In case you didn't know, I graduated...again.
Instead of a degree, though, I got an InterVarsity branded laundry bag. Maybe it sounds lame, but for someone whose job inevitably gets her massive amounts of t-shirts, it's actually very practical. And practical gifts are great!
Anyway, Regional Staff Training is NY/NJ's training for new staff. It's a 4 day training that happens twice a year, for 3 years. I've really enjoyed this aspect of my job, so here are 3 reasons why I'm going to miss Regional Staff Training:
1. It was a reminder that my colleagues are just like me. At the beginning of every training module, our cohort shared a significant incident (whether negative or positive) with the group and our reflections on it. It was such a valuable practice that reminded us that we were not alone. We struggle with similar struggles. We understand each other's hardships of this ministry. We experience the grace God pours out to us. It helps dismantle any form competition or comparison that may build up when we're not together.
2. We learned side-by-side and from each other. One of my favorite and most helpful parts of RST has been the workshopping element. There were segments of training where we would share with each other some aspects of ministry and leadership that we were struggling with, and then helped by sharing some ideas of what to do or some best practices we had. Sometimes you just need someone who's not your supervisor to give you feedback and ideas.
3. It was really fun! The NY/NJ staff are pretty fun people. We like playing games, talking, eating, reading, having adventures, and spending time with each other. We respect each others' need for alone time and encourage the value of play and rest. What a great way to develop camaraderie and build relationships in a non-work context.
We celebrated together, mourned together, learned together, and laughed together as peers and colleagues at Regional Staff Training. Why
wouldn't I miss it?
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