by Ivan Abrahams
For most of us, March is a time of transition. The ashen gray winter in the northern hemisphere begins to yield to the greens and golds of spring, while the summer begins its retreat towards autumn in the south. We begin new routines and new projects, and look forward to the promises of the new season.
Just like those of us who are adjusting and going through our own personal metamorphoses, the World Methodist Council is facing a changeover of its own. This month we say goodbye to our own Roma Wyatt, who has faithfully served the Council for the past ten years. Roma has proved to be an invaluable cog in the wheel that keeps this great machine turning, as well as a loyal confidant to both the previous General Secretary, Dr. George Freeman, and myself. Roma’s retirement underscores something bigger that is happening within the Council, a newer and younger energy that seeks to honor the past contributions while striving to define what the Council means to a newer generation. With that in mind it is time for us to begin the work towards our 2016 Conference.
This month the Steering Committee of the World Methodist Council is meeting in Rio de Janeiro to discuss and finalize plans for the full Council meeting which takes place this September in London, England. In Brazil we come together to collectively begin our busy year of work that we hope will continue to grow, invigorate and inspire our worldwide church family.
Sometimes the world seems to be spinning far faster than we would like for it to be and the temptation is strong to resist it, especially if the transition we are encountering is an uncomfortable one. But time marches on, and we must not only accept the change, but welcome it. This is all part of God’s wonderful plan for us all.
Just as the air outside tells us when it’s time for a crop to be planted or harvested, or when it’s time to trade our short sleeves for a jacket, we must anticipate and prepare ourselves for change. This month, as we notice the changing of the seasons, remember that the work of the World Methodist Council is doing its part to be ready for the spiritual changes in the air, and we will stand with our brothers and sisters ready to embrace whatever weather is coming our way.
— Ivan Abrahams
