Synod

I have been silent for a while. It is as if writing about Ross left me unable to write anything else. But here goes:

 

 

Once a year it is our Methodist Synod weekend. This sees a gathering of District (regional) leadership of Methodist people at various centres around Southern Africa for three days of reports, worship, food and friendship. The quality of these meetings depends on the skill of the District Bishop, and the experience of Synod ranges from routine and boring, to creative and inspirational.

I have just returned from Piet Retief, where I attended the Synod of the Highveld and Swaziland District. It was chaired by Bishop Jon Anderson. His unassuming, nearly seven foot tall, ungainly figure belies a sharp intellect and a deep personal spirituality.  We have been friends for at least 35 years, and I appreciate his humility and uncompromising integrity. It would seem that his District does too, because they elected him to a further three year term as their bishop. I was honoured to have been invited to lead Bible Studies for the Synod, as well as preach at a public witness service, where those new to the ministry give a public testimony of faith and calling.

The ride from Pietermaritzburg to Piet Retief and back was exhilarating. I rode the GS1150 and we had 900 kilometres of fun. The experience of Synod was affirming. It was wonderful to have people appreciate my contribution. And I return inspired for the next stretch to exams / marking / reports … everything that demands buckets-full of inspiration in order to survive.