by As we begin a new year, I want to start by saying this plainly: you belong here.
Across the CCDA community, I see people who love their communities deeply and are showing up with courage and faith. I also know that many of you are carrying heavy loads. You’re doing good work, often in hard places, and sometimes it can feel isolating or unseen. CCDA exists for spaces like this—to remind you that you are not alone and that this work is meant to be done together.
As we look ahead, we are grounding ourselves, along with you, in a set of missional priorities that clarify where we’re going and how we’ll get there. These priorities help us remember who we are together. They give shape to our shared commitments to our neighbors, help us recognize and support one another’s work, and keep us rooted in the mission that brings us into this association in the first place.
Creating Narrative Change
We are committed to lifting up bold, hope-filled stories alongside leaders from the margins. At a time when Christian Nationalism is distorting the gospel and harming our communities, we believe it is essential to tell truer stories; stories rooted in love, justice, and the lived wisdom of those most impacted. These stories remind us who God is and who we are called to be.
Building Community
Too many leaders are doing faithful work in isolation. CCDA brings people together so they can stand with one another, find real belonging, and grow stronger side by side. We are increasing opportunities for connection among CCD leaders and organizations, because transformation is a journey that should be done in community.
Deepening the CCD Ecosystem
Leadership requires more than passion—it requires a network of partners, resources, and support to sustain impact over time. Without that, even the best efforts can plateau. CCDA strengthens the web of connection across sectors and industries so leaders can draw from a broader, shared ecosystem rooted in Christian Community Development.
Advancing Practitioners in CCD Philosophy
The world is full of quick fixes, but the CCD philosophy offers a faithful and lasting way to live out love and justice. Through training, mentoring, coaching, and shared learning, we are grounding leaders in principles that keep their work steady, Christ-centered, and fruitful for generations to come.
Cultivating Practitioner Wellbeing
Many leaders are weary and close to burnout, even as their calling remains clear. At CCDA, we come alongside grassroots leaders who love their neighborhoods but are often under-resourced. We invest in their wellbeing—strengthening resilience, deepening spiritual practice, and making space for rest—so they can flourish instead of burn out.
This year, our work remains important and sacred: to help leaders tell stories that honor marginalized communities, build networks of belonging, access the tools and partnerships they need, and stay rooted in the way of Jesus. Together, we are nurturing a movement where communities thrive and God’s shalom is made visible.
Thank you for being part of CCDA. Thank you for your faithfulness. As we step into this new year, let’s keep walking together—grounded, connected, and full of hope.
A Prayer for the Year Ahead
God of hope and justice,
thank you for calling us into this work and for calling us together.
When we are weary, give us rest.
When we feel alone, remind us that we belong to one another and to you.
Strengthen our hands for the work of love,
soften our hearts toward our neighbors,
and ground us deeply in your way of peace.
As we step into this new year,
guide our decisions, renew our courage,
and help us bear faithful witness to your shalom
in our communities and in the world.
Amen.
