A Message from the Chairman

He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love.” Ephesians 4:16 NLTThese profound words of the Apostle Paul describe his insightful understanding of the Church and reveal how it is to effectively function. Three principles stand out.  One, the Church, like our physical body, is made up of diverse, but equally important parts.  Two, each member of the Church, like each part of the body, is called upon to do its part in order for the other parts to grow. Three, when the Church, like the physical body is healthy and well, it is able to reveal pure and unadulterated love to a world that is in need of that love.As I reflected upon this text and God’s plan for His Church, my mind considered the way this passage speaks to this important organization. First Choice for Women is certainly a crucial part and strategic extension of the Church in Delaware and Madison counties.  As such, Paul’s words to the church in Ephesus are applicable to us as well. First, there are many important components to this life-championing organization. The dedicated and hard-working staff, the scores of faithful volunteers, generous donors, and the Board of Directors are all needed to make First Choice a thriving ministry. No single group is more or less important or valuable. Second, in order for this ministry to function most effectively, we all need to perform our roles with passion and excellence. When staff, volunteers, donors, and board members serve First Choice generously, faithfully, and with selfless humility, each area is strengthened and the whole ministry grows healthy as a result. This is what is happening now and why First Choice continues to grow and experience God’s blessing. Finally, as a healthy organization where everyone is doing their part, First Choice is able to share Christ’s love effectively. His unconditional love is shown to young mothers struggling with decisions, His tangible love is expressed to couples finding it difficult to make ends meet, holy love is revealed to students in schools hearing the importance of abstinence, and forgiving love is manifest to the women who struggle still with the pain of their past choices. God’s love is fully seen in a church (or ministry) that is functioning as a healthy body.  Thank you for faithfully doing your “own special work” and in so doing, helping First Choice to minister in a healthy and powerful manner.Great Blessings,Kevin J. HoltChairman, Board of Directors