by Southwest Conference Minister Rev. Dr. Toni Hawkins
Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken. — Ecclesiastes 4:12
Thank you for your prayers during my recent health challenge. That experience reminded me of how much we truly need one another. Covenant is not just a church word — it’s the sacred bond that carries us when life feels heavy and celebrates with us when joy overflows.
In the Southwest Conference, Covenant Relationships are the “C” in our CARES framework, and they are the foundation of everything we do. We are stronger when we walk side by side. We are braver when we hold each other accountable to love, justice, and mercy. And we are more resilient when we honor that no one is meant to walk this journey alone.
This month, I invite you to pause and ask yourself: Where am I being called to deepen my covenant — with God, with my congregation, or with the wider church? Sometimes covenant looks like showing up; sometimes it looks like speaking truth; sometimes it looks like simply sitting with one another in silence.
This is the work that makes us the Southwest Conference — a community bound not by convenience, but by covenant.
In my next message, we’ll explore how Accountability and Alignment help us walk in step with our values and keep us focused on the mission God has given us.
In Care and Covenant,
Dr. Toni
Read MoreDuring our last weekly staff meeting, Rev. Dr. Toni led a devotion called “Who Cares?” It took me back to my childhood when I used to throw out that phrase without thinking. It was my way of saying, “It doesn’t matter.” But now, I hear it differently with a few more years of life behind me. “Who cares?” is not just a question. It’s an invitation for Who notices? Who shows up? Who carries the love of Christ into the places where it is most needed?
Rev. Dr. Toni reminded us that caring isn’t vague—it has shape and meaning. She gave us the framework of C.A.R.E.S:
C – Covenant Relationships: We commit to each other and to those we serve.
A – Accountability and Alignment: We keep our work true to our mission.
R – Resilience and Renewal: We remain strong through challenges and seek renewal along the way.
E – Empowerment through Education: We equip one another and those we serve with the tools they need.
S – Spiritual Formation and Service: We root our work in faith and serve purposefully.
Click through to read Dr. Derrick’s full article.
Read MoreC.A.R.E.S. is a foundation for meaningful, Spirit-led work, and designed to shape our culture with grace, purpose, and unity.
The C.A.R.E.S. model centers the mission and vision of the SWC staff in holistic, Christ-centered service:
C – Covenant Relationships
A – Accountability and Alignment
R – Resilience and Renewal
E – Empowerment through Education
S – Spiritual Formation and Service
This acronym reminds us that caring is not just what we do—it’s who we are. It's the heartbeat of our ministry and leadership.
📖 Scripture
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together... but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” — Hebrews 10:24–25 (NIV)
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