Over ten years ago, I joined my first network, CBF Youth Ministry Network, as a first-year minister. Now, I am still heavily
involved in this network and have served on the board for 10 years. I didn’t know then how important those ministers would be in my life. From the network, I met fellow ministers who became my peer learning group.
We have walked together through the lowest of lows and the highest of highs, personally and professionally. We have celebrated babies and new jobs, while also grieving together having to move congregations, walking alongside sick parents, and losing loved ones. I can honestly say that without this network and my peer learning group, I would not be where I am today.
Since then, CBF has started two more family ministry based networks, the Children’s Ministry Network and the College and Young Adult Ministry Network. With my role with CBF of Georgia, I belong to both of these networks, too. I see the same communities being formed as I was a part of ten years ago.
Networks allow safe spaces to ask questions, from curriculum and camps to the hard struggles of congregational ministry. They cultivate friendships that remind you that you are never alone in this work. They have calls for discussing the hard topics we deal with in the church and with our students, and they invite professionals to learn from.
I cannot recommend enough joining one of these networks this year.
I also want to extend an invitation from the OASIS retreat planning team, which is made up of members of the Children, Youth, and College and Young Adult Network members, to take the leap to attend OASIS next year. You will leave with your soul filled to go back to your context with a renewed spirit. More information at www.cbfymn.org.