Friends,
As we read this, 2015 is still in its infancy, full of the possibilities that each New Year has and rife with hope and expectations that this year will be better for us that those previous. I too feel those expectations for the year, personally and professionally.
We see the turning of the calendar and the fresh new days of a year as a chance to do better, and to right the wrongs of the previous year. We make promises to work harder, lose weight and to spend more time with our families. A new year gives us those opportunities, but it is up to each of us to see these aspirations come to fruition.
The World Methodist Council begins 2015 with a mission to continue planning the best possible experience for those who choose to attend the 21st World Methodist Conference in Houston, Texas in September 2016. Our Program Team will continue to work tirelessly to build relationships with our denominational leaders to ensure that we get the best and the brightest of those within our global family to come to Houston. As we gather for fellowship and sharing, it is my hope and prayers that Methodist Movement will be further revived and empowered to face the daunting challenges of the twenty first century.
Summer 2015 will see the nomination process for Elected Officers, Committee Chairs and other important positions in the World Methodist Council for the 2016 – 2021 quinquennium begin. Part of the impetus behind this issue of the First Friday Letter is to help inform and educate those who are not sure of the Council’s history and mission. A clear and concise place explaining the Council and its operations will be a key focus for those who are nominated and interested in nominating others for leadership in our global body. This month’s feature story serves as a quick reference to our organization.
Also in this issue you will find stories on an expansion of the Wesley House in Cambridge, UK, how the CME, AME and AME-Zion Churches are responding to the protests that happening throughout the United States, and an update on the Council’s Achieving the Vision Endowment Campaign.
As a busy year commences remember that the World Methodist Council continues to serve as a way to unite everyone in the spirit of one people throughout the world who share a common belief in Jesus Christ.
During this time of renewed hope and opportunity, I encourage you with the words of the Psalmist (51:10).
Create in me a pure heart, O God,
And, renew a steadfast spirit within me
May 2015 be filled with many blessings.
Yours in Christian love and service,
Ivan M Abrahams