FORT WAYNE-Even a quick visit with the Rev. Dr. Sylvester Hunter will tell you he's not the type to fall into the current fad of teaching "prosperity theology"- riches in return for worship God. Rather, his conversation centers on the spiritual nature of life and the potential any of us can reach when we understand whom and what we are. That's how deep the conversation quickly can get when speaking with the local pastor.
That doesn't, however, mean that he's not concerned with life right here on earth. Coming from the tradition of the Black Church, Hunter, pastor of Union Baptist Church, the oldest black Baptist church in Fort Wayne, is quick to remind us that the church is the center of all aspects of life. And, it has been a sanctuary for black folks in every way conceivable-spiritually, socially, politically and financially.
Given that, it should come as no surprise that Dr. Hunter and the entire congregation and staff at Union Baptist Church just celebrated a important anniversary for not only the church, but for the entire community. On April 12, church members marked the one-year anniversary of the establishment of the Union Baptist Church (UBC) Federal Credit Union. Housed in the church at 2200 Smith St., the landmark financial was chartered and established in April 2007 by members of Union Baptist Church and its board of directors. In just one year's time, UBC Federal Credit Union has grown to more than 250 members. But, according to Hunter, folks shouldn't get the impression that this groundbreaking venture sprung up over night.
"About six years ago, the Lord told me to open up a financial institution," explained the Rev. Hunter. [Read story at FrostIllustrated.com].
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