by Rev. Doug Douma
Sola Appalachian Christian Retreat, Unionville, NY
the Missions Banner, April/May 2026

In this day and age, it is perhaps more common than not for phone calls, texts, and emails to go unanswered. So when hikers contact us and we respond—often immediately—the first rep

ly we frequently receive is simply, “Thanks for answering!”

Ours is a ministry of hospitality, and the heart of that ministry is simply being here. Of course, “being here” does not mean sitting still; it means maintaining an active, attentive pre

sence. It begins with responding to those who reach out to us. It continues during the time we spend with our guests. And it even extends beyond their visit, as we follow up with them after they have resumed their hikes or returned to their homes.

With growing concerns about the future and the possibility of AI replacing many jobs, we can be confident that we still offer something no computer ever truly can: the presence of a real human being. That is something all people in Christian ministry—and even in service professions more broadly—should remember. There always remains the need for genuine human interaction.

This is also something that each person can implement in their own lives – presence; being there for others. When you think you have nothing to offer, remember that your presence is often the most valuable offering.

When we think of the ministry of Jesus Christ, we have to start with his presence; his answering the call to save man, and that starts with “Immanuel” – God with us. That is a remarkable fact, that Jesus was present in this world, answering the cries of his people for salvation and securing eternal life on the cross. We ought to say “thanks for answering” to Jesus, and remember him in our interactions with others; we love because he first loved us.

At Sola, we also say “thanks for answering” to you, our many supporters. You have answered the call through your prayers, your financial support, and your willingness to help physically with the work that keeps this mission running smoothly.

And so I encourage you for the sake of civility: respond to messages that come your way. If your answer is no, tell the person. Don’t leave them wondering. Perhaps someday we will return to a world where we no longer feel the need to say “thanks for answering,” because answering will once again be expected—and normal.