18th May, 2023

Dear Companions on the Journey;

Like many, whether as a participant or as a leader, I love church camps. A chance to retreat and be with like-minded people to centre on our faith and how it impacts our lives and the world. But, whenever I was involved in leadership of a camp, there was always a part I didn’t like. It made me feel uneasy, uncomfortable, and I would try to avoid it at all costs; the end of camp when the group was trying to personally thank me for my leadership.

In fact, it irked me so much that one day I had an idea at a youth camp I was directing. We had come to the end of camp, but instead of going around and individually thanking each of the leaders, I made a change. I shared that given each of the leaders were not there for individual praise or accolades, we were not simply going to go around and offer applause for each. Instead, we would gather in small groups with each of the leaders and share in prayer, giving thanks to God for the contribution made not just by the leaders, but thanks for each one as all made a difference into creating a sacred and meaningful experience.

This week, for me, it is in the same spirit that I give thanks for each and every one of you. It is not simply a few but is in fact all of us that have an important part in helping shape this wonderful community. I want to take this moment to give thanks to the Divine for your ongoing dedication and commitment, your time, your willingness, and your support. You indeed are a significant and special part of this sacred Community of Christ. Thanks be to God for you and all you do.

Further, as you recognise your value and significance to this sacred community, perhaps also take a moment to reflect on another, and reach out to someone and acknowledge and recognise their importance as an integral part of this community.

I give thanks that it is you, a part of all of us, who are making differences in the world and expressing God’s love through this faith community. And I am so very grateful.

Adam R. Wade

Australia Mission Centre President

President of Seventy PacifikAsia Quorum

Community of Christ