According to Miriam-Webster, thankful is defined as conscious of benefit received.
This year, as I enter the holiday season, I am very thankful!
The Center for Congregational Health (CCH) is an amazing association of experts in the field of coaching individuals, groups and congregations to discover and become the best of who God is calling them to be. Combined, we have over 120 years of experience pastoring, coaching, consulting and helping congregations navigate change.
CCH is a team of committed individuals who believe deeply in the power of community and who are highly skilled at facilitating the community to uncover their best story, build on who they are and dream into a future of thriving for the community and the people they serve.
I am thankful that I am a part of this team of experts! I am thankful to experience the knowledge, the passion and the calling of the individuals who are the CCH team. I am thankful for the passion and vision of each team member who leans into the CCH mission of helping congregations and clergy thrive. I am thankful for the wealth of skills and creativity of this team that stays in the work for the best of what our clients will receive.
When I joined the CCH team, 22 years ago, I was honored to join a team of people who helped me to grow my skills and experience and become the person and leader that I am today. Now, in our 34th year, CCH continues to connect with gifted, skilled, experienced and innovative leaders to join in this work and continue helping congregations and clergy thrive.
I am very aware of the benefits I receive from working alongside smart and creative consultants and coaches. I am very aware of the benefits I receive when we accomplish a team effort. I am very aware of the benefits I receive by having amazing colleagues with whom to journey. I am honored to continue to be a part of this team and to be the Director of the Center for Congregational Health. I am very aware of the benefits CCH offers to congregations and clergy as we seek to help congregations and clergy make a positive impact in the world.
I am aware, because I have paused to notice! I am aware, because I have seen the Center for Congregational Health at work, responding to our callings and sharing the love of God in faith and spirit.
This season, I give thanks to God for you, our readers!
I give thanks to God for my colleagues.
I give thanks to God for the possibilities that lie ahead for all of us in our work, in our congregations and throughout the world.
Psalm 92:1-2 (adapted NRSVUE)
It is good to give thanks to God,
To sing praises to your name…
To declare your steadfast love in the morning,
And your faithfulness by night.