Sixteenth century reformer, Martin Luther, was reflecting on the nature of the church and Christian life when he wrote, 

 

 

Luther could not have anticipated the appropriateness of his words for the Council of Churches of the Ozarks as we turn a page of history and welcome a new year, a new decade, and a new beginning. It is a strategic time for people of faith to be on our way, pursuing the priorities of Jesus Christ as the church.

 

Thank you for the many messages of encouragement and support! I’m genuinely humbled and excited about serving the Council of Churches as your fourth executive director in 40 years. Few nonprofit organizations anywhere have served their community with such distinction, stability and effectiveness. I count it a personal honor and sacred trust to serve our organization, and I invite you to share with me your best thoughts, ideas and suggestions in the spirit of growth reflected in Luther’s words. 

 

For me, our mission is an inspiring one, guiding us on a journey in pursuit of the priorities of Jesus Christ. Through nine specialized service agencies, we are working each day “to improve the quality of life in our region.” Whenever the weak are strengthened, whenever the poor are restored, whenever the sick experience a caring touch, the quality of life is improved for all, and our world looks more like the Kingdom Jesus came to establish. Moreover, I believe people who join their faith with compassionate action experience joy in “doing together what can best be done together.” I envision the Council of Churches as that creative, safe place in our community where the common ground of service leads to the higher ground of unity, unity that Jesus asks his Father to give to us in John 17:21-23.

 

Thank you for joining your faith with compassionate action through the Council of Churches of the Ozarks. I’m looking forward to the journey before us, because we’re on the right road as we pursue the priorities of Jesus together!