July 2023 News - National Association of Church Facilities Managers

Focusing on Freedom

MESSAGE FROM NACFM PRESIDENT TORY KORTHUIS

Galatians 5:13-14
You, my brothers, and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; Rather, serve one another humbly in love. For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command: "Love your neighbors as yourself."

When I think of July, I always think of Independence Day. I am thankful for the freedom that we are afforded and often take for granted. We must remember that it came at a hefty price. We can reflect on this holiday thinking about the American Revolution and the men and women who fought for freedom, the amazing wisdom of our forefathers who wrote and signed the Declaration of Independence, and our men and woman in the armed forces, then and now, maintaining this freedom, some giving their all.

This holiday also reminds me of another One who gave it all for our freedom – Jesus. Jesus paid a price that we could not have paid, so that we would be free to choose him or not. That’s the thing about freedom – we’re free to choose.

We all have our July 4th traditions, having family and friends over, watching fireworks, and of course, backyard barbeques, but we also have a choice to make. We can take our freedom for granted, or we can be grateful.

How do we respond to this great gift of freedom? This year let’s reflect on this beautiful gift we’ve been given by giving thanks to our Lord for those who paid a price for it and for the ultimate freedom that our Lord provided for us on Calvary. We respond by reflecting on the many blessings we enjoy daily, truly being grateful for the joys and the challenges, and serving one another humbly in love.

I encourage you to think about these things. How has the Lord blessed your life? How can you give Him thanks? How can you “serve one another humbly in love”? Look at the people around you and give praise and thanks to them. Serve them well. Praise God that they are in your life. How blessed we all are to work in God's house, to be a part of the NACFM, and to have the freedom to serve God. Please take the time, focus on your freedom, and give praise.

Freedom: I will never take it for granted, and I will always be thankful for it.

Blessings to you all,

Tory Korthuis
NACFM President

Meet Your New NACFM Board Members that Start Today!
Click on their names to learn more about your board members.

Homer N. Clark III, Executive Director
Oak Hills Christian Church, Butler, PA

Tory Korthuis, President
Faith Bible Chapel International - Arvada, CO

Lara Wood, Vice President
Grace Family Church of North Tampa - Lutz, FL

Elson Baldwin, Secretary
Elson Baldwin, St Paul Baptist Church -Charlotte, NC

Darrell Tabor, Director of Membership
Getwell Church - Southhaven, MS

2023 NACFM National Conference Report

As most of our members know, we just wrapped up our 2023 annual National Conference hosted by the First Baptist Church in Sevierville, TN. It was a great time of learning, networking, building relationships both old and new, and interacting with vendors at the exhibitor show. We had over 70 FMs in attendance many of whom brought their spouses or families. Some 13 vendors exhibited their products and services at the show. We said goodbye to three board members who rolled off, and welcomed three new ones to fill their shoes. There were 12 people who completed their certification program by passing the exam. Thanks to Chris Shelton and the staff at FBC for hosting us so well this year!

We also heard some stories about how our members have helped each other and the community in amazing ways! Allan Pack, a member in Asheville, NC at Biltmore Church, drove up to Sevierville to bring a meal when Chris Shelton was taking care of his wife Melissa who had just gone through eye surgery. Chris had no idea that Allan knew anything about the journey they were on, but Allan was able to be the hands and feet of Christ in their time of need. Three of our members, Tory Korthuis, Scott Hammond, and James Burns, were spending time enjoying the Charleston area before the conference when they witnessed an accident. They were able to render first aid until the first responders came. These are two examples of how God can use you at any time and place to be a blessing to others.

For photos and other recaps from our time in the Great Smoky Mountains, visit the Facebook group by clicking here.