by Cindy Selke
ALMOST SIX YEARS AGO I walked into our NCEM Personnel Office, looking for some information for an upcoming staff conference. I had a few tasks for which I needed access to our missionary files and records.
At the time I really had no idea what the position of Personnel Coordinator entailed. But soon after being asked to take on that role, I began to understand that “updating information” would turn out to be much, much more!
My own definition of Personnel is this: “Person” … working with persons in the Mission family, as well as responding to the inquiries of potential missionary candidates. I thoroughly enjoy recruiting, contacting references, and interviewing applicants.
The second part of Personnel is “el” … which I affectionately call the electronic part of record-keeping and paperwork details. This is the more technical part of my role and, fortunately, I have assistants who can be in the Office regularly to help take care of these tasks.
My assistant, Marian Davis, and I strive to serve the staff of NCEM, providing information to our Office staff as needed, and answering questions from our missionaries on the field. But lest you think our role is restricted to our computers, filing cabinets and the photocopier … let me assure you that is not the case!
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“So, how is your week going?” Marian asks a college intern serving at our NCEM Office. The two of them then spend some time debriefing the mail opening process, and talk about the latest module course at college. A few days later, that same intern will pop in just to chat for a few minutes. With an open door policy, Marian can build relationships with interns and be available to be that listening ear.
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“We are thinking about a move and have a few questions.” I take the phone call from new candidates, who are processing their support raising journey as faith missionaries. I listen to their thoughts and add some suggestions. I remind them that their focus is on building their support team before being overly concerned about where they will serve.
“You may be better off staying where you are and continuing to make connections in your home community,” I add. “Being fully supported financially now will mean you won’t have to be concerned while you are focused on ministry in the future.”
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Beyond recruitment and working with missionary candidates, quite often you may find Marian and I planning special events, welcoming new staff and volunteers, and arranging meals during Board and Executive meetings. We love to help bring our Mission family together and celebrate the milestones of our members!
As we continue to receive inquiries from those thinking about possibly joining NCEM for missionary service, Marian and I are excited to see a growing interest in First Nations ministry. From the first contact with NCEM to the honouring of a retiring faithful servant, we desire to welcome, encourage and support all those who would consider joining the NCEM family.
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EXPLORING MISSIONS?
Wanting to serve the Lord beyond what you’re already doing? Thinking of missions? We are happy to personally answer your questions about possible missionary service, and we can also refer you to others who are happy to help.
Don’t worry … we promise that our communication with you will be free from pressure. You will not be placed on a mailing list just because you called or wrote to us, and we won’t assume that we’re the right ministry organization for you.
We’re happy to help you in exploring God’s place of ministry for you, wherever that may be.
Write or call us …
Phone: 306-763-3388
Email: personnel@ncem.ca
Cindy Selke (left) and her assistant, Marian Davis (right), are happy to respond to your questions about serving with us!
(from Northern Lights issue #562)