Dennis and I had a great time in Pennsylvania this past weekend. Our main purpose in being there was to speak at the Penn-Jersey District Pastor's and Wives Retreat held in Lancaster. But, since my family lives in the neighboring county of Lebanon, we were able to combine ministry and family during our stay.We found the Penn-Jersey District to be a diverse group in several ways. A surprising, yet refreshing element was to meet over a dozen couples - African American, Filipino, Haitian - who serve in this district. Not only a racially diverse group, but within this district lies the contrast of rural PA farmlands to metropolitan areas such as Philly, NYC, and Jersey. These men and women who serve so faithfully were a warm and receptive group. Apparently this district is one the most diverse district in the country. We counted it a privilege and honor to share our hearts with them.
It is very evident that Dr. Harry Wood, Penn-Jersey District Superintendent, and his wife, Alice, love shepherding this flock, celebrating the good things that are happening, as well as caring for those who are hurting. It is no surprise that Dr. Wood and Alice are highly respected and loved by those they serve.
Dennis and I were encouraged by an email one of the pastors sent to us after we arrived back home.
"I just wanted to thank you and your wife Gwen for your time in Penn-Jersey this past weekend. I really appreciated you guys, and your speaking style. I was expecting more of the flashy “we’ve got it all figured out” style, and felt you guys had a very refreshing approach of “here’s some practical ideas God is showing us.” It felt more like sitting down and having coffee with you both than anything else."
That definitely affirmed our desire to be "real," and he couldn't have said it better. This weekend made me proud, in a good way, to be part of a greater effort to promote God's Kingdom to a world that desperately needs to see that lived out.
3 comments:
So glad it went well! Of course they loved you both - there's no question that you're real. I think that's what we all want most in relationships, and we just soak it up when we find it. I'm glad you could encourage that great group of people!
It was great to have you out here!
You two are so easy to talk to and you always make everyone around you feel so special. I'm glad you were encouraged and refreshed. Isn't it amazing how we can sometimes go into a situation trying to encourage and end up BEING encouraged instead?
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