As a kid, one of my favorite things was to tie a blanket around my neck and pretend I was a superhero. As I grew, I found out this is common. We all want to be the “good guy,” acknowledging that I’m a true mid-westerner and “guy” is a gender-neutral term. I spent a lot of time also using my “lasso of truth” while pretending to be Wonder Woman, which I loved to watch in syndication. A “good guy” can be a man or a woman.
As I step into my role as the Director of Conference Benefits & Coordinator of Human Resources, being the “good guy” is at the front of my mind. I have loved how the Michigan Conference has used MI in its branding. MIconnect, MIfaith, and other newsletters. I’ve dubbed myself the “MIbenefits Guy.” I am your benefits guy, so I want you to feel free to think of me as “MIbenefits Guy.” The word ‘benefit’ has at its roots the meaning of good deeds. MI Benefits Guy is literally the “good guy” or perhaps the “kind guy.” I don’t have a cape or a lasso, but I seek to do good for others in this role.
One of my favorite stories in Scripture is the tale of friends who bring their friend to Jesus so he can be healed. It’s not about them; it’s about making sure their friend is made healthy and whole. That’s how I view this ministry. I want the best for all people doing ministry within the Michigan United Methodist Church.
Our Conference’s Vision is to have Christ-centered, Bold & Effective Leaders, but that’s not possible if you’re worried about not having the care you’ll need when you get sick, not having an income should you become disabled, or not knowing where your provision will come from once you decide to stop being in active ministry. That’s where the Board of Pensions and Health Benefits comes in. We’re a team of good guys, and MI Benefits Guy works for them, but most importantly, it works for you.
So, welcome to the first edition of the For Your Benefit newsletter. Watch here for monthly information about benefits. Feel free to reach out to me at any time with questions. I can be reached at [email protected].
Last Updated on November 7, 2023