As summer ends and autumn begins, we see changes all around us in the world. Students return to school and enter new classes. The green life of the trees transitions to the gorgeous colors of dormancy. Stadiums that were quiet for months come to life with cheers for players, cheerleaders and bands. The warm summer evenings give way to cooler evenings where sitting outside is welcome.

Just as seasons evolve and life changes, so do congregations and churches. Change is an inevitable part of the ebbs and flows of a congregation! Yet change is one of those things in life that can cause discomfort. As a new RE year begins with a new Acting DRE, some change in the program is going to occur. Some will view the change as troublesome. Others will view the change as no big deal. While others will welcome the changes that occur. The important thing for all of us to remember—no decision is made without lots of thought, processing and conversation. The decisions are made with the children of the congregation in mind and what is best for them. They are part of the current church and are key to the future of the church. They must be at the forefront of all that is done in children’s Religious Education.

German-born spiritual author Eckhart Tolle said, “Some changes look negative on the surface but you will soon realize that space is being created in your life for something new to emerge.”

So, look forward to the coming months and years with expectancy and hope, while remaining grateful for our foundation.

In faith,
David Wise