Wallace SC&W SAYING THANKS!               For many churches December 31 marks the end of many member’s term of service in an elected or non-elected position.  Particularly during this time of year it is easy for this transition to go unnoticed.  With new people coming on board time is need to help them get up to speed.  With all of the Christmas and New Years events we have more than enough to keep us occupied.  With family time and celebrations with friends it is easy to run out of energy to give recognition.  But how people are treated as they “leave” a position is vital to how they will feel about what they offered and how they will respond to opportunities in the future.  So here are a few ideas of how to say “thanks!”   1.Personally comment to them about what they have done that has made a difference.  Talk about how what was    done has impacted lives in a positive way.  Be sincere and honest. 2. Send a note that recognizes the person’s term is ending and says thanks.  It is amazing how many people loose     track of what year they “go off” when they serve for a multiple year term.  A note like the one below gives a     clear ending point so that people don’t feel like they just drifted off into oblivion.        Bob, I wanted to take just a moment to tell you how much I appreciate the gift that you have     given to the Church.  Over the past weeks, months and years you have worked to lift up     Christ through the ministry of Christ here. You will end your term as a member of our     Elders on December 31st, but I wanted you to know that your gift of time, energy and love     did not go unnoticed. You have helped our members feel cared for and our worship better.     Thank you for your service.                                                                     God Bless,   3. Highlight the gift of past volunteers as you install new leaders.  During a commissioning service     why not recognize the group of those who have served and invite members to say a word of appreciation.      How about listing outgoing leaders in the newsletter or a special email and ask members to be sure to say     thanks or tell how the person’s service made a difference. 4. On a regular basis have card out where members can write notes of thanks to leaders.  Every so often     remind members that the cards are available and for they to use them.  Perhaps have a Sunday a quarter     where postcards are made available in worship and it is announced for people to take this chance to send     a note (e.g. by putting in offering basket and the church sending them).   For me it is easy to look on down the road at what is coming next without taking the time to say a heartfelt word of gratitude.  But people sacrifice their time, energy and most of all their heart and passion for Christ’s work.  So shouldn’t we make time to say “thanks”?                                                                                                                             December 10, 2008