The days of obtaining 30 of years seniority at one job and retiring with a gold watch are over. People, whether through their own choices or through organizational changes, are finding themselves looking for careers multiple times during their lifetime. This change in the workplace crosses over every culture, religious affiliations, work categories, income levels, both genders, and all ages. Therefore, the chances that this issue will touch more and more individuals and their families in the future continue to increase.

Additionally, the skills needed to secure a new career have vastly changed. Electronic postings and resumes, career counselors, networking techniques, how to market yourself in an increasingly competitive job market, portfolios, and interviewing are all factors that are changing the skills job seekers need to be successful. On top of all of this, the affected job seeker, their family, and friends may be experiencing feelings of fear, anger, and confusion.

Churches have built-in advantages for individuals facing career transitions. They can provide spiritual hope, logistical training support, a built-in network, and accountability to stay on task for the job seeker. They can also serve as a referral source to agencies that can provide for health, financial, and physical needs that may arise in a long-term unemployment scenario.

How can we, as churches, turn a blind eye to an emerging need that potentially affects so many of our members as well as potential new members in our community? Building a neighborhood community that is beneficial for both the church and career transitioners is too much of a win - win opportunity for churches not to get involved.