It is July!  It is a very hot July!  At the Center for Congregational Health, we hope that you are finding ways to safely be present in the places where you are, to replenish and renew and not feel devastated by the heat or the climate in which you live.  This month, for us, is a time of reflection and a little slower pace than the previous months of this year.

The first half of 2024 began with changes—Dr. Chris Gambill, the Director of the Center for Congregational Health, accepted a position as the Associate Vice President for Atrium Health, Wake Forest Baptist’s Division of FaithHealth.  Chris, moved into this role in the last quarter of 2023 and he, also, continues to carry the responsibility of the Director of the Center for Congregational Health.  Dr. Charity Roberson, continues as the Administrator of our Thriving Congregations grant, leading our consultants to serve congregations to help them move into or maintain a healthy level of thriving.  Rev. Beth Kennett continues managing the projects, partnerships, and daily work of the Center for Congregational Health.  Rev. Anne Tambling, while continuing to administer communication on behalf of our transition ministries, is working with Dr. George Fuller and Silver Compassion Services as the COO for Life Compass Living.

In 2024 we have worked with congregations and clients in several states, including NC, VA, WV, GA, SC, TX, NY, WI.  We have attended Denominational gatherings and participated with our partners in workshops and retreats.  We received a discernment grant, in conjunction with our Thriving Congregations work, to give us resources and space to do intentional exploring about the future of our Thriving Congregations work.  This grant has allowed us the opportunity to explore possibilities with leaders in congregational and transition work, as well as with our colleagues throughout Atrium and Advocate Health; colleagues and partners who are working with congregations and church leaders to make a positive difference in various communities where our health systems serve.  This exploration has been exciting, and we look forward to the possibilities and opportunities that we are discovering.

As we begin to turn our focus to the Fall (maybe we are simply wishing for cooler temperatures) we are preparing for several trainings—Summit Coach Training (with partner, Pinnacle Leadership Assoc.), transition consultant training, church consultant training, intentional interim ministry training, and several workshops. Watch our website and social media for more information in the coming weeks.

Also, in looking toward the Fall, a busier season than the current one for us, we are reminded of the importance for self-care.  One cannot always push through hard work and onto the next pool of hard work without taking the time for rest, renewal, and replenishment.  May you find the season, whether it be now or soon, to slow your pace, to reflect and replenish, and to dream into your future.