“The beauty of the Christian Community Development Philosophy is twofold. When fully implemented, the CCD Philosophy results in both community and individual transformation. And the CCD Philosophy provides a framework that encourages and allows us to ask ourselves and each other the difficult questions.”
This was the summary of my lunch conversation here in “Chiberia” (as Chicago is known these days) with a small group of visiting CCDA members from New Orleans. We had been discussing the question: What are the defining characteristics of a CCD ministry? We all left the lunch table feeling challenged and thankful for our time together with one person commenting on the value, yet the infrequency, of these types of conversations in his life.
I often find myself conversing with someone about the value and benefit of CCDA membership. In the National Office, we are working hard to develop tangible benefits of exchange including:
- Discounted registration to the National Conference and Immersion
- A 2-for-1 registration offer to the National Conference
- Discounted fees for hosting an Intensive (1-2 day training)
- Eligibility to take advantage of member-only offers
“I am continually reminded about the value of the intangible benefits of CCDA membership… CCDA provides the infrastructure that brings exposure to the CCD Philosophy; trainings all around the country; and connections for peer learning, encouragement, and accountability.”
However, I am continually reminded (i.e. my lunch conversation) about the value of the intangible benefits of CCDA membership. CCDA provided the network that facilitated the lunch conversation I mentioned above. CCDA provides the infrastructure that brings exposure to the CCD Philosophy; trainings all around the country; and connections for peer learning, encouragement, and accountability.
One of our members recently stated, “[We] are an organizational member of CCDA because we are committed and indebted to the work of the [association]. [Our organization] would not have begun without the work and people of CCDA.” Laura Gallaher, Common Good CDC
As you are deciding whether to join or renew as a CCDA organizational member this year, we encourage you to make your decision based upon the intangible benefits of CCDA membership. Join or renew your organizational membership because you are committed and indebted to the work of CCDA.
Dave Clark
Events & Gatherings Director, CCDA
