Expanding the “we”

How often, in ministry work, do we separate ourselves from those we serve? We come from a place of goodness, of generosity, of caring, but ultimately put distance, whether intended or not, between “we” and “them.”

“We believe that all women have the power to transform their lives through employment. So we hire women who are chronically unemployed and we teach them to work by making nourishing products.”

“We do this by sharing the hope and love of Jesus, leading them through discipleship, providing career development in our social enterprise…”

“We feel this directly connects to our mission of sharing the love and hope of Christ with orphans and vulnerable kids. By helping parents we are helping kids.”

These statements are pulled from websites of organizations that seek to improve the lives of women by providing work and opportunities for growth and job skill development, two of them elsewhere in the U.S., and one a little closer to home. All three, are coming from a place of “we.”

This is how “we” are making a difference.

“We” are changing lives.

Here’s how you can support what “we” are doing.

Who exactly is included in that “we”? In the third quote, pulled straight from the description of our own initiative, ReStart, it refers to who we consider our “core staff.” Those of us who are making the decisions, doing the hiring, imparting our wisdom on the women who come through our doors.

In the beginning, this was how it had to be. This was a new endeavor, uncharted territory. We had no idea where it would take us. The “we” had to be the staff that was already in place. But, it set up a separation. “We” were running the business. “They” were a part of a program.

Now, it’s time to expand the “we”.

God is leading us to expand ReStart…to have it represent the majority of payroll, to develop mentors and managers, to put this work in the hands of those who have been empowered through their experience here.

No more “we” and “they” or “us” and “them.”

Just people, working together to fulfill God’s plan for this ministry.

This change won’t happen overnight. It will be a process. This is the first step, changing our way of thinking, removing the barrier, setting the intention, and allowing God to lead into this new phase of ministry.