A Warm and Wonderful AGM
2019 Synod AGM. A warm and wonderful day!
On Saturday, April 13th, Synod members and guests gathered at Camp Columba in Pukerau for the 2019 Synod AGM. It was a gloriously sunny Southland day which created a warm atmosphere and allowed Camp Columba to show off all of its wonderful facilities. Camp Columba was chosen as the venue for the AGM by incoming Moderator Mark Heslip. There was time throughout the day to hear from a range of different people, both young and old, who have been impacted and grown in their faith through the various ministries offered out at Camp Columba. It was a great idea to use the AGM to highlight this wonderful resource that is Camp Columba and to give all those who attended a glimpse into the ongoing work and ministry space this camp provides. It was also a fitting venue to induct the incoming Moderator, Mark Heslip, as Mark himself has served at the camp in many different roles over the years and even still at this AGM, when given a seat at the front table as moderator, still managed to find himself washing dishes out in the kitchen after the meal!
There was plenty of time allowed for friends and colleagues to catch up and for people to mingle and make new friends. The food was amazing and with the great weather, there was a relaxed atmosphere where people just flowed outside whenever they could and enjoyed each others company. The camp staff took groups on tours around the grounds where they were shown what the camp offers and were even able to watch young people enjoying some of the many activities the camp has to offer, and a few brave folk even joined in themselves!
There was of course some official business that had to be done. The business side of the AGM went smoothly, and there was great appreciation shown for the work of all the Synod committees and the funding decisions that were made. The Southern Presbyterians Resource staff were also prayed for and acknowledged for the work that they do. It was noted by a number of people how lovely the prayerful atmosphere was throughout the day, in particular, the prayers that concluded the reports and also in response to some sensitive matters that were shared.
Overall it was a wonderful day to be a part of. People came away refreshed and inspired. The AGM concluded with a very moving communion service outside under the trees and next to the cross. A fitting end to a day which is highlighting the work of the parishes and the people within the Synod region, which ultimately is all about bringing glory to God.