Shoulders

BUILDING THE KINGDOM OF GOD 

God Speed Board of Directors

The board of directors are the shoulders upon whose shoulders has been laid the mantel of direction, guidance and accountability.  They are Gary & Renee Bingham, Steve & Brenda Corker.

Thanks to former Board of Director Members

Steve & Maryann Earwood

Rev. Ron & Ruthie Lytle

2008 Board of Directors Meeting

Due to circumstances, we have not been able to hold a Board of Directors meeting this year.  Since there are several things on the agenda that need to be addressed, I have decided to do this by email.  I will take your feedback either by email or by phone.  I would like to have your input into the following matters by Friday, Jan. 30th.

1.  Credit Cards for individual chaplains

As Lisa and I began trying to finalize year end reports, Lisa discovered what I have been dealing with in trying to make sense of offerings, deposits, expenses and reports from the chaplains.  They are supposed to have their reports in within 10 days.  But sometimes things happen and it is hard to do, especially if you are doing 2 or 3 events back to back.

      The thought occurred to me that it would alleviate many book keeping issues if the chaplains had credit cards to pay for their expenses.  (Lisa had one when she worked for TPI to pay all of her traveling expenses.)  I had Lisa do some research on it.  Give me your opinion about the best card from the info below.

    At the round table discussion, I mentioned the possibility of credit cards to the chaplains.  Their response stunned me because it made me realize what a burden they carry in trying to cover multiple events back to back.  Some of them had tears in their eyes as I discussed this.  Not only would it make our jobs easier in the office, but it would remove a huge financial burden from them that I was unaware of as President.  Therefore I really don't see this as an option anymore, just a decision as to which card would best serve our needs. 

    By paying for the traveling expenses on a company credit card, God Speed will now earn valuable points on expenses we pay anyway.

    Here is the info.

Here's some info I've found on credit card rewards:

Chase Travel Plus VISA: 2 miles earned on every $1 travel purchase. 1 mile earned per every $1 on non-travel purchase.  No annual fee.

Chase Freedom Credit Card:  (this one has good rewards for gas I think)

• 3% Bonus cash back on gas, groceries and fast food purchases for the first six months*

• 1% Unlimited cash back on everything else. No cap. No expiration.*

• 0% Intro APR* on purchases for up to 12 months.*

• No annual fee

• Earn up to an additional 10% cash back at hundreds of merchants when you shop online with Chase Rewards Plus ^SM

http://www.capitalone.com/creditcards/products/miles/?external_id=WWW_Z11LO_Z05_ONL-SE_ZZZGO_ZZ_ZZ_T_SEM2  This link shows a comparison of Capital One Travel Rewards Cards

http://www.creditcards.com/travel-rewards.php  This site is cool and compares all of the "top" travel rewards cards

I know a lot of businesses use American Express but the drawback there is that you really can't use that in Canada.  I don't know much about Discover cards.  Another thing to look at is the bank behind the card.  I'm not sure where Bank of America stands right now.  The Blue Sky Rewards from American Express as the least restrictions I think, but, again, you can't use that in Canada.  So I'm thinking the top two from that credit card comparison site might be best. 

Just some thoughts...

Lisa

Sounds good to me.  Check with Citibank (5%) cash or rewards was what I was just told by a Pastor in the new business.

2.  Hiring a Development Director

    Since August of 2008, God has impressed upon me the need to be intentional in growing our racers more in the image of Christ in conduct, thoughts and characteristics.  One area that I felt least comfortable in addressing is generosity.  God has been teaching me many things in this area.  One thing is that there are many, many people who are very generous and also godly stewards of the resources God has entrusted to them.  I have met some of them and it was a sheer joy to hear of their mission to fund the Kingdom of God.  I want that joy to be made available to the people we minister to through correct knowledge.  And we will begin addressing that through teachings.

    The second thing I learned is that many of these joyful givers know they have a sacred trust for their financial blessings and don't want to misappropriate God's finances.  They seek godly people to help them connect to fruitful ministries who are doing God's work.  I met people whose ministry is to serve these individuals by helping them partner with ministries who meet their God-given assignment.  They are development directors.

    God has brought several of these individuals across my path since September.  One has a heart for God Speed Ministry.  In a meeting with her, she showed me and Lisa some of the massive amounts of money available just by submitting a written request.  She did this to enable us do more for God.  It was an eye opening meeting into a whole other world.

    Lisa and I have discussed this over and over because of the by-law that states that God Speed Ministry cannot do any fundraisers.  She does do fundraising for people but she also understood where we are coming from and agreed to abide by our guidelines and do no solicitation on our behalf.  While she shared with us what it is she does, it would be a very time consuming job for either of us as well as a learning curve.  This is her ministry.  She has offered her services to God Speed Ministry for $200 per month and a $500 retainers fee.

   Just as a price comparison from some of the others we have met:  one company charges a $5000.00 retainer fee and $20,000.00 per month; one waived the retainer fee if hired by Jan. 31 and had a $2,000.00 monthly fee.

    I am asking you to pray about this.  God has given me a vision of what He wants for this ministry.  It will mean that we get out of our comfort zone and walk by faith in order to accomplish it.  I certainly know that He is calling me out of the boat and onto the water.

Will Pray about this but sounds like it will be good.

3.  Ministry Trailers

     When I asked God what the next step is for God Speed Ministry, I was completely unprepared.  I believe that it is God's desire to have ministry trailers for the divisional chaplains.  The reasons are:

     a.  God has always had a presence among His people:  the pillar of cloud by day and fire by night, the Ark of the Covenant, the Tabernacle, the Temple in Jerusalem.  People need to see God among them.  People need to be able to locate the ministry as easily as possible.  I realized this even more as I walked around the NHRA National event in Charlotte for 2 days and never saw an RFC chaplain or could find a location for them.  They had over 12 people there!  We just never was able to connect with them until the service Sunday morning.  Then we never saw them again.  This just drove home what God had already shown me.  It took getting me out of my usual surroundings (IHRA) in order to be able to recognize the need.

    b.  Being a spectator at the NHRA event made me realize how hard it is to be a spectator at an event.  I will no longer take the comforts of our pit area for granted.  The ministry trailers will also be used as a mini-hospitality area for those who need a rest:  mothers with small children, elderly, etc.  This will simply be a few chairs outside under the awning with water and maybe a pack of snack crackers or chips.  God wants us to invite people in to witness His love for them.

   c.  The ministry trailer would have a room in the front of the trailer for the chaplains and a room in the back for ministry and hauling their pit vehicle with a bathroom between the 2 rooms accessible from both rooms.  The room in the back would have a slide out, a table, some stacking chairs, literature racks (Bibles, newsletters, decals, etc.) and cabinets for storage for the PA and other equipment.  This room could be used for prayer, counseling/listening, meetings and possibly children's church.  The lounge area would allow the chaplains to be able to get in out of the heat or cold, have a place to stay at the track and take care of their physical needs.  (I realize now what a great sacrifice these men and women have shouldered in order to fulfill God's call on their lives and serve in God Speed Ministry.  It is hard to be at a track with no where to rest or retreat from the noise and fast pace.

   d.  The trailers would also be equipped with a tv encased in weather proof plexiglass that would swing out so people walking by could watch the videos of people telling their 'God Story.'  We will begin to collect DVD's of people who have their testimony recorded through their local church, etc. as well as filming interviews with Christian drivers and crew.  The continuous playing of these 'God Stories' will add another element of witness to what we are already doing.  It will be specifically intented to reach the younger generation - teen to 25- which seem 'too cool' to be involved with church.  Having recorded testimonies of some of their peers and heroes will be a great testimony that is non-threatening and non-preachy.

 As you can see, having ministry trailers will elevate God's presence at the track exponentially.

I do not think we will get them all at one time as some of our chaplains could not use them with their current travel arrangements (they race).

I have been doing some research into cost but the figure God put in my head with the vision is $42,000.00.  This may include insurance and everything else.

I also know that this will increase liability and other issues.  We need to hammer out the details and cover all bases:  insurance, CDL's required?, liability, etc.

During the Conference last weekend, I did learn that MRO has a ministry trailer(s) and that maybe we could gain some wisdom from them.

Now you also see the need for a Development Director as well as the future vision of God Speed.

As I said before, this is a great idea/tool.  My concern is not to step out of the boat too quickly.  Not to be negative, I just do not want the ministry to get financially bound.  Also the liability as I have mentioned needing more insurance and so on.  I am not against this and would love to see this take place.

4.  More members for the Board of Directors

    I ask that you be in prayer about whom God wants to add to the Board of Directors.  I know that Ron & Ruthie are nearing the end of their 2 year term of service and we are eternally grateful to them for their service to God Speed Ministry.  We need to add 2 more couples to the BOD.  I am open to suggestions.

    I would also like to ask your opinion on moving the BOD meeting to coincide with the PRI show - just a thought?

Will keep BOD members in prayer.          Florida meeting?

5.  In House Web Master

   It is my heart's desire to have someone in house to do the website.  We have tried to do the distance thing with Allen Cook and now with Mark Walter.  I believe the time has come to have someone come in on a part time or volunteer basis.  I do not know how much time it will demand until we get into it.  It may be one or two days a week or more.  The person we hire needs to have a passion for God and desire to serve Him through web ministry and design.  They also need to know how to post videos, post MP3 files for download, set up an online store and more.  Please be in prayer for this individual as well.

Maybe start out with volunteer and then part time pay?  Sounds great!

Well, I believe that is enough for now.  As I said in the opening, I would appreciate a response by Friday either by email or by phone.

Blessings,

Renee

2007 God Speed Board Of Directors Meeting

The Board of Directors for God Speed Ministry, Inc. met Saturday, December 1st, 2007, at 1:00 p.m. in Greensboro, NC, with 6 members present. Renee Bingham called the meeting to order and opened with prayer.

The minutes from 2006 were distributed. Steve Earwood moved that we accept the minutes as they stand. All agreed.

The question was raised by board members of how God Speed was treated at the IHRA banquet. The rooms for the celebration and church service were the best we have had yet. There was a mix-up about the date for the church service. The resort had it listed as Saturday morning instead of Sunday morning. IHRA had listed it on their schedule correctly. There were only 12 people at the service on Sunday morning.

Renee also reported that beside the quartet’s family, there were only about 15 people who attended the celebration on Friday evening. If we do it again, we definitely need to do a better job promoting it. We were not as prepared this year as we should have been.

Renee spoke of the Seminar and the theme of the event. The weekend will include an open house, seminar, racer celebration, church service and a chaplains’ luncheon. It is good that God Speed Ministry now has its own date and a place apart from the IHRA banquet. This will allow us to begin preparation much earlier in the year.

The construction of the office is going well. Gary Bingham asked that we clarify construction and location.

God Speed is now 3 years old. In the original plan, offices were proposed for the fifth year. But during this year when several people called for directions to the God Speed offices, we realized that we were making enough of an impact that it was time to have a physical presence to go along with our spiritual presence. Although we did not feel that it was in the ministry’s best interest to rent or purchase a property, furnish it and assume the debt of utilities and salary for someone to run it, we knew that God was saying it was time for offices. Gary Bingham offered space in Bingham Motorsports race shop where there was already an existing 12x12 room which was only being used for storage (mostly for God Speed). He suggested we turn it into the office, and he then offered another 12x12 space allowing us to build a foyer. This was the solution. Construction costs would be kept to a minimum and Bingham Motorsports would carry the cost of utilities.

Then as plans were being finalized, God gave the idea that the foyer / waiting area become a mini chapel where people could actually spend time with Him. That has become the focus of the new offices – a place to spend time with God and a place to honor Him.

The construction is almost done, and painting has begun; concrete has been poured outside for a porch. Mary’s Grove UMC has donated columns they were replacing which can be used for the entry cover. Landscaping has been done, and altar furniture, a pew for the chapel and a beautiful antique Bible have been purchased as well. Everything should be done by the Seminar.

Renee would like to thank E. A. Bingham, Gary Bingham, Joe Wood, Jack Rosenthal and James Sweezy for the labor they have donated in the construction and concrete work.

Future plans include a prayer trail presently under construction which should be open in the spring.

One of the agendas set for 2007 was to make God Speed’s presence more visible. We were able to do that through the purchase of EZ-up canopies with the God Speed logo and name on all sides, A-frame Church Service signs, and the logo embroidered across the backs of the chaplains’ red shirts.
We were asked to add Saturday services. IHRA approved and attendance has shown that it was needed and has been accepted
.
We also brought a divisional chaplain into the national events to help with the extra services on Saturday and to help with the increased need for prayer, care, invitations for church, and to cover the track during the pro rounds. God has covered the added expense and we continue to remain financially sound.

There are now 31 people in God Speed Ministry. We have divisional chaplains for all 6 divisions since Carol Rix accepted the chaplain position in Division 5. We have children’s chaplains for 4 divisions. We have chaplains for 2 new bracket series, Joey Keith and Stuart Smith. Joey Keith has even started a Tuesday night church at Tulsa Raceway Park. His church is also excited about the God Speed concept of youth ministry and wants to be a part of it when we initiate it.

Steve Earwood commented on what a good job Joe Sannutti is doing. Steve Corker & Gary Bingham agreed with that comment. Joe has covered more events for us this year as he and Deb covered the 3 eastern Junior Dragster nationals in addition to Division 2. Joe also was able to lead people to a relationship with Christ during many of his events.

God Speed is blessed by the exceptional quality of people He has brought into this ministry. We are indeed blessed.

Rick Laws has asked to combine his ministry under God Speed Ministry. The Board all agreed that we should know those who want to become a part of God Speed. It was agreed that the board to thoroughly review all applications before a decision such as this is made. Renee will send the application to Rick. Maryann Earwood feels that allowing Rick to minister using both his logo and the God Speed logo would be confusing for people.

David McNew, track chaplain at Richmond Dragwa, is looking for a way for people to donate to the ministry he is doing there and make it tax deductible. He wondered if being an IHRA track chaplain would help him come under our 501c3 status.
The Board all agreed that this would be a misuse of our privilege since we would have no way to monitor the donations and how they were used. God Speed can only give tax credit to those donations that come to God Speed Ministry for distribution through us. We would be assuming liability to the IRS for monies for which we have no accounting. We cannot do that. We also felt that this would open a door to others whose motives were not so pure to use God and God Speed for personal gain under the guise of ministry.
We do support David and all track chaplains in prayer and with decals. We will consider other requests as they are submitted. Track chaplains are our unsung heroes and do not receive the recognition they deserve.

Gary Bingham suggested that we set a policy to handle these situations and others that will arise in the future. Steve Corker moved that we add an amendment to the by-laws stating:
To receive the benefits and privileges of God Speed Ministry, the applicant must be one-hundred percent a part of God Speed, having completed the application and approval process. All donations, equipment and supplies are submitted to God Speed Ministry for accounting and distribution without revocation.

Renee Bingham and Steve Corker both brought up issues of compromise by chaplains. Both Steve and Renee felt that the chaplains simply did not recognize what had happened because it is so common in the world. Chaplains represent God and His Kingdom at all times, but we assume extra responsibility when we put on those chaplain shirts. Putting on those shirts broadcasts to people that we are examples of God, and we have accepted a commission from God to carry out the principles of the Kingdom.

One area of concern that was discussed was ‘deal making’ while wearing the chaplain shirts. Gary and Renee had both thought that it would be a great idea to wear their God Speed shirts to the trade show this year. They both felt that this would be a great way to allow others to know about the ministry in the race community. But God brought to mind the scripture “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” 1 Thessalonians 5:22 He reminded us of the impression that the world has been given of people using God to solicit money or get a better deal “because it is for the ministry.” Even though it was not our intent, some might perceive it as such. We are to be watchful of even the appearance of evil, whether it be making a deal for race car parts or having a glass of wine in public. We like Christ, and like Paul following Christ, we must abstain from even the appearance of evil. We must not become stumbling blocks to those watching our conduct and speech.


We were then also reminded of our mandate from God that we do no solicitations or fundraisers. God has promised to provide for all our needs; His resources and abilities are greater than ours.

Steve Corker said that Renee needs help carrying out the work of the ministry. She is over- burdened with paper work, office details and bookkeeping. The B.O.D. discussed hiring someone to work a few hours a week. Steve Earwood made the motion that we hire an accountant to do the bookkeeping. Steve Corker seconded the motion. All agreed.

Maryann Earwood volunteered to do the newsletter. Steve Earwood offered his services to make the copies and do the mailing.

Renee was extremely grateful and relieved. She feels that with this burden lifted, she can get back to the other details of the ministry that God has called her to do.

What do we do about gifts of property or other items given to the ministry? In the past, someone offered a pool table to the ministry to raffle as a fundraiser. Since we do no fund raiser or solicitations, we cannot do a raffle, but the B.O.D. agreed that such items could be sold, either by the giver or God Speed, and the money used for ministry.

The B.O.D. also agreed that it was okay to let people know what we are doing and what would enhance the ministry. Donations of frequent flyer miles, services, and products, are all items of use by the ministry and are tax deductible gifts of the fair market value. God Speed Ministry has already been the recipient of such gifts through donations of lettering by Matt Zapp, Joe Sannutti, and Jack Todd, and t-shirts by Doug Herbert Performance Center.

God uses ministries to focus and organize ministry opportunities, so everyone is able to use what gifts and talents God has given them. Some people can give of their time, others their abilities, and others of their money and property. God gives to each of us differently in order to accomplish His will here on earth. We are all part of His body; we are in this together and need each other.

Finally the B.O.D. discussed suggestions for 2008. Renee said she had been told that we need to get “out of the box.” Steve Corker asked what that meant and if any suggestions were offered.

Youth ministry is the next item on the original plan for God Speed Ministry. The concept is that we reach out to the youth and young people through their love of cars and speed.

Tracks already have test and tunes which many young people already attend. God Speed could enhance what they are already doing through a youth night. It could include:
invite the local high schools students, youth groups, Campus Crusade, Young Life, and Church youth groups and youth pastor.
have Christian racers on display with their cars, maybe have an exhibition run by them.
invite any local Christian Youth bands to come and play that evening.
have testimonies from the Christian drivers, Christian youths and/or youth leaders
have gift packs with God Speed decals, tracts, gifts from local businesses.
Benefits include:
 This would reach youth that are outside our sphere of influence at this time.
 It would be a great opportunity for local churches to reach out to these youth in a non-church setting and establish a relationship.
 It would enhance the track’s image with the community.
 It could also provide more income for the track.
 It would help establish a relationship with the track and local churches giving the church opportunities for outreach ,and the track might gain a track chaplain and others who could help in crisis situations.
Steve Corker warned against trying to take on too much. He felt that this should be something that is handled by someone with a heart for the youth, and that Renee should oversee it. He also suggested that we try to do only 1 or 2 of these events this year. This would allow us to gain some experience and see what works and what needs changing.

Steve Earwood made the motion to adjourn, Steve Corker seconded. Renee closed in prayer.

GB
12-1-07
Gary Bingham, Secretary

This is some of the needs that we discussed.

• Volunteers are needed to work in the office
• transportation/office/living quarters is needed for some chaplains
• bookkeeping services are needed
 

Board of Directors Meeting 2006
Sunday, December 10, 11:00 a.m.
Sheraton Four Seasons, Greensboro, NC

The Board of Directors met with all members present: Gary & Renee Bingham, Steve & Brenda Corker, Steve & Mary Ann Earwood. Renee called the meeting to order and opened with prayer.

Renee gave everyone a copy of the financial report.

We are still checking on insurance for the Board of Directors. We were informed this weekend of the need for liability insurance for each chaplain. Steve Earwood suggested checking on an umbrella policy for everyone.

Many people have requested the red God Speed chaplain shirts. IHRA Safety Director Jim Weinert definitely stated that God Speed Chaplains need to be easily recognizable in crisis situations. He strongly advised us against allowing just anyone to have the red chaplain shirts. He compared them to the IHRA official shirts.
The Board discussed other ways to allow people to show their support of God Speed without compromising our recognition and authority in crisis situations. T-shirts and polo shirts were suggested as an option.

God Speed is beginning its third year of ministry and people still don’t know us or can’t find the chaplains at events. We need more of visible presence at the Divisional and National events.
The Board agreed to purchase EZ-Ups with the God Speed logo on them. We will also provide signs for the divisional chaplains. The chaplain’s shirts will have the logo embroidered across the back of their shirts as well. This will also help with recognition in crisis situations. Only chaplains with the logo on their backs will have clearance to respond to an on-track crash.

The children’s ministry is doing great. Many stories of how the children and their families are being touched have been shared with us this year. Divisions 9 and 4 have strong children’s ministry. Divisions 2 and 3 have good chaplains but the ministry is struggling to get children to attend.
Christy Rice will not be attending the IHRA races this year as they will be racing NHRA Pro Stock. She will continue to be the National Children’s Chaplain but will need help to execute the children’s ministry. Hopefully the divisional children’s chaplains can work the national events in their area. Maryann Earwood offered help.

It would be great to have the chapel services broadcast over the track PA systems if possible. Many people have told how much they appreciate it when we are able to do it.

We have seen some growth in attendance at chapel services in the north and northeast. We are thankful for this but need to continue to pray for this area, especially Division 1. We still need a children’s chaplain there as well.

Music adds such a key element to any worship service and Gary & Renee would love to have more of it in the services. It would be great to have congregational music or possibly a praise band or choir.
Steve & Brenda Corker volunteered to be the Praise & Worship leaders. They will lead praise and worship at the events they attend and coordinate music for the other events. We will do a press release asking for musicians and singers.

The by-laws of God Speed state that persons are to serve either a two year term or be lifetime members of the board of directors. Gary & Renee Bingham, Steve & Brenda Corker, Steve & Maryann Earwood all agreed to serve as lifetime members.
Everyone agreed that it would enhance the ministry to have more on the Board of Directors. To bring new vision to the ministry, Rev. Ron & Ruthie Lytle and Mr.& Mrs. Danny Dunn were suggested as candidates for the board of Directors.

Renee shared that Jim Parr has a vision of building church buildings at race tracks for chapel services. “The announcers have a home (building), the concessions have a home, even his fuel business has a home. God needs a home,” he stated. He would love to see every track have a building that could serve as a place to hold church services and also be used for hospitality or such for the track.
The Board agreed to stand with him in prayer. It is a good vision and a step in the right direction.

The 2007 meeting was set for December 2007. Time and date to be announced.

With no further business, Renee Bingham thanked everyone for their wisdom and service. She then closed with prayer.

Meeting adjourned.

Respectfully submitted,


Gary Bingham, Secretary
 

Board of Directors Meeting 2005
Sunday, December 11, 10:30 a.m.
Greensboro, NC

The Board of Directors met with all members present: Gary & Renee Bingham, Steve & Brenda Corker, Steve & Mary Ann Earwood. Renee called the meeting to order and opened with prayer.

Renee gave everyone a copy of the financial report and shared the story of God’s provision for traveling expenses. When God Speed made the decision to send Renee to cover the church service in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, the ministry did not have the needed funds. Within 3 days of that decision, Evan Knolls of Torco Racing Fuels called Renee, not knowing of the need, and said that God has woken him up that morning and laid on his heart to give a donation of $5000.00 to the ministry. His last words of the sentence were: “…for traveling expenses.” We had stepped out on faith and God had provided. The total traveling expenses for the 2005 was $5,502.00. God indeed did supply our needs.

God Speed Ministry needs a divisional chaplain for Division 3. Matt Zapp is moving to division 1 where he will replace Pastor Star Scott. We knew that Pastor Star was temporary, just not how temporary. We offered Matt the opportunity to stay in Division 3 or move to Division 1. With a new baby on the way and a new job, Matt preferred the less traveling of Division 1.
Steve Corker recommended that we let people know that there is a need for a chaplain in division 3. Renee will do a press release telling of Matt’s moving and the vacancy in division 3. This will be posted on the web site, sent to IHRA.com and Drag Review Magazine and to Competition Plus.com.

Christy Rice has been named as the national Children’s Chaplain. She has put together a program of songs, scripture, Bible lessons and crafts that will be a complete package. God Speed Ministry is now seeking divisional children’s chaplains. Divisions 2 and 4 have persons who have shown an interest in this. Renee will include this information and request for additional persons to apply for the other 4 divisions.

Renee shared of having gone through Safe Sanctuaries in her local church as well as the screening process that RFC and other ministries do which includes a national background check on those who are in positions of leadership. In the day and age in which we live, we must protect ourselves as best we can against the possibility of lawsuits and protect our children as well. Steve Earwood recommended the Board approve background checks on each existing chaplain, board member, children’s chaplains and any new applicant to volunteer or work with God Speed Ministry, INC. The cost per check is around $20.00. God Speed Ministry should cover the cost of the background check. Mary Ann Earwood pointed out that we should decide who needs to have a background check: everyone working with children will need to have one but anyone volunteering to pass our fliers or greet would not be subject to one. Mary Ann also suggested that we give people the option to pay for their background check if they wished to help the ministry in this way while Steve Corker said we should make it clear that God Speed will cover the cost for every applicant’s background check.

At the chaplains meeting on Thursday, Rev. Bill Dickerson of Division 4 said that people want to belong to and feel ownership in God Speed Ministry just as they do in their local church. He suggested having a flier with a tear-away card to join God Speed Ministry. He also suggested they get the decals and some sort of apparel for a set fee.
The unanimous decision of the Board was not to charge a fee to be a part of God Speed Ministry. Steve & Mary Ann Earwood told how they have given away Rock t-shirts. Steve Corker suggested that we put together a membership package of decals and a t-shirt. It was decided that we would have t-shirts with “I’m a God Speeder…..My whole being follows hard after You and clings closely to You.” Psalm 63:9
Also noted: All t-shirts God Speed produces will have scripture on them.

People are asking for videos and copies of the sermons as well as wanting to listen to sermons on-line. Mark Walter of JAMA Racing has offered to host the web site, put videos and/or audios on-line free of charge. We will need to purchase a CD recorder to get the best quality of reproduction for listening. These recorders run from $150 to $280 each. Steve Corker recommended that we grow into this slowly instead of purchasing this equipment for each division. We will start with the nationals and the 2 largest divisions – 4 and 9.

Renee asked the Board’s opinion on how is God Speed doing? Brenda Corker says we are growing and overcoming previous obstacles. The feedback from the racers is positive. Steve Earwood asked how IHRA is treating God Speed. Renee reported that IHRA also has much to overcome from the past ministry and has asked us to take baby steps. But they put our press releases on-line and in Drag Review, even some sent as prayer request. They have allowed us to go from 1 to 2 services on Sunday mornings as well as having a children’s church during the second service. Scooter Peaco has said that is it nice to have a “ministry of integrity.” We have made many strides in the right direction. The one thing we have been turned down on is getting a column in Drag Review called Cross Talk (use of name permitted by Bob Brockmeyer of Compulink.)

How do we give accountability? Renee posed this question to the Board, partly for our own reference and also because it is one of the major concerns of the District Committee on Ministry that she is to go before on January 2, 2006 as she prepares to become a licensed pastor.
Our financial records are audited by an outside accounting firm. They are available on-line. Each chaplain is required to fill out a Chapel Service Report for each service they conduct and these are also placed on-line. There is a Discipleship Page of requirements on the website. Steve Corker recommended giving the DCOM our annual reports as well as copies of Renee’s Chapel Service Reports and the liberty to contact the Board of Directors. Also let the DCOM know that each chaplain, including Renee, is accountable to the Board.

What organizations should we tithe to? God Speed Ministry tithes 20% of gross income to a Christian Relief Organization. Renee told of a request for Bibles to Africa and the specifications they required. After doing some research and seeking advice from Star & Greer Scott, most of those requests are scams. Steve Corker said we need to make sure we give only to reputable organizations and as much as possible to make it home missions. The Board also agreed to make a love offering to JAMA Race Ministries for their support of the website and the outreach this will provide.

God Speed Ministry has purchased a trailer to haul a golf cart and equipment needed to minister at the races. It is almost impossible to minister as needed without transportation at an event. This trailer will go to Rev. Floyd & Diana West in Division 5. The Board decided that we should give($1 sale?) the trailer to them and title it in their name. We need to check with a lawyer on the possibility of a reverse sale.  The board agreed that we need to provide the equipment the chaplains need to minister adequately.

We should also check on an umbrella insurance policy for the Board of Directors.

With no further business the meeting was adjourned after Renee closed with prayer.

Respectfully submitted,
Gary Bingham, Secretary
 

A Word From Gary Bingham, VP of God Speed Ministry

     When Renee asked me to write down my testimony to put on the website, my first thoughts were that no one would want to hear what I have to say. I don't have a earth shaking story to tell. I wasn't ever into drugs, alcohol, or any of the terrible things that you hear from such great testimonies.
    I have been very fortunate in the fact that I was brought up in a Christian home. I accepted Jesus as my Lord and Saviour at a very young age.
    But, as many of you know, just like everyone else, I haven't led the perfect life. Only one person that ever walked this earth did that. I have had problems with patience, temper, and many other things that have kept my walk with the Lord far from where it should have been. I just Praise the Lord that he has kept working with me over the years and that my walk is now closer to Him than it has ever been.
    It is really amazing sometimes how He does work. The Lord has been putting a plan in action to put Renee and myself where we are at today for over twenty years. In the late seventies, the partner I now have in my business, moved south from Buffalo, New York and came to work in the same
dealership where I worked.

    Now I had been involved in racing before this, but never in drag racing. He had brought a drag car with him and he got me started into a type of racing that has taken me to places I never thought possible.
    I was enjoying success that was just unimaginable to me. We won races and championships that brought us contacts and financing that kept moving us up the ladder in racing to bigger and better things. The type of racing we were doing was way above our means of finances. I didn't know why God was blessing us so. But you see, He had a plan.
    He put Renee in a situation to work for IHRA that did not suit her at all. There were situations that she just didn't want to be around or be involved with. But the Lord had other plans and she went to work for IHRA not knowing why, but she knew that God had a plan for us.
    We have gone many years in turmoil wondering why we were at the races. Things just did not seem to be working out the way we thought that they should. But you see God had a plan and it was in the works. God's plan is always perfect and always right on time. Sometimes it is hard for us not to get in the way and try to hurry things up. I know now, without a shadow of a doubt, why things have gone the way they have for the last twenty years.
    I know where we are at. I don't know what all He has in His plans for the future, but I'm sure it is going to be a ride like I have never taken in a race car. We need your prayers (lots of them) and we need your help.
    Please remember that God loves you and we love you. I always want to be there for you at the races or anywhere else. So if there is ever anything, please don't hesitate to look up Renee or myself.

Thanks and Godspeed

Gary Bingham

• Arms & Hands • Backbone • Heart • Legs & Feet • Shoulders • Torso •

1-888-NEED HIM

1-888-633-3446

1-704-473-4212

for prayer and salvation

God Speed Ministry, Inc.  141 E. A. Bingham Road, Kings Mountain, NC 28086 704-473-4212

Send mail to renee@godspeedministry.com with questions or comments about this web site.
Last modified: 02/05/10