The Church of Gnome’s 2025 Year in Review

A Year-End Reflection, Gratitude, and Looking AheadThis is the final episode of Gnome Talk for the year, and it’s a different kind of conversation.In this episode, I take you behind the scenes of the Church of Gnome and walk through what this year actually looked like. Not just the growth and milestones, but the reality of building something meaningful while balancing responsibility, family, work, stress, and care.We talk about the quiet early months, the moment everything suddenly took off, the pressure that followed, and the lessons that came with growth arriving faster than infrastructure. I share honestly about the highs and the lows, the joy and the anxiety, and what it’s been like to steward a community that has grown into something far bigger than an idea on the internet.This episode also reflects on:The rapid growth of the Church of Gnome and what that responsibility really meansThe joy of seeing weddings officiated by Gnomean ministers around the worldMeeting members in person and witnessing the community come to life beyond screensThe challenges of moderation, emails, and care at scaleReal-world charitable impact and why moving slowly and intentionally mattersChoosing sustainability over speedEmbracing both the profound and the absurd without losing integrityThis year has felt like the moment when the roots truly took hold. And this episode is a living record of that season. A pause before turning the page.Whether you’re a long-time member, newly ordained, or just discovering the Church of Gnome, my hope is that this reflection helps you look at your own year with a little more compassion, patience, and perspective.Thank you for being part of this strange, sincere, growing community.🌱 Gnome Blessings.