NWIL Links Assessment 2024-2025
Chad & Crystal Gibbons
Anna Kindle
Sam & Kristi Senica
Jordan & Rachel Thompson
Global NMI – LINKS

Is this a Links Month?

A new year. A chance to do something better than we have done in the past.  Do you struggle to care for your Links well, as I do?  I’ve brainstormed ideas to communicate with them through the year. Maybe some will work in my setting; others may work in yours.  Maybe you’ll think of better ones!

First, do you know your Links? Are they a family, a couple, retired?  Where are they?  What do the they need?  What restrictions are there for your Links?  (Can you send mail or packages direct?  What about cash?)  In ALL your planning, keep these things in mind!

Next, devise a plan. Use holidays as reminders.  How many events can you realistically do this year? Which months or holidays do you want to plan around?  Determine to use the resources available. Involve a younger person; they can be a great help with technology.

January – Introduce your Links to your congregation; help them get acquainted.  Share in services and social media.  Do a Zoom meeting with the missionaries and church, or show a video (visit NWILNAZ.ORG). Ask the missionary if they have a video that you can share.

February – Valentine’s Day.  Do a Links love event.  In services, on Zoom or social media (work with a young tech!) invite others to show love to your Links via email, social media, a phone
call, or even a card via US Postal Service!

March – St. Patrick’s Day.  Think green.  Is cash (or gift card) something that your Links would deeply appreciate? Be sure to check what works in your Links’ situation.

April – Easter, spring.  Is the cold weather hanging on?  Maybe it is for your Links as well.  Is a cheery card in order, or a bright bouquet? (Flowers?  Ask about allergies!)

May – Mothers Day, Memorial Day.  Remember the mother or retiree.  Let the widow know she isn’t forgotten, nor is her husband.

June – Flag Day, Fathers Day.  Remember the dad or retiree.  What about an event (in person or virtual) featuring the Links’ country?  Check with Rev. Ron Jansen about getting a flag for that country.  Refresh the congregation’s memory about your Links, with the help of your tech.

July – Parents Day.  Connect with the parents.  Host Christmas in July to benefit your Links, especially the children.

August – Back to School.  Work with the parents: do they need school clothes or supplies?  Or cash for those things?  Be sure to work in ways most beneficial to the family in their circumstances.

September – Grandparents’ Day.  Ask your Links grandparents to tell you about their grandchildren.  Plan what you will do for Christmas; if physical gifts are appropriate, they may take several weeks to ship.

October – Columbus Day.  A great time to remind your congregation about your Links and their country.

November – Thanksgiving. Thank God for your Links and thank your Links for their work and service.

December – Christmas. How did you do this year?  It’s not too late to do something! 

Did you find a couple of ways to connect with your Links this year?  Maybe you found several ways!  Maybe you’ll be the best Links church they’ve ever had!