|
We're at a natural transition point in the year. The summer is wrapping up and the school year has begun again. Here in the office, we're planning for the fall (Family Ministries, Stewardship, etc.) and reflecting on the year so far. Transition moments are wonderful chances to reflect and learn from that purposeful pause. So, below, are staff reflections, giving thanks for what they've witnessed and experienced so far this year:
Hunter: I'm grateful for the hard work of the youth in painting the wall in the parking lot -- it looks great! I am also grateful for our two custodians who do an excellent job of taking care of our congregation and our buildings. And lastly, I'm a grateful for all the staff pitching in on our "office work day" to clean up, paint, and organize our office area!
Elisa: I'm grateful for the exciting mission opportunities that the youth engaged in over the summer. They truly showed Christian fellowship “KOINONIA “ between themselves and others. I am also grateful for our 37 wonderful volunteers that made our VBS a success! We served 70-75 children of our great community. Each leader gave of of themselves, and modeled what Christian love looks like. I am forever grateful to be a part of such a beautiful and faithful spirit here at Mulberry.
Onna: My heart is overflowing with love and gratitude for all the loving calls and letters while I was out of the office recovering. I am also so grateful for all the members of the congregation. The love and support that they have for each other, our church and its staff.
Payton: My heart is grateful for the incredible experience we had on the youth mission trip! I loved watching our youth foster healing for refugee families who were experiencing significant challenges because of their being displaced. Through showing care and bonding over games, our team helped them feel safe and secure as they moved into their new home and got ready for the school year.
Daisy: I am incredibly grateful to be welcomed by the Mulberry family over the past year, and especially over the past few months as I take on larger roles in the church. I have been afforded so many opportunities through my internship (and now short-term assistantship) that have led to growth in regards to relationships in the community and with my walk with God. I am excited to see what journeys my new Mulberry family takes me in the years to come!
Zachary: I am grateful for all the community support that showed at the unity service. It was very meaningful to see so many people of various backgrounds all come together to support the local Jewish community in the face of such hate. I am also grateful for reaching my second anniversary as Mulberry's Organist. Playing organ for Mulberry has been a wonderful opportunity that has grown me both professionally and personally. It is a wonderful thing to be able to put my academic training to use by beautifying Sunday services for all who attend.
Millie: I am grateful for the school supplies we donated to the district set-up meeting! The school supplies collected were for the Methodist Home for Children & Youth, and the district was able to pack 50 bookbags with those supplies. Our efforts have helped so many students begin this school year prepared for success!
And I am grateful for the incredible staff we have here. Bruce Tuckman came up with a wonderful, rhyming, theory of how teams develop. The four phases are forming, storming, norming, and performing. We reached the performing stage much more quickly than I expected; a stage that indicates not only high output but also a thriving sense of teamwork and significant ability to adapt and respond. We are there, and it is a pleasure to come to work with them each day.
— Ted
| 
