Unity in Diversity

Exceeded expectations! Very encouraging, great to hear what colleagues in other countries are doing. Inspiring contributions from the Arab and Jewish pastors!

These were some of the comments made by those who attended the bi-annual NEM conference earlier this year. The aim of the conference is to provide a retreat, inspire all our workers in the Middle East, to keep us focussed on our calling for the ministry of reconciliation and to renew and strengthen our fellowship. The team who organised the conference and made the programme, did an excellent job. The theme was "Unity in Diversity" and reflected our vision and prayers for the people of the Middle East. The subject was expounded from John 17 by the Arab pastor Anis Barhoum, the Jewish pastor Tony Sparandeo and our general director Gilbert Lammerts van Bueren. The daily get together in small groups was a highlight for many, as was the retreat during the first day, including a so called "Emmaus walk" in which each participant got to know someone from another area by sharing during a long walk . There was also a lot of fun.

 

The children and teenagers had their own programme around the same topic but joined in for our common worship and the "braai", organised by Hugo, our NEM'er from South Africa. The "braai" turned out to be a barbeque. After four days everyone went home inspired, with new energy and wi promises to keep in touch through e-mail, telephone and visits, determined to pray for each other in the ministry of reconciliation.