A chapter in the story of WMB closes with celebration!

Reflections on the ministry of Adult Fellowship - by Pastor of Missional Communities, Dean Sherk  - posted Dec 12, 2011

December 2, 2011 marked the final gathering of Adult Fellowship as many have known it.  The evening was a celebration centered on the coming of the Christ child - our Saviour, Jesus Christ. Over 50 people in attendance enjoyed food, fellowship and the ministry of Laurie Atkins, Gospel singer & storyteller. It was a great evening, but one also marked with a sense of loss. Saying goodbye is rarely easy. In light of this unique evening and chapter in our story, I suggest there are a few thoughts to consider: 

First, consider the idea of 'gratitude'. I think we need to be very thankful to God for what WMB's Adult Fellowship has been about and accomplished over the years. Through worship, sharing, testimony, teaching and friendship, we have been encouraged in our faith, blessed in our fellowship and inspired in our service to our Lord. We can praise God for his goodness!  I am, and I know we all are, also grateful for the many who have served in leadership of Adult Fellowship over the years.   

Secondly, consider 'new life'. It might seem strange to think about new life now, but I think this time can be bitter-sweet. It tastes bitter to say "good-bye" to a program that has been familiar and benefitted many for so long. Yet this time too can be sweet. The Gospel is all about new life and resurrection. Before resurrection can happen, there is a day of mourning - a death as it were. Think of a seed and the words of Jesus from John 12:24 - "I tell you the truth, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds." Life springs forth!  Consider that there may be many seeds that will produce life as a result of this chapter of our story closing. There is another chapter in the grand story that God is writing.

In the new year, I will be putting out a call to seniors at WMB to have a conversation about what could and might emerge in the future. No promises, just a conversation to think, to reflect and to dream. If you would like to join in this conversation about the future, then please come to the Chapel on January 24, 2012 at noon. Bring a bag lunch.  We'll keep the coffee and tea warm as we consider a new day for seniors at WMB.   

In the meantime, give thanks to God for what he has done through Adult Fellowship and what he will accomplish to further his Gospel purposes in the future. 

Sincerely,
Dean