DEAR FRIENDS,
Amidst the current challenges we face due to COVID-19, I’m reflecting on a happy moment from our Annual All Staff Meeting a few months ago. This meeting is the one time of year that we get our staff together for a half-day meeting. During our All Staff Meeting, we have a time of worship, and I share a devotion and talk about the state of the Mission. We then hear from a speaker. This year, we welcomed nationally acclaimed speaker, pastor and author, Steve Cuss, who spoke about managing leadership anxiety. It was a blessing that he could join us!
My favorite part of the day was when we gave some anniversary awards to our staff. We gave 5, 10 and 15-year awards at this meeting. We have given some 20 and 25-year awards in the past, and if all goes as planned, we will award one of our longtime trusted staff members the first 30-year award in our history next year!
I introduced these committed staff members, and they came to the front of the room to receive their awards. I want you to know that I believe all of our employees are very special, just like Tim, who you will read about in this edition of Changing Lives. They are committed to God’s work here.
This year was special because I had the pleasure of introducing two women staff members who have been here for 15 years, Elvira and Silvia. They are our custodians. They became employees when we acquired The Crossing. I had the great honor to talk about their hearts for serving, their commitment, their cheerful demeanor, and their incredible work ethic. They are known for serving in a very unselfish manner without fanfare or public accolades.
When they came to the front to receive their awards, they each received a standing ovation—a long, loud and happy standing ovation! It made me cry, kind of hard actually. I realized, in that moment, that I work for an organization where our employees give standing ovations to our custodians. Not only do we value the people we serve, but we value the people who do the serving, no matter the job. I think this is the way our resurrected Jesus would want it. It is an honor to work alongside these employees!
Thinking of you this Easter Season and wishing you hope!
Brad Meuli has been President/CEO at the Mission since 2001. Brad joined the Mission after a 17-year career in banking. Previous to his staff position he served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors. Read his full bio.
This post is a part of April’s Changing Lives Newsletter. This month talks about Tim and his path from alcoholism to experiencing grace and restoration.
