It's the giving season.  You’ll be buying a few presents for the folks you care about, perhaps giving a bigger tip than usual to your barber, hair stylist or the newspaper carrier. You might even bake some cookies to spread some good will (and the calories) around this Christmas season. How about giving some Christmas “cheer” (translate that as “encouragement”) to your favorite Network guide(s) as well?

First off, our Network guides weren’t chosen because they were looking to add more work to their busy lives. All our volunteer guides were recruited because they have ministry experience and a passion to share it with others. When they aren’t blogging, commenting and answering questions they’ve got jobs, families and/or ministry responsibilities just like the rest of you. You may be surprised to know that among our 12 active Network guides we’ve got:

A Retirement Plan Specialist from the denominational office,
An IT Manager from a division of Herman Miller,
A Community Connection Coordinator from a rescue mission,
A Director for Missions Education and Engagement,
A Co-Director of Children’s Ministries,
A Director of Communication for the Reformed Church in America,
Two Specialized Ministry Directors, and
Four active church pastors.

Our guides are from across Canada and the US (Alberta, British Columbia, California, Colorado and Michigan). But thanks to modern technology and their hard work, we’ve all become part of The Network online community.

So, this Christmas season as we thank God for the gift of our Savior, how about taking a moment to also thank the Network guides who serve by helping us with resources for ministry? And let us take this opportunity to wish you a Merry Christmas and to thank you for your questions and comments and for sharing your ministry experience with The Network. God bless you, each and every one!

Please take a moment to post your thanks and encouragement for the Network guides in the comment box below.  Give them a little Christmas cheer!