The Importance of Fellowship in Life and Work 
MESSAGE FROM NACFM PRESIDENT HOMER CLARK

Fellowship is one of the serendipities we find when we become members of the NACFM. We not only join a wonderful organization but soon realize the benefits of receiving valuable information, exposure to new technologies, and critical work skills that can be readily applied to our roles as facilities professionals. Additionally, we take part in roundtable discussions and connect with other facilities associates facing similar challenges. Bottom line, we find an extraordinary community of men and women we can identify with and can share successes as well as frustrations.

After joining we find yet another valuable opportunity: Certification. Our leadership steps up to invest in our future by sending members to a first-class certification program; four days with a group of other facilities associates starting the journey to become Certified Church Facilities Managers (CCFM). Coupled with this program you also meet other facilities associates, many of whom will become long-time friends. And, of course, the launch into NACFM membership is topped off with your attendance at the Big Show, the National Conference. Every June you experience great learning, wonderful speakers, top quality workshops, and, last but not least, the fellowship and camaraderie of some of the finest people you could ever associate with. That circle of friends grows even bigger!

The dictionary defines fellowship as a friendly relationship, companionship; a community of those with similar interests and feelings; admission to or association with a religious fellowship, professional or civic organization.

In a nutshell the NACFM is a community of like-minded men and women providing information, encouragement, companionship and support in the tough and the good times. Proverbs 27:17 tells us - “As iron sharpens iron, so one man another.”

NACFM friendships do just that. We sharpen each other in so many ways. As with all relationships, it takes time to invest in others. We need to spend time together, get to know each other, and give as well as receive. Our lives are packed out. Free time is at a premium. Work at church, family responsibilities, time with the Lord, some "down time" to relax - the list goes on. With that said, how do we build distant relationships with other members?

One answer to this question is simple: Complete the certification program. Another is making attendance at the June national conferences a priority. Participating in the round table talks and regularly reading the Forum questions are of great assistance as you grow your professional skills and fellowship with others. Another great way to stay connected is by volunteering for a NACFM mission trip working side by side with other facilities associates serving those in need. Fellowship connections during any NACFM event is one of the best ways. Some fun, relaxation, and conversation without the job pressures are great relationship builders. A wise man once told me, “The best way to cross a minefield is in the footsteps of the person who crossed before you and didn’t get blown up!” A bit humorous but also profound. There are many benefits to a NACFM membership, but the greatest may be the fellowship.

During the 2021 Conference, I'm confident that many of you made some new friends and renewed existing friendships from previous events. With that thought, I'll challenge each of you to reach out to that new friend you met. Do this within the next three days. Just connect to say “Hello” and reminisce about the conference or life as a facilities associate. Email, telephone or text. I can promise that you’ll put a smile on your friend's face. It might even be the uplifting moment of his or her day or week.

One last note. During the October 2021 CP week, the NACFM will be sponsoring a mission trip at the same location. More details will be announced soon. I encourage you to consider this opportunity to serve and support as you recharge your soul and deepen some friendships. Anytime you can take your eyes off yourself and focus on an act of service, the experience will often bring clarity with respect to your own challenges. I leave you with this verse:

Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (NIV)
Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work: If one falls down, his friend can help him up. But pity the man who falls and has no one to help him up! Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone? Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

Blessings to you all,  

Homer Clark 
NACFM President

Is Your Backflow Preventer Leaking? 

If you have a water system that has a backflow preventer on it, such as lawn irrigation, fire sprinkler, potable water, or a cooling tower, you should be testing it. Depending on the type of system and where you are located, you may be able to do this yourself.

Featured Member:
Leif Anderson - Chapel Pointe Church, Hudsonville, MI 

Leif Anderson grew up in a small town of some 2,000 people in rural New Hampshire. In fact, the town was so small, there were no stoplights. Today Leif and his family live in Hudsonville, Michigan (Grand Rapids area). He made the move to facilities management six years ago after several other careers as a shipping clerk, warehouse worker, and insurance agent. While working in these areas, he was involved in ministry outreach.

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