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There’s no “I” in team

It is so fulfilling to watch a couple working together as a team, especially when they are doing it in sync. What they do is so magnetic it draws you in.

Philip and Holly Wagner started the Oasis Christian Center in Los Angeles over 20 years ago. They were newly weds and like most new couples, they struggled in their relationship with each other for several years. However, it is a joy to watch them work together, leading this 2,000 member church in the heart of the entertainment world – Hollywood.

I first met the duet over six years ago and became attracted to them instantly. There was a relational chemistry between them. Holly is like a cheerleader, while Philip is somewhat reserved. Yet their tremendous work ethic in heading up a church which resembles the United Nations is amazing. Philip reiterates: “I love this church, walking through these doors energizes me.”

After 23 years of marriage they still work on their relationship, and travel the world teaching others to do the same. Their love and respect for each other is like a transparent lacquer finish.

I remembered Holly telling a story about her teenage son when he was much younger. She states that one night after a busy day she was helping him with his homework and he was sassing her big time. Philip in another room overheard the exchange and emerged on the scene, to his son he echoed “Don’t you ever talk to my wife like that again” His youngster got the message; that is teamwork in parenting. I have noticed their teamwork philosophy whether its raising funds for projects like: building water wells in Uganda or delivering the message on Sundays. Zinging each other from the seat is habitual.

A female group called “Godchicks” was started by Holly a few years ago. These women meet several times a year and once annually for what’s considered as their “Godchicks Conference” with Philip playing a very important role, not only as a speaker, but a promoter of the female gender.

Doing chores together therefore erases the sneaky “I” in team and when mixed with prayer delivers creates a winning team – one to be reckoned with. “A family that prays together stays together” – Unknown.

Inside: Spread Some Love (Relationships 101) By John A. Andrews