Michael Readinger

Renewal

By Michael Readinger | August 14, 2015
Michael J. Readinger

In late July, the CHHSM team took a couple days away from the office for a staff retreat. There was ample time for us to plan for the future, relax, socialize, exercise, and meet with our members in Minnesota. This time away from the office reminded me how important we can be in shaping our…

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Growing Together at General Synod

By Michael Readinger | July 14, 2015
Michael J. Readinger

The 30th UCC General Synod was a time of celebrating, visioning, imagining the future, reflecting and building community. It was a time of great passion for the church of our shared heritage. It was also a time of immense learning. Now is the time to look at the possibilities of where this experience might take…

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Faith-Based Ministry

By Michael Readinger | June 12, 2015
Michael J. Readinger

Some folks find the words “faith-based ministry” scary. While I understand their viewpoint is often a product of a damaging religious experience, I would like to challenge that view. I find faith-based ministry to be a reassuring and intentional way to look at delivering service to people on the margins. In the UCC, we talk…

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A Strong Core: Core Values and Mission

By Michael Readinger | May 12, 2015
Michael J. Readinger

Every time I go to the gym, I begin my workout by focusing on my core. Good training principles dictate that the key to strength, health and wellness comes from a strong and stable core. I perform a variety of exercises designed to isolate core muscles and to engage multiple muscle groups as a way…

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Val-You Proposition

By Michael Readinger | April 14, 2015
Michael J. Readinger

In previous columns, I talked about the importance of belonging and the language we use to communicate. Now I ask you to reflect on why you choose to belong to CHHSM. What are the compelling reasons to be a member of this community of practice? Your reasons form the basis of a value proposition for…

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Now What?

By Michael Readinger | March 13, 2015
Michael J. Readinger

What, So What, Now What? A few years ago, I went on a group vacation to Mexico. We stayed in a settled area, but the casa we rented was staffed by locals who spoke absolutely no English. We all spoke a little Spanish (some studied it years ago, others used language course CDs), but only…

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Transformation

By Michael Readinger | February 17, 2015

Why all this talk about transformation? Because transformation is the only constant that exists in our lives. Transformation happens at every level, starting with our personal interactions, friendships and networks, which have profound impacts on our world views. We are also informed and influenced by the social, political and legal environment that shapes our society.…

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From Longing to Belonging

By Michael Readinger | January 14, 2015
Michael J. Readinger

As I reflect on what it means to be a membership organization, my viewpoint is touched by the recent holidays – the Advent season of anticipation, the warmth and happiness of Christmas, and the hope of the New Year. In addition to family, prayer and celebration, singing is a big part of these times. We…

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CHHSM 2.0

By Michael Readinger | November 11, 2014
Michael J. Readinger

I am pleased and honored to pen this, my first column as the Council for Health and Human Service Ministries’ new president and CEO. I give my heartfelt thanks to all of you who have entrusted me with this important call to servant leadership. I promise to be faithful to the mission, vision and core…

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