Change and adaptations

By Michael Flanagin, Council Vice President

When I was 5 we moved from a small town in rural Maine to the booming metropolis of San Jose, CA. I couldn't wait to be there, and was sure that we would be right next door to Disneyland and I knew that all the fabulous and wonderful things California had to offer would be mine to enjoy. While we weren't next door to Disneyland, I loved our new home and made friends quickly. It was one of the most important changes in my childhood, and one that I embraced with enthusiasm. I carried this excitement regarding change to adulthood.

I know that not everyone embraces change this way. Some find comfort in routine, wrapping it around themselves like a warm blanket. Others take trepidatious steps toward change, testing the waters with each movement forward, evaluating and judging if it's wise to continue down that path. Regardless of your feelings and reactions to change, we know that it is inevitable. We grow older, we learn, we adapt, and we find a way forward as the world changes around us.

None of those viewpoints of change are right or wrong, and honestly sometimes I need those who are trepidatious to put into check my enthusiasm to help us all discern the wise path. This is what makes the church body at CGS an amazing and wonderful organism. We wouldn't function well as a team if we didn't have all viewpoints to consider.

There have been many changes at CGS in the 9 years I have been here. We called an Interim Pastor, a Pastor, hired new staff, we've had changes in ministries and tenants, and the property has had transformations. And there are still more changes to come as we consider calling a Deacon and undergoing a building transformation that would enable us to live out our mission to serve and be welcoming in a greater way.

Sometimes the changes can seem overwhelming, and I take comfort knowing that I don't need to be anxious about anything, because I can take my concerns to the Lord in prayer, and the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Phil 4:6-7).
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How are you feeling about the changes occurring at CGS? Anxious? Excited? Trepidatious? Schedule a time to have coffee with a church council member. We want to hear from you, pray with you, and walk with you as we face the joys and challenges of change together.
 
In Peace,
Michael Flanagin