It is hard to believe 2022 is already coming to a close. On one hand, it feels like just yesterday the year began, and at the same time so long ago because of all that has happened. I recall the beginning of the year, as I stepped up into leadership over all the communications for the campus. I was nervous and excited. 2022 ended up being a very full and wonderful year. It had its ups and downs, twists and turns, but in all of it God’s hand was evident. Now, as the year is winding down, I am enjoying the opportunity to reflect back and look ahead.
One really special highlight of this year is having my sister and brother-in-law come to visit for Christmas. My parents are also visiting for a couple of months, so it has been super special to have the family together. It has been fun to get to explore and share my context with them. This year will be the first time we have gotten to spend Christmas together since I moved over here.
At the end of every year, we have a whole set of updates, thank yous, and media pieces we put out. The goal is to recap and celebrate what has happened over the year. One of the key items we create is an end of year video to give an overview of the last 12 months. It was quite a project to pull together I hope you enjoy it as much as we had pulling it together:
Earlier this year, we started a podcast. It was an initiative started by a staff who then ended up moving on. The podcast was very well received, so I took up the role of host. For December, we did an episode on advent. The tradition of advent is quite strong in Europe. It was amazing to explore the contemplative nature of the tradition and how it can guide us on reflecting about the coming of Christ. Here is the episode if you are interested:
Looking ahead to 2023, I am excited to see what God has in store for the ministry here. We have been in the process of working through goals and a road map for the next year. There are some really exciting things in the works. All of this wouldn’t be possible without all of you who partner with me financially and in prayer. As I sign off for this year, I just want to say a huge thank you to every one of you. I wish you all a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year! Blessings!
As always, thank you for coming along with me in this adventure of faith,
Ben