b'Tom comes with a lot of leadership experience both in Christian nonprofits and associations, I was so impressed with his leadership style. He stood out to everyone as a leader of leaders. Every candidate discussed being prayerful about the position, but Tom articulated His willingness to only walk through the door God has open for him and his family. Micheal WoodsProgram (PPP) money for faith-based organiza- board that hired me wanted me to do, but also tions. John and the staff also pivoted Citygatewhat I think the still, small voice of God told me Network communications to provide bulletins,could and should be done with Citygate Network supplies, and triage to members on the frontand with ministry to the poor and powerless that lines. John served on the COVID-19 task forceis close to the heart of Jesus. for the U.S. Interagency Council on Homeless-ness and was honored at the National PressA new path Club for leading an effort that saved tens ofT om first learned of Citygate Networks thousands of lives. leadership opening in an email in late 2022. Typically, he said, he would quickly Stepping downtoss any similar inquiries into his electronic trash A fter 16 years, John strongly feels that itsbin. But this one made him pause. time for him to move on. I think thereThis one was probably a little more Holy Spirit comes a point where leaders have to ask,prompted, he said.not, How many more years can I make this last?He had spent time volunteering with ministries but, for the sake of the organization, Is it timethat served those in need in Los Angeles and for fresh eyes to look at the landscape and chartGrand Rapids, and he was somewhat familiar a new course? he said. with Citygate Network. Having conversations John believes he will leave Citygate Network in awith the search team and board and learning solid position with increasing membership, upwardabout the progress John had made intrigued him.trending event attendance, award-winning publica- When I heard about the network, and especially tions, and a positive presence within the Christianthe length and depth of the network, I was blown community and numerous government agencies.away, Tom said. [The opportunity] felt like some-We are at a very different place than we werething God was putting on my heart as a burden.when I started, so I feel good about stepping awayThe search committee spent considerable at this juncture, John said. And I would say thattime going over more than 30 profiles of candi-after 16 years, I accomplished not only what thedates, discussing the potential leaders and \x02 14 WWW.CITYGATENETWORK.ORG JULY/AUGUST 2023'