“He is risen!”
MESSAGE FROM  NACFM PRESIDENT GARY ROBINSON

(Due to the fact that this newsletter was released three days before Easter, I will not be surprised or offended if there are some Church Facility Managers that will not read this article until next week.)

The week before Easter is usually one of the busiest of the year for Church Facility Managers. Most churches are used to following their traditional Easter schedule and programming. In the last 12 months, the pandemic has caused many churches to delay or end countless traditions due to social distancing and limits on the size of gatherings. Because of this, I have an all new appreciation for the right and ability to gather and celebrate the Resurrection of our Lord and Savior.

For most churches, this Easter season is very different from those in the past. Churches have had to change. Some changes have been minor while others have been very disruptive. For some it’s live streaming services or reconfiguring spaces and how they are used. All of us have had to place a new emphasis on germ control. We discussed the need to be flexible and the willingness to adapt in last year’s July newsletter, “How Flexible Are You?” Now that we have been in a constant state of disruption for thirteen months, many are feeling the effects of the stress generated by our situation.

It's important to watch for the signs of a team member feeling overwhelmed. Also, it's critical to keep in mind that the pandemic has played havoc with the home life of many team members. When you add to all this the anxieties in our personal lives and concerns for our facilities team members, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. How we as leaders handle these changes and the stress that comes with them, directly affects those men and women we supervise. We, as managers, are not immune to these same feelings. If you are feeling over stressed, reach out and call someone you can talk to.

It’s much easier to be positive and encouraging during good times. We have no problem when contributions exceed our budget needs. We enjoy the confidence that comes from having a fully staffed and trained team. But, in today’s world, it feels like the negatives have exiled the positives. Normally, most CFMs are able to find joy in just showing up and serving the Lord at their church. What does it say to our teams when we let circumstances rob our joy? What is the secret to staying on an even keel during tough times? It’s remembering where true contentment comes from. The Apostle Paul certainly knew of tough times.

Philippians 4:11-12 - “Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need.”

Paul’s contentment in spite of the hardships of prison glorified God. His faith did not allow his circumstances to steal his joy. Whenever we live a life that is hard and littered with difficulties, and yet we are contented, this is pleasing to God. When we can adapt to circumstances and still give God praises and glory for His goodness, our God is well pleased. I’m confident that our families and co-workers would likely be pleased to see our joy versus a whine of discontent. Don’t let circumstances rob you of your joy because your joy (and mine) isn’t dependent upon what happens in life, good or bad, but by what Jesus Christ has done for us. I look forward to celebrating the joy of His Resurrection!

I hope to see you at the National Conference in Chicago this June!

“He is risen, indeed!”

Blessings my Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Gary Robinson 
NACFM President

Celebrate NACFM's 25th Anniversary with Us!

Due to the pandemic, we missed out on celebrating our 25th anniversary last year. We did not forget – this mementos milestone will be honored in Chicago during the NACFM 2021 Conference. Come be a part of the fellowship, professional development, and the celebration!

The NACFM Spring Certification Program will be hosted as a hybrid event with the option of joining us virtually or attending in-person. In-person will take place at  The Orchard Evangelical Free Church, Arlington Heights, IL (same as conference location).

Featured Member: Tory Korthuis

Professionally, Tory Korthuis is a skilled facilities manager with 15 years of experience. During his free time he enjoys family activities, backpacking and spelunking. Spelunking? Yes, Tory enjoys exploring big holes in the ground! Spelunking is the hobby of recreational exploration of caves.