December 2024 News - National Association of Church Facilities Managers

Christmas Blessings from Your NACFM Family Coast to Coast!
MESSAGE FROM NACFM PRESIDENT TORY KORTHUIS

Merry Christmas from your NACFM board members! This year, as we celebrate the birth of Christ, we’re filled with gratitude for the little miracles (and minor misadventures) that we encounter daily. From managing the mishaps of leaky pipes to scaling heights to fixing that one burnt-out lightbulb, we’re reminded that every small task can be a humble act of service. So, here’s to celebrating the light of Christ by bringing a little brightness to every corner in which we work across America. Enjoy some of the adventures (and challenges) some of our NACFM members have dealt with during this year.

A Year of Blessed Moments and Lessons in Patience

South Carolina - A Humbling Elevator Encounter
It was a busy Tuesday when three colleagues found themselves “stuck in a meeting they couldn’t leave.” Yes, that’s right, trapped in Elevator B! After an hour of waiting (patiently?) and, finally, a successful release, I’m sure they all shared a prayer of thanksgiving for a safe exit and solid ground. While it wasn’t exactly the Red Sea parting, it was a little reminder that sometimes we must wait for the door to open in its own time. (Also, I guess you could say that being a facilities professional has its “ups and downs.”)

Texas - The Squirrel That Tried to Help
We’re firm believers that God’s creatures each have a purpose even if that purpose seems to involve building nests in pipes. This year in Texas a determined squirrel brought its construction skills to help with plumbing. After hours of “disassembly,” the facilities team was able to restore order. From this day forward, the team has an unofficial motto: “If He watches over sparrows and squirrels, we’re sure He’ll guide us through our next repair.”

Minneapolis, Minnesota - Snowfall in the Break Room
Winter in Minnesota can bring out the best in us, even if it means encountering a snowdrift in the break room. When a storm found its way through a mysterious vent, it was all hands-on deck for cleanup and hot chocolate. In those cozy moments, it felt like a gift, a chance to slow down and savor a snowy “silent night” right at work.

Phoenix, Arizona - Summer Fixes and Faith in the Process
A little lesson of endurance in the desert heat - The Phoenix team learned the meaning of “staying cool under pressure” during a record 114°F day when the office HVAC took an unexpected “break.” The team set up makeshift cooling stations and passed out popsicles like it was their mission. Though the sweat was real, they joked that it was their own desert “exodus” and felt blessed to keep spirits high and cool water flowing until the A/C returned.

Seattle, Washington - Patience in Every Drop
The city of Seattle provided an unusual mystery in the form of a “phantom leak” that reappeared daily, no matter what was tried to fix it. After several weeks (and gallons of water), they uncovered an old pipe that had been buried and forgotten. In that moment, they were reminded of God’s wisdom in hidden things, and how sometimes the answer just takes a little more time, patience, and prayer to reveal itself.

Florida - The “Gator Wrangling” Incident
While “alligator control” isn’t a typical maintenance skill, we found ourselves in new territory in Florida. When an unexpected “guest” decided to sun itself in the parking lot, the team handled it with grace, calm and a lot of fervent prayer. As we carefully ushered the gator away, we couldn’t help but thank God for protecting us and adding one more lesson to our resumes: “If He can shut the mouths of lions, He can definitely guide an alligator!”

Holiday Preparations and the Gift of Laughter

No Christmas would be complete without decorating the halls. Across the country our NACFM teams have transformed break rooms and lobbies into scenes that would make even Bethlehem sparkle. For me the stories below are the best I was told about.

Chicago’s “Mega Santa” Display
They started with one inflatable Santa but somehow ended up with an entire North Pole lineup. Now, anyone coming through the door is greeted by seven Santas, two Rudolphs, and a snowman. Talk about “a multitude of hosts”!

Denver’s “Mountain Lodge” Lobby
Our Denver team went with a “simpler” look - hundreds of pine wreaths, plaid ribbons, and white lights. It’s as cozy as a log cabin and a reminder of how Christ is the light of the world, shining even in the darkest winter. We’re truly grateful for the NACFM family and the faith to keep going and serving in God’s house. We want to say how thankful we are for every one of you!

A Christmas Prayer
As we look forward to a new year, we’re so grateful for all of you who have made a difference in your churches. May your work feel purposeful and filled with joy. Every light we fix, every leak we patch, every odd noise we investigate, all of these are vivid reminders of Christ’s own humble, hands-on service. As He came to serve, we’re glad to follow in His steps, even in our small ways. May God bless you with peace, health, and joy this Christmas season and beyond. And remember, if something isn’t working quite right, we’re here to lend a hand and a prayer! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from your NACFM board and family!

Tory
NACFM President

Membership Renewal Process Change – Important!

Renewing your membership is a critical step in maintaining your valuable association with the NACFM. Please note the following changes:

Existing NACFM Members
All current members need to renew their membership by December 31, 2024.

New NACFM Members
Going forward, all new members will renew their membership on their anniversary date.

Members, see you in Texas for our 2025 NACFM Conference and 30th Anniversary Celebration. Plan now for valuable networking, education and family-friendly activities! Be sure to take advantage of our Early Bird Special!

Exhibitors, we invite you to join us to network in Colleyville, TX for the 2025 NACFM Conference. The 2025 NACFM Exhibit Hall will be open on Wednesday, June 11th. To download the Exhibitor Packet and for registration, click below.