At minus one I’m saying Fall is here!! Happy Thanksgiving everyone.


Indeed there are many reasons to be thankful as we reflect on our personal lives, our church families and on our associational life. I am drawn to the Apostle Paul’s words; how he begins his letters with a blessing – “Grace and
Peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ” and generally follows with words of thanksgiving. “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you …..” – how encouraging!

I have been blessed in my experience and remembrance of you and am greatful for the picture I have of so many of you labouring for the gospel in your communities. Some years ago, my wife Norma and I were transferred from
Montreal to Toronto. At the same time friends were also moving to Vancouver. They were a senior couple (Eber and Norma) and it was likely we wouldn’t see them again. However as I often do, I dislike god-byes and said something like – “we’ll see you again”. Oh, says Eber, “I think not – but we will meet at the Lords table”. How insightful – I hardly miss taking communion without thinking of them. I think in some small way, Eber gave me an insight into what Paul meant and his feeling for the people of God and his fellow labourers for the gospel. 

It is from this place that I thank God for you. It was a blessing to be together at our annual meeting and
I’m excited and refreshed for having heard so many stories of God’s goodness told by those who were able to attend.  Looking at the year as your moderator, I’m especially greatful for 
        
- Sharon and her work in making the Beacon a reality. After all, what would we as an association without a vehicle to tell our stories and read about the good news of God in our midst?
       
- The wonderful people from Spartanburg SC and their gift of the block-party trailer. It has been a delight to read stories of how it has been used for God’s glory and purpose. 
     
- For Jim Tranquilla and his work in our partnership with God’s people in North and South Carolina. How blessed are we for all the people who travelled to our region and laboured side by side with us this summer. More than 20 teams and over 100 of God’s people!
      
- The appointment of Derek Jones to Atlantic Canada. What a blessing to have his knowledge and personal commitment dedicated to our region. It has been my privilege to call him friend and to get to know his heart for God’s people. 
        
- Gerry Taillon and his leadership team at the CNBC; for their commitment to grow the Kingdom and for their willingness to come along side to enable and encourage healthy re-producing churches. What a wonderful example of “walking the talk”. 
     
- And, I’m greatful for Jack and Sharon’s dedication as they’ve travelled to various regions to strengthen and encourage you in your work in your communities. 

Really, as an association what more can we be other than an encouragement and facilitator for training, support and periodic get-togethers where we can be an encouragement to one another? 
 
May God Bless you and in the words of Paul, “The grace of the Lord Jesus be with your spirit.” 
 
Charlie Wright -
Moderator