Dear Friend,
Less than 4% of businesses survive to the fourth generation. Ernesto Poza, professor of global family enterprises at the Thunderbird School of Global Management in Glendale, Arizona, points out that companies that make it to the fifth generation are so uncommon that there is virtually no research available. As you may know, Art Kopicky retired in June (he is now in an Emeritus role at quarter time), and in 2023 we hired our “fourth generation of Teleios” staff member, Brian Petermeyer. With the statistics above, some might wonder why we are so excited and encouraged about this next generation of the ministry. I’ve been thinking about it, and I believe that a lot of our hopefulness is due to the reality that this isn’t actually the fourth generation. Instead we are just trying to carry on the “family business“ of Jesus.
It appears from scripture that the way the first generation of followers of Jesus carried on the “family business” was through four simple practices that they participated in each time they were together. “They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” - Acts 2:42
For more than 50 years, Teleios has maintained these four rhythms: scripture, fellowship, food (coffee), and prayer, as the framework for our weekly time together in groups. This is why our Teleios board members and staff are so hopeful about this ministry continuing with the fourth generation and beyond. The model has been sustained not only through three generations of Teleios, but through countless generations since those first followers of Jesus.
We were encouraged in May when many of us gathered to honor Art’s 31 years on staff and celebrate all the Lord has done through Teleios in the past year. The support was overwhelming, and we felt everyone in the room saying, “Keep going! Together, let’s keep helping men reach maturity in Christ through building bonds of friendship with other men.” In order to continue this great work into the 4th generation and beyond, please join us in making a year-end contribution to Teleios. We are looking to raise $140,000 to fund our 2024 budget needs and start the new year on strong financial footing. You can give through check, stock, or credit card/bank transfer at teleiosmen.com/donate.
Thank you for being with us through this season of transition and for your practical support in helping us carry on the “family business” of Jesus.
With gratitude,
Shawn Petree Mike Boroughs
President Chairman of the Board
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