Bev and I have just.returned from one the most inspiring.and stimulating visits to our congregations. It was not tiring; rather it was.a journey that energized us. Our primary purpose was to visit the ministry, leadership and membership of the United Church of God. We truly feel that we had succeeded in connecting spiritually with so many of our brothers and sisters who have similar values, vision and mission. 

On this trip while in Australia and New Zealand we didn't stay one single evening in a hotel . All our nights were in people’s homes. We appreciated getting to know and spend more time with our ministers and members in this manner.

In Australia we met with all our ministers and their spouses as well as most of the deacons and deaconesses We were at three Sabbath services and one Bible Study as well as two Sundays in special council or ministerial meetings with our leadership We also visited the National Office in the Gold Coast and met all office employees and volunteers.  

By coming to Australia and New Zealand I was able to learn so much about the churches, about how people think and see first-hand some of the needs of our members and ministers. The visits were all about the Church and its future. Australia is facing similar challenges as the US in the developing future leaders for the Church.  

I learned that the needs that we have here are the same in Australia. We all need to feel appreciated and respected . And, we must show that respect and appreciation to others. 

I learned more about how our people while living in a country that is prosperous, are isolated by distance from other parts of the world. We felt especially welcomed in the two Sabaths we were in Australia and the one in New Zealand. Being with everyone in person will help me to pray individually for every person individually for their success, health and protection by God.

In our meetings with the ministry how important it was for us to maintain peace in the Church if we're to fulfill our mission. We must be able to resolve our difficulties as Christians because we ARE Christians.  

We talked about holding a conference for all in the Australian and New Zealand ministry about a year from now.  

Glad to be back. The photos are from Manhattan Beach which we took a bus to from the airport while on layover in Los Angeles.