Cultivating Joy, Strengthening Our Roots - August 20, 2025

Message from Core Council President, Laura McLeod

Continuing with August’s theme of joy, I’m reminded that joy often shows up in quiet, steady moments — like receiving our month-end financial statements and realizing we’re ahead of where we thought we’d be, evidence we’re moving forward.

Thanks to the generosity of six individuals, who together gave $30,000 in varying amounts, we're now about halfway to our year-end goal. This milestone gives us confidence as we begin preparing for new senior leadership in the year ahead. These gifts model the belief that CSL Ballard has a future worth investing in. We believe that, too — and while it’ll take all of us to show up and do what we’re called to do, we’re stable and moving toward securing our future.

This week, the Finance Committee is reviewing the latest numbers and will share its full report with the Core Council next week. Early results show a surplus and improved cash assets. Having modernized, reliable books and practices supports our stability, so we can strengthen our foundation — financial, spiritual, and organizational — as we plan for what’s next.

As noted previously, we recently revisited our strategy, surfacing priorities that balance who we are today with the possibilities ahead. The next step is turning those insights into a concrete action plan — one that includes our Marketing, Fund Development and Finance committees, creative ideas, and input from all of you. I expect to have a working document within the next few weeks. Rev. Michael continues to provide steady spiritual leadership and vital operational support through this time. His presence — grounded in our principles and practices — helps us stay centered while taking bold steps forward.

That word “foundation” feels especially fitting. Thursday night’s Meaningful Movies screening will explore how restoring our soil is key to restoring the climate. In much the same way, we’re tending to our own soil at CSL Ballard. By strengthening our roots, we’re seeding a future of growth, resilience, and joy.

And speaking of soil, if you see community member and volunteer Kim Kerrigan tending our 61st Street garden, be sure to thank her. She's doing an amazing job of nurturing beauty right at our doorstep.

Rev. Jim’s talk on Sunday reminded us that joy doesn’t exist in isolation — it deepens when we allow ourselves to feel a full range of emotions. By honoring all of it, we create space for joy to emerge more fully. Another way to experience joy is to connect more deeply. Check the ever-evolving bulletin boards downstairs (and the website) for opportunities to connect, as well as news and updates.

Through generosity, thoughtful planning, and shared service, we strengthen our roots, inspire each other, and build a community that thrives, grounded in joy.

#joyinmoments #momentsofjoy #prosperity #togetherwethrive