Grateful

As Americans prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving this week, I’ve been reflecting on what makes me especially grateful to work with the Christian Reformed Church in North America. This season always invites a pause; a chance to look back at the year, to notice the gifts woven into daily work, and to name the blessings that sometimes go unseen before we step forward into a new church year that begins with the season of Advent. And in that spirit, I want to share a few things I’m particularly thankful for.

This Thanksgiving, I’m especially grateful for the privilege of working with the Christian Reformed Church in North America. Each week I’m reminded what a gift it is to participate in a denomination that holds faith, community, and service together at its center. The work is meaningful, but it is the people, the stories, and the shared vision of God’s renewing work that make this role something I really appreciate.

I’m thankful for the wonderful, supportive colleagues I get to work alongside, both in the denominational offices and across North America. Their dedication, creativity, and compassion continually encourage me. I am consistently struck by how deeply people care about serving churches well. It’s a rare blessing to feel so supported, mentored, and inspired in the work we do.

I’m also grateful for the opportunities this role gives me to learn and grow. Every story I edit, every ministry I get to highlight, and every conversation I have with staff or congregations teaches me something new. I get a front-row seat to the ways God is moving through local churches, global missions, justice ministries, and everyday acts of faithfulness. Seeing that breadth of Kingdom work, which is both quiet and steady, bold and imaginative, reminds me why this work matters.

Finally, I’m thankful for the individuals and church communities that show such resilience and resourcefulness as they navigate the challenges of this moment. Across the CRCNA, congregations are asking hard questions, seeking justice and renewal, and finding creative ways to love their neighbors. Their faithfulness gives me hope.