continue to be suspended for the immediate future.
 
WEE School and ALL Associated Events have been cancelled for the remainder of the
School Year.
 
Throughout this time our Pastor Search Committee continues to meet, here is an update from Committee Chair, Frank Corte, Jr.
 
“We are still at work, even during these COVID-19 conditions. While some of the social distancing and other restrictions have caused us to modify our process a little, we are still seeking the man who the Lord is directing to UBC. Prior to the stay home and work safe restrictions the committee had narrowed the applicants to a handful. We have continued to communicate with these remaining applicants for additional information to assist our search. We hope that very soon we will be able to finish this part of the committee work and narrow it down to one candidate to be pursued uniquely and recommended to the UBC body of believers for review and approval. We ask for your prayers that the Holy Spirit lead us through this process to the final applicant.”
 
God is in control and we rely on His Sovereignty. He will provide when we will be able to gather together again. He will provide the man to lead our church. We will trust His timing.
 
With God as our Strength,
 
The UBC Staff
 
 

Covid-19 Discipleship

SENT on Fri, Apr 17, 2020 at 9:53 am CDT
 
COVID-19 Update 6
 
 
 
Dear UBC Family,
 
We look forward to a time when we can resume gathering together. As Christians, anticipation is a lifestyle. We wait on answered prayers, and we long for the return of Christ. The Psalmist tells us in Psalm 27:14 “Wait on the Lord; Be of good courage, And He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the Lord!”
 
As we continue to Minister to each other in different and creative ways here are a few reminders from Jim Williams, Minister of Education and Students:
 
  • Keep in contact with your Sunday school class/Church members through text, phone calls, emails, anyway you can.
 
  • Zoom meetings are being used for Sunday School lessons online and prayer meetings, anyone can be a part for free. For information how you can join, contact your SS Teacher, Department Director or the church office.
 
  • Sunday school books are available in the church office or we can sign people up for digital material just contact jwilliams@ubcsa.org
 
  • We have toilet paper available in the church office for people who need it. You can come by and pick some up if needed. (never thought I would be putting that in an email)
 
  • If you know of a church member who has a need please email needhelp@ubcsa.org and we will do our best to assist that person.
 
  • If you can assist someone in need (shopping, small repairs, mowing) please email givehelp@ubcsa.org and we will try to connect you with people in need.
 
 
  • The church app is also available for information, you can download the app at the apple store or google play.
 
 
  • If you would like to receive the church’s Prayer Journal, please send a request to prayer@ubcsa.org to be added to the distribution list.
 
  • We have been sending out emails (Like this one) to keep everyone informed, if you know of someone who has not received the emails, please send us their current email address so we can add them to the email list.
 
Please know we are praying for you and let us know if we can minister to you or someone you know.
 
As we continue to lift each other up, Bill Cleary has requested prayer, “Hi, I am essential personnel. Pray for protection as I’m flying around the country.” And for Tony Ramos whose job is also considered essential.
 
We are encouraged by the Psalmist as he begins Psalm 27 verse 1, “The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?” As we wait, let us not fear. All of Psalm 27 is worth the read, let it inspire your faith today.
 
With God as our Strength,
The UBC Staff
 
 
 
 
 
 

Corona Update 5 Worship and Prayer

SENTon Wed, Apr 8, 2020 at 4:27 pm CDT
 
Dear UBC Family,
 
Is this really “normal”? It can be when Ephesians 3:20 is considered. Paul writes, “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” With Christ the normal exceeds and goes beyond what we need or perceive. Let us claim that as we move forward through these challenging times.
 
Here are some thoughts on Worship from our Associate Pastor of Worship, Terry Samplaski –
 
Last Saturday, I took my Mom to the local grocery store so that she could pick up her prescription. As we drove up, she told me that she didn’t want to go in. At 87, she is vulnerable to this virus, but then … aren’t we all? Nevertheless, I shared with her that we were going to go through the drive-thru. With a quick reply, she said, “I didn’t know there was a drive-thru here!”
 
That comment caused me to think as we waited for our order: “We certainly take things for granted.” In fact, I went a step further in my thought process … “We take for granted that what we take for granted!” Right there with my Mom, we began to praise Jesus!
 
We easily take for granted LIFE. We can easily go through the motions of “church” (oops, I didn’t mean to say that); and even develop our own “Christianese” language. We take it for granted, but our words mean something. Take for instance: God’s Sovereignty. We know that He is, and it easily becomes part of our language, but when was the last time you gave Him thanks for a cotton seed that was planted, which eventually gave you material for your clothing. How about a silk worm? I can’t even image what it takes to make a car run! I just know to fill my car up with gas and GO! Yet, He made it all!
 
Also, I have heard it said many times in Worship conferences: “We sing to an Audience of One.” That is so true; but it has really come into perspective when you look out to an empty congregation and gaze into a camera on Sunday morning.
 
During these days of adjustment to a “normal” routine, it has been refreshing to put life back into perspective. As you are a part of the “stay home order” … stop and take the time to let our Father speak to You. There is no doubt, I believe that God is getting a hold of our attention right now … and what an incredible time just before Easter! Hey, you might find yourself like me, going through the simpleness of a drive-thru and breaking out in praise!
 
Last week we asked for those who were considered “essential personnel” to let us know how we can pray for you. In addition to those who you know of personally that are working on the front lines of this crisis, these members have requested prayer: Silvia Martinez, who works at BAMC is requesting prayer as she enters a two week rotation. For protection for her and her son who lives with her, due to the risk of transmission if the virus if brought home. Evelyn Kim, works at University Hospital, her job is considered essential and she continues to work regular hours. Rich and Sandy Young requested prayer for their niece, Brittany Teter who works as an RN in a hospital in Ohio.
 
If you would like prayer or would like to request prayer for someone please email coronaprayer@ubcsa.org. People needing prayer may include essential personnel or the many who are struggling physically, financially or otherwise.
 
With God as Our Strength,
The UBC Staff
 
 

COVID-19 Update 4 Prayer and Administration

SENTon Fri, Apr 3, 2020 at 9:01 am CDT
 
Dear UBC Family,
 
While we remain distanced, our hearts remain bound by our love for Christ. We continue to discover in worship. We continue to connect through encouragement. We continue to serve in prayer.
 
We want to pray for you and for your loved ones. We are putting a list together of those who are on the front lines and those working in “essential” jobs. Please email coronaprayer@ubcsa.org with names of those we can pray for. These names will only be published to church members, but please have permission from individuals before sending us their name.
 
This article gives a great list of people we can pray for:
 
Add to your prayer list our church as we navigate these unprecedented times. Here is an update from our Director of Church Administration and Finance, Frank Corte, Jr. –
 
“We are greatly blessed at University Baptist Church, in many ways. The Lord has provided us with so many resources to do His work, even in this unprecedented situation with COVID-19. While we are conforming to the social distancing requirements and unable to worship or congregate as we are used to, the Lord has demonstrated his faithfulness that His Word and provisions are powerful; and as long as we trust upon Him, He will provide for us.
 
UBC has been blessed with cheerful givers through our existence, and that is due to the trust and obedience the Body of Believers have demonstrated every day and every month. I believe that will be the same as we go forward. I do ask for your prayers for each member of this church and how they are being affected during this pandemic; for their health and also the economic impact. I also beseech your prayers that we continue to obey Him and be faithful to do His Work. I encourage you to continue to honor God in our worship of Him by being faithful with your giving no matter what that amount may be. God has blessed us with ways of giving our tithes and offerings other than passing a plate in a corporate worship service, such as, on-line giving, banking services, and regular mail. 
 
Due to the current social distancing and meeting requirements given by our governmental leaders we will not have our regular business meeting that was scheduled for April 15th. I don’t see this to be a problem. Regular business meetings are a requirement of our By-Laws required by the State of Texas as a non-profit organization. However, we are also being restricted not to meet by the State of Texas to prevent the spread of COVID-19. We will wait until this is over and convene our business meeting so we can conduct the required order of business. However, if you have any questions to the functioning, finances, or operations of the church you can contact me at fcorte@ubcsa.org or call me at 210-325-6898. Thank you for your faithfulness and obedience to our Lord.”
 
Indeed, God is Faithful. Let us join with the Psalmist and claim, “Your faithfulness continues through all generations, You established the earth, and it endures” Psalm 119:90. Even in these times of unknown, we serve a God who knows all.
 
With God as our Strength,
 
The UBC Staff
 
 

COVID-19 Update 3

SENTon Wed, Mar 25, 2020 at 11:30 am CDT
 
Dear UBC Family,
              
As we continue to navigate these unprecedented times, we do so knowing the God of all creation remains in control of all things.
              
We had a wonderful time of worship Sunday morning gathered as the Church, each in our own environments. We were ushered into His presence with praise, given the opportunity to worship with tithes and offerings, and heard an encouraging word from our Interim Pastor, Dr. Rudy Gonzalez. There is a recording on the YouTube channel that you can view if you were unable to watch live Sunday morning. You can access it here https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_xHBDczINNfVggxQ7yav0A. There will also be a Bible Study posted Wednesday evening to engage in the Word midweek.
              
We have heard from many of you asking if there are members of our community that need help, and how you can serve. We would love to connect those who are available to those who need assistance.
             
 If you can help, here are some things you can do.
     
  • Send an email to givehelp@ubcsa.org. Include information such as your name, best phone # to reach you and how you can assist.
   
  • You can contribute to the benevolence fund administered by the Deacons of UBC. When you give designate “Benevolence” on the app (to download app text “ubcsa app” to 77977), through the website (ubcsa.org) or mail a check to the church office.
  
  • Make phone calls, as God lays someone on your heart, reach out and let others know you are thinking of them; offer encouragement.
 
If you need help, here are some things you can do.
      
  • Send an email to needhelp@ubcsa.org let us know what the need is, please be as specific as possible. For the management of these specific requests please refrain from calling the church office and direct all requests to the above email.
 
  • All needs will be considered with the understanding that there are some limits to the availability of resources.
 
If you need prayer, please email coronaprayer@ubcsa.org. This dedicated email address is for specific requests with regard to the situation our community is experiencing through this crisis. We’d also love to hear how God has come through for you and your family. Share praises, too!
 
The church office will remain open for immediate needs with limited staffing. Our desire is to maintain consistency in our service to the body of Christ that meets here at UBC.
 
While we may be distanced physically, let us remember the first church when they were scattered. James starts his letter, telling them to “Consider it a great joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you experience various trials, because you know that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its full effect, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.” We are experiencing various trials, our faith is being tested, but we are promised endurance and lack of nothing. Let’s work together to that end.
 
With God as our Strength,
The UBC Staff
 
 
COVID-19 update 2

SENTon Fri, Mar 20, 2020 at 3:00 pm CDT

 
 
Dear UBC Family,
              
In every effort to remain faithful to our call to minister to the church, we are cancelling all on campus gatherings. These cancellations will go through April 3rd, at this time.
              
UBC will bring Livestream and video opportunities to you.
 
  • This Sunday, at 10:45 am, we will Livestream our worship service. Follow this link if you would like to tune in: LIVESTREAM HERE!
 
 
  • Wednesday Bible Study led by Dr. Rudy Gonzalez will also be broadcast on the YouTube channel.
 
Please check the website for ongoing updates. We encourage you to download the app by texting “ubcsa app” to 77977.
 
This interruption to our lives will not distract us from our call. We are available to serve you. The office is open, the staff is here to meet your needs.
 
With God as our Strength,
The UBC Staff
 
 

Covid email 1

March 17, 2020
 
Dear UBC Family,
 
God has called us to be the church – especially in these unknown times. Jesus, in the Sermon on the Mount, directs us to be salt and light. We will not waver from that call, even now. We will take every precaution to follow the guidelines outlined by our city and state officials. This will include limiting all gatherings of more than 50 members, the cancellation of all services to children and preschoolers, and encouraging all members who are in a “at risk” population to refrain from attending any gathering, until further notice.
 
What does this look like?
 
Our goal is to have the Sunday morning sermon from Interim Pastor Dr. Rudy Gonzalez livestreamed. We will be live streaming on the University Baptist Church of San Antonio YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_xHBDczINNfVggxQ7yav0A. The livestream will be Sunday at our regular worship time, 10:45 am, but the sermon can be viewed anytime throughout the week. Also, check in for video updates from staff and other content, as available.
 
We want to support our congregation and provide opportunities for all to stay connected in the Word. Sunday School literature is available in the office for pick up and can be made available digitally if desired. Please email Jim Williams at jwilliams@ubcsa.org to request the digital version.
 
Acknowledging that the giving of tithes and offerings is an act of worship, as we go through this modified schedule we would encourage giving one of the following ways: mail your contribution by check, follow the link: https://pushpay.com/g/ubcsasanantonio?src=hpp, or you can give through the app.
 
As announced Sunday, regular church-wide meetings are cancelled for this week, March 15-21. Some small gatherings will still meet. Contact your leader if you have any questions. The modified schedule beginning March 22 is as follows:
 
March 22
  • 8:30 am Prayer service- Cancelled
  • 9:30 am Sunday School- Cancelled
  • 10:45 am Worship Service- Cancelled (Livestream if possible)
  • 6:00 pm University Discipleship for Youth and Adults will meet
March 24
  • 6:00 am Men’s Prayer will meet
March 25
  • 10:30 am Senior Adult Choir- Cancelled
  • 6:30 pm Youth 180 will meet
  • Pastor’s Bible Study in Lobby will meet
  • Team Kid, Cubbies, Childcare- Cancelled
March 28
  • SBTC State VBS Conference- Cancelled
 
As we have seen, events develop and change rapidly. We will adapt and do our best to keep members updated. Please download the app on your smart phone as this is the most efficient method of communication: Text “ubcsa app” to 77977 on your cell phone. Check the website for posted updates www.ubcsa.org and additional information. We will be sending regular emails. If you are not receiving them, please contact the church office to insure that there is a current email address for you in our database.
 
Our God is our comforter and our protector; He is sovereign. None of the current events have even slightly taken Him by surprise. He remains on His throne. Let us pray for our neighbors and use each opportunity we are given to season our world with God’s love and demonstrate the light of the world, Jesus.
 
With God as our Strength,
The UBC Staff