Unforced Rhythms
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Eccl 3:1). As the dog days of summer approach, we cannot help but observe the unforced rhythms of florae in bloom, and the shifting landscapes from bronze to emerald. Likewise, the unforced rhythms of change help us navigate the pending shifts of distinction, diversity and development. As our role in the CBWC family continues to mature, we remain faithful to “why” we exist and use our talents as contributions to the bigger story.
1. Distinction (dəˈstiNG(k)SH(ə)n) – a difference or contrast between similar things or people
The CBWC Foundation is similar to the CBWC in terms of “why” we do what we do but looks distinctly different in “how” we get there. Our pastoral brothers and sisters labor joyfully, managing the human capital that keeps the local church relevant in today’s culture. As math-types, we create, manage and tweak the financial matrix needed to resource these vital relationships. Although the aim of the Foundation is to protect and grow financial assets, we never lose sight of what team we play on. We walk alongside our CBWC family, offering varied perspectives that satisfy key roles on the ministry playing field. We do not simply cheer from the sidelines but instead, continually focus on honing skills, showing up for practices, and being game-ready.
2. Diversity – "If you’re brave enough to say good-bye, life will reward you with a new hello". P. Coelho
In June 2018, we bid adieu to three retiring board members and welcome two new ones to our Foundation tribe. Truth be told, I am not a fan of goodbyes, but do speak for many others when expressing a deep gratitude for the time spent with Jack, Steve and Peter over the past 33 years of collective service. In parallel, am equally appreciative for the servant hearts of our newest members (Donna and Ken) trusting they will quickly feel at home and provide a renewed sense of energy and optimism.
Jack Borchert, Chairman & Director, 2002 – 2018served five years at (Avalon) Emmanuel Baptist in Saskatoon after graduating from Seminary in 1978 and prior to moving to Summerland Baptist in 1983, where he served until 2000. Jack joined the BUDF until 2007, subsequently moved to FBC Kelowna and enjoyed semi-retirement at Summerland Baptist before returning to full-time co-pastor in 2017. He is happily married to Pam, with whom he shares a wonderful circle of friends, children and grandkids. In 2016, Jack and Pam’s house burned down which has been a great source of angst, forcing them to live out of suitcases and sleeping in 17 different beds and locations. Jack’s 2018 goal is to be settled in one place for retirement! We expect his summer will include long trips on his motorcycle and taking Pam to Costco for date nights. Thanks, Jack!
Steve Newransky, Director, 2011 – 2018, has been a member of the CBWC for 28 years, serves on his church council, and was an Assembly rep in 2017. Steve served six years with the Opportunity Grants Committee, has a heart for initiating new ministries, shared his musical talents on many praise and worship teams and is currently involved in ministry to men from different churches. Steve’s professional background includes 22 years in the financial industry in both in advisory and corporate roles and is a proud dad of two teen girls, which is his biggest personal challenge to date. Thanks Steve!
Peter Burnham, Secretary & Director, 2008 – 2018, is a geologist by training, worked for Dome Petroleum in the early 1980s and moved into the realm of junior-sized oil and gas entities, spending 35 years building new companies and selling them. He’s participated on the boards of several private and public oil and gas companies and for the past 10 years has been involved part time in private equity placement in the oil and gas sector. Peter has been married to Wendy for 35 years, has three married children and one granddaughter who brings an incredible amount of joy. Peter enjoys sailing, fishing and travelling with Wendy and friends. He’s interested in international mission, particularly the Middle East and India, has a 40-year history of involvement with Young Life of Canada and upon retirement from the Foundation Board is available for other areas of service. Thanks, Peter!
Donna Johnson, Director, appointed April 2018, attended Kings University in Edmonton studying psychology and music, and then worked at Family Freehorse Wellness Society with Indigenous families. After moving to Calgary, Donna attended the University of Calgary and switched gears, using her talents in the credit industry, working with UFA for six years handling commercial credit and leading regional managers in the field. While raising a young family, Donna freelanced in bookkeeping, accounts receivable & payable, payroll and credit adjudication. In 2015, Donna joined the Westview Education Society, handling the bookkeeping and intra-office administration. She is currently finishing her second year of a B.Comm. in Accounting and was most recently hired by BDO. Donna is an active member of Westview Baptist Church, serves in the CBE teaching pysanka and mentors seniors regarding credit security and fraud. In her spare time, Donna is learning ASL in the hopes of increasing her volunteer time with the Deaf Church at Westview. Welcome, Donna!
Ken Ritchie FCIP, Director, appointed April 2018, is a Fellow of the Insurance Institute of Canada, has a Business Management Certificate from the University of Calgary, has enjoyed a career in the insurance business since 1976, and is currently the CEO of Mennonite Mutual Insurance Co. (Alberta) Ltd. Ken has served on the boards of The Society of Fellows, Camp Chestermere, Crescent Heights Baptist Church, the CBWC Finance Committee and remains actively involved with several Mutual Insurance Associations. Ken’s greatest satisfaction in business and non-profit work has been participating in setting and implementing strategic plans. Having the ability to influence organizations to move in creative new directions captures his interest and motivates him to succeed. Welcome, Ken!
3. Development – "Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space, is our power to choose our response". Viktor Frankl
When it comes to missional development, we each do our part to resource the CBWC community. For example, the Foundation provides an environment to steward resources, and our churches provide the environment to place them. We act as an intermediary, resourcing goals by converting monies from our Ministry Impact Fund into loans for churches, pastors and partner agencies. Again, we notice the natural, unforced rhythms play out through a collective net worth. In early seasons of cultivation, many organizations rely heavily on capital, however, when a mature harvest reaps fruit, the excess is re-deployed and replanted. We depend on these natural and cyclical shifts to create loving, interdependence on community and, when done in harmony, we all thrive. Currently, the Foundation has the privilege of stewarding monies that are available to lend out, so if you are in a season, where additional capital can increase ministry potential, please give us a call. We are eager to serve. (www.cbwcfoundation.ca)
